I woke up cold around 5:00 and decided to start getting along. I passed a pair of sleeping weekenders then came across Low and ___'s camp. I talked with them awhile, but we hiked seperately to Summerhaven, a tiny mountain community. I had a very filling but average pizza at the Cookie Cabin then picked up some food and drink for the trail ahead. I decided on hot dogs to get me to Oracle. I'm looking forward to something different to eat.

On the way out of town was the Sawmill Restaurant and I couldn't pass up a couple of beers. The magic waters of Hutch's Pool must stull be working for me because before I could sit down Jennifer at the next table invited me to sit with them. Jennifer and Lori learned all about the Arizona Trail and long distance hiking. They even picked up my beers. Thanks again ladies. It's meeting random people like this that really makes the day stand out. It's also good to be reminded what an incredible undertaking a 800 mile hike across Arizona is. After 6 long distance hikes and being around other thruhikers, reading their journals, and watching their videos, a hike like this doesn't feel like a big deal. It feels almost normal.

Yesterday I was wrong. I think that I am camped a little higher tonight on Oracle Ridge. If I hadn't dallied so long in Summerhaven i'd be further along and significantly downhill. I think I'm at 7,400 ft or so. There is still some lingering snow on Mt. Lemmon so it is still cold out here.