6-14-06
Start: Dodge City, KS
Destination: Ingalls, KS
Miles: 24.5
Weather: Freaky hot
...when the locals tell me this heat is normal - for July/August! I do okay in the heat - I don't enjoy hiking in triple-digit temps, it's miserable, but I guess I can do it. But mom's always had a tougher time with heat. A couple years ago she didn't even sweat, so she is doing much better. But around 2:00, we have to shut down until at least 6:00. We pushed to 3 today to get to Cimarron, and she overheated pretty badly. We both drink water until our stomachs physically stick out and ache, then when that feeling starts to fade, we gulp again - so we are guzzling the water - probably 6 liters/day in this heat. I just hope the desert won't be too much. We are seriously thinking about hiking at night when we get there.
Anyway, to shorten a super HOT, long day into a few words, because we're really tired - it was too hot.
Today mom and I were both emotionally strained. So tonight we talked a little about how we're going to pull together and get through this. In the beginning we had the excitement of a new adventure - now we're in the swing of things and that newness has faded. I think the second half is going to be beautiful and physically challenging, but mostly a mental challenge. A true test of our will and determination.
But after all is said and done, you can still count on seeing us jump in the Pacific Ocean in October when we finish!
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