Well, the reunion has already come to an end.
Both Austin & Jack traveled around 900 miles to visit me, with another 900 miles to return home. This only permits a single day of rest for them to return home in time to work.
I started preparing coffee (you know by now this is just boiled water and instant coffee) and Pete walks over. He says, I made breakfast for you, it will be ready in about fifteen minutes.
Completely unexpected but graciously appreciated.
He brings a cast iron, dutch over over with a big spoon on top. Inside is a massive amount of potatoes, onions, peppers, bacon, cheese and what I think might be some elk.
Both Austin & Jack ate a plate while I managed to demolish two-thirds of it - such an incredible camping breakfast. And near impossible with my cooking setup.
Thank you Pete.
Pete's dog, Charlie, escaping the heat & sun.
And they're off!
Before taking off myself, I stopped at the Bertram's Brewery to use their wifi and enjoy a pint. I had to take care of an issue with the phone I just upgraded - and unfortunately I could probably write an entire blog post about it.
Thanks to all the folks at Bertram's for the company and conversation! Especially Jim from the local ice company - thanks!
They have some really stellar beer.
I headed up to North Fork, stopping in at a little gas station / cafe / general store.
They had homemade apple pie sitting on the counter and I couldn't resist.
The folks at North Fork also offered me a place to camp on their property, which is super nice. The mosquitoes were brutal and I was not in the mood to put up with them while wild camping...
Such a beautiful area:
Joe