This was a day of reflection and rest.

After sleeping in a real bed at the Yavapai Lodge at the South Rim Village, I awoke with my whole family for the first time in over a week.

In addition to taking care of some trip logistics including loading gear and food on mules who would haul it to Phantom Ranch, I was able to spend some time with our boys.

Better yet, I got to see many in-laws (and no doubt some outlaws) including Corrine, T.J., Petra, Dave, Denise, Emily, Jim, Marilyn, Jon, Lisa, C.J., Jim, Kristie, Lance and Bob.

At mid day, my brother Dave, Tim and Al finished their long walk up the Bright Angel trail. Even though it was a long haul, they had no trouble because Dave had with him an “Al-Tim-eter”.

The incoming group of my brother Gary (remember him from the first few days over a month ago?) and his family Leslie, Mason and Spencer along with my long-time Steve O’Dell (also along one of the early days back in Colorado) all had a chance to meet for lunch. Of course none of us thought to take a photo. Oh well…

By just after 4 pm, the five incoming folks headed down the trail to Phantom Ranch. Jim and I stayed at the rim and I had a ball-throwing a ball-with my boys and some of their cousins. It was also great fun enjoying everyone who made the time to visit us.

I owe a huge debt of gratitude to so many people who have sacrificed to make this adventure possible, especially Corrine and Kathy. Thank you all!

Once again in a real bed, I drifted off to sleep knowing that this break wouldn’t last as long as I would like.

I’m typing this on my lap top computer which doesn’t have a long battery life, so this and the next entries will probably be shorter than what you have seen here in the past.