Day 18 - Snow?

This morning was a bit chilly. We broke camp and got started before 7:00, knowing we would be hitting the Deep Creek Hot Springs in the evening. We started walking, when all of a sudden it started to snow. We were only at 6600 elevation, but there it was. I wasn't thinking it would be wet in the desert, so I hadn't planned on having a pack liner to keep my things dry. Thankfully I had bought that Tyvek in Idyllwild, because it would have to do as a pack cover until I can get something better. The walk in the snow was lovely. It covered the ground rather quickly, and with the stark contrast of the burned trees and the gray clouds, the surroundings was very Ansel Adams-esque. And me without my camera.... :'(

After about ten miles, I just had to stop. The sun was out and the snow had long since stopped, but I wasn't feeling right, and I thought it might be the medications. I also noticed a large lump in my gums, behind where the abcess was. I wasn't pleased about it, and I was convinced it's why I can't eat right. I thought if I could somehow poke it open with a needle, I could drain whatever was in it. I sat down, pulled out my needle... and I just couldn't bring myself to do it. It made my stomach turn (and I've got a pretty strong stomach). I actually got dizzy, but Don't Panic thought it was because I wasn't eating (which is probably true). He sat down and made me some mashed potatoes, which I was able to suck down. We had been sitting there a while, and up the trail came 9 Lives. I first met 9 Lives in Big Bear at the Nature's Inn, so it was nice to see a familiar face. We were chatting and we mentioned the Hot Springs. He perked up at the prospect of that, and pushed ahead with us.

We followed the Deep Creek for miles up on the ridge. Looking down we had some spectacular views of the river, and me without my camera!!!! Of all the gear to lose, I had to lose my favorite one. I miss my Canon.... We were up the ridge for a long time, but finally we started to descend to the river itself, and we knew the hot springs were near. But before we could get there, I was eyeing the dark purple clouds rolling our way. I was just hoping it wouldn't rain on us, and it actually didn't! I practically sprinted when the springs came into sight. Don't Panic and I found the perfect camping spot underneath some trees and near the river. It was the best camp sight ever. Then we dashed over to the hottest spring and dunked our feet in. It felt amazing! There were three pools, each varying in temperatures, and clothing was optional (!). I just wanted to soak my tired feet and go to bed, after eating dinner of course. Today was a pretty good day.