This morning, this caravan showed up at the south end of the Bridge undoubtedly to cheers from all who saw. Sander Koning took this photo.

He asked me if they came through Mud Creek. I replied, “No” as I was told it was closed to all. Okay, they REALLY meant it was closed to all but the trucks that were bringing much needed equipment to the south end of the Bridge.They got all this equipment through this am, but when they tried to return, they were turned away. We meet 3 or 4 empty trucks coming up Nasty, while we were negotiating a downward route. When we got to the bottom, we saw more trucks coming north. I told Rock Knocker, maybe they were turned away from Mud Creek. Turns out they were. The turnouts were filled with some very long low boys, trailers, and the like. They had all had to be dropped in order to get the trucks back on the other side via Nasty. They were too long for this windy road. We saw a local in the parking lot of the school who had been watching the parade going south, and then watching the same trucks come north. At least they got the equipment and supplies delivered.

You are welcome, North Island, from the South Island.

Getting through our slides:

We are now the North Island and the South Island. North is between Paul’s Slide and the bridge. South is between Paul’s Slide and Mud Creek. Just like New Zealand, two distinct islands – also both home to some remarkable Jade.

Town run accomplished. Weed Eater purchased. 250 miles round trip to SLO and 11 1/2 total hours. I am exhausted.

Birthday this month, and happens to be on a Friday. If I can get through at the noon hour, and Paul’s Slide doesn’t get temperamental, I can return during the evening window. Watch out, Nepenthe, I’m coming to celebrate! I really, really need an ambrosia burger, and a drink or two.