Trekker's Log, May 23-25, 2007

5/23 – 25, rest and celebration days in Truth or Consequences

I’ve already stated that Richard Epstein is a real trail angel. He demonstrated that over and over during the time we were in Truth or Consequences. We were treated royally as we took our rest at Firewater Lodge, and thanks to Richard and the other members of the Rotary Club of Truth or Consequences, the celebration there was wonderful, with more than 40 people attending.

The Rotary Club changed the time and place of their regular meeting from Tuesday noon to Thursday evening just to accommodate us! The meeting was held at the Geronimo Hot Springs Museum. A potluck dinner was provided, with great food and great Rotary fellowship. Two of Congressman Pearce’s staff members were there, along with many, many community volunteers, in spite of the fact that it was awards night at the high school.

A second highlight of our time in Truth or Consequences was having dinner with Stan and Pat Thompson one night. Stan helped us out again on Saturday morning, taking us to the trailhead of Segment 15 while on one of his regular patrol routes. The Thompsons really endeared themselves to Pem and me, and are probably on our list of life-long friends.

The third major highlight in this city of hot springs was spending time with Richard Epstein, his friend Carl, and his girl friend Rebecca. On the night after the potluck dinner and celebration, Pem and I were invited to have leftovers with the three of them. In that gesture we were made to feel like family, or at least old friends, by those good people. We keep adding names to our list of probable life-long friends.