I reached TCR Thursday night before midnight and socialized with 20 cavers for an hour.
I slept in the backseat of my Sequoia, ( although it is possible to fold the seats and make a nice bed ). I was drenching in sweat. I should have jumped in the shower before bed. I never even needed a sheet to cover with. But either flies or gnats kept me from getting a good nights sleep. Most of the earliest arrivals were the San Antonio and Austin regulars, but there was a Dallas caver and Houston caver. An enthusiast group of Sea-Aggies from Galveston have a floating snorkling party barge. I make a motion that that should become a new official tradition. Friday morning was very quiet, and people were fairly laid back just chilling at their camp, in the shade as it was too hot for anything else. One caver went kayaking. However, not Pete Strickland. He was busting his *** in the hot sun trying to get the party area set up. A few volunteers chipped in to offer the help with the lighter task. I unrolled a carpet which is something I have probably only done 3 times in my life. Internet service for T-Mobile is good one mile north of TCR next to the sign reading, " High Mountain Ranch." I am definitely spending the night, and going swimming, but not sure what I am staying after breakfast. I think I lucked out in that the work I missed today can be done on Monday, but it is going to be a very difficult day. The main thing I missed was collecting money and spending time with my kid. I recommend bringing something to keep the gnats from your face, but they are not biting. Bring sandals and swimming shoes, as it is too hot for hiking boots or even socks. You don't need a tent. Sleep out under the stars. Maybe hang a sticky fly trap over your head. The swimming area is a 9 out of 10 with very nice scenery, making it seem like a 9.5. I think there is plenty of beer. I do not drink beer. If anyone has an extra Smirnoff Ice that they don't need, that will work for me. I may go into town and stock up, as I did not bring an ice chest or any other gear. David Locklear NSS #27639
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