You have to be strategic when shifting to those low gears while going uphill, I totally agree. Too bad you couldn’t write to those elves but oh well. It is a dream you are living and I am so proud of you for doing it. I have a hard time believing you when you say you need more training but I guess there’s always something to strive for. Keep taking in this wonderful experience at your own pace. When you talk about recovering and then enjoying the view before you go back down is proof to me that you have a mindset to make the most of your experience. Enjoy the alone time, you deserve it!