stocker, it hadn't been my original plan to be alone on this trip, and when that changed I wasn't prepared to deal with it. I won't be letting that happen again. If you haven't seen it, joebuck has a thread going on a gadget that might just be a good answer to dealing with big animals on your own. One way or another, I will be better prepared the next time, whether I am alone or not. There is always something new to learn, and that is one of the most valuable parts of websites like this.
Thanks everyone for all the kind words. It was the fulfillment of a longtime dream, and was fun to share with you all!