one hundred eighty

CRACKED WATER BOTTLE

Utah near Bryce Canyon last night it was 17 degrees over night in the higher altitudes. I will be on the road early tomorrow to get warm. I'm getting in the groove now after the first 1000 miles in the saddle. I lost a water bottle because it cracked from the sub freezing temperature. 

one hundred seventy nine

FELLOW TRAVELERS

I bumped into these guys back in Davis California. We had no idea we would meet again. We camped together twice in Nevada. We did not ride together. The would rabbit off in the morning and I would drag into where they were camping three hours later.

They were from London and were heading to New York City. The conversations were interesting, youth meets old fart. 

I did fine one other hats and returned it in Kansas. I saw their bikes in front of a restaurant. I walked in, haded him his hat and headed down the road. They made it to New York about the same time I made it to New Hampshire.  

one hundred seventy eight

FIRST ENCOUNTER WITH HELPFUL STRANGERS

I'm in California waiting for the snow in Mormon Pass to melt.  A wonderful couple stopped me and warmed me of the snow closings. They offered me their home for as long as needed. In fact they dropped me off and headed out for a bicycle ride. I was alone in a total stranger’s home, taking a shower, using their computer, and watching TV. I will never understand the kindness of strangers. This trip has surpassed all of my dreams so far.