Sunday Rest Day - 2/26

Biked to church and back: 6 miles

Church was fun, and the ward members super friendly.  We met a couple who has hiked 20,000 miles over 41 summers hiking through Yellowstone. 

Some of the folks inquired about our route and recommended a shortcut.  It would save about 40 miles and much hill climbing.  After discussing it with the local cyclist we decided that we will probably just take the longer scenic way.  After all we have plenty of time and this is supposed to be an adventure!

Since I don't have any riding to report on today, I'll record a few notes on logistics.

Food:
I had planned to eat whatever we wanted whenever we wanted but food isn't always readily available.  We have eaten at some diners, restaurants, and fast food joints.  We love Subway.  Often our only option is a small market.  On the rare occasions that we come across a full-size grocery store we load up on fruits, vegetables, juices and snacks.

Aches:
After a few hours of riding we tend to get aching in the wrists, elbows, shoulders, neck, back, legs and glutes.  Stopping and stretching feels so good, and after a few minutes we are ready to ride again.  Most of the pain is very minor and hasn't been an issue.  But after a few strenuous days it starts to accumulate and we need a rest day.

Wind:
When the wind is with us we love it.  When it is against us it is very demoralizing.  Fortunately, that has been rare.

Tedium:
One of the most difficult things is relieving the tedium of pedaling all day.  I'm very fortunate to have my best friend close enough to talk to.   We tell stories, sing songs, laugh and discuss events and scenery.  Ruth has told me the history of medieval England including the Hundred Years War and the Wars of the Roses.  I have told her cowboy and science fiction stories.  Sometimes we invent stories or new verses to songs.  The miles just fly by when we have something interesting to talk about.

Life is good, the days are beautiful,and we're still having fun.