Talking

A couple of days ago we had a 95 mile ride, and I rode the whole thing with one person...I don't know that I've ever spent that kind of time with one person - of course I've spent an entire day with someone, but I don't know that I've sat side by side and just talked for such an extended period of time.  It was really nice.  I would have thought I'd get bored, but I didn't.  The ride wasn't easy (uphill and against the wind, of course) and we rode slowly, but the time flew by and it ended up being one of the most enjoyable rides I've had thus far.

Then yesterday, we rode 108 miles into Ely, NV.  We rode through a valley, up a mountain, and then back down to the next valley.  I spent most of the day with the two girls with whom I've actually managed to connect. (I have a hard time with girls, for those of you who might not remember my rampage from a couple months back.)  At mile 80, as we started up the mountain, there was an oasis of a bar... we stopped and ate sandwiches (no beer because it's against the rules to drink and ride), and then I went on my way alone - I've realized I climb much better (and enjoy it more) when I'm by myself.  It was raining and cold and steep and a part of me was definitely questioning the purpose of that particular moment in time, but when the descent began and I sprinted into town, it was all more than worth it.

108+ miles (I got lost in town and added some mileage) and my legs felt fine.  I thought about going back out and doing just a few more so that I could extend my longest ride, which is currently 115.  But, I opted to fall on the floor and sleep instead - probably a wise decision.

Last night, a few of us slept outside.  It was a beautiful night with both clouds and stars and talking until falling asleep... and I slept completely soundly.  And then... the sprinklers went off.  7:30 in the morning on our day off... which actually felt late since I'm now used to getting up before 5 on a regular basis.  I really wish I had the scene on video - the four of us, running around, half asleep, not knowing whether to save our sleeping bags, our phones, our books, or ourselves... and instead just succeeding in soaking everything and running around like heads without chickens.

After recovering, we went to the grocery store and made the best breakfast of the trip - a spinach, tomato, cheese, and spaghetti frittata, latkes, and Cinnamon Toast Crunch - it was perfect.

And now I get to relax for the remainder of my day off.  I've heard there is going to be a Gallon Challenge... people are going to attempt to drink a whole gallon of milk in an hour... I don't think it can lead to good results, but it'll most likely be hilarious to watch.

This trip is winding down; I can't believe it'll all be over in 10 days.  I'm going to miss this so much more than I ever thought possible - the people, the land, the biking, and just the overall way of life.  I complain and groan and get sore and tired and miserable, but all in all, it's been the best summer of my life.