The sleep in the cycling hostel in Hindman was restful so I left feeling recharged to 90%. I left without a real breakfast, just a pastry and peanut butter crackers thinking that I would find a filling meal up the road. It turned out to be 15 miles of hard riding and the selection of foods was bare. Orange juice and ice cream was the least junk food in the store. This put energy back into the system and I continued to pedal along the route.
Today there were more small back roads and a few more dogs that were eager to out run and clamp a jaw full of teeth on the leg of any cyclist that happened to pass by. I’m happy to say that everyone of those dogs felt the sting of disappointment.
The day continued to heat up as the steepest climbs were under foot as I settled into my comfort zone and slowly got myself and bike to the tops of each range. After what would be my last climb of today I caught sight of an ice cream bar with real food. A cheese burger with fries and two large strawberry milkshakes were enjoyed as I sat in the shade. The owner, a very pleasant and curious woman, came over with a marker and asked me to sign the outside wall of the eating area with my name, where I was from, and the date I stopped here. After sitting in the shade and relaxing I chose to spend the night at the campground just a mile ahead. I left for the campsite leaving my name and info boldly displayed on the wall while abandoning my attempt to get to the hostel 20 miles away. I am content knowing that this is a good decision.
