GRIMPEUR DE VÉLO.

My slumber was somewhat satisfactory. I awoke in the middle of the night shivering, so I cocooned myself even harder. It turns out my sleeping bag is not adequate for temperatures under sixty degrees Fahrenheit. After a few more hours of rest, the sun turned my tent into a sauna. I had no choice but to evacuate my steaming shelter. I readied myself for the road and asked my neighbors for a water bottle refill. After generously providing me with hydration, my conscious was clear. 

The twelve miles to Monument were marvelous. Heat was high, but the route was relatively flat. I made my way to the town general store and grabbed some supplies and shade. Oddly, I was not extremely hungry. For energy purposes, I consumed some carrots, half a tin of sardines, and several slices of salami. After resting for a little, I returned to the road. Almost immediately, the climbing commenced. In an attempt to combat farmer tan, I took my shirt and fashioned it around my head. My hat held it in place, and most of the material draped over my upper back. The climbing continued and continued and continued. I thought it would never end. During the climb, I stopped in several small shaded sections. This allowed me to stretch, rehydrate, get out of the sun, and catch my breath for a second. 

Undoubtedly, it was the hottest and hilliest ride I have ever experienced. I would not submit to this sizable summit! My total elevation climb was 3,207 feet, which ranks as a category-one climb. For a deeper understanding of this rating system, please click here. Toward the end of the ride, it finally flattened out a bit. Alas, I set my sights on the small town of Long Creek. It is always misleading when a city is in your sight. The truth, the destination is much further than it appears. After the first sizable downhill and several more miles of biking, I arrived at my motel. They were proudly flying a Trump 2020 flag. This trip has shown me where all his supporters stem from. I am definitely riding through Trump territory. 

Regardless my hosts were pleasant, and I give respect to everyone. After successfully checking in, I made my way to the local gruberie. I was famished. My dinner was a Reuben sandwich, mushroom, and swiss burger, side of fries, a bowl of soup, and a Coors. This was my first proper meal of the day, and it did not take long for me to inhale it. The owner was both shocked and impressed. The remainder of the evening was dedicated to my TEFL certification. Luckily, this is the last week of coursework. I cannot wait to rid of this obligation. Besides the daily blog posts, I will be truly free of responsibilities. Only then can I live this vagabond lifestyle to the fullest. Until tomorrow my friends. Have a peek at the route, if you would like, here.