JE SUIS UNE MACHINE?
My first move was to mosey on down to the cafe for a little breakfast. I had the french toast special and a coffee. This included four slices of french toast, little fried potatoes, and some chorizo. Another fine meal to add to the books. Unfortunately, I was in a hurry because the motel was kicking people out at eleven. There was still some packing to do, and I did not want to be charged for a late checkout fee. That was not the case at all. While outside of my room preparing my bike for the road, a lovely lady started chatting with me. She offered many items to aid me in my journey, but I would not accept them.
After some persuasion, I ended up back at the cafe. We went back into the kitchen and loaded my personal pantry with numerous tasty items. I have never encountered a stranger who cared so much for my overall well-being. This act of kindness made more than just my morning. It will not be forgotten, and one day, I will return to Pine to repay it. After packing my pantry, the road was ready for me. Highway 61 is where I commenced the day's journey. It did not take long for me to encounter the lovely Anderson Ranch Reservoir. Many people were out enjoying the wonderous water.
This is about where the climbing started. It was a steep climb, but I did not complain. I kept thinking that it could be much worse, at least I have pavement. This humble attitude propelled me atop the steep slope. Several miles later, I found my turnoff point of Highway 168. It was a stunning sand path that dropped me onto Highway 21. Wow, I had almost forgotten how flat some of these highways could be. The shoulder was small and not very spacious. Again, I was basically tight roping because rumbles were along the white line, and gravel occupied the other side. Traffic was busy, but this was not bothersome. Believe me, when I say, I was zooooming. For twenty miles, I had my Masi in its highest gear and was pumping like a machine. When it is flat, I am freakin' flying baby!
Needing a refueling, I stopped at a charming little chow spot in Fairfield. My meal was a chicken sandwich, some fries, and a small chocolate ice cream cone. This was enough to fuel me the next twenty-four miles to my campsite. Luckily the shoulder was a little better after Fairfield. The traffic died down significantly as well. It was smooth sailing and sprinted to The Stanton Crossing Campgrounds. Upon arrival, I unpacked my gear and set up shop, as always. Habitually, I found the river and bathed my body. After cleansing myself, I got to work on some laundry. A female fisher fired up her pipe and asked if I wanted some. Another random stranger offered me illegal drugs (in this state, at least).
Naturally, I accepted, and we chatted for a bit. After our session, I returned to my site to make a little dinner. I slapped together a tuna fish samich with maters n' pickles. I seasoned it with some salt, mayo, and mustard. My side dish was a cup of assorted fruit and for dessert, a Baby Ruth Bar. Again the Pine ladies had delivered me another delicious dish. The remainder of the evening was spent writing and attempting to unwind. This campsite was filled with frolicking little children, and they were extremely boisterous. We will see if I can slip into some sleep. If you want to that route, here you go!