LA FORÊT JUSTE POUR MOI?

Sleep surely summoned me. As of recently, a comfy bed will successfully send me to my slumber. I woke up early and well-rested. My first move was to mosey on over to the cafe across the street. It was another Ma and Pa joint, and the grub was great. I devoured three over-easy eggs, some hash browns, toast with grape jam, several sausages, and too much coffee. During my breakfast, I was reminded of the issues that plague America at this moment. Today's table talk included; the black lives matter movement, the NASCAR confederate flag ban, and COVID-19 spikes. I heard perspectives on the subject that I am not too familiar with. It is important to know both sides. 

After my meal, I made my way back to the motel. It did not take long to pack up my gear. The time-consuming task was filling my water pouch with ice. My route for today was thirty-five miles with no civilization in-between destinations. With nowhere to refill my water bottles, I had to supply my own hydration. Feeling prepared, it was time to set off for the day. The first few miles were flat and full of farmlands. The time had come to test my graveling skills once again. Not shortly after, I found myself in a fine foliaged forest. 

A sign welcomed me into the Malheur Forest. The next twelve miles were nothing but climb. It was not as difficult as yesterday's ascension, but the gravel added a different challenge. During this uphill battle, I was the only human being in this forest. I had encountered cows, wild turkeys, and various tiny rodents. It felt like I was in a different world. How did I happen to get this whole forest all to myself? Finally, the route flattened out a bit, and I knew the majority of the climbing was completed. Climbing at the beginning of the ride is ideal. I enjoy getting it over with while my legs are fresh. 

Suddenly, the gravel returned to pavement. You do not understand how happy I was to see this blacktop. If the route continued as gravel, my descent would have been slow and tiresome. For the next fifteen miles, I was freely flying downhill through the forestry. It was truly indescribable. After a left onto Highway 26, Prairie City was an easy three miles away. Finding my hotel was simple in this small town. A hot shower was necessary. Following my cleanse, I went to explore the town. First, I stopped into a clothing store and bought a sweatshirt, to combat these cold camping nights. The next stop was the grocery store, and I stocked up on snacking supplies. 

My final stop was the Mexican restaurant right next to the hotel. My dinner was delicious. My order was Huevos Rancheros, which came with over-easy eggs in a succulent sauce, brown rice, refried beans, lettuce, and tomatoes. Add a tequila shot and two bottles of Modelo, and my night was perfect. So I thought. As I attempted to pay for my meal, the server informed me that it was already taken care of. The mother and daughter, who were leaving the restaurant, had randomly and generously fed me for the night. I ran outside to catch them in their car and thanked them for their kindness. She simply said to pay it forward. Content with life, I polished off my beer and returned to my cozy chambers. My nightly duties were dedicated to TEFL and typing. I am shocked that I have made it this far. Let us see what tomorrow brings. Here is the route.