Reflections

With only fifteen miles of riding scheduled for today ( a good thing as I had little sleep last night) its a good time for reflection. One of my reasons for the trip was to visit the North West and that has been accomplished. I believe I enjoyed the Montana valleys the best, particularly the Big Hole Valley. I also have found memories for the ever changing terrain and vegetation of Eastern Oregon. The small towns - friendly, good cafes, accommodating to cyclists- will long be remembered. Everything has been green, a real change, I have been told, from previous years. As I moved to the East and South the mountain ranges to my front increased in size until I finally reached the Rockies. I am informed that I will soon be in 100-degree weather and flat terrain, the exact opposite of what I have been used to. I have a sense that the second half of this trip will be quite different. I'm sure it will have its own sense of balance and beauty. For now I think I'll finish my ride, check into bed, and get some more rest.