April 26, 2015 - Day 1

St. Jean, France --> Roncevalles, Spain -  25 k 

After a delightful breakfast at the hotel, we finally started our Camino at 8:30 am. 

Our goal to begin with was a "warmup" day of 8 kilometers (approx. 5 miles) to Orisson, where we had reservations to stay at a highly recommended hostel. After crossing the river in town, we started the incline out of town, a fairly steep incline on a road that went on for some time.  There were a number of other pilgrims that we would see throughout the day. Pretty little farms and houses along the way, with a view of the Pyrenees in the distance - the mountains we were going to be climbing up and over. 

Eventually, the paved road gave way to a sharply-inclined trail that continued up into the mountains. I was encouraged that my pre-hike training at the ravines of River Place Nature Trail seemed to prepare me fairly well for the long inclines. Although the forecast was for near 100% chance of rain, we lucked out and it was merely cloudy. However, visibility was good and we got a sense of the beautiful vistas. I had dressed in full rain gear, but quickly stripped to a T-shirt because I was sweating profusely up the hills. 

Donna and I proceeded at our own pace. Along the way, we met and chatted with several other pilgrims. It soon became apparent that Steve and Leon would be our companions for the day. They are from Indiana, and had just come from viewing the Shroud of Turin. They were convinced it was the real deal, and that made for one of many interesting conversations throughout the day. Steve and Leon met at their Catholic church several years ago. Since then, they have made numerous mission trips in several places around the world. Leon is a retired school mechanic, and has a wife and 5 children he is very proud of. Steve is a nurse. Donna and I felt an immediate connection with them, and we all looked after each other throughout the day.  

The general progression was that I would forge ahead up to a clearing and wait for everyone to catch up. Then we would do it again. After winding up along hairpin curves on the paved road, we eventually ventured out onto a dirt path that continued sharply up. We arrived at Orisson at approximately 11:30 am, and contemplated whether to continue on to Roncevalles, given that it was so early in the day, and we were enjoying the company of Steve and Leon.  I left the decision of whether to proceed to Donna, since it would be another 18 k, and not getting any easier. She voted to move on with Steve and Leon, and I cancelled the Orission reservation.      

We continued up steep, steep inclines for what seemed forever - intermingled with gusty winds. Although there were occasional rain drops, no major percipitation.  Continued on up and up the mountains. Legs screaming.  Finally, after what seemed hours, we entered into wooded areas at the top, and even began seeing some left over snow on the sides. Just when we started thinking we had reached the top where it leveled out, another series of climbs would begin. We started taking more and more frequent rest stops, as our legs were screaming. Then we finally did reach the top (1430 m) and the sharp descent began through forested trails for several miles. About 30 minutes from Roncevalles, it started raining. It all became just a little surreal as we just kept putting one foot ahead of the other down the mountain trail, which was beginning to get muddy. Meanwhile, I was praying that we would be able to find a room, since we did not have a reservation, and staying in a room full of pilgrims was not sounding appealing. 

We finally reached Roncevalles at about 5:45 pm, and the first hotel we checked was full. Donna had that glazed over look, meaning she needed food and soon, and I knew her legs were shot (as were everyone's) so I parked her on a bench while I went with Steve and Leon to see if there were any rooms at their hotel. No. Then checked the pilgrims albuguer, which did have some beds. On my way back to get Donna, I checked one last small hotel and, thankfully, they had a room with 2 beds and a private bath. The owner was very kind, and could tell I was a little frazzled, so he took a deep breath and told me (in Spanish, I think) to be calm - his casa was my casa. So, I got the room lined up, retrieved my sister and we settled in to what seemed like heaven to our tired, worn out bodies. Having revived sufficiently, we had a nice dinner at Hotel Roncevalles, steak, potatoes and salad, with that wonderful coffee. Steve and Leon joined us toward the end and we re-counted the challenges of the day. Steve bemoaned that his feet were a mess with blisters and such. I offered my leuka tape and vasoline for tomorrow. We agreed to meet at 8:30 am on Monday morning for the 22 k trek to Zibiri.

I have to say that today was one of the most physically challenging adventures I have encountered. The relief I felt when we finally got to Roncevalles and settled in was immense. I kept reminding myself that the first couple of days on the Camino are the hardest, and it will get easier...

Donna's "Getting to St. Jean"

Day 1

The trip from Atlanta to St Jean Pied de Porte was extremely smooth but quite a long day being in pretzel pose so we were glad to finally arrive at Hotel ratmanchu and to stretch out flat.

This hotel was central to everything and so we struck out to get our "credentials" and to get some food.   Our luck continued as we happen to select a wonderful restaurant with an outdoor courtyard and had our first pilgrim menu.  It was a fabulous salad, roast chicken. Potatoes and a dessert.  One of the things Kim and I are enjoying the most is the cafe au lait.

After feeling human again We struck out to find the start of the  Napoleon way and to admire the charming Medieval city of St Jean.

Getting to St. Jean Port de Pied

April 27, 2015

"The Basics" - getting to St. Jean for the start.

Atlanta --> Miami --> Madrid --> Pamplona --> St. Jean Port De Pied (arr 6:30 pm)

Left Atlanta at 6:45 pm and everything went smoothly, arriving in Pamplona at 5:30 pm the next day. We were really tired at that point. Stepped right into a taxi for the 1 hour "flight" over the mountains and winding hairpin curves at breakneck speed. I had been forewarned about the taxi ride, and definitely was not disappointed. Our taxi driver spoke very little English, but gregariously engaged in conversation, pointing out highlights and telling us about the area - I think. It was a beautiful evening and we were able to just drink in the views along the way. I was impressed by how lush and green everything was. Temperatures in the 70's. Perfect. 

Donna had made a reservation at Hotel Ramuntcho, a quaint little hotel next to the street leading out of town that starts the Camino. We perked up enough to walk to the Pilgrim's office and buy our "credentials". This is essentially your passport as a pilgrim on the Camino. At each official stop, it is stamped to show that you completed that phase. Donna got me a scallop shell for my backpack. The symbol of the Camino. 

We also got directions to the start of the walk out of St. Jean so we would not get lost in the morning, and checked it out. 

Next, we scoped out a lovely little French restaurant for dinner. Ate in a quiet courtyard, and had the pilgrim's menu of roasted chicken, vegetables and salad, with an apple crumb cake for dessert. It was superb. The temperature was mild and sunny, clear skies at 8 pm. At pretty much every restaurant along the way, they offer a pilgrim's menu of some sort. 

Returned to the hotel totally exhausted, but extremely satisfied, and excited about getting started tomorrow. Briefly Skyed with Mom, George and LaDonna, to let them know we arrived safely. 

Camino de Santiago Route Map

CAMINO DE SANTIAGO ROUTE MAP

The French Way is our proposed route from St. Jean Pied de Port to Santiago. We hope to complete the 480 mile trek in 35 or less days. 

The French Way (Galician: Camiño Francés, Spanish: Camino Francés) is the most popular of the routes of the Way of St. James (Spanish: Camino de Santiago), the ancient pilgrimage route to Santiago de Compostela in Galicia, Spain. It runs from Saint-Jean-Pied-de-Port on the French side of the Pyrenees to Roncesvalles on the Spanish side and then another 780km on to Santiago de Compostela through the major cities of Pamplona, Logroño, Burgos and León. A typical walk on the Camino Francés takes at least four weeks, allowing for one or two rest days on the way. Some travel the Camino on bicycle or on horseback.  [ref: Wikipedia]

A New Adventure - Hiking the Camino de Santiago

On April 26, 2015, my sister, Donna, and I will embark on a 500 mile pilgrimage from St. Jean Pied De Port, France to Santiago, Spain. Known as the Camino de Santiago, or "The Way of St. James," this ancient route has attracted pilgrims of all backgrounds and motivations for years. For me, it is a true spiritual pilgrimage and adventure of epic proportions - and solidification of the strong bond I already share with my sister.

For me, Donna, this is a chance to re-gain my inner joy through better health and a chance to spend time with my best human friend. (Notwithstanding that Callie and Max will be with me on every step of The Way).

We invite you to share the journey with us.

Buen Camino!

Kim & Donna Basinger

   

June 15, 2014 - Post Ride Summary

2014 Colorado Bike Ride - Post Ride Summary

I came that they may have and enjoy life, and have it in abundance (to the full, til it overflows). John 10:10 - AMP

Mission accomplished! And then some. By any measure, I think LaDonna's inaugural bike ride was a success. 

One of the things I love most about bike touring is the unknown and adventure. You always hope and pray for good weather, but there is no guarantee. You start out with a loosely conceived route plan, but have to be flexible to take advantage of opportunities as they present themselves, and to factor in your abilities and goals. There are expectations of great scenery, but to see the amazing beauty and mystery of God's creation you have to lift your head up, look, listen and feel. Be present in the moment with all senses engaged.  Recognize the adventure available in each and every day and the essential kindness of most folks.

What I have found is that at the conclusion of these long distance rides I always come away with a sense of physical, emotional and spiritual well-being. A wholeness that is seldom felt in the "normal" day to day of life and an awareness of God's grace and blessing there for the taking, if only we open ourselves up to receive. A feeling of hope. My goal is to continue learning how to incorporate this sense of wellness into day to day life, share, and somehow pay it forward to bless others.

ADDENDUM:  Thanks to my family, friends and coworkers - once again - for your help and support. I could not do this without you.

A special thanks to Dawne for her helpful input re trip planning and hospitality, and to Alison and Pam for taking care of us in Cuchara. 

As always, my sister Donna offered her enthusiastic encouragement as she followed every pedal stroke on "Find My Friend," but my Mom had the most important job of all - taking good care of Sassy while I am off living my "abundant life." 

Kim Basinger

Aurora, CO

June 15, 2014

LaDonna' Post Ride Thoughts

June 15, 2014

I am reflecting today on this magical bike ride that has taken me across 500 miles of pure beauty. I have never visited Colorado. And  I am so glad I decided to take this adventure. The magnitude of just how beautiful this country is has been my Oprah "a-ha" moment. 

I received an email today from a cousin who has followed this ride and her comment was that Colorado is one of her most favorite places, but.....She would not want to see this state by bike. I could not imagine it any other way. 

Biking has exposed me to a view I may of never noticed. We all go through life so fast that sometimes a simple pause is all that it takes to reflect on the soul. And believe me I paused quite a bit on this trip. Sometimes I chose to and sometimes life chose those pauses for me. Even before we left Austin there were many pauses as I learned to change gears properly. I had been doing it all wrong. My physical conditioning caused us to pause and rethink our destination choice, I never doubted I could do this ride, but I did wonder how long it would take me. 

When we began our ride out of Aurora I thought, " ok God, let's see what you taught me." My first incline, to me, was a mountain. Kim pedaled to the top with the ease of wings on her feet. I got off and pushed. But, I kept my head up.....always up.....And I was determined to see every sight around me. This challenge to get to the top became my goal and I would often yell to Kim....."see you  at the top".  And now, two weeks later....I still yell "see you at the top"' and Kim always waits, but I am now pedaling.......just like through life, pedaling......one pedal at a time......slow and steady .....at a very slow pace. I don't want to miss one sight.

Biking gave me an opportunity to enjoy the wildlife around me. Prairie dogs of all sizes greeted us as we passed. I think a few if the younger ones stood along side the road and waved. Antelope ran wild through the fields and I loved the day that Kim raced a Fox, she lost. Those moments were magical. I have never seen an open range. The cows were so close I could of petted them . And who has a camel in the mountains of Colorado? 

Snow on PIkes Peak in June. An artist's dream drawing. I found myself always looking up. 

When I reached the top the ride down took my breath away. I reached speeds of 33-34 mph. I wanted to close my eyes ,but I was too frightened by the ride. I will always remember the wind in my face and the look in Kim's eyes when we reached the bottom.  Sheer joy! One day I  wanted to yell to no one, but to everyone" can life be any better than this!". I have been surrounded and blessed by this beauty of land and people. 

And I have seen this from the seat of a bike. 

I could not imagine taking this trip with  anyone other than Kim. She has often told me of these moments, and now I know. I cannot wait for my next ride. 

And my final thought......life should be enjoyed by any means. You should enjoy the moments  that make you smile. You don't have to be on a bike to pedal contently through life, but....... 

Today, I am so happy I was on a bike ride through this wonderful state. I enjoyed every pedal. 

And today, I  am content. 

June 14, 2014

REAL LAST DAY OF RIDE!! WE MADE IT!!

6/14/14 Castle Rock to Aurora - 26 miles

My apology - I mistakenly titled yesterday's ride the last day. Actually, todays's 26 mile ride back to Dawne's house was the real last leg of the trip. And the only way to describe it is "magical." I decided to try a new route back to Aurora, following the Cherry Creek Regional Trail. I read about this trail at the outset of planning before we left Dawne's to begin the ride two weeks ago.  It was described as a 40 mile paved trail from Denver to Frankton. However, when I inquired at two bike stores in Aurora before beginning the ride, none of the people at either store seemed to have heard of the trail and did not have any maps. This did not seem to bode well, so I decided to ride the first part of the trail that ran through the state park across the street from Dawne's condo, then pick up Hwy 83 south before heading over to Castle Rock. As you may recall, this was a pretty high traffic route. Had I known what I know now, we would have taken the Cherry Creek Regional Trail the first day. But I am getting a little ahead of myself.

We took our time getting off this morning since we only had a 26 mile ride to Aurora on the last leg of the Colorado bike ride. Another beautiful bright blue sky and perfect temperatures. A few gusty winds, but mostly of the cross-wind variety as opposed to direct headwinds. Our route took us north of Castle Rock on Founders Parkway, and there were a few gradual inclines to warm up the legs. Soon, we were on N. Crowfoot Valley Rd for several miles. Wide broad shoulders and lots of bikers out for their Saturday morning ride. Along the side of the road we saw many prairie dogs perched on their dirt mounds, chirping away. They were so cute. I never could get my camera out to take a close enough picture before they darted into their mounds. Also a lot of healthy looking horses grazing in pastures and lush green fields. Just a perfect start to the day.

After about 10-11 miles, we got on the Cherry Creek Regional Trail. What a totally unexpected and delightful gift, i.e. grace.  A beautifully paved concrete trail that wound in and out behind neighborhoods, along the creek, and through fields of wildflowers and green plants. Lots of other bikers and walkers on the trail enjoying their Saturday morning. It was quite breezy, but that just seemed to enhance the winding cruise-like feel of the ride. A few people  stopped to ask about  our ride. The feeling was one of unencumbered freedom and pure joy. A fitting blessing to end the trip. Birds perched in trees and on posts alongside the trail and chirped. There were many benches and picnic tables along the way for rest stops. 

Approximately 6 miles from Cherry Creek State Park, the trail was closed for a few miles - probably due to being washed out in parts - and we were re-routed through some lovely neighborhoods. Eventually, we found our way back to the trail proper, and began to recognize some of the places we had biked past on the first day of the trip. We never had to get back on the main busy road, and at approximately 12:45 pm we found ourselves at the entrance to Dawne's condo complex. Happy and grateful for a stunning day to end the Colorado bike ride; sad it was over. 

Spent the remainder of the afternoon unpacking, washing clothes, and re-packing. Dark clouds gathered, and it rained and even hailed for a while. Another weather miracle, since it was perfectly clear up until we reached Aurora. When Dawne got home from work, we had a great time sharing the details of the ride. Dawne is a wonderful cook and fixed a terrific meal of grilled barbecue pork chops, corn on the cob and a delightful summer salad full of veggies. For dessert, LaDonna was in charge of putting together the strawberry/blueberry shortcake with Bluebell homemade vanilla ice cream. We were all happily done in by 9 pm.

June 13, 2014

LAST DAY OF RIDE!

6/13/14 Colorado Springs to Castle Rock - 53 miles

Awoke to a beautiful clear cool morning. Not a cloud in the sky. We decided to forego the somewhat "iffy" breakfast at the Rodeway Inn and return to Smiley's, where we ate the first time through Colorado Springs. This is a little cafe on one of the main streets downtown that is cute in a rustic sort of way. Excellent home cooked breakfasts. But what I will remember most is the waitress that served us both times. Today, she was the only one there, taking orders, serving, and refilling coffee. The restaurant had quite a few patrons, but she calmly and efficiently took care of everyone - and with a pleasant and friendly attitude. I got the impression that she was centered in a way that enabled her to be present and address whatever came her way. This is much of the state of mind I have been trying to work towards the past couple of years. At any rate, she was a blessing to our day and got us off to a great start. And, oh yes, the breakfast was terrific again, especially the cheese grits.

We headed out on the Pikes Peak Greenway Trail, retracing our previous route to Colorado Springs. Rode alongside the River behind homes and past Colorado College. There were quite a few joggers, bikers and dog walkers on the trail.  

On the outskirts of Colorado Springs, we came up on a fully - and I do mean fully - loaded touring bike. It reminded me of the early days of my first cross-country ride when I came up on Andrew who was loaded to the gills. And McKinley. This gentleman was dressed all in black with a large shade hat, and looked something like Grissly Adams. A former construction worker, he started this current ride on April 1 from Asheville, NC. As he described it, he was "paper clipping " across the US. He rode south to St. Augustine, then west along the southern route, now up through Colorado and presently headed towards Durango. We discussed bike touring in general, routing, etc. What we like about bike touring and how so many people always tell us how they wish they could follow this dream. I gave him my Colorado DOT bike map, since I didn't need it anymore, and a few observations on the Colorado roads we had ridden. As we parted, I again felt exhilarated by the chance meeting, and reminisced again about my cross-country ride. Randy has been sending periodic emails and comments on the blog, and I miss not riding with him. He is currently on a very challenging ride out west - he never did like the mountain climbs. But sounds like the scenery is stunning. 

We kept on the trail, with a few minor mishaps in missing a turn or two, and eventually connected with the Santa Fe Regional Trail. Since it had just rained, we found that the gravel was even musher than before and washed out a little in places. We had to really pay attention to where we were riding. As the trail entered the US Air Force installation portion, we started hearing a roar overhead, and stopped to look. Apparently, there was some sort of exercise in glider training going on as we saw little planes towing gliders, releasing the gliders and then the gliders flying around and back in to land. We must have seen 6-8 of these. I found this fascinating, and struggled to get a good picture or two - difficult because of the angle of the sun and small size of the planes. One of those "you had to be there" moments. As we rode along, I kept looking for the baby bears we had been told about previously without success.  At another point, we came across three men dressed in full camouflage and toting these blue military rifles (the color was striking). One of the men had a German shepherd in tow and was hiking down into the creek. They looked like they were up to something, but hard to tell. LaDonna said that as she went by, one of them said "have a good day, mam," as if to say "keep moving along." An odd sight.

Off in the distance, we could see the Air Force Academy stadium. Just outside the US Air Force portion of the trail, we again came upon a resting shed we had stopped at previously and had a snack. It was getting quite warm at this point. 

At Monument, CO, we picked up a few lunch items, then continued on the Santa Fe Regional Trail to the end point at Palmer Lake. This portion of the trail was in good condition and we made up some of the time from the earlier poor trail conditions. We stopped at a picnic pavilion at Palmer Lake and had our standard peanut butter sandwiches and chips.

From Palmer Lake, we got on Hwy 105, and after an initial short, pretty steep climb (which LaDonna now easily negotiated), we fairly soared for 8 miles. A combination of downhill on a beautiful road plus a lovely tailwind. It was a blast and a biker's dream. We cruised along at 15-20 mph past the site of my bear siting, alongside lush green pastures full of healthy and happy looking horses and cows. At one point, there was this horse joyfully rolling in the grass, who then hopped up and started playfully chasing a calf standing nearby. It was fun to watch. At another pasture, there were 8-10 black and white llamas, with the most beautiful coats. Further on we saw a pasture of camels. They were really big, brown camels. I would have liked to have gotten some pictures of all this, but the animals were generally too far away, and instead I just savored the moment as I cruised with the tailwind. 

The coasting came to an end when we turned onto Tomah Road and started a 2.1 long, steep incline ride. For some reason, it didn't seem that bad - probably because I was still giddy from riding Hwy 105. I waited for LaDonna at the top and savored the view of the valley below. She approached - still pedaling - and smiled broadly. The fact that she now rides these inclines without having to get off and push is a significant milestone in her development as a touring biker. She told me that at one point she was about to stop and get off, when a gust of wind happened along from behind and gave her just enough of a push to keep going. We laughed and attributed it to another one of those "weather miracles" that seem to have accompanied us on the ride. From the top of the hill, we coasted down approximately 4 miles to reach the feeder road running alongside I-25 towards Castle Rock. I reached 37 mph at one point, with this unbelievably vast beautiful scenery stretched wide open in front of me.

We continued on through downtown Castle Rock and north of town to the Days Inn where we spent the last night on the bike trip. As usual, we were starving and found a nearby Outback, where we downed a delicious dinner. Our waitress was a biker and we had some fun sharing experiences with her.

Tomorrow, we complete the Colorado bike ride by riding 27 miles back to Dawne's home in Aurora. By any measure, the ride has been a success. 

June 12, 2014

6/12/14 Pueblo West to Colorado Springs - 48 miles

Woke up to very cloudy and overcast skies. However, the forecast was for just cloudy until possible pm thunderstorms, so I hoped that we might once again skirt rain and storms if we got out early. The map showed approximately 58 miles to Colorado Springs via scenic byway Hwy 115. This was the same route we took from Colorado Springs to Canon City in reverse.

It was quite cool outside, but luckily very little wind and Hwy 50 was a succession of easy rolling hills up and down. The scenery was pretty much that scrubby looking grassland, with mountains in the distance pretty much on all sides. We were once again on the Adventure Cycling TRANSAMERICA route. After about 10 miles or so, I pulled out Google maps and found a couple of alternate routes that appeared to cut across to Hwy 115 and eliminate a good 10 miles. The first couple of alternatives I eliminated because they were on county roads and, as we learned yesterday, these are often dirt roads. Didn't want to get stuck on dirt roads in the rain. So, we continued on Hwy 50 until I spied an alternative on K street near Penrose that looked like a shortcut on a paved road. Thankfully, I was right, and we cut off 5-6 miles.

As soon as we got on Hwy 115, there was a very long, slow, fairly steep incline of probably 3/4 miles. At the top, I prepared to settle in and wait for LaDonna, because I knew her legs had to be very tired from yesterday's 68 mile adventure on all manner of roads. To my surprise and delight, when I turned around, LaDonna was still pedaling and almost to the top! She had made it the whole way without having to get off and push. This was a huge improvement from the beginning of the ride and a major accomplishment. We celebrated as she caught up to me. I think the combination of having learned how to gear the bike more effectively and her increasing physical conditioning level over the past two weeks was the reason she was able to bike all the way to the top.

We continued on towards Colorado Springs, stopping for our picnic lunch of peanut butter sandwiches, apples, and chips along the side of the road. The scenery returned to nearby mountains, but luckily we were mostly on downhills instead of inclines and the ride was fairly easy. Approximately 5 miles outside Colorado Springs, a car stopped ahead and a man got out to ask about our ride and make suggestions as to where to stay and places to eat. He is a biker, but not much into long distance touring. Another example of the kindness of strangers.

The final 4-5 miles into Colorado Springs was pretty much a downhill coast. However, the traffic picked up and we had to really pay attention to the in-town traffic. Found a nice reasonable little Rodeway Inn and checked in. 

After getting cleaned up, we rode the 1 mile into town for dinner at Il Vincio, an Italian restaurant recommended by some folks at a bike shop last week. We hesitated, as there was a huge black storm cloud brewing and it definitely looked like rain was coming. However, we threw caution to the wind, rationalizing that the rain wasn't supposed to come for an hour or so and that if we got wet it would only be for a mile. The dinner was fabulous. We had a small spinach, red pepper, pine nut and goat cheese salad, with a small artichoke, Gorgonzola, chicken, rosemary and mushroom pizza on this wonderful light crust. As we sat at the covered sidewalk table, it started to rain, followed by hail. I began to worry a little about the return ride to the motel. Alas, by the time we finished eating, the rain and hail had stopped. Another weather miracle - seems to have been the theme of the trip. We easily coasted back to the motel and settled in for the night.

Tomorrow we backtrack back to Castle Rock along the Pikes Peak Greenway Trail and the Santa Fe Trail, approximately 50 miles, before the final leg to Aurora on Saturday.

June 11, 2014

6/11/14 Walsenburg to Pueblo West - 69 miles

This was a somewhat "schizophrenic" riding day as we rode on just about every possible surface and road condition. All my prior research into the route had indicated that there really is no good way to get from Walsenburg to Pueblo by bicycle. We left the motel early and followed the feeder road along I-25 for the first few miles. Then, Google lady directed us to turn right and pick up Co Rd 101. So far, so good. However, the pavement ended shortly after that and we began riding on what seemed a fairly well-maintained dirt road. Given my past experiences with Google lady, I was somewhat skeptical. But the scenery was stunning. We were on the vast grasslands east of the interstate and for as far as you could see it was just wide open spaces. The road was flat and there seemed to be a tailwind, because you could coast at approximately 13 mph without pedaling. A couple of antelope hopped up out of the brush and sprinted across the grasslands. They were quite large and had these huge white bushy tails. Made you feel good just watching them. Off to the west, we saw some windmills. The sight of windmills has become one of my favorite sites on my various bike rides. 

After 8-10 miles, there was a fork in the dirt road. A sign off the right fork warned of No Trespassing, so we veered left. After 3 miles or so, something just didn't seem right and after consulting Google maps I could see we were off course in the middle of this huge grassland. We backtracked and when we reached the fork could see that the No Trespass was actually Co Rd 104 - my guess is that some landowners were trying to discourage random people from going down the road. We took Co Rd 104 all the way to I-25, where we were able to access a feeder road again for about 5 miles. At one point a grey fox hopped onto the feeder road in front of me and sprinted ahead for about 1/4 of a mile before leaping back over the fence into the grasslands. At the end of the feeder road, we had to make a decision to either turn right on another Co Rd off to the east, which would eventually come back to I-25, or get on the shoulder of I-25 for 8 miles or so. We opted for I-25 since that would cut the route by a good 5+ miles and avoid another dirt road jaunt. Riding the interstate is not prohibited here, except where specifically designated, and the shoulder was wide and smooth. Also, the traffic was lighter than we had previously seen and we had a tailwind. We fairly cruised all the way to Colorado City, where we got off the interstate and started following the Google route again. The first part went fine; beautiful country roads with vistas of grasslands ending at the bases of mountains in the distance. However, this only lasted about 8 miles before the road turned into dirt. That was tough going for 5 miles or so. Then we got on S. Burnt Mill Rd for almost 17 miles. Again, a dirt road, but we were able to cruise 15 mph and made good time. The scariest part was that dark clouds began gathering in the distance and we heard occasional thunder. I kept thinking we were headed in the right direction to skirt another storm if we could just get past the nearest dark cloud fast enough. Fortunately, this is exactly what happened. 

After 17 miles on S. Burnt Mill Rd, we ended up back at I-25 with no seeming options other than to get back on the interstate. It was smooth sailing again all the way to Pueblo, then we exited to take the back roads to Hwy 50, which we intended to ride to Pueblo West. As we were once again consulting Google maps in a neighborhood, a nice man out on an afternoon ride came up and offered to assist us. He told us of a beautiful paved bike trail that would take us almost all the way to Hwy 50. It was a lovely shaded trail alongside a beautiful river, and a huge contrast to the various roads we had been off and on all day. Huge big shade trees. 

We eventually made it to Hwy 50 and headed for the motel some 8 miles away. It was approaching 90 degrees by late afternoon, and we were tired, but plugged on towards our motel. Approximately 2 miles before the motel, we came upon a Wendy's and stopped for what has become our favorite Apple Pecan Chicken salad, fries, and a frosty. As we ate dinner, the wind started kicking up and it became very overcast. So we hurriedly finished dinner and started out for the final 2 miles to the motel. The rain started just as we pulled up to the Econo Lodge. Al, the innkeeper, greeted us warmly and we found one of the nicest, cleanest rooms on the trip to date. We both took long, hot baths, fixed a pot of Via laced coffee, and settled in to watch So You Think You Can Dance. A fun and relaxing evening to end a very challenging day. I told LaDonna that I thought the challenge of navigating and riding the 69 miles to Pueblo West felt like good training for Amazing Race, if we could ever get selected for the show.

The forecast for tomorrow is cloudy  with pm storms. The plan is to ride the 50+ miles to Colorado Springs along scenic Hwy 115.