Grueling.  That would be the correct word to describe today.  Despite the fact that we had the longest downhill of the trip so far—like 25 nonstop, glorious miles—it was still the most difficult day so far.

The climb out of Mitchell was very steep.  And at around 5am that morning, it has started raining and had not let up.  So we fought the rain on the way uphill for 7 miles.  Ouch.

The rain and cold wind meant that the downhill was even less fun.  The temperature was around 45 degrees, and the wind chill on our wet bodies and hands was too much.  So Gaby suggested we stop at the next house, and we did.  It was a great idea.  We stopped at Table Mountain Ranch and met Ruth, Kade and Bob, who let us use their dryer, served us tea, and talked to us about ranching cattle in the area.  Fascinating stuff.

Then, about an hour later with dry clothes, no more rain, and the thermometer reading 10 degrees warmer, the rest of the ride was good.  Like I said, mostly downhill with some beautiful views of the desert mountains, mesas, and gorges.  And we treated ourselves (ok, we treated ME) to a stop at the John Day Fossil Beds Visitor Center.  Who knew there were so many fossils here!!  This part I liked—funky mammal fossils of animals that don’t exist anymore. 

Then 8 short miles to Dayville, where we had a greasy fish and chips, and where we are now spending the night at the church, which has become a stopover-must for cyclists.  They call it the “bicycle ministry” and I call it an “awesome awesome transamerica stop.” Hot shower, warm building, kitchen, internet, even movies and a piano if you want them. 

Ok, bedtime.