Tues, Jun 13 - Missoula Montana to Hamilton Montana

Written by Michael

Today we tried to get an early start since Gloria wanted to have her bicycle looked at in Hamilton. We were on the road by just after 7 a.m. but we were not fast. It probably didn't help matters that it was cool, wet, and raining virtually the whole trip. I'd like to tell you the scenery was beautiful, but the clouds covered most of the mountains. We did have the opportunity to ride the whole trip on a bicycle only path from Missoula to Hamilton. I would like to tell you about the brilliant conversations we had along the way, but the cars were so loud on the road next to us and the cars were so plentiful on the road next to us, we could rarely hear each other. My suspicion is we didn't take a single picture all day. We are just happy to get here safe and dry.  (I learned at dinner that Eric did indeed take a few pictures.)

Chad from the Red Barn Bicycles shop was kind enough to drive almost 6 miles just to pick up Gloria's bicycle so he can see if he can extend the handlebars. We are hoping this will work out, but we won't know until a little while later today.  (Chad delivered Gloria's bicycle after dinner and so far Gloria is delighted.  The real test will come on a longer ride tomorrow, but so far Gloria is very excited about the modifications.)

Tomorrow is supposed to be beautiful weather.  We only have 35 miles to ride so it should be a delightfully pleasant day.  We decided to drop by Chad's bicycle shop on the way out to have him take a few minutes to clean Eric's and my bikes with an air compressor.

We are waiting for our clothes to dry and shortly we'll head out for pizza. Not too much exciting today, but I guess that's what happens on cold dreary rainy days. I did see two bright-blue bluebirds, so I was delighted with that.

Probably our biggest accomplishment today was the fact that we survived our very first day without someone driving a car carrying snacks, lunch, water, and Gatorade.  We miss you Hector, Deb, Brent, Valerie, Tim, Tom, and Denise!  Today we learned just how badly we were spoiled by all of you.  Our next test will be another steep climb on Thursday without SAG support.  (SAG stands for Support And Gear)

Life is great.  We are enjoying the ride with a great deal of it being due to the kindness of strangers such as Chad and the people in convenience stores and Subway who allowed us to stay in their stores to warm up as long as we wanted.