Day 74

Seventy four days down, 7 to go.

The morning started in Cassel, CA. I jolted awake to the sound of Yellowcard blasting in my ear. It’s a good thing I was in a particularly good mood because I knew we had an epic ride ahead of us.

The Cassel community brought us another incredibly generous breakfast filled with more egg and sausage casserole. I probably could eat my weight in those. It was a fantastic start to the day.

Luckily, we weren’t forced to go outside for our route meeting since it was far too cold to idly stand there as we were given our daily instructions. When it was time for the cheer Jess’ number was chosen so she led us in a “repeat after me” cheer. She then asked Nate to marry her while we are in Colusa. Their birthdays fall two days apart from each other so we’re basically having a ridiculous wedding themed birthday party for them.

After Nate sat in silence for a moment he agreed and everyone cheered. Even the confused members of the Cassel community. When cue sheets were passed out we were also given wedding invitations. Hopefully, there will be a great thrift shop between here and there so we can dress up again.

We rolled out just before 7 with Kate, Maria, Nate, Elle, and Lauren. Rain began to sprinkle and combined with the frosty morning all I wanted to do was stop to put on my rain jacket. Eventually, we took a quick break, and 5 miles later another one to take them off. My body temperature was all over the place at that point.

Not long into the day we started our 56 miles of climbing. Lassen Volcanic National Park was about 32 miles away and we had to climb from about 3000 feet to about 5200 just to get to the entrance. The hills weren’t extremely difficult. Only a few of them were painful, but most were gentle risers with a flat top. It felt like we were climbing stairs for a long long time.

As we got to the 12 mile mark we started to go through a once forested area that had been burned in the forest fires a few years back. Nate commented that it looked like the scene from Mulan when she arrives at the battle field too late and the huns have already burned everything down. It was eery and beautiful all at the same time.

At mile 20.9 we stopped at JJ’s cafe for what we had been told was some of the best food of the entire trip by an alum. The breakfast potatoes were delicious, but definitely put me over the amount of food I needed in my stomach when we got back on the bike. The pull-apart apple cinnamon bread though…tasted and settled perfectly.

While we were putting our helmets on and Elle stacked all the plates on the table we looked over to another empty table, which had yet to be cleaned off. There were three chipmunks and ground squirrels table diving and nomming on some leftover pancakes. It was one of the current things I’ve ever seen.

We left breakfast and embarked on the last 36 miles up to the summit of Lassen Volcano. From that moment until 2 miles away from the park gates we climbed straight up a 5-7% grade hill. We took a short break halfway through that initial climb. The second we stopped I again threw my stuff off of me and starfished on to the ground.

When I was again able to stand up we rode off to the Eskimo Hill Summit at about 5200 feet. Then, we saw the worst placed downhill truck sign of all time. After having climbed 2000 feet and having another 3000 to go the last thing we wanted was to lose any elevation we had already gained. The sign read 6% grade over 6 miles. I was horrified and disgusted by the thought that I would be going down so far.

Thankfully, the park gate was about 2 miles away from the summit. We only lost about 400 feet of elevation before reaching the visitors center where I again practically cleaned a shop out of their postcards. They had some of my favorite WPA posters printed as postcards, so, I bought every single one of them. Now, I just have to go actually visit some of those other national parks.

Within a few minutes we began climbing the rest of the way to lunch, which was around mile 37-40. However, yet again there was a poorly placed downhill truck sign. It didnt last as long, but we still lost more altitude than i would have liked. We didn’t want to stay too long so that we would have plenty of time to climb and hen stop at the lake that was about halfway up the mountain from where we were. Lauren still somehow managed to fall asleep and get ready to go again within about 15-20 minutes.

Then, the real climbing began. Nate, Elle, Lauren, and myself steadily climbed and sang while Maria and Kate seemingly raced to the top. It took us an hour to climb up to summit lake, which is where Kate and Maria waited for us. The water glimmered in the early afternoon light. It was also completely clear. All I wanted was to swim across it and race the guy in the wet suit. However, I didn’t see myself being extremely successful while in my chamois. Also, I had no desire to get my shorts wet with 12 miles left to climb.

I had no desire to leave, but eventually and unwillingly had to go. This time I decided that I’d go with Maria and Kate so I could get up to the top quickly and still have time to take some pictures on the way. Every foot we climbed the scenery got exponentially more beautiful.

Kate didn’t stop, but Maria and I stopped every time out breaths were taken away by the scenery or by the climb. Both of which came often. When we finally made t to the to at about 8500 feet we saw Kate waiting for us on the side of the road. We chalked messages to the rest of the people still on the way up and then went to go play in the snow.

While playing in the snow I flashed back to when Denise and I were sitting on the Great Wall of China in November of
2000. Mom made her and I sit down for a picture. So, I gave her a devious smile and promptly dumped a huge snowball on Denise’s head and smeared it all over her. Her face was priceless in the picture. Thus, I had no choice but to attempt to recreate my favorite picture of my awkward childhood years. When Maria bent over in front of me I seized the opportunity and dropped a huge snowball down her chamois shorts. At first she couldn’t figure out what to do, but eventually thought to attempt to remove it…all while screaming and throwing her body around like she was having a seizure.

When she warned her butt up we walked back up to our bikes, took a group picture, and then prepared for the descent into Mineral, CA, for the night. Within the first mile my GoPro camera’s battery died
So I couldn’t capture some of the most gorgeous sights ive ever seen, but there’s no need. I’ll never forget that descent. It was absolutely majestic.

Within the first mile of the downhill we came upon the bluest, most gorgeous lake I’ve ever laid eyes upon, Lake Helen. It is apparently 800 feet deep and for many years was thought to be bottomless for many years. All I wanted to do as we passed it was stop and stay there forever.

Everywhere we turned as we plummeted towards sea level was just as incredible as the last sight. However, as we descended we all of the sudden got a strong whiff of sulfur. There was a large mud hole that was boiling and terribly stinky. While we were stopped one of the women from Cassel stopped next to us and asked how we enjoyed Lassen, to which we replied, “we have never been on a more gorgeous ride ever.”

We kept bombing down the volcano towards Mineral, CO. We finally found the ranch around 4:15. When I got my first full view of the place I was completely floored that we were actually staying there for the night. It was the picture of perfection. The horses were as majestic as the mountains in their background, the house looked like a classic farmhouse, but much larger and picturesque, and the barn at sunset could make the surest atheist believe in God.

That evening we all picked pod out of the coolers like scavengers for dinner and hung out like a large…incredibly large…family. I spent most of my time
taking pictures of the farm and of the boys for our Boys of Bike and Build calendar. Then, as the sun set I walked with Stew over to the barn. When we got up to the second floor we say with Claire and Brynne and quite possibly the ghost of some family member of the Hales, who hosted us. It was truly one of the most peaceful things I’ve ever experienced.

After the sun set we walked back to the house. I continued to work on my photography stuff and attempted to get caught up on blog, which seems like it will never happen. When the dark came out I was sitting I the side porch with Stew and Sarah. We spent the next hour or two just enjoying each others’ company and going back through pictures from the whole trip on Kate’s Facebook. I will absolutely treasure that memory.

When we got up from the table I looked up and saw the twinkling stars above me my jaw dropped to the floor. The night in Twin Lakes with always be my favorite night of star gazing, but Mineral is definitely my second. I just stood there by myself for probably twenty minutes looking upwards. I was brought back to reality as I heard a screen door slam. I then went inside with Stewart, grabbed a snack in the kitchen, and watched a few minutes of the Olympics.

Not long after that I went up to the room I was sleeping in. It was pitch black in there with Kate on the floor and. Barrett and britt up in beds. It was an obstacle course trying to get my shower stuff, but it was completely necessary to get my shower stuff. I had yet to wash the day off of me and all I wanted was to finally feel clean.

I went to bed happy, but had no desire to wake up to go to Chico. The trip ending is far too much of a reality and going to an actual California city magnifies that feeling even more.

Day 73

Seventy three days down, 8 to go.

According to the bike and build website today is the longest ride we have left at 87 miles. We rode from Alturas to Cassel and it was easily one of my favorite rides so far. It may have taken an exorbitant amount of time to finish, but I will cherish every moment of it.

We woke up at Modoc High School at 4:45, packed our bins, and headed over to the Teach, Inc. building for breakfast. I actually screamed a little when I saw the sausage egg casserole. They fed us incredibly well yet again. However, the best part of breakfast was probably the picture of Sebastian on the wall from the 2010 group.

Somehow the topic of which of us corresponds best with a character from Friends. There ended up being a huge heated debate between Kate and Elle. They ended up agreeing to disagree. We then all acted as if we were in a musical and started singing the theme song.

After the whole song and dance was over I rolled out with Jess, Jenna, and Kate. It was a gorgeous morning; one perfect for riding my bike. It was also one for savoring the moment. When we stopped for our first restroom break we quickly broke into song again. This time it was Britney Spears.

At the exact moment I looked around at my surroundings and exclaimed,”this is gorgeous!” I saw a massive incline, which turned out to be the climb up to our first mountain pass of the day. It was yet another never ending hill. My life began to flag before my eyes. The sheer amount of pain I was in convinced me that I would die right then and there. Somehow, though, I made it up to the summit.

After over an hour of climbing we finally saw a downhill truck sign off in the distance. I cheered loudly and sprinted to Kate where she waited for Jess and I to come and meet her. As soon as I got there I threw off my camelbak and starfished on the ground for a solid 5 minutes.

We watched as a few groups passed us by and soon got back on the bike to enjoy the descent. However, yet again we were fooled by the downhill truck sign. It was not nearly long enough to be worthy of such greatness. Not long after we reached our lunch stop around mile 42.

Lunch was in the middle of the town Anid I believe. It was a small old town with a general store that has been open since 1906. And yes, I of course bought all the postcards that they sold. After having spent far too much time in there Kate came to get me to come back outside.

Stewart had talked to one of the women who worked at the store and heard there was an alternate route to get to Cassel that did not involve another pass. My ears instantly perked up when he told me. The thought of cutting out tons of climbing always piques my interest.

We decided On the alternate route as a group. Jesse ended up joining in with us to make a whole group of 5. We rode along and every few miles we’d stop to smell the roses. The best one was hands down the visitors center when he bought 2 lbs of peaches for all of us. Jesse is one of those special people none of us will ever forget. He always brings positivity and happiness to our group. Thank you for the peaches Jesse! The white ones are the best.

When we finally left there we almost instantly started climbing our second pass. I didn’t realize what was happening until I saw I had been on the same incline for 20 minutes while standing up the whole time. In an effort to give my back a break I completely wore myself out. As we reached the summit I began to feel shaky and off. Then, when I got off my bike I felt even worse. Luckily, I was with an understanding and concerned group who forced shot blocks down my throat and made me sit in the shade for a while until my shakiness stopped.

When we got rolling again I saw out of the corner of my eye the best Riv roadside present ever. Deer lumbar vertebrae. I was so incredibly excited that I nearly screeched to a halt when I went to grab it.

It wasn’t much longer until we reached MacArthur where we stopped at the grocery store to fill up on liquids. Then, when we reached Fall River Mills we took a turn off the highway to the bypass. We went over quite literally the most gorgeous parts of all of America I the next 15 or so miles. It was an incredible beauty that is simply indescribable. Then, all of the sudden Kate screeched as she saw that we were on the Pacific Coast Trail, which is a part of her all time favorite book, Wild.

After oo-ing and aah-ing for the rest of the ride we finally made it to Cassel. Upon arrival we stuffed out faces and got our shower stuff ready. Kate, Jess, and I went with Carol and Art To their home. They showered us and entertained us with their photo album of their trip to Anchorage, AK, where Kate is from. It was incredible seeing the different ways in which they described the same things.

After playin with the dog and looking at pictures, two of my favorite things, we went back to the volunteer fire station for dinner. While waiting for sweeps we played UNO and chinese checkers. I’m not convinced we were all completely honest with our ways.

When sweeps arrived we dove into the pasta dinner. However i had unfortunately eaten far too much snack foods and couldn’t down as much as I had wanted to. Once dinner was over we cleaned and presented to them our whole bike and build shpiel. As soon as that was over we had to vote on grant applications. I wish it was possible to hide everyone the exact amount they has asked for, but unfortunately it simply wasn’t possible.

As I began to fall asleep from Stewart running my back out people watched Smoke Signals. It’s an interesting movie to say the least. I fell asleep not long after. We all knew we have a huge day ahead of us with Lassen Volcanic National Park. It’s gonna be awesome!

Day 72

Seventy two days down, 9 to go.

Today we rode from Lake View to Alturas, CA. It was a tremendously hyped up day as we crossed our last state line into the golden state, California. However, what everyone was most excited about was the rumor that there were three In n out Burger locations in Alturas. We don’t like food at all. Nope, not one bit.

Most everyone went to a bakery or coffee shop on their way out of town. I am not a coffee drinker at all and was excited to get to the state line so I left with Stew and Paul and skipped second breakfast. We weren’t even two miles in before Paul broke off to drop a letter off at the post office. So Stewart and I rode on.

The ride was absolutely gorgeous. The way the sun shined through the mountain passes to our left took my breath away every time I looked over my shoulder. Then as we got closer to the state line we got progressively closer to another lake. All I wanted was to ride next to a body of water again after having ridden so many miserable miles in the barren deserts.

When we were a few miles away from the state line I caught myself looking for the state line sign every 500 feet. Eventually, we exceeded the mileage we thought it would take to get there and got increasingly more worried that there would be no sign. How terrible would it have been if there was no sign at our last line?

Then, around mile 15 we came upon the leaving Oregon sign. When there was no Welcome to California sign we started to freak out even more. All of the sudden, out from under the cover of all the massive trees we finally saw the trailer parked at a large California sign. As we rode up to it we read Britt’s chalking and screamed at the top of our lungs.

We dared not ride across the line just yet though. The majority of the group still hadn’t arrived and we all wanted to do it together. So we waited. Nearly an hour later sweeps showed up and we took a group picture. Some of the girls…even some of the boys…were inspired by Katy perry and wore bikini tops and daisy dukes on bottom. It was an interesting picture to say the least.

After all the necessary photos were taken Paul, Stewart, and I rode off into California. We hammered pretty hard for the next 15 or so miles. Even with all the climbing we were doing we held around 18-19 mph. I felt untouchable. Then, we realized even if we skip lunch and go straight to Alturas there would be food for us until much later than our expected arrival time. In n out doesn’t close until far later than 1pm. So we chilled out a bit and slowed down the pace.

Luckily, the van and trailer stopped at precisely the point where we had previously decided to take a break. So we agreed on a ten minute break and nearly accomplished that goal. When we got back on the saddle we rode off hard yet again.

Again, as I turned to my left and my right my breath was constantly being taken away. It was incredible. My favorite part was hands down when we rode through a section that had been cut out from the mountain. It was white sand ten feet up and then all of the sudden it opened up and there was the chimney rock geological marker. I got so excited when I saw it because I love a mile away from Chimneyrock BLVD. Nobody else seemed I think it was quite as awesome as I did though.

We only had about 57 miles to ride so we got in town fairly early. In fact, we were the first to actually stop at the host site so we could get the keys and instructions on what to do and where we could sleep etc. Not long after that though we left to get hamburgers across the street. It was a local joint that was incredibly delicious.

They perfectly cooked my double hamburger and my pineapple shake was the exact consistency that I wanted. I was so satisfied that I didn’t want to move. Ever again. Jesse like it so much he accidentally spent $17 there. While I waited for everyone else to finish I ended up taking a nap and sleeping essentially til everyone else had left. I walked back with Stew and immediately went for my hammock.

I set it up between two trees just off the road. In an failed attempt to blog I ended up just passing out and sleeping until the dinner bell. Britt sent out the “dinner nowwwwww” text far earlier than my stomach was ready for so I was barley able to eat half the food I put on my plate. However, I did manage I finish my beef…of course.

I rolled out of dinner and immediately went back to sleep. It took a while to get myself to wake up and become productive. When i finally get up I walked over to the picnic table that Elle and Kate were sitting upon. We talked for a long time before Nate joined us and then nearly the entire rest of the team as well.

When laundry crew returned it was time for our last AH meeting. Barrett and Jesse both presented highly engaging and wonderful presentations. I was particularly fond of all the images Jesse supplied for his, but Barrett, you win the award for longest conversation afterwards.

Once AH was complete we began our competitive grant process. Elle and I were to advocate for the OLC habitat for humanity who had applied for a grant through Bike and Bulld. The process is extremely interesting. The leftover money after admin costs, primary beneficiaries, rider donations, and host donations goes to the competitive grant process. The money that we raised, we get to choose exactly where it is allocated. It’s incredible how engaged we have become with the affordable housing crisis through all the programs that bike and build has creates for us.

After we finished the initial part of that we put it down for the night so we could do final votes tomorrow. We then all broke off and prepped for bed. It’s an early day. Wake up is at 4:45 and we have 3 passes to climb along with 87 total miles in high heat.

Day 71

Seventy one days down, 10 to go.

We woke up in what felt like the tundra. Except, we were in the middle of the Oregonian desert. It took a solid ten minutes for anyone to move around. It was miserable waking up to such chilly conditions, but it made it much easier to get on the bike. I’d take cold weather over 112 degree heat any day. Also, we knew we were riding into yet another town that hated bike and build for the actions of a previous group. It is always a challenge to get ourselves excited to ride to a place where we are by exactly welcome.

With about ten layers of clothing on me I was finally able to brave the cold enough to eat breakfast. The sunrise was easily one of the best of the entire summer. Watching that gorgeous red sun rise over the mountains on the horizon was absolutely awe inspiring. Also, I was particularly happy because Cassie sent us Voodoo Donuts and banana bread for breakfast.

I rode out this morning with Kate, Lauren, Nate, Maria, Andrew, and of course Elle. The first 16 miles flew by. We merely had to stop to take off layers because it was getting too hot and stuffy in all those layers to keep moving. We finally saw our first sign of life then when Stew, Dino, Dan, Paul, and a few others passed us by. We played yo-yo with them all day long.

When we got back on the bike we began to climb. We then climbed some more…and more and more. I could barely move as I started to get shooting pains from my lower back into my toes. However, I somehow managed to crest that beastly long hill and was greeted by a wonderfully inspiring chalking from Riv. She told Britt to bomb down this descent, which meant that I was finally done climbing. I turned on my GoPro and immediately picked up the pace.

I had fallen behind the rest of the group while I was riding the struggle bus, but quickly caught and passed them all as I destroyed the downhill. We continued riding the descent almost all the way into lunch. When I got there I quickly made a sandwich and face planted on the gravel. I could no longer stand or sit with my back, so face down it was. Most of the time I was at lunch I contemplated just getting in the van. However, the more I thought about it the more it gave me a sinking feeling in my gut.

There was no giving up at that point. I was not about to let a little pain, which I have dealt with the majority of my life keep me from seeing the incredible beauty of the great west. Also, the competitive spirit in me wouldn’t let me miss getting every single mile of Oregon on my bike. There also was the fact that we only have ten days left. I refuse to not live these days to the absolute fullest.

I decided to press on and hope for the best. Fortunately, that was the best decision I have ever made. We rode up a couple more hills and then all of the sudden around a corner there was Alkali Lake. My breath was literally taken away. Had I missed that 15 mile stretch of indescribable majestic beauty I would never have forgiven myself.

We stopped early and often to make sure I didn’t break in half. In lucky to have such incredibly understanding friends. One of our stops was at the only convenience store we saw the entire ride. The man that owned the place got to talking to us for quite a while. When we were finally able to leave we all got on our bikes and as I tried to roll out I looked down to see a flat front tire. I literally changed it in under 4 minutes. There was no way in hell I was going to miss the tailwind we were about to ride in to.

A few miles down the road and a descent later things changed drastically. The scenery was foresty and the tailwind changed to a nasty headwind. With 15 miles to go in our 85 mile day we took a break at the top of another never ending climb. Immediately, Kate and I passed out mono style. The heat from the ground acted as a heating pad and was precisely what I needed.

When we got back on the bike we rode another 7 or so miles to our next stop. It was at mile 81 where we chalked a message for Elle’s grandma who passed away this week. We’ve all had her and her family constantly in our thoughts and prayers; then, to have Elle back and writing a message to her grandmother seemed to put my racing mind at ease. We rode the first 81 for Phyllis, but the last 5 just for fun.

Our group was one of the first to come in, but luckily we were far enough behind to where we didn’t have to set up tents etc. However, I was on dinner crew so most of Schweaty Saddles loaded into the van, went to the post office for the mail drop, and then went to the grocery store for dinner food.

We put together food for lettuce wraps and burritos. The best part of dinner was hands down the guacamole that was made from the avocados that Jesse’s mom sent me! He hated me for getting half of his care package, but it certainly made my week!

Our family dinner during the sunset was absolutely wonderful. As soon as we finished eating we had our second to last town hall meeting. There were many mixed emotions, but most of them were reminiscent and heartbroken. In fact, I started to bawl when it was my turn to give my highs and lows. I’ve been incredibly sad all week jut thinking about the fact that in a short 10 or so say we will probably never all be together at once again. Similarly, my high was going to get Elle and seeing her gigantic smile when she saw all of us.

We had a few minutes of down time after that. I attempted to get some stuff done with my pictures, but when I started to work I was interrupted. There was talk of going out and I simply couldn’t turn down the opportunity. So many of us that are of age walked to the Eagles Nest bar and enjoyed the local scene.

After an excellently fun night together we headed back to the campground. It was another chilly night, but a camping night is always incredibly fun. Especially since there was no threat of coyotes or snakes.

Day 70

Seventy days down, 11 to go.

It’s the day we’ve been looking forward to this entire trip. Wagon Tire. Population of 1. Oh, and the sole citizen hates Bike and build for the actions of previous groups. However, it was our mission today to make Marty change his mind.

I left with Lauren, Kate, Maria, Spencer, Brandon, Nate. We tore the road up as we were trying to make sure we got to wagon tire at a reasonable time in order to go pick up our missing family member, Elle, from Bend, because she was finally flying back to us.

We rode hard the whole day. Our first break was at mile 18. Our huge group stopped at the top of a long climb so Spencer could change his 8th flat of the week. While we sat there more groups came upon us and most everyone stopped. It soon became a massive group stop.

As we got back on the road the winds began to pick up. However, the perks of being in a large group includes getting someone to block the wind for you…thanks boys. We quickly made it to lunch at the only sign of life in the surrounding 50 mile radius. Riley, OR, is a happening community filled with a post office, a billboard welcoming you and another one telling you to return, and a convenience store with a gun shop in the back.

There I found a ton of postcards with images of the Oregon back woods. The geography we saw was nothing like what I had imagined. Apparently, southeast Oregon is all desert, not the lush, green, misty Oregon I had imagined. That also makes rising conditions fairly miserable.

The last stop we made was to wait for a couple stragglers to catch up to us. When they arrived Lauren admitted to us her greatest irrational fear. Every day she thinks that she’s going to end up in a riding group that will refuse to stop…for the entire ride. I can’t think of anyone on this trip who would want to do that.

After that stop the winds died down. We only had 5 miles to go and crushed every last one of them. When we pulled up into the 1 acre of land that is Wagon tire we saw Stewart following Marty, the line Wagon Tire citizen, around like a little puppy. He was doing everything in his power to make Marty not kick us out of his town. Luckily, Stewart’s newly much less hairy face warmed Marty’s heart.

For me the day was not at all about the ride though, nor was it about convincing Marty to like Bike and Build again. It was about making our family whole again. Thus, the first possible second that we could pile Nate, Maria, Kate, Lauren, Britt, and I into the van, we got on the road to Bend.

Not even 5 minutes into the ride I had total word vomit. I couldn’t hold it in any longer because surprises are my favorite thing in the whole world…even if they don’t work out. After having ridden all day with Kate, the person who literally knows me better than I know myself, I had to tell her that there was a secret attempt to get one or both of her brothers to surprise her in Bend. She then laughed, called me sneaky, and almost immediately passed out.

Not long after that I took a nap as well. When I woke up, Kate was showing me her phone, which showed she had a missed call and voicemail from her boyfriend who had been in Europe all summer. Her face was priceless. She then called him immediately and did her Michael voice…which she’ll never admit to, but it’s totally true.

We then spent the next hour or so bumming around Bend. After we went by a bike shop we went downtown to find a restaurant. Thai food was calling our names so we went to Toomies and put a table together for the 8 of us, which included Cassie and Elle.

Shortly thereafter Cassie’s silver trailblazer pulled up with Elle in the passenger seat. At thy point she only knew that Maria had come to retrieve her. So, the rest of us hid behind a parked car. When she got to the sidewalk we jumped out and yelled SURPRISE!! She did the classic surprised Elle face and gave us all a huge hug.

Then, when Cassie walked up to meet us, a medium sized black lab trotted up to us as well. Cassie brought the best surprise ever…Molson bear! I am way below my quota for time spent with dogs. Thank you Cassie for bringing him. I definitely needed that!

When our food arrived at the table it was all absolutely gorgeous. However, things made an interesting turn quickly thereafter. First, Maria broke a sweat. Then, Nate started to as well. Then, their lips started to swell and the complaining began. Apparently, they should have gone with mild instead f medium heat. Watching those two eat was like a circus act. They begged for more white rice, but when it came it was so steaming hot that it burned their mouths. The look on our waitress’ face summed up the whole fiasco.

After dinner we went to get some FroYo in hopes that it might help cool off their mouths. When we finished we said goodbye to Cassie and headed back to Wagon Tire. Again, everyone passed out except for Britt. When we pulled in I jolted awake and nearly refused to get out of the van in fear of rattle snakes and coyotes. However, the thought of sleeping in the van without my sleeping bag was equally as scary. Luckily, we had plenty of light reflecting off of the nearly full moon so we could see if anything slithered our way. Then, the sweetest thing happened. While we were gone stew and Sarah had laid out sleeping bags and thermarests for Kate, Britt, and I since we were all sharing a tent. Not having to set out my stuff made me so incredibly happy that I immediately passed out and had wonderful dreams. Well, except for the one where I thought a coyote had torn through our tent and mauled all of us.

Off to Lake View, OR, tomorrow.

Day 69

Sixty nine days down, 12 to go.

It was a relatively eventful day today. We started in Juntura with a delicious breakfast of sausage, eggs, beer battered pancakes, and fruit. We climbed mountains and changed time zones all to end up in Burns, OR. We even got to watch the Olympics on a real TV!

When we left this morning I found myself searching for Elle to ride with, but sadly remembered she wouldn’t join back up with us until tomorrow. However, I still rode off with an incredible group, which consisted of Maria, Nate, Kate, Jackson, and Sarah. Per Nate’s request I thought it should be known that I forgot to mention his include his incredible pogo skills in yesterday’s post. He can even jump without his hands. He’s amazing! Nate, I think you should be famous.

After a solid 9 miles straight up hill we finally crossed into our last time zone. We are officially in Pacific time now. Some stopped to take pictures, but I was on a mission to finish climbing the never ending hill. What I didn’t realize was that it continued for another 10 or so miles. The “summit” was at about 4400 feet and had an unworthy downhill truck sign at the top, which read 6% downgrade next three miles. After climbing for nearly 20 I wanted a much longer descent.

Then, out of nowhere, we start climbing again. We stopped about 3/4 of the way up and took a break to look out over the beautiful valley. While we stood there a man pulled his car over and asked what we were doing. Apparently, he had just gotten done riding RAGBRAI and was very interested in what we were doing.

When he left we continued on with the climb. The mood was lightened by Stewart and Nate leading Sarah and I in their beat rendition of Queen’s bohemian Rhapsody. The summit came a few miles later at about 4850 feet. Again, we were given the downhill truck sign, which was completely and utterly misleading. This time it was much less steep and one 2 miles. When we came to the bottom of the hill we ran into our lunch stop.

That’s where we spent the majority of our riding time. We ate, sang, and danced for hours. It’s probable that our sheer joy was quite irritating to those around us, but the smiles and laughter we shared were absolutely priceless. I’d take Nate serenading everyone to top 40 songs or Kate’s perfectly choreographed dances over a boring lunch any day.

When we left lunch we simply kept climbing and when we weren’t climbing we were riding straight into some nasty Gail force headwinds. My favorite combination…don’t forget about the heat too. We fought the harsh conditions the best way we knew how though. Nate again came to the rescue with Disney sing-a-longs. That boy can recall every lyric to every song ever written, especially Disney or Britney spears songs. It actually is rather impressive.

Eventually, we ran out of classic Disney movies to sing songs from so we took a break to send a love note to Elle. Not long after that we took another break when we saw Stewart, Lauren, Dino, etc huddled on the side of the road. They took off a few minutes after our arrival, but we stayed and enjoyed some 90s classics. Sarah was in rare form when Green Day played. I loved it!

After a few more songs we decided to actually get into town. I rode the rest of the way two abreast with Sarah. She is so incredibly wise, humble, and always willing to lend an ear. She’s easily going gone one of the people I miss most on this trip. Good thing we’ve got plans to seeds unite every 2 months or so. When we realized our talking had caused us to drop back so far that we could no longer see the other 4 in our group we decided to stop at the junk/antique store on the side of the road. It’s stops like that that were a huge factor in me wanting to ride my bike across America. The intimacy in which we are currently experiencing the northwest corner of America is incredible.

We found little gifts for a couple people, which the owner gave to us for free after we explained what we were doing riding our bikes in the intense heat. The generosity of strangers still blows me away. Whether its a host, a car who gets in the opposite lane to avoid us, or a random shop owner, it gives me the warm fuzzies.

Upon leaving the shop we decided to go to Glory Days Pizza. They had $2 bottomless milkshakes and couches to watch the Olympics on. Beach volleyball was I this afternoon so it was not difficult to convince me to go to the host to set out my laundry and to shower.

However, when I did get to the host I promptly showered and put all my laundry on the tarps and took off for dinner at Glory Days. BBQ chicken is hands down my favorite pizza. Many other flavors are very delicious, but 9 times out of 10 I’ll choose BBQ chicken over anything else. I was overjoyed at the thought if consuming one with a beer in one hand and a milkshake in the other. Fat kid’s fantasy right there…thank God I’m riding my bike across the US.

We watched basketball replays for hours waiting for swimming and gymnastics to come on NBC. Everyone cheered when 8pm finally rolled around and we could watch our favorite events. Throne event I truly wanted to see was on tonight too. The men’s 100m free…even though it was just the semi final round I got to watch Nathan Adrian dominate the second heat. Hopefully, the finals will be on at when I can watch it. However, it’ll probably work out that it’s on while we are in wagon tire…population 1.

Eventually, we felt we had overstayed our welcome and walked back to the middle school where wears staying. As we walked up there were a couple cops outside looking around the building. Apparently, they hadn’t been notified about us staying here. Thankfully, they helped us to get in because we couldn’t figure of how to do that on our own.

After getting inside I immediately got ready for bed. The time change has certainly thrown me off, but that’ll quickly change. Off to wagon tire tomorrow, a short 55 miles into a camp ground! Don’t forget we get to reunite with Elle again tomorrow! We all miss and love you lady!

Day 68

Sixty eight days down, 13 to go.

I woke up to jesse’s alarm an hour and a half before it was he actual wake up time. When the real alarm went off I didn’t move for a solid 5 minutes. Kate had already jumped up and ran out of the room. She flipped the lights on and ran away in an attempt to blame me for such a horrendous act. Our room buddies didn’t move though for another 5 minutes.

We provided our own breakfast so after I had dressed and gotten my bin outside I helped Kate set out the food. I could barely tabs the thought of eating still, but knew I couldn’t ride safely without eating. Therefore, I poured half a bowl of apple dappers, off brand apple jacks, and blared my music in my headphones in hopes that that would distract me. Luckily, Stewart came over and decided to distract me instead. He gave me the scoop on the Olympic events he got to watch last night. Mom, I told Erin, but please record all the swimming!

When I grabbed my bike to take it outside I felt my back tire. Yet another flat. It’s always the best way to start my day. However, I changed it in just a couple minutes and waited to pump it so I could help clean up breakfast.

After route meeting I left with Nate, Lauren, and Kate. Last night as Kate read excerpts from her journal it made me realize how we all affect each others lives. Also, listening to a different perspective of a situation that we experienced together was extremely interesting. It made me think about how much I’m going to miss everyone. In a couple weeks I’ll no longer be writing about the ridiculous things like when Kate claimed to be a vegetarian, but still ate three big bites if my burger tonight, or how Stewart shaved off his lumber jack beard today and looks completely different, which caused Hannah’s jaw to literally drop to the floor. All she could say was, “what a strapping young fellow you are!”

I want to continue to make memories with these people. I want to travel to Portland, Virginia, Southern California, New York, Alabama, and Philly. I want to treasure the memories I have already made. When I think about two weeks from now and we’ll all be boarding different planes it makes me so incredibly sad.

As the ride got started I tried to stay in the back and soak up the day. The four of us, even though it was a windy hot day, had a wonderful day. I think at this point I could have another spearman-esque day and still appreciate every miserable second of it.

The first 23 miles we rode without stopping. I mention this because that is actually a record for all three of my riding partners. Lauren, Kate, and Nate all have notoriously small bladders. I was shocked none of them exploded.

After the bathroom break we continued on for the next 14 miles to lunch without stopping again. When we got there we read the chalking that britt write that required us to give her one hug before she allowed us to eat. Naturally, I gave her about 15. Later on this evening she told me that when she was watching us roll out of lunch she teared up thinking about how it won’t be much longer til there are no more morning hugs from me to my little puzzle piece. Sounds like in not the only one terrified of the thought of no longer being with one another.

After I paid my lunch admission fee I went straight for the strawberries. Lunch when britt is driving is always magically delicious. The avocado I shared with Kate really just topped off the beauty of that meal. Also, it was the first time I felt even the slightest twinge of hunger since the mcnugget challenge. That in itself was thoroughly exciting.

As I waited for my cohorts to finish eating I DJ’ed from the back of the trailer. We waited for Dan and Brandon to take off before we left and finally pushed off after about 40 minutes. We rode for about 10 miles into exponentially harder headwinds before we needed to take out first break. My favorite part of the ride was easily when Nate nearly got completely naked while chamois buttering on the side of the road. Kate just kept walking closer and closer as he got increasingly more uncomfortable. Shutout to Nate and his new waist “V” lines. He’s so proud.

On our way to our next stop we continued in a single file line. Then, out of nowhere a sedan pulled out from behind a truck pulling a trailer and got dangerously close to us while holding down his horn. Luckily, he just wanted to scare us and we all made it out safely.

With 9 miles to go we promptly stopped at the world’s single most underwhelming water fall. After cupping the warm water in our hands we decided to finish the ride. It was Lauren’s turn to lead. We counted down almost every single mile. Then, when we finally were able to see Juntura off on the horizon a great sense of relief overwhelmed me. I knew I would soon be out of the heat.

The second we arrived I starfishes on the gym floor. I wanted nothin more than to be able to help unload the trailer, but in that moment I literally could lift nothing over 5 pounds. After I found the energy to get up I got my shower stuff and walked with my group over to the showers at the Oasis Cafe/motel.

Due to the line I decided to go get a milkshake inside. The pineapple shake was exactly what I needed to lower my body temperature to a safe and comfy level. Once everyone else had gotten through the line I decided it was finally time to wash the day off of me. I nearly froze in the cold shower, but was overjoyed that it wasn’t hot.

When we got back I set up my hammock in a most perfect spot. The wind only got slightly outrageous a few times. After a much needed nap I woke up to the sound of my phone ringing. As I chatted with my mom a stranger rode up the road with Maria. He claims to be Stewart, but he was missing an inch of facial hair. I’m not convinced its him yet, but either way everyone agrees it looks great!

Since we were waiting for Stewart and Maria to get in to eat we finally got the dinner call. They served us their own farm raised grass fed beef burgers. I loved it so much. In fact, Kate even liked it and she can’t even remember the last time she’s eaten red meat. She’s what she calls a flexitarian.

After dinner we all did our own thing. I arm wrestled britt. When we went leftie I held m own until I busted out laughing, but rightie I destroyed her. Post arm wrestling I spent the while night blogging and prepping for bed. Meanwhile, everyone started playing on the rope that hangs from the ceiling. Britt got some serious air.

It was a fantastically hot, windy, and wonderful day. Off to Burns tomorrow with a 58 mile ride.

Day 67

Sixty seven days down, 14 to go.

The 2 week mark has finally arrived. This past week was quite possibly he fastest of my life. When all I want is for time to slow to a crawl all it does is speed up exponentially.

The ride today was one we had all been looking forward to for a while. It was originally supposed to be 37 miles, but ended up being a short 42. Well, 45 if you missed the Oregon state line sign on the actual route and decided to ride past the host to another close state line sign.

Due to the short day we were able to wake up far later than normal. The 7am blaring of “Island in the sun” set me up for a great day. Even though I was exhausted I was in a great mood. I had my kit on and my bin packed before most everyone else, which never happens. I pumped my tires and filled my water bottles and Camelbak and was ready to go well before breakfast was ready.

Kate’s usual pep in her step was obviously missing, so I brought her a black coffee. She finished writing her email and finally joined the group. I went and laid my cup if orange juice down and then walked off somewhere else. Meanwhile, Kate apparently was saving me a seat at her breakfast table and telling others that they couldn’t sit there. Literally, within seconds of her telling someone she was saving it for me I took my breakfast plate and walked right past her table and to the one on the complete opposite side if the room. Nate promptly made fun of her and noted how embarrassing that was. I nearly cried from laughing so hard when she proudly told me the whole story.

Breakfast was actually very eventful. In the middle of one of Brandon’s bites of sausage his fork al of the sudden snapped in half. Then, within ten seconds Spencer broke his accidentally as well. After making fun of the they two boys at the table, Jesse destroyed his fork as well. Jess then answered with an incredibly hilarious voice an commented of just how strong our men are. It was hilarious simply because upper body strength is something that we are probably lacking here 3400 miles into this bike trip.

After the fork fiasco Sarah started to pass around old pictures of herself. Her baby pictures are identical to Suri Cruise and her photo from 2006 is eerily similar to a younger Winona Judd. It seems strange to me that Sarah isn’t famous. She also went through a phase where she was an Ashlee Simpson doppleganger.

After we finished eating dinner crew did a presentation about bike and build. Te video kept stopping so we all just sang the words to the song that plays during it, “all these things I’ve done” by Weezer. I love it when we all belt out that song. It gives me chills and the warm fuzzies simultaneously.

Our daily route meeting was ten minutes after the presentation finished. Ontario, Oregon, our destination, was apparently one of the towns that Grace Graham (a girl who signed up for bike and build but ended up not able to come) was supposed to tell us all about, so, Andrew told us a little about it. When it was all over I quickly finished getting ready and got on the road with Stewart.

The first 10 or so miles we road pretty quickly. In that part of the ride we probably passed the vast majority of the team. After catching britt and Dena we slowed down quite a bit. We finally were feeling he effects of the headwinds. Also, we needed to take the time to play our game for the day.

One of the most saddening things that has happened during our trip turned into an extremely positive thing throughout the ride today though. Unfortunately, Elle had to fly home this morning to deal with some personal things. We all want her to feel as if she is here with us and want her to know how much we love her, so, we decided to play a game with her. In honor of crossing into Oregon today we played Oregon Trail. We would take pictures of things, send them to Elle, and ask her what our next move she be. For example my group sent her a picture of a wheat field. Due to her gluten allergy Stew sent a text along with it saying “we have come upon a poison patch, do we avoid it and move on or do we frolic in it and risk death by diarrhea?” to which she would respond with something sassy and Elle like. It made it feel like she was with us all day, but we definitely want her to get her butt back here soon. Miss you Elle belle!

As we rode through Nyssa Sarah stopped the van and took a picture to send to Elle. This is where we grouped up with Britt and dena. This is also where we completely missed seeing the state line sign. We must have ridden right past it without seeing it at all…even though britt has crossed into Oregon at the same spot just two years ago. I’m totally calling you out right now Britt (even though if you ask her she will tell you that she knew exactly where it was and that it must have just been removed).

We rode all the way into Ontario waiting for the sign, but when we didn’t see it we decided to take pictures at the welcome to Ontario sign. While we were there we called Sarah. She was apparently on the van waiting at another state line sign that was a couple miles past the host. So we decided to ride there, go back into Idaho, and come back for a picture.

We hurried back to the host to help unload the trailer. As we arrived we saw the snacks they had set out. Instead of my usual demolition of every visible food source I refrained from most everything there. I had to save room for this afternoon’s 50 chicken mcnugget challenge.

Once we found our wallets, Britt and I headed over to mcdonalds. The half mile walk we spent mentally preparing for the terrible awful that was about yo happen. When we walked in I put my game face on, went to the bathroom to make some extra room, and then ordered 50 chicken nuggets. The look on the cashier’s face was priceless when three people right in a row ordered 50 packs.

When we got our food we all counted and when both Matt and I were short a nug, so, we both had to go ask for a singular chicken mcnugget. Within seconds of receiving all of or nuggets the competition began. The first 20 went down easy. Number 21 was where I figured out why they don’t sell them in packs larger than 20. The consistency and the taste completely change at that point. It made me think back to a lesson in my honors Econ class in high school where we ate chocolate in a supply and demand exercise. I now illy understand what that lesson was supposed to teach me because I never got sick of the chocolate.

At the 39 nugget point I began gagging at every bite, but my competitive nature wouldn’t let me quit. Everytime I get into a situation like that I think back to swimming all four years in college and remember I can do anything I truly set my mind to. So I kept chewing. At 42 Matt and I were still tied. However, he began to pull away after that. He was able to keep going, but I thought staring down my chicken…deeply into its soul would somehow help me. It didn’t. What did help though was chewing with my front teeth and then swallowing it like medicine by taking a huge swig of diet dr pepper. It hurt, but it went down.

At 46 I texted Kate begging for words of encouragement. She replies with a ridiculous video and said if I did it I could motorboat her calves. At 1/2 of a nugget left I knew I had done it, but still took another 5 minutes to force it down. My emotions were all over the place. They went from remorseful to elated and right back to hatred for my decision to complete such a stupid challenge.

I waddled back to the church after Britt gave up. She didn’t go down without a fight though. After number 40 she vommed in the bathroom then immediately fit 5 more in her stomach. Those didn’t last long though. She went to the bathroom and released those few bites she had left.

The walk back was long and painful. Our food babies lasted for the rest of the night, mine is here to stay for a while though. I laid on my stomach for the rest of the night. When dinner was served I had to put my hand over my nose and resist breathing. And no, I didn’t eat either.

After dinner I loaded my activity from my Garmin. If you want to track my progress go to strava.com and find my profile. There’s also a map of our progress that Barrett is making which i posted on Kate Benedict’s Facebook page last night.

Some people decided to go the bar at that point. However, I felt like I had just eaten 50 chicken nuggets. I stayed back and made a few phone calls and hung out with Kate and Matt. Around 9:15 I started to get ready for bed. Kate and I searched up and down the church for a dark quiet place away from snorers. We found a dark quiet room, but manages to get too close to Jesse. Around 2am I woke up to Kate crawling over to Jesse, shaking him, and yelling at him to stop snoring. I then laughed profusely and went back to sleep until Jesse’s alarm went off at 4am.

It was an interesting sort of day. One I would love to do all over again. Having only two weeks left makes every day something to remember and cherish. I hold each one of my memories close and hope I will never forget a single one of them.

Day 66

Sixty six days down, 15 to go.

It was our second to last build day today in Caldwell, ID. Thankfully, that means we get to sleep in until 7. However, I for some reason woke up at 6 thinking that Stewart had already played the music, but Britt had yelled at everyone to go back to sleep.

When we finally did wake up at 7 I moved very slowly. It had been a long night and waking up is never a pleasant occasion…especially on 4 or 5 hours of sleep. I helped set out breakfast, but was ragged on all day for not finishing my food quick enough to help clean up breakfast the entire time Schweaty Saddles was at work.

We left the host site around 8:10 and walked to the build site. It was a long hot walk, but we eventually made it there. They greeted us and gave us goodie bags.

When we got started I went up to the roof since I’ve put a few I those on during this trip. I put my headphones in and nailed down all the starter shingles. It was nice having a psuedo solo build day by blasting my music. It kept me in the zone and I had no desire to take a break the entire time I was up there, which is not a normal thing for me.

When I finished my job it was time for lunch. They set out frank & beans, salad, potato salad, and lots of chips and cookies. After I finished eating Kate and I went on a search for a good nap spot. There was a back bedroom that was reasonably quiet and dark until about 12:40. I had my music blasting, but even with that I still jumped at the sound of the hammer that fell 6 inches from Kate’s face.

We decided not to risk it anymore and got up and went back to work. This time I worked with the homeowner, her son, Kate, Sarah Jackson, and Elayna on the siding. We finished up one of the walls while other teams finished up the back side of the house. Meanwhile, Luke, our construction manager figured out we could not put the shingles on that we had. They were a sable brown and it was likely that the homeowners association would not approve of it.

At the end of the day Jess’ family showed up with powerade, Popsicles, and grapes. It was the perfect treat to cool us off after a long hot day. It made the walk back to the church bearable. I continued listening to my music on the walk, but Kate yelled at me to actually pay attention to the world and speak to her. We walked back together and prepared to go to another pool party!

The president of the Caldwell Habitat had us over for dinner and a dip in the pool. When the first shuttle got there it was obvious that we were all exhausted. The vast majority of us passed out while two or three actually got in the pool. When the second shuttle arrived they served us a delicious dinner. We had BBQ chicken and taco salad. It was like she read my belly’s mind and then cooked everything I wanted right in that moment. It was a eerily similar situation when it came to dessert. Cookies and cream cake? Banana cream cake? Yes please!

For a long time I just sat in the soft grass with Sarah, Elle, Britt, Maria, and Kate. It was such a beautifully peaceful moment. We kind of all just gave each other the “remember this moment” look.

When we got back to the host site many people decided to go downtown again to meet up with the central route. I, however, was far too tired to do anything that required energy and had no intention of spending money so I stayed in for the night. Also, for once I decided to be somewhat productive at night and did a super quick polishing my bike frame and rewrapped my handle bar tape. It became a whole ordeal when trying to put the end caps in. Apparently, Fizik likes to make their caps impossible to it in that tiny hole. I had to get Boover to come help me. He went the super technical tricky route and had me hold the front of the bars while he pushed hem with his foot. It worked though…that’s all that matters.

Once I cleaned my area up I packed my bin and prepped for bed. Kate had spent that entire time changing her tube and attempting to DJ the occasion. I told her a few of my favorite songs, one if which was “On your porch” by The Format. When I went to sleep I put my headphones in (I knew people would be coming back late and figured pandora might help me stay asleep during that) and turned on the Rocky Votolato station on pandora. When everyone came back I of course woke up and incredibly the song I had just told her about was playing. I smiled and went right back to sleep. It was a perfect end to my day.

Day 65

Sixty five days down, 16 to go.

After today I no longer have mandatory sweep days. The countdown has truly begun. It’s like the last year of college I was constantly thinking about how this would be the last time I swim this set or how this is the last time I will sign up for classes. That feeling was so bitter sweet in college. Here it’s all bitter. I might thoroughly despise sweeping, but if I could stay on bike and build for the rest of my life simply by being permanent sweep I’d gladly agree.

We woke up early to some Dave Matthews music, which always sets me up for a good day. Abrasive music at 5 am just isn’t pleasant. I reluctantly rolled out of bed a few minutes later, rushed my teeth, and mentally prepared myself for my sweep duties. Don’t get me wrong, I don’t mind one bit making sure everyone is ok and taken care of. I just have come to despise getting into the host after about 2pm. When that happens it feels as if my day has completely escaped me. I could have had the best day on the bike, but of I get to the host late I feel like I miss out on so many things. Like napping.

However, today is special. We rode from Mountain Home to Boise for lunch and from Boise to Caldwell, but then we were shuttled back to Boise to spend some time at Jess’ house for the night. We had a full plate and all I wanted to do was get going.

We were served a delicious egg, sausage, and spaghetti breakfast. After demolishing my food I finished getting ready to leave, went to the route meeting, cleaned up from breakfast, and then waited for everyone else to leave. It’s absurd how long it takes to get ready everyday to go ride your bike.

Andrew and I waited an extra 45 minutes or so after everyone left so we wouldn’t constantly be riding people’s tails the whole time. We took off at a decent pace and ended up catching our first group by about 45 minutes into the ride. They quickly left their resting spot, but we waited behind to give them space between us.

We played catch and release most of the morning. At mile 39-ish we got off the interstate and were officially in Boise. Within the next half mile I felt that all too familiar feeling. I had yet another flat tire. What was a slow leak had turned into a full blown flat. As a professional tire changer I quickly replaced my back tube.

We then rode into the park quickly and easily. Boise traffic, thank you for being bicycle friendly. The first thing I asked when I arrive was for directions to the bike shop. I took off alone and spent the next twenty minutes searching for the “easy to find” shop nearby. When I got there I essentially threw my bike at the mechanic and begged him to figure out what it is that I’m doing wrong or if the tire was just worthless. I’d like to think I was lucky to find out it was just the tire that was a POS. I now go through tires like they’re tubes. Spearman melted my beaded armadillo, my foldable armadillo decided it was no fun if I could go fast all day without a slow leak, the stock tire I put on literally exploded on me, Sarah’s tire that I borrowed worked like a charm temporarily, but then when I put the Michelin on there I was yet again screwed, and now I’m finally riding a Gatorskin.

I proceeded to clean the shop out of their tubes, got the new Gatorskin, new handlebar tape, and a water bottle that’s not completely coated in mold. Thankfully, they gave us a good discount. George’s is the place to go if you’re ever in need of bike parts or service while in Boise.

Meanwhile, at the park there was a bike and build alum, Caitlin, providing us lunch. She even brought a bike mechanic to work on our bikes while we ate. Everyone took full advantage and got quick tune ups. As much as I loved getting my bike serviced, it took forever getting everyone to leave for Caldwell. People had arrived by 9:30 or so in Boise and sweeps didn’t get to leave until almost 2pm. It was ridiculous.

When Andrew and I finally got back on the road we decided to push the pace, but not so hard that we’ be catching people in the next few minutes. Then, around mile 15 we came upon a popsicle stand. They screamed at us “BIKE AND BUILD GETS FREE OTTER POPS!!!!” So I of course stopped for a free treat. Apparently, Jackson and Britt had given them extra money for the rest of us. It was the perfect treat for that 1000 degree heat. As we talked to the little boys I found out one of them is a hardcore Arkansas Razorbacks fan. I like that kid.

A few miles down the road we ran into Caitlin and Elayna who were changing a flat. We rode with for a few minutes and then stopped when we saw Walt. His blood sugar had dropped too low so we waited with him for the van to come pick him up. When Stewart finally came I loaded up his bike and ran back to mine so I could finish the ride.

By then it was almost 5 o’clock and we had 15 miles to go. Andrew and I went pretty much race pace the whole way in. Every time we stopped we got a blast to the whole body of extreme heat. When we finally did get to the church I was completely dehydrated, heat exhausted, mentally defeated, and nauseous. I face planted on to my thermarest and immediately passed out. People started filing in from showers not long after. So I slowly stood up and got my things to go to Jess’ house.

Jess’ dad came and picked us up and drove us to their home, basically backtracking from this afternoon. I slept through the car ride and then immediately upon arrival I put my swim suit on and jumped into the pool. My body temperature felt like it dropped nearly twenty degrees. Instantly I felt 10 times better. So I decided to join in on the beer purchase that was currently being made.

As I walked with Jesse, Allison, and Dena to the gas station the van drove past us. When I got back from the beer run i got the texts from Kate saying I looked like I needed a hug. She hit the nail right on the head. After losing a little piece of my soul out on the road, that was all I needed.

Around 10 everyone decided to go to downtown Boise. I took a 45 second shower and ran out to the van. We strolled up and down the streets and after a wonderfully fun night we headed back to the church. My night definitely made up for a hard day. Yay bike and build!