Boy, did I sleep good last night. I guess my body knew I needed the rest and slept til 7, not my usual 5. However, today, I’ve been feeling a little guilty cause I think I could have made it those 68 miles without too much difficulty. But then, I had to keep telling myself that I was really tired and that it was good to listen to my body. It seemed like such a perfect day to ride. No wind, somewhat warm. THE QUIET BEFORE THE STORM. When it started to sprinkle, within 30 seconds, it became a torrential downpour. Not even enough time to suit up in rain gear. So, I’m reading a book and walked 2 miles to the post office, library, convenience store, and lunch. Got goodies for dinner so I wouldn’t have to go out in the rain. Fretting a little about tomorrow since I’ll either have to take another day off or ride in the rain. I’ll make my decision in the morning.

When my good friend, Bill, rode on the interstate one time when he went across country, I tho’t he was crazy. But he said he had no choice. And now, after going x-c four times, you really do not always have a choice. In some states, it is legal, and, in others, it is not. My first time was in 2014 in North Dakota, and it wasn’t too bad. Second time was in 2018 in AZ, and it was the pits. Rained hard, trucks plastered me with spray, (water and sand). And it was cold. I was on the Rte 66 ride, and my hands were wet and frozen. The interstate was on top of Rte 66, so there was no option. As was the case yesterday. The frontage road disappeared three times and the only route was on the interstate. Just so happened that part of it yesterday had the worst shoulder conditions I’ve ever had to ride. And, also some of the best. I was taking off excess clothes on the approach to the interstate yesterday, and a cop stopped to talk to me. I tho’t, oh, boy. But he was concerned and just said, “Be careful.” I really like these Montanans. Actually, I’ve had two cops stop and talk to me the last couple days. I don’t know if I look desperate or if they are concerned because I’m old. I didn’t think I put out vibes of needing help cause I certainly didn’t.