Well, I almost made it.
We woke up today to overcast skies and the smell of rain in the air. Naturally, the breakfast conversations centred on the possibility versus the probability of rain on the ride. I took the optimistic view that we've done so well up to this point, why should our luck change. And for the first 55 miles, my luck held, but then the skies opened for about five miles, and what hadn't been drenched by my working hard in humid conditions, soon was by the rain. Fortunately, it wasn't a cold shower, and although I only put on my wind vest for some minimal protection, I was quite comfortable.
Interestingly enough, I was the only one to experience a prolonged downpour; many accomplished the entire ride unscathed. Luck of the draw, I guess.
Aside from the weather, it was an uneventful day. I did ride a mile and a half off the route to meet Arlan Hall, the ACA tour director who was leading a leaders workshop at a small resort. Although he had invited us to visit on our way past, he was too busy with the workshop to spend any time with me other than to shake my hand, direct me to the washrooms, and offer me a snack. I keep wondering if I would have missed the rain if I hadn't taken the detour. One of the many mysteries of life.
Saw a bit more colour, and yes, took a few more pictures, but we may be leaving the optimum area for viewing. Locals say this year's crop of wild flowers is among the best ever. We're lucky to have experienced it.
Another interesting note: one of the group has been recording the daily elevation climb since leaving San Diego. Today put us over the 55 000 ft mark. Pretty impressive for 36 days, well, 35 if you don't include the first day's ride around San Diego.
Staying in a group of cottages called Sunday Houses. Our has the largest kitchenette, so will be the dinner and breakfast centre. Four of us will be sharing two Murphy beds, a pull-out sofa, and a cot. Rock, paper, scissors will decide who gets what. Gotta warm up those fingers!
That answers the age-old question. ;)
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