Del Rio, TX

 Not as cold, but wind rattled the tents all night. Tired and very stiff this morning, even my leg muscles complaining. Much like running a marathon, you can't imagine how much it can hurt. Up and out early, drafting as a group of four with Monte, Mark and Chuck (even though drafting-- following close in line to minimize wind resistance -- is against Adventure Cycling policy). To Amistad reservoir and long bridge crossing, traffic building approaching this recreation area. Saw first armadillo, roadkill of course -- to go with the deer, ring-tailed cats, skunk and even vulture carcasses. Then 5 miles of strip mall development into Del Rio and our Motel 6 close to Walmart. Only 41 miles today, so much better than yesterday; we arrive early and have to wait a couple hours to get into rooms. Wind dying down, should be overall an easier 75 mile day tomorrow. We're finally out of the high desert, heading into Texas hill country heading toward Austin, our next rest day in 5 days. Will be getting a lot warmer. And we are just about halfway in terms of mileage, 1,400 miles, day 26 of 58.

The question must be asked: am I enjoying this? Ha! Definitely a challenging few days of headwinds: I will admit that yesterday I briefly fantasized about bailing and catching Amtrak in Del Rio back east. But this journey is worth the effort, the scenery is out there to be appreciated, biking is the best way to experience the country directly and unmediated. The wind in your face (and head), the dust coating your clothes, bike and gear, the sweat and the cold, the pounding of the road, the fatigue and not so great diet, the somewhat odd mix of companions, all rolls up into a suitably rewarding endeavor.