On July 7, we left Harlowton around 6am for the ride to Billings. Again, we wanted to get an earlier start to beat the heat. Just out of Harlowton, you notice the grandeur and drama of the plains' sky as the sun was coming up (top photo). You also notice how quiet it is. All you hear is the light wind in your ears, many different bird songs, and your own blood pulsing through your veins. It was glorious.
One might ask, with the many hours on the bike, what does one think about. You think some about the past, some about the future, but most of all, and increasingly so, you think about the present moment. And that is truly a gift.
The day was primarily flat and downhill, with some short climbs. The winds were mostly at our backs. At about mile 30, I stopped at a water stop in the town of Ryegate, MT. It was about 8am. I went over to use the restroom at the Ryegate Bar. The local clientele seated at the bar initially gave me a "look" as I walked past them in with my colorful bike jersey, black spandex shorts, and helmet. I couldn't help but think about the sign on the side of the bar (lower photo) proclaiming Ryegate as the home of the "Testicle Festival" (nuttin' but fun)--and where they get their supply. Fortunately, the natives were friendly.
The last stretch in the afternoon was hot, but not as bad the previous days. About 70 miles into the ride, we stopped at a water stop at a grain elevator along the railroad (middle photo). Something pretty strong took down that silo.
It was a great day to roll into Billings, MT completing our 93 miles; especially with the prospect of a real bed that evening, a good night's sleep, and a day off on Sunday (Day 14). Sunday was a day to relax and catch up on things (laundry, bike maintenance, and general downtime). On Saturday night, shortly after our arrival, we were treated to a spectacular set of record breaking thunderstorms. In some areas of Billings, more than 2 inches of rain fell in one hour. Three successive storms lit up the sky with bright lightning and earth shaking thunder. Things have really cooled off--for now.
We've been in Montana since July 1 (about a week). Tomorrow we head for Wyoming--our fourth state. Cumulatively to date, we've completed just over 900 miles--about a quarter of the way!
More in a few days.
Marty
3 comments:
Wow, Dad! Sounds like you are having a great time... We miss you!
I love your stories. It sounds like you are having the time of your life.
Ellen
Hi Marty,
We are really enjoying your blog, and it sounds like you are really enjoying yourself. When I was a kid and my family always drove to North Dakota on vacation, I remember thinking Montana would never end.....I can't imagine what it is like on a bike in hot weather. Way to go - stay safe!
Joni and Charlie
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