Day 6 - Donkey Motel

Today we woke up to a spectacular sun rise. Breakfast was quickly whipped up, hot water and instant oatmeal, delicious. We broke camp and headed on our way, east on route 60. The road was as straight as an arrow for most of our miles, 57 total. Although the route was without curves we were ascending slightly. Over the course of the day we climbed 1,200 feet. We first traversed farm land where we saw workers in the pistachio fields. Some waved to us. Giant sprinklers were soaking the newer fields and I wished I could ride through them. Pat said the same. We probably should have. It was already in the 90's. Leaving the fields behind, we were flanked by two continues mountain ranges. The saguaro cactus were everywhere. The fist 15 miles flew by and we all felt good. As we continued on, Dick spotted some elusive donkeys dodging behind the brush. As we entered the next rest stop we saw a lonely hotel with a sign reading, The Donkey Hotel. Maybe the donkeys were staying there.

It was getting hotter but a few clouds did provide some relief and there was a moderate cross wind. By the time we got to the last rest stop at mile 45 we were starting to run out of gas. However, Shanon and Kelley, our route leaders lifted our spirits with their enthusiasm. They're great ladies that are helping us navigate our way, provide support and cheer us on. Shanon is also an expert bike mechanic and nutritionist. 

We had one more climb before we got to Wickenburg, our destination. As we were about to crest the hill a gentle rain began to fall. It was miraculous, rain in the desert. No one donned a rain jacket because the rain was a true gift. We biked like young kids down the hill picking up speed with the help of our friend "gravity." James flew past me like a jet. The hill continued through the city and it seemed like a great place.

We arrived at the church where we are spending the night. Ernie, his son and wife provided a great southwest dinner. Ernie is a former MS biker. We were all ravenous and most of us went back for seconds and thirds. We celebrated one of the rider's birthday, Cindy, with cupcakes which were provided by our tour leaders.

Right now I'm laying on my air mattress in the church's commissary writing this post. It's been a great day. Stay tuned, tomorrow, Tempe, AZ.

Entering Wickenburg in style.