I ton't think my bike has that feature. If it oes, I've yet to find it. Oh well.

Highs for this coming week are expected to be in the upper 90s but the lows still ge into the 50s, so early starts are an essential strategy. Some riders choose to take some down time in the heat of the day and resume riding come evening; I'm not so sure that'll work for me but I may consider it.

Thanks Greg! So far so good. I think the toughest week of the trip is about to land on me. If I can make it through that, and over Chief Joseph Pass, I'll have hope of completing the trip. But this coming week will tell the tale, I think.

Your tour is going great so far. I have to admit, after seeing your training ride difficulties, I was a little worried for you. Now you seem to be a resilient bike riding, tent-camping, hill-climbing, sponge-bathing, weather-resisting, master of cycle tourism. You've got this!

Keith - Since the daily high temperature in the Phoenix area has been in the 105 - 111 range for more than a week, I've been going to a local fitness center and have included an exercise bike in my daily regimen. Watching a bike touring simulation video on my cellphone reduces the monotony. But I've discovered a wonderful thing: You don't HAVE to turn the pedals to "advance".......the video keeps you moving! Have you tried that technique on your trip??
Scott

Socks, evidently. It's a light-gauge yarn and small needles.

Might be redstem ceanothus.

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ceanothus_sanguineus

What is she knitting?

As long as I stayed still it was content to explore, but at the first sign of movement it retreated. I had to anticipate where it was headed and keep the camera ready. I missed a couple shots of it poking it's head up on the opposite side of the table from me.

I'm enjoying hanging out with Dan and Ian. We shared a hostel room in Missoula last night (7/19). That'll probably be the last I see of them, as they are continuing while I take a rest day. I won't catch up after that, probably.

Thanks Betsy. It's been good so far, hope it stays good. Thanks for keeping an eye on Linda.

Hi John. Glad you're enjoying the journal. I hate Scott Boras.

Thanks Julie. Glad you're enjoying the read. Sorry it took a couple days to get the next posts up. I've been in areas with no internet service for the past couple days.

Thanks Kelly. I did.

My shoes are regular mountain bike shoes. They have a deep tread and the cleat is recessed into the tread. Walking isn't difficult in them.

Cute, and easy pickings! Looks like a Colombian Ground Squirrel, which Idaho Fish&Game says is fare game. Extra protein for your freeze dried meal. You did bring your AR-15, I presume?