I'd really be tempted to pick around the road cuts along there!

Teasel

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

I believe you are correct!

https://nwwildflowers.com/compare/?t=Artemisia+tridentata

Yes it is! I'm tempted to stay a second night but feel like that would have unwanted consequences down the road.

Spoken Hostel is an amazing place. Jalet and Pat have done a lot to revitalize Mitchell.
Enjoy your trip. More summits ahead in the next few days.

Keith, you're a talented writer! I liked the phrase "desanctified church" in this entry, although it's also sad when churches close.

"Also, you’re camping tonight in a hallowed place with special significance to Team Anderson. 34 years ago I bought her her first bicycle, and that weekend we went for a 50 miler. The weekend after that we went for a three day bike loop, a triangle between Redmond, Prineville and Cove Palisades. Your campground in Prineville is where she spent her first overnighter on a bicycle."

That's a great story, Scott. Thanks for sharing. But it is also a cautionary tale- look where you are now. :)

I think the seat mast folding joint must have been an option that I elected not to take. I was talking to someone else with a NWT that is older than mine and they had it. I'm just a cheap SOB.

Yup, we ride NWT’s also. It’s our second set. We got our first ones in 2009, and the current ones in 2018 about the time we sold our home and went vagabond. And you’re right, disc brakes weren’t an option on the earlier bikes.

Great to see you on the road. Bon journee! A couple of notes on your first day. If you ever come back and ride between Redmond and Prineville again, take the O’Neill Highway just a bit further north. It’s much quieter, and a beautiful ride. The ride up by the reservoir is terrific too.

Also, you’re camping tonight in a hallowed place with special significance to Team Anderson. 34 years ago I bought her her first bicycle, and that weekend we went for a 50 miler. The weekend after that we went for a three day bike loop, a triangle between Redmond, Prineville and Cove Palisades. Your campground in Prineville is where she spent her first overnighter on a bicycle.

Hi Vic-

Thanks! Consider it a partial repayment for all the good advice and wisdom you and Flavia have shared.

Thanks Dana! So far so good. :)

Hi-

Denise and Doug have already basically TOLD me they are going to come kidnap me and hold me hostage for few days in their guest room. I have agreed, willingly. So, you may see me sometime around Labor Day week...

Keith - you are coming frustratingly close to Cincinnati. Are you considering a stop here? Or should we meet you in KY? Since you are going through Columbia, MO, are you planning a stop with the Huffman's? I'm sure they would be delighted if you did and they are very interesting folks to get to know better. I can give you contact information if you need it. Linda

Safe travels and may the wind be always at your back 😀