Today, another fairly easy day. We're at a point in the tour where we ride separately most of the day, regrouping for lunch and at our destination. Though I'm building fitness, I'm also feeling the fatigue setting in. The speeds I'm making at a 5% grade, I'd only be rolling that slowly on a 8-9% grade typically. I make a mental note to add stretching to my post-ride routine. 

Reflecting on this past week, I also feel much better prepared to continue this tour on my own. I know how to use the SNCF Connect app to research train connections and book bike space. I'm comfortable using Komoot to map potential routes. I understand the idea of WarmShowers and the cadence of a typical stay. And I feel used to French roads and the behavior of French drivers. 

Tamara heads out first. I decide to stay until the checkout time of noon to get a bit more rest and watch some Netflix. I need a break from the French language.

I break out the (English) podcasts and music and have conversations with myself. These small villages are beautiful, but what do they offer young people? I would've loved to stay in Sitka, Alaska, but I can't imagine signing a lease where I'd need to vacate for the summer cruise/sportfishing season. All the jobs are in the big cities. 

It was nearly impossible to find our Airbnb in Saint-Martin-de-Bromes. It took us over an hour because there was no house number sign outside. I was feeling tired, and decided to stay in while the laundry was going. Tomorrow we'll go to Aix-en-Provence, where Tamara ends her tour. I have no idea what I'll do after, so I need to do some research. A few hours later, when I head out to join Tamara for dinner, a bird flies over, and I feel the sickening poop splatter landing all over my hair and face. It was absolutely dégueulasse, and I immediately go back to the Airbnb to shower. I'm so over it, that I cancel on dinner. Tamara is not happy, of course, and we'll have to talk when she gets back. 

Overall, the day was tough on me. And I hate that our penultimate day ended on such a sour note with me ditching Tamara.