I made it to Sandpoint, Idaho!
Today was a lower mileage day, comparatively. It was approximately thirty miles to Sandpoint. I knew that I had plenty of time, but wanted to get there a bit early to rest. As I had already purchased a train ticket, I wanted to account for the possibility of a flat tire, broken derailleur or busted chain.
After packing up the stealth campsite and finishing the previous day’s blog post, I cycled to Priest River. There, I enjoyed a large breakfast at AJ’s Cafe.
The food was good; I just wish that I’d had a table set at a distance from the kitchen. The air emanating from the space was a touch putrid. The waitress filled my water bottle.
The ride itself was pleasant. I listened to Gershwin’s “Rhapsody in Blue” and a Boards of Canada album. I tried a podcast by “The Minimalists” regarding the topic of simplifying one’s wardrobe. I may have them beat. If you’ve seen me one day, you’ve seen me every day.
Crossing Lake Pend Oreille River, I came upon a little park down by the water. With a number of hours to spare, I pulled the brakes and surveyed the scene. This was an easy place to spend the afternoon. I locked my bike to a tree, then bathed and took a swim in the river. I then slipped into my hammock for longer than I should have. It was wonderful.
Pedaling into downtown Sandpoint, I stopped at Connie’s Restaurant for a lemonade.
I’ve been diligent about wearing my mask in public places on this trip, especially when I go indoors. The waitress met me with “You don’t have to wear a mask. You’re in Idaho.” She seemed a touch upset.
Idaho is wide open. I overheard conversations about meeting for karaoke from a small group sitting next to me.
After the lemonade, I beat it for the train station. Inevitably, the virus will show up in this town. Unfortunately, there aren’t enough lifestyle changes in place to stop its spread.
My train to Everett was about thirty minutes late. I was talking to Beth, so the time just slipped by without me being conscious of it. It was so kind of her to stay up with me, especially considering it was after midnight.
I splurged on a sleeper car, which was well-worth the extra dough. The bike cost $20 extra, but, fortunately, I didn’t have to take it apart. This couldn’t have worked out better.
For this leg of the Northern Tier (Anacortes, Washington, to Sandpoint, Idaho) I bicycled approximately 450 total miles and crossed five mountain passes. I didn’t have any bicycle issues, not even a flat tire. This was the first tour for my relatively new Long Haul Trucker with Continental tires.
I enjoyed having Anders with me for over half of the trip. It’s my hope that we can tour again together. He’s a wonderful companion.
After eleven days of cycling, I’ll be good to be home. I’m going to cycle from Everett Station to the Mukilteo ferry. Beth will give me a lift from Clinton to Langley in our van, Moby. I’m so looking forward to seeing her.
Until next time...
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