Enderlin, North Dakota to Fargo, North Dakota - August 17, 2021

Lunch Stop

Today, my final day of cycling, was remarkably smooth.

I ate a number of foods for breakfast at the Enderlin Inn before filling water bottles and cycling forth. Across the street, I purchased a twelve inch veggie sub at the local gas station as well as fruit and a Clif Bar.

The manager, who made the sandwich, seemed overwhelmed. She said that it was difficult to get employees. I felt for her. I’ve seen help wanted signs all over Montana and North Dakota. I don’t know what the answer is…

Kindred Bicycle Trail

I handled today like I’ve approached all others - slow and steady, taking periodic breaks. The distance was about sixty miles.

I looked around, this was my twenty-fifth day of pedaling. I was in the cycling rhythm that I’ve grown to enjoy.

Simple Stacks

There were times on this trip that I had to push further than I like to, due to long gaps with limited services.

Thinking back, now, this stretch of 1,200+ miles tested me to a greater degree than previous tours. Mileage, heat and wind played a factor. I think that the Plains also played a few tricks on my mind.

Overall, the trip was a great challenge for me. I learned countless things about myself and have a better feeling about the world.

I feel really fortunate to have been able to have this experience. I know that something like this isn’t for everyone, but I do feel like more people could benefit from undertaking the stretch.

I don’t know what next summer will bring. I don’t know what tomorrow will bring, actually. What I did out here was live in the moment, and I want to carry that with me.

I’m looking forward to returning home, and getting back into the different routines that I love.

How can a person appreciate what they have if they don’t separate from the day-to-day for awhile?

Great Northern Bicycle Company

Note: I was able to leave my bicycle with Great Northern Bicycle Company in Fargo. They will box and ship it to my home on Whidbey Island. They are a fantastic group of people. If you’re in Fargo, be sure to stop by their shop; it’s located in an old train depot.