Stanford, Montana to Lewistown, Montana - August 5, 2021

The Water Hole

I woke at just after six, my usual time these days, packed and headed to downtown Stanford for groceries; I was fresh out.

D’s was a step above a minimart, and I was able to get what I needed for the day. Before leaving, I sat down on a concrete bench (new) outside The Water Hole Saloon. The recently poured sidewalk was quite nice.

According to the woman at the RV place, many people are moving to Montana. Homes in Stanford that sat vacant for years have sold and are being fixed up or leveled for new construction. I can tell that there is an emerging vitality in the town. I know that it must be difficult for locals to experience new people and higher home prices, but with this comes a spark of freshness, and new paint.

Endless Bales

I cycled out of town and ground out forty-five miles to Lewistown. Challenges included a slight headwind, heat (90+ degrees), insects and road construction (two miles?). Harvest season is on, and trucks loaded with hay bales are common. Luckily, there was a huge shoulder for cyclists (8+ feet) and a rumble strip to the right of the fog line. Drivers remain courteous.

Hitchhiker

Roadwork (and so it begins…)

Note: After this trip, the Plains will be part of me. This is the way to experience them.

Of course, my fist major stop was the Lewistown Library. I connected to their WiFi and published a blog post. I spoke with an older couple who were interested in my trip. The man said that he often cycles around town. We both smiled at each other.

Lewistown Library (Interior Spot)

Lewistown Library (Nice!)

Hitchhiker 2

While there, I tried calling a local RV campsite - no answer. I was a touch tired and was drawn to the Airbnb app. I found an inexpensive room that included breakfast. It was easy to touch the “book” button.

Judith, the seventy-five year old home owner, allowed me to place my bicycle inside her home. She offered me a bottle of water and we chatted in her large living room space. She was interrupted by her kitchen timer - the cookies were done.

Judith’s Place (Airbnb)

Being pretty tired from the day’s ride, I retreated to the shower and, later, my room.

I spoke with Anders for a bit, then talked with Beth after she arrived at the flat. I’m glad that her scooter commute is going well.

This is the second time on this trip that I’ve chosen a bed for the night. I like them.