Good evening from Magdalena, New Mexico.
"Good company in a journey makes the way seem shorter" Izaak Walton
George and I enjoyed a wonderful ride today. The weather was perfect and it was especially nice to have a few high clouds diffusing the powerful sun rays. I believe the UV factor here was quite high and certainly must be respected. Apply sunscreen at least three or four times a day and keep those ears covered. After leaving Socorro we faced some serious climbing as we pedaled south and then finally made the big turn heading west. Challenging head winds kept us under control for at least the better part of the day.
Before I tell you about today's delightful discovery, let's step back two days and talk about a bicyclist named Ed. Heading south from Madrid we saw Ed from a distance and stopped and chatted about bicycling. He is an accomplished bicyclist who rides all over the southwest. He takes bicycling to a new level and incorporates so many of the benefits of bicycling into his daily routine.
He was fortunate to retire from the former US West (Qwest) with a pension and is able to bike everyday. It's impressive to me to meet someone like Ed, who really defines what bicycling can mean to a person, and how it can be such a positive force in your life. Keep in mind that serious bicycling is a lifestyle, and all the benefits that accrue from such a choice pay dividends. George and Ed were able to talk about the finer points of road bicycles, while my interest centered on the freedom and personal satisfaction that Ed enjoyed.
Ed, we wish you a long and prosperous lifetime of bicycling. Ride Safely and keep that beaming smile on display for everyone you encounter.
Another interesting encounter occurred yesterday, when we met the parents of Ricky Williams who recently completed the Ride Across America. Many of you may not be familiar with this ride but simply put, it's an amazing feat of riding where individuals and teams compete in a race across America. Can you believe that Ricky's team rode from Oceanside, CA, to Atlantic City, NJ in just eight days? Jan, his mother was so proud of her son and his Dad beamed with joy.
Whenever you think something may be too difficult to achieve, consider what Ricky and his team accomplished.
Late this afternoon we stopped at the Blue Canyon Gallery, and visited with Barbara the artist.
She, and her husband Jim, moved from Grand Rapids, MI to New Mexico about eleven years ago. They have a splendid property with magical vistas and a great art showroom. Not only does Barbara have outstanding creative art, but she also offers ice cream while you are viewing the work. Thank you Barbara for sharing your story with us. It's another example of individuals looking at life's options and making a great choice.
We asked Barbara about possible lodging in Magdalena, and she promptly offered her first recommendation being the High Country Lodge. So, we continued pedaling another mile and arrived at this really neat motel. Immediately, we were greeted by Enid, who along with her husband owns this facility. We were greeted with, "Yes, we have vacancy". Enid's smile was so inviting, and the next thing you know we are introduced to her husband, Dennis.
We checked in, and then inquired about dinner recommendations. You won't believe it, but Dennis and Enid invited us to be their guests for dinner. After showering, Dennis even drove me to the grocery to pick up a few supplies. How's that for incredible service?
Dinner with Dennis, Enid, and their friend Tom, was so delicious. We dined on freshly grilled Trout with side dishes, including green and red peppers. Our conversation ranged the gambit from motel operations to life in New Mexico. Dennis and Enid have been married 31 years and are such a neat couple. It also was such a pleasure meeting Tom and learning about his life.
He and his wife have four children in college. Can you imagine that expense?
We just finished dinner and Dennis offered use of this computer.
Spending time with Dennis, Enid, and Tom has been another outstanding example of why our country is so wonderful. People who care about others and open their doors to strangers really make a difference. Thanks for sharing a little of your life with us.
It's bedtime, and tomorrow will feature a twenty mile ride to the Very Large Array, and then on to Quemado. Talk to you soon.
