DAY 7 SAMMYRIDES

A long day, but one that seemed to be the easiest so far for the riders.  We left Thatcher, Az, around 11 AM, because the winds were way too strong for us to leave any earlier.  We had such a relaxing time in Thatcher, which gave the riders and myself an opportunity to get reenergized.  We biked along route 70 East on the highway's bike path which was littered with broken beer bottles and all manner of other junk.  The riders had the wind at their back and more than once were able to ride at speeds in excess of 25 MPH...   Along the way, we crossed the border from Arizona to New Mexico and Michael tossed a rock across that great distance!  A few miles further down the road, we met a struggling rancher who, along with his grandson, is trying to preserve a cattle ranch in very trying circumstances.  

After many miles of seeing only sage brush, little plants and arid countryside, the rancher put a human face on the long and lonely road. 
Tonight we staggered into Cranberry Restaurant,  so hungry,  we ate everything except the furniture!!!!   Tomorrow, we head to Deming, New Mexico, where we will participate in the Ash Wednesday service at the United Methodist Church, which will be followed by a meet and greet.
We're expecting a warm welcome as we ride into Deming and look forward to meeting many of the residents who'll be there to meet us.

Last eve., we were hosted to a lovely pot luck supper at the local Baptist Church in Safford, AZ. 

I continue to be grateful in that I've been able to ride right behind the riders (10 miles/hr).  I keep myself busy by listening to EMT review tapes in preparation for the National Exam I will take this coming summer.  Can't listen to music, as the reception isn't great in the middle of huge mountain ranges although I can't help but enjoy the gorgeous mountain scenery.
From New Mexico, Michael, Mike Brown, Adolf Lex and myself, send our love and best wishes to you all until tomorrow from Deming, New Mexico!!!