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Day 26- Del Rio Texas

 

Today was not so much about the ride as it was about the people I met along the way.

Since it was a short day we slept a little later than usual. Sunrise wasn’t till 8:00 AM which still feels weird. We paddled out around nine and stopped at a gas station/grocery store in search of breakfast burritos. No success there but I had a conversation with the woman working the counter. She might’ve been the owner but I’m not sure. She said she drives 40 miles to work, 15 of it on dirt roads. The closest real grocery store is 75 miles away. Stores like hers Are unassuming but  are a lifeline for people who live in these food deserts. She meets people from all over the world who stop on bikes, motorcycles and cars and we both agreed the Texans are among the friendliest people. 


The ride was only 40 miles and the one bright spot other than a long run of new paint pavement that was heavenly was the Armistad Reservoir and Recreation area. We haven’t seen Bluewater in sometime and it was pretty stunning against the canyon cliffs. We did have a white knuckle ride across the bridge that is soon to get some love from DOT, but we survived without incident.



This afternoon we hung out at the motel six and met a man named Robert. He and his adult son were here from San Antonio, having some time together after the loss of his younger son to gun violence several months ago. He was a gentle, soft-spoken man who touched my heart and I hope he finds healing.

Things I learned today:

  • Banks in Dell Rio don’t want to sell you change unless you have an account with them. But they might make an exception if you Present as a nice old white lady who needs change for laundry.
  • Do not let your stereotypes get in the way of your learning.

Comments

  1. AnonymousNovember 3, 2022 at 5:44 PM

    Such a very touching post. It’s so incredible the chance encounters we may have in our lives. Debbie

    ReplyDelete

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