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Day 28- Vanderpool TX

 Overall this was one of my top five rides so far. Texas Hill country definitely agrees with me!



The beginning of our trail today took us across the Nueces River. We also got a glimpse of Real County’s tolerance for non-law-abiding citizens. I’m not sure I’ve ever seen such a sober warning. Church and state are closely knitted here, as the sign has a request that we pray for the safety of law-enforcement officers.



Our plan was to have second breakfast shortly after first breakfast at a café in Nueces Canyon. At the café we met Jesse, also a cyclist, who moved from Galveston to the area. He was very chatty and would ask us a question and then provide his own commentary before we could even answer! But he was friendly and we enjoyed hearing someone else’s stories. And for the record huevos rancheros is an excellent midmorning snack!

The Hill country is lovely and the climbing was a challenge we met with differing degrees of enthusiasm. I ate it up and all the scenery that came with it. The tandem riders had a different experience. At one point the road laid out in front of us like a ribbon.


Traffic on the switchbacks did their best to leave us some room. There was a group of muscle cars that sounded like semi’s approaching from behind. All were courteous save an older woman in a mustang convertible who was perturbed to see me in her way. She’d also be perturbed at the scratches Id make on her hood if she hit me.


We’re at the Lost Maple RV park for the night and we’re set up under some live oaks. We took a quick walk up to the top of the hill to look at the stars and enjoy the view. It was worth the effort. We have a short day again tomorrow as we head to Kerrville.


Things I learned today:

  • Stretching makes everything better
  • A beautiful view makes you forget about chip seal
  • Butterflies make good cycling partners

Comments

  1. AnonymousOctober 24, 2022 at 4:15 AM

    I love that you say you have a short day tomorrow. To Kerville is 60 miles! Glad you had such a great ride. Debbie

    ReplyDelete

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