Last night was crisp and clear and dark. If there are more stars, well, I’ll have to take your word for it. In the morning, our usual protein powder + collagen + veggie powder, coffee and the unusual complementary treats from Prep & Pastry got us off to a yummy start.

A short drive later we were in Silver City where I left my bike for a makeover. The rocks and dust have left their mark and I want to keep it reasonably clean. What to do with my rear tire ended up being a 5 person conversation. The consensus was there’s about 1.5-2 months tread left. I also learned that my rear tire is made of 3 compounds whereas my front (older and in better shape though also not a victim of skidding and slipping as is the rear) is single compound which is apparently more durable at the expense of some grippiness. So many details! As fun as are rocks, I’ll be sure to get the most durable possible next time.

The town is lovely and has a vibrant art scene. Friendly people, including one woman whose words let us know we only need to sign a lease and we’d see each other on the regular. The new Avengers movie is playing too! Can’t beat that.

We had a nice lunch at a local eatery consisting of a Cobb salad and a Rubin. After, Mme Awesome left to attend to a client call while I stayed; we reconnected later at a local park.

On the drive back to where we had camped, we discussed what was required to make it to our next major destination, a small city not too far from Chicago, on time. Then, suddenly, my bike was ready for pickup.

Considering the enormity of the distance coupled with our tortoise pace, and boom, off we went. While we left behind some good riding and a seasonal open studio show, it is also a relief to be rolling. Always funny how quickly plans change.

We stayed in a campground in Gila National Forest, enjoyed a great meat, beans, eggs and sour kraut breakfast being serenaded by all of the birds ever and drove on to Truth or Consequences.

A vista along the way.

In honor of the post’s title.