Circle, MT July 3

Circle, MT -- Saturday, July 3
Today's ride was a roller coaster ride lasting 66 miles. We seldom varied in elevation by more than 200' and at the end of the day we were at the same elevation as we started. There was very little flat land riding, excepting the last 10 miles. As soon as we crested one hill we began our descent into the next valley to begin yet another climb. Our day was made easier by a slight tail wind for most of the journey as well as a cool overcast day.
Today's ride was made interesting not by the countryside but by Alex's intestinal issues. Let's simply say that many sage brush received unexpected fertilization. All of this was most likely caused by Alex drinking the water in Jordan despite warnings by the locals yesterday not to drink the water. Alex chooses to drink the water because Andrea boldly stated that, based upon her experience, people over react to bad tasting water. Outside of the bad taste the water is generally fine. I suspected we might be in for a problem when Alex filled his water bottles from the tap in the Jordan grocery store. Upon noting this, the store attendant strongly encouraged the he replace the water with water from the water purifying machine at the back of the store. Although we all took advantage of the offer, Alex had already indulged in the local water the evening before. Go figure, this is what happens when you have a young environmental engineer in your group. You should note that Dad did not listen to his young environmental engineer daughter.
In Circle we are camped in their little used city park with three other cross country bicyclists (the WV school teacher and the two french Canadians). This city park has a swimming pool on site but it has long been closed because of vandalism. The people in this town are friendly and accustomed to having bicyclists stay in town. The WV school teacher, Randy, arranged showers for us at the Sheriff's office. At least I wasn't being asked to spend the night. It was a nice experience.
For the next two days we will be deviating from the published Lewis and Clark route. Instead of traveling to Poplar we will be traveling to Sidney, MT. We believe the road will be better and the opportunity for services in the pass through towns much better. This route will also put us another day ahead of schedule and provide us a good opportunity to see a significant fireworks display.
Lastly for the first time in many days, the evening weather is calm and dry and the camping area has fewer than expected mosquitos. This all adds to a more enjoyable experience. This has been my 21st day of riding. What a neat experience it has been. I will be a little sad to see it end in a few more days.