June 27, 2025 to July 11, 2025
Finale. Putting a bow on it.
"We can make our plans, but the Lord determines our steps." Proverbs 16:9
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Two weeks ago today we were sitting in a friend's home in New Meadows, ID. Our plan was to head north towards Riggins and camp at Slate Creek that night. Following on, we were to climb White Bird Grade, the old grade, 18 switchbacks (confirmed) and camp at Kooskia. However I had not recovered from the day before. The variable conditions of the Weiser River Trail and the heat got to me. We also realized that our panniers and racks were not the optimal packing solution. Anyway, I was feeling wiped out. I thought it was just the heat and the saddle sores.
While drinking coffee with my new friend, he stated he needed to leave for Nampa in 10 minutes to pick up his grandson from a sports camp. I looked at Rhonda and she said, "what vehicle are you taking? Will it fit two bikes?"
We had already called my friend Bryan and he was willing to drive up and fetch us, but now he'd only have to get to Nampa. Soon we were cruising south along the Weiser River, headed home. We arrived at NNU campus and unloaded and soon we were in Bryan's pickup headed home. I guess I'm repeating myself.
Fast forward a couple of days and I find myself talking to a triage nurse. I'm struggling bad. I'm thinking I am extremely dehydrated. I'm struggling passing water even though I've been drinking quart after quart of electrolytes. After answering the nurse's questions, I'm told I'm close to being sent to the ER, but we have to get into a doctor within a few hours. 45 minutes later I'm ushered into the doctor. No waiting, auto intake. Just as I sat down in the lobby the nurse called me and I was rushed in.
Some more questions were followed by some blood and urine test and other pokes and prods. After 3 days, I'm still dehydrated, but I have a severe infection. She called it "grossly abnormal". For the next week I was taking antibiotics that just kicked me hard. Our bike tour was over.
We were able to travel to Darby, MT where we would have been for the 4th. Our car was with friends in Idaho Falls, but they were going to join us in Darby for the 4th originally, so they drove our car there for us. We didn't even bring the bikes. I had no energy.
Anyway, my recovery and rest continued on the deck looking out towards the Bitterroots. After a week, the antibiotics did their job and for the most part, I'm back to normal. We returned home on the 5th. I have even taken some short rides around town. Each ride I feel stronger. The legs are strong but they don't last long.
Other summer plans are still on the books, but bike touring will take a hiatus for a bit. Weddings, backpacking, and camping are in store.
I'm thankful for all the people we met on our truncated tour. I hope Pete and Thomas made it to the Bay Area and found their way back home to the UK. Barbara and Curt are great hosts, should you need a Warm Shower in Independence, OR. The Spok'n Hostel is a must stop in Mitchell, OR. It will warm your heart. I wonder how Russ is doing. Rene' and Lance are cruising east at light speed. They would be fun to tour with. Brennen should have connected with Robert of Robert and John, and found his way home by now. I can't wait to see Kris and Joan again. What a surprise. Roel is still exploring the US and himself. And finally I can't wait to drink more coffee with Jim in New Meadows.
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2 weeks ago