I left Las Cruces in excruciating back pain knowing I had 50 miles to go with a cross wind of 25-30 mph winds. But surprisingly, the ride was a rather smooth one with a tail wind for most of the journey with a crosswind only a few times on road bends. Some tumble weeds along my route, nearly rolled me into their paths. At times, with the gusts so fervent, I thought I was going to meet Auntie Em!
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| Town immediately next to Las Cruces |
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| Xmas wreaths made of chili peppers in Mesilla |
Mile after mile of pecan and cotton fields were prevalent on the 50 mile ride. Perfectly spaced pecan orchards were a thing to marvel.
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| Pecan orchards |
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| Outside Chamberino, NM |
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| TEXAS |
I ended up at a Starbucks, 7 miles from my destination and warmed up a bit and relaxed, and grabbed some internet. I ultimately found my way to my host's home just off the campus of University of Texas, El Paso. I'm in a mansion with 5 grad students. I took my initial host Daniel and his house mate Meredith to dinner as a thank you for hosting me for two nights and my bike for several more.
Dearest reader, please note the lack of photos of El Paso. It's one strip mall and stand alone chain restaurant after another. Not much different than any other suburbia or city. From the house, there is a nice view of Juarez, but I didn't get my Kevlar vest from my saddlebags so I have't taken a picture. Perhaps in the morning!
All my best my friends!
El Paso notwithstanding, it's easy to forget how amazing and stunningly beautiful our country can be. Thank you a million times for reminding me.
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