Day Five

Our group rolled into Salame, AZ today after a relatively short 56 miles. Another early start offered a break from the heat, at least until 9 AM or so, when things began to warm up in earnest. Then again, as we took a break in the shade of the trailer, Aaron noted that it was 97 degrees. I thought it was quite comfortable, proving that we've been in the desert long enough to become a part of it.

A tailwind helped the group keep a decent average, reinforcing the reason for our west to east heading. We also saw four other cyclists, one grandfather and grandson doing a Phoenix to Seattle pedal and a couple of fully loaded tourers riding San Diego to Boston raising money for microfinancing in Nicaragua. Always nice to see kindred spirits.

Once we reached town (all three blocks of it), we were welcomed by Jack Walter and Marlena, who had arranged our stay at the lovely Westward Motel, which has a nice southwest B&B feel to it. 

Jack has been involved with Habitat since its inception back in 1980, and has traveled the world building homes. He participated in the long distance walks that marked Habitat's anniversary years, and also founded the RV group now called the Care-a-Vanners.

A great lasagna dinner this evening was provided by the Vi-Sa-Wen Women's Club, where Jack generously donated $1,000 to the ride, along with gifts for all riders.

As in life, it's all about the people we meet along the way. Jack is a great example of this. In his words, the Fuller Center is not building houses, it's building lives. As the sun sets and the heat retreats into the shadows, tired legs find rest and our hearts are warmed by Jack's stories.