Back in Bend

Yesterday noon I rolled into the Deschutes NF outside of Bend. I left Steve’s S of Bellevue b4 8 heading W, early to lessen afternoon heat. Google shows 7 1/2 hr drive that I divided into 4 1/2 drive to BLM land west of Juntura, OR. Van temp read 100 degrees. Full sun, sweat dripped between my pecs. I finished the drive yesterday morn. Just hot for not even summer. I drove out Bachelor highway to FS welcome center where the American flag was not flying indicating service was not available. Fucking administration cutting services and employees’ income. FS is performing prescribed burns in this area which per map closed nearby trails. Trails are blond color bordered by black. I rode easy Ticket to Ride loop for introduction. 7.91 miles climbing 584′ pedaled mostly nonstop for 1 hr 3 mins, average beats per min was 118. Temp in lower 90s. Spent night at same spot I have anchored in the past. Hot night for sleeping, just a sheet for cover, never cold to seek the summer weight down blanket.

Today was my 10 AM dentist appointment. Dentist said the 2 cavities on neighboring teeth now need to be crowned, no more bike parts. All but $5000 out of scrimping savings. Sheesh.

I hung out outside of Hailey out Democrat gulch under full sun. On Sunday friend Steve needed a ride home from airport. I made another ride from Croy TH thru flowering  and fragrant yellow lupine. Full sun, I beat the hot heat. The below is reward for climbing Lamb’s Gulch. I rode this route 2X but not today.

On Sunday’s ride I all but ran over this critter as it was right on trail edge.

3rd rattler avoided in the general area.

Today I shopped at Newport market to greet known staff. So great to be remembered and connected.

Tomorrow is laundry day. Friday my van will be checked out. Sat morn there is a protest No Kings nationwide, La Pine has a gathering as does Bend. I will participate at La Pine to get a feel of community support. Temps are forecast for the 70s. Trails are dusty as is expected of volcanic ash and pumice.

So now back at my second home. Internet signal is 1 bar where I anchor, I am intown for strong signal. Leaving now for forest.