I took a nice dip in the river yesterday to cool down and to get as much of the gunk off as possible. I felt like a free bird and that is all I am going to say about that.

It was so peaceful in the campsite until off in the far distance two shots rang out around 2000, perhaps some locals letting off some steam. Unfortunately, it was a full moon last night so I did not get to enjoy the dark sky as much as I could have with the bright light not on.

I was up and out super early this morning because I had to make sure to take an alternate route to avoid about six miles of fallen trees on the trail. I was super nervous this morning looking for the small road to use as a detour in the dark. I had my bike light and my headlamp on and was glued to the map making sure I did not blow it.

I found the road and eventually it wrapped back around to the route after the fallen trees situation saving me about five hours as reported by others that transversed this obstacle course earlier this year. Thank goodness for the comment section on the website!

Today was a pleasant day of riding as I found myself on nice gravel roads primarily with the only concern being when a truck would pass. The dust cloud looked as if it was manufactured somehow by the tuck and could not possibly be real. It was real alright, so real the trucks would slow down to take pity on this guy.

One truck came to a stop and the driver, who looked like Jack Black, was a former Navigator in the United States Coast Guard on a C-130. I never mentioned his likeness to Jack Black as I am sure he gets it all the time. Instead, I answered questions as he was very curious of my going ons and he really wants to hike one of the three big thru hikes in the States.

He kept looking around his truck for something to give me. He really wanted to give me a bottle of water. It was so appreciated, but I was good to go with water as my back pack was still almost full.

So, what is this dude doing pulling a truck full of construction supplies. Well, he is now a well digger and was on his way to dig a well for a man that is tired of having to have water delivered. From navigator to well digger, why not?

My first stop today was at Silver Lake and I stopped by at the Country Side Store. The new owner is really trying to get this store up and running. They have a car parts section, general tool section, groceries, clothing and plans to put a recreational room in the back. She has high hopes and a really nice toy out front.

The last stretch of road today was enroute to Fort Rock where I would stay for the night. The plan is to stay behind The Watering Hole. They have a RV park attached to the side, but there are no RVs to be found. It is just me in my tent out back and that is so right in so many ways. I will be getting a key to the porta potty soon after I eat some dinner! Good times!