Day 61 – Thursday 7/28/22

Bay Center, Washington to Elma, Washington – 60.00 Miles

I didn’t roll out of KOA until 10:30 this morning. That’s what happens when an important goal has been reached and a new one hasn’t quite formed yet. While the young campers were already out on the bounce pad, I listened to a couple of podcasts in the tent and planned the next few days.

Once I got moving, I was reminded how the ocean influences things in Bay Center. The tide was definitely out.

Oyster shells were piled high.

And a boat burned up.

After that, things turned green. Highway 101 continued north and so did I.

There was a lot of climbing in the middle third of the ride today, so I stopped in Raymond for lunch. Got a teriyaki chicken bowl and a nice theater.

It was warm as I climbed the hills, and since I’m no longer following an ACA route, I wasn’t sure when a food stop might be available. Clarks appeared out of nowhere like magic. On the right is the restaurant side and where Ishmael is parked is the ice cream side. I ordered a large vanilla malt, and it was fantastic. It was thick and flavorful, and as it melted in the heat it got even better. I was tempted to order a second one, but the possibility of a sugar overdose coupled with the knowledge that cycling will only burn off so many calories stopped me from taking action. I will be back.

Elma showed up around 4:30 and the hotel about 10 minutes later.

The guy at the desk recommended the Rusty Tractor restaurant, so I tried it. The meatloaf dinner and salad were good, but I probably could have finished the snacks in my bike bag and felt just as full.

I’ll be heading for Olympia tomorrow and getting a little closer to Seattle and home.