Total mileage for the day: 44
Total mileage to date: 663
A tough day today to say the least. I was extremely thankful for my amazing host, Rudy, who drove me through downtown Rochester and dropped me off on a bike path so I didn't have to bike through the city. Although, I could have wished for better weather when he dropped me off. The gloomy clouds, hints of rain, full on head winds and temperatures below 40 were discouraging. With the combination of the spirit breaking ever present headwind, gravel path (as opposed to concrete) and cold temperatures it took me a total of 7 hours to pedal at an agonizing 6 - 8mph the measly 44 miles. I was thankful for the lovely ladies at a random hair salon who gave me a water refill (Hi Maureen!). I knew my luck had to turn around and it did so when I uncharacteristically stopped for lunch (I had to do something for my spirits and to warm up). I found a quaint tea/lunch house and enjoyed my conversation with the owner and her husband. Before the bill came a man approached me and said, "I have covered your bill, good luck with riding across the country." Steve almost brought tears to my eyes for his random act of kindness. The day continued with mundane pedaling along the empty canal until I finally arrived to my destination. I arrived at Dave's (my couchsurfing host) house even though I never met him because he is vacationing in Florida - he just left his house unlocked for me. Kim, another local couchsurfer, picked me up and took me out for the evening. We went to Buffalo to meet up with some her friends - after a fun and long night of Mexican food, drinks and great conversation with Buffalo locals I made my way to bed for a great night rest.
That picture of you with your invisible host is priceless!
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