Moreno Valley, CA. to Indio, CA. 90 miles with 2036 feet of climbing

 I made it safely to the hotel in Indio, CA, at 4:00 PM. My phone was dying as I frantically tried to google local bike shops before they closed at 5:00 PM. Oh, and it's Monday, and most of them are closed on Monday.

I don't have the time or energy tonight to list today's unfortunate circumstances. I'll fill you in tomorrow and in the coming days. The positive aspect of the clown show that transpired today is that it will make this blog more interesting. 

Most importantly, I made it safely to the hotel. My 98-mile ride included a nice climb that got my attention and a ride down Dinah Shore Drive and Bob Hope Drive in Palm Springs. Oh, and I did the whole ride with only half of the gears on my bike working. Not an optimal cycling experience for a 98-mile ride. Still, I got to see Palm Springs and Palm Desert for the first time. They are nice towns. Hot, but nice.

I still feel great physically, and my love of long-distance cycling is stronger than ever. I will write more tomorrow about the unique experience of riding on a bike tour with this company, Crossroads Cycling Adventures. 

Tomorrow we ride through the desert. I can already hear the theme from Lawrence of Arabia off in the distance. Sunscreen anyone?