Day 15: South of the Border

Two weeks ago we began our journey in San Diego. Our second rest day provides an opportunity to look back, look forward, and recharge.

The mountains of California and Arizona are behind us and the plains of Texas begin next week. We are beginning week #3 of a trip we never thought we could take. We are beginning to feel like we can do this–actually Jeff being an athlete is always the more confident, I am the one who has to fight off the little voices in my head that tell me I do not belong in an event that requires athleticism and endurance; every day I tell myself I did it yesterday and I can do it tomorrow too. Frigid nights at altitude will be replaced with hot and humid nights. The trepidation of climbing has evolved into confidence, while a concern of riding into the headwinds of Texas creates worry.


We have spent our rest day relaxing in Pancho Villa State Park while learning about his historic expeditions and learning about rattlesnakes. The afternoon was spent resting after our lunch at the Pink Store, South of the Border in Palomas, Mexico. In addition to recharging our muscles, we need to recharge mentally. Remembering all the support from friends and family provide both inspiration and confidence, that’s our friend Steve above showing his “proud sponsor” P4P t-shirt. We are also thankful for our new friends of the C2C ride.

The tailwinds that carried us from Rodeo to Columbus have turned into a dust storm. Visibility has been reduced to less than a quarter mile and has provided each of us with a mouthful of sand-like debris. A red flag warning with wind speeds gusting up to 50 mph will be in effect until 8pm. Thankful our lodging has been moved indoors, prior year’s groups camped at the state park. Hoping that conditions improve for our ride into El Paso tomorrow.