Release the Hounds

Well I got to Oregon without any problems. The USAir flights from Charlotte to Las Vegas and Portland went without a hitch. Although, I did lose $50 in the terminal in Las Vegas. As we made our approach into Portland I was awed by how green everything was. The grass and trees were lush and just beautiful. After landing I had to get from the airport to the center of town. But, have to say the mass transit system in Portland is great. I caught a train that goes to and from the airport and then a bus that dropped me off at the Amtrak station. Had to wait three hours for the 6:20pm bus to Astoria which put me there at 8:30. Was looking for a cheap hotel while walking in the rain carrying the rest of my gear that I forgot to ship via FedX. I walked till I smelled curry and knew I found the right place. The hotel was right on main street so I went to sleep with the steady roar of angry truckers. No problem, I think my snoring gave good competition. This morning I awoke to 45 degree day and walked to the bike shop. Scott of Bikes and Beyond had my sled ready and all I had to do was repack and go. I thought about staying there an extra day and starting out Thursday but what the heck. I rode pretty much along the coast, but mixed with three very long and steep climbs. The last went from sea level up to 1600'. I rode about 50 miles from Astoria to Manzanita and the last climb made me cry uncle. I wanted to go about 60 miles but I needed a hot shower and something cold to drink and I was afraid if I went further I'd have to call Dan Kendrick for an emergency leg massage. Along the way I crossed the Columbia river, saw the monument on the boardwalk at Seaside that marks the end of the Lewis and Clark expedition, and ate what was billed as "the best Ruben on the planet". Carnegy Grill in NY isn't in danger. Tommorow I'd like to make Sandlake...but.