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We got an early start the next day and headed out in full gear. Even the dog, Coyo, had goggles! Before long, we were winding our way up the sides of a deep valley, headed for Table Mountain. The going was easy with wide, smooth, newly-graded pea-gravel roads. My bike danced under me as we scooted ever higher. It was a wonderful day for a ride! At the top of the mountain (elevation about 6,000), we had a great picnic and compared riding notes. We had seen an eagle flying almost at eye level, just coasting on the wind over the valley. It was startling to be so close to an eagle in flight, he seemed very powerful and big. I think he was planning to swoop down over Table Mountain and look for lunch! Table Mountain is very flat at the top (hence the name!) and made a terrific place to take a break and lay in the sun. |
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Afterwards, we zoomed back down the mountain and into town to see about some wine for dinner. We got back to camp in the mid-afternoon after about 100 miles of riding. We lazed in the sun and talked about their plans to retire on the land. Eventually, Bruce broke out some huge steaks and we had a big, lovely dinner. Allison and I worked hard to start the campfire since I wanted to use my fancy new sparking tool instead of a match. She encouraged me along and eventually we got a great fire going. The sleeping bag felt good that night! I awoke several times during the night to the sound of snorting and hooves outside my tent. We decided the next day that it must have been cows. I'm glad it wasn't anything else, since they have seen a bear on the property before! |
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On Friday morning, I broke campe and loaded up the truck to return to Portland. It was hard to leave and I already miss the good times and big smiles at Bondononue! I'll be back next year, for sure. And I shall bring more wine this time! |
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