Day 3. Monday, April 25 – Ocotillo to Brawley, California
Monday 25 April 2016
We woke to a howling wind, the tattered fencing banging hard against it’s post and palms bending mercilessly in the wind driven sand. But the direction was out of the west and we were heading due east; time to enjoy the ride. First however, we had to backtrack westward to get on course. We attempted to pedal it, but the wind kept blowing us the other way; the only choice was to walk our bikes (or get blown over). It was a slow push, but soon we were facing east and coasting with the wind. 
Even at 7:00 a.m. it was a comfortable 60°, as we began our ride without breakfast. The only place in town didn’t open until eight, so we choose to head out early and get our first meal in the next town. The desert was a flat,
dry dust bowl
silhouetted by the Coyote Mountains to the north
and a very rough road beneath our tires. Had we not had the non-stop speed bumps of the under maintained road, we could have managed 20 mph while barely pedaling; small price to pay, though, for the incredible tailwind. We passed Plaster City; 
no city just a manufacturing plant for plasterboard.
An hour later the dry sand turned green,
as we biked through miles of agricultural fields.
It took us just over an hour and a half to reach 25 miles and breakfast at a local diner,
great choice.
Thoroughly stuffed, we continued our ride; little did “I” know our course would slowly turn north. The pretty farmland framed by palm trees 
turned back to sand; the horizon hidden by the blowing sand. 
We now paid for the tailwind gift
we’d been granted on the first half. Our last ten miles was a struggle against the broadside wind,
often stopping in an effort not to be blown over; it took us 20 minutes to go the last mile and a half. But the day had remained cool; by the time we checked in, it was still in the 70’s The short 42 miles today was an effort to rest for tomorrow’s long ride; not sure the 17 miles fighting the wind helped.
The winds were still howling at 30 mph when we walked across the parking lot to the best restaurant choice in town.
Today was a Fabulous culinary delight; between the delicious breakfast and the perfect dinner, we did not even miss not having lunch.
Morgan Says:
Looks like a lovely start to the trip! Hope the wind calms down soon.
Ken Says:
Dinner looked great. Was that veal marsala?
Doug Carter Says:
Trek on!
travis Says:
Hi there! Finally got on the web site and spent the AM catching up on your first days. I’m exhausted reading & imagining the ride effort. You certainly have had a variety of conditions, already. Clear blue skys seem a constant. I like the photo of JB riding into the sunrise. Not flying the Flag this trip? Haven’t seen it wedged into the back bag…maybe I just didn’t see it by the Dawn’s early light. Go East Young Man & Lady. Later.
Courtney Says:
Are you having to wear a mask in that dusty desert?
Sharon Groh Says:
You guys are an inspiration! I’d be calling the airline. Hope your next day is somewhat easier. Safe travels!
Karen Says:
With your long day today, and staying in Blythe, you won’t have to stay in a trailer in Quartzite, but look for the world’s largest belt buckle when you pass through there. How’d you like those dune areas? The ATV’s were a bit irritating.
Phil Reif Says:
Well I can see you two are at it again
Making me feeljealous. Your rides are a summer staple for me. I love to feel your pain.It brings up memories of my 2 crossings.I’m in Arizona for the month. Had surgery on my left toe and can’t put a bike shoe on.no hiking either. Have an ambitious summer planned. Hope all is healed soon. I’m excited to follow your adventure once again. Keep the rubber on the road,the wind at your back,the road straight ahead. You will have another epic trip.I will look forward to reading your postsite and following your progress. Good luck.Phil reif.
MaryEllen Says:
Now that looks like some good food! Hope the wind blows at your back the rest of the way!