Coasted down four blocks for breakfast, only to find we were the last of the bikers bellying up to the breakfast troth. Had a hearty breakfast of blueberry pancakes while trading stories with the two other couples there; Bill and Linda from Langley, British Columbia and Doug, Donna and their darling dog from Prince George BC. By seven, we all packed up and immediately started our uphill climb.The morning was beautiful, overcast, yet no rain,the mercury reaching for 60; perfect for the tough climb we had ahead of us.  We traveled past farms and hillsides with very few trees but lots of low shrubs in beautiful hues of green;fortunately, the recent rains had left most of the growth green.

We had a light tail wind for most of the morning with an occasional whip around to the face.  The day a had a serene kind of beauty and peacefulness, not much traffic to interrupt the sound of the birds and crickets.

At the 14 mile mark the fields disappeared and the trees filled the hills to the road’s edge.

And then we stepped back in time as we arrived in the town of Republic. Barely reaching the edge of town, someone comes out of their shop to ask if we needed directions.  Seeing where our hotel was, we declined, so she offered a recommendation of the Brew House across the street, should we need refreshments after our days ride…….not us!  

Incredible town, the cars stop blocks in advance, if you are crossing the road, even a deer crosses the street without a problem.  Strolling along main street, people wave from the other side of the street and their cars; we felt like we were in a Twilight Zone capsule of genuinely friendly people….it’s a really good feeling.  We were sorry it was not time for a day off, as this town makes you feel welcome the instant you get here.