by Liz

Day’s mileage : 48

Running total : 212

This morning, as we only had 42 miles to ride, we had a lie in and a leisurely start. Today’s lesson was don’t do that. Expect the unexpected and leave early to allow for all eventualities. We had three road closures with diversions to contend with. 

After leaving our cabin in the forest we passed through Sequim where carpets of pale pink blossom were blowing in the breeze. The cold wind was a notable feature today. I wore all my summer and winter kit together with a down jacket and waterproof, a buff and two scarves for the whole day and was just warm enough. The drizzle obliged and stopped early.

We followed the wonderful Olympic Discovery Trail for many miles, through pine forests, farmland and small communities, riding with the Olympic range to our left, their tops shrouded in mist, and to our right glimpses of the ocean and Canadian mountains beyond. Front gardens were vibrant with azaleas, lilac and apple blossom. Across one garden, I spotted a couple in their 60s sitting on their porch in pyjamas, intently looking at a shared object of interest. We passed a field full of swallows wheeling low to catch lunch. 

Shortly after 6 we arrived at our cottage beside Pepper Creek. We’ve aced unpacking in tiny cabins without trashing the space. We devoured Philip’s pasta bake and have strawberries waiting. The creek frogs are chorusing outside the open window, and I’m looking forward to another full night’s sleep, this time up in the cottage eaves.