As great as my rest was (and it was great thanks to Carol) it was time to get back on the bike and continue the journey and adventure.
Natalie was now a day ahead of me and Danny was on a different route so I would not see them today.
Ahead was another climb- Loop Loop Pass. It would not be as long or as high as Washington Pass but a challenge non the less. I left Carol’s house around 9:30. Not a great start but pretty normal for me. I was on the climb by 10:30. It was about an 11 mile climb but I really had no idea when I started since I don’t have a map of this portion of the ride. I took a 30 minute break at 11:30 to take some food and water. The summit came rather quickly once I started riding again. 
Then another nice downhill to enjoy. I have a confession to make! My biking friends all know that I perversely enjoy riding uphill. But given the nature of propelling this really heavy bike, I have quickly learned to savor the gravity assist of the downhill. Shhh…. don’t tell anyone.
I got into Okanogan around 1:30 and had lunch at this nice cafe. Really great soup! But I had another conundrum. Okanogan/Omak was quitting too early but Tonasket was another 30 miles. I felt pretty good so I opted for the 70 mile option and pushed on to Tonasket. I got some real good suggestions for a back roads ride option from some locals in the cafe and it was great. No traffic and great riding. Arriving in Tonasket around 5:15 I found that you could camp behind the visitor’s center (for free!). There was even an added bonus. The guy who lives begins the visitor’s center is playing his guitar and singing. Free music entertainment in Tonasket. BONUS!
There is a lot more climbing in the next 2 days but I am going to enjoy a hot shower and a meal at one of the local establishments tonight.
One last thing. Thank you everyone for following my ride on this blog and your positive support. It means so much to me!
Hey are you going through Republic and over Sherman or another way? FYI snow level this weekend in Cascades below 4000 feet. Good timing on your part! Glad your enjoying your journey as we are following you ✌️
You’re doing great Greg. I’ve enjoyed reading vicariously through your adventures. Keep up the good work and keep the rubber down! Erik
Greg, when the summit seems far away remember these words “this too shall pass” safe riding my friend!
Are you going to peddle some of the roads you worked on as PWD for Ferry County?
I am not sure how you are even getting going by 9:30 without me there to wake you.
Hey Greg – looks like a great time….glad you met some fellow bikers that work at such a cool place….Keep up the daily blogs and like Eric said, keep up the good work and the rubber side down!!!!