October 3 - Bend via Santiam and Detroit

What an awesome day! A wonderful leisurely lunch with my best friend, hundreds of miles on the bike, and the perfect trifecta for scenery – water, mountains and sun. Today’s ride took me to Bend and back along two different routes, each of which was spectacular. I am so grateful to live in the state of Oregon.

I left West Linn today filled with excitement about finally meeting up with Michelle Martin. We have been trying to connect ever since I got back from my trip and finally succeeded.  I headed south on interstate five and then east on highway 20 as I wanted to go over Santiam pass while it was still open. What a glorious ride – miles of road following the South Santiam River and picturesque views of Mount Washington and Suttle Lake.

Michelle and I ate at the Wild Rose Thai eatery in Bend. I ordered the kobocha curry, a creamy red curry with chicken, coconut milk, kabocha squash, green beans, cherry tomatoes, lemongrass, and kaffir lime leaves. The soup was flavorful and filling, especially with the double serving of protein that I ordered. The time with Michelle was even more satisfying. I am so blessed to have had such a wise and compassionate friend for over 40 years.

After lunch I headed home via highway 22, passing Detroit Lake and riding alongside the Santiam River. It was incredibly restful and restorative to swoop back and forth on so many curves with water and sun all around. The sun was setting as I headed west and I was treated to a sunset with orange, pink, purple, green, and blue. Another great riding day.