Monday November 18
Cycled: 71.53km/ 3hr59min/ 18 km/hr
 |
| So much for 'keep the rubber side down'. |
Today is the day that had to happen... eventually. But why today! We had to leave the comfort and security of Selin's palace in Bandirma. We pushed off with our bellies full, and completely caffeinated. Nevertheless, it was tough getting started. We are riding into another unknown -- winter cycle touring -- and we don't have anymore safe-houses or friends along the way. Selin got us started (she may have been wondering if we ever going to leave) by taking us to the road that would lead to Gonen. We bid her a very difficult farewell. We (I) really didn't want to go - its not always easy. Thankfully, even the wind tried to give us a helping hand, blowing us strongly steadily SW. We opted to ride the main road to Gonen as it made the distance as short as possible, and traffic really wasn't that bad. Flat as it was, we were in Gonen in no time (a mere 30km). We passed through without much ado, and continued SW over rolling hills that gradually gaining elevation and grade. We enjoyed a roadside picnic along a flat agricultural section, admiring a surprisingly old but agile sheep-herder-ess tending to her goats and intermittently sewing. Back on the road, the hills continued to appear and disappear under our toil. We climbed and descended, being treated to views of valleys in the throws of fall. Oak trees turning yellow and brown, fields freshly turned over. In keeping with the season, sundown fell upon us quickly, and we hastily gathered supplies in a tiny village. Five minutes away from the village, we chose a camping spot on a dirt road next to the main road, nicely hidden between bushes and trees. Unfortunately, during the night, it would become quite evident that we were nearby goats being shepherded by people and dogs, the latter of which would bark at us for the better part of our stay. Jenn was convinced she heard footsteps and an animal rubbing up against our panniers/bikes in late evening. After sun set, the air acquired a certain nip, a harsh edge we haven't experienced before, and we soon burrowed into the tent for warmth.
 |
| Our campsite was blanketed in these little guys. |
