Pedaling South

The roads and highways of the Americas thus far have been, for us, the site of much death, from tire casings to roadside shrines to animals killed by vehicles. Just yesterday, we saw the lifeless forms of a coyote, a black bear and a deer.

But for us, the road is also a meeting point where we encounter other species.

We were lucky to spot the banana slug and the salamander. Incredibly, we almost rode right by the herd of elk! We came upon them at the bottom of a hill on US 101, and their coats helped them blend in with their soggy surroundings on that cold, dark day.

On a heavier note, our thoughts go out to my late great Uncle Bill and family. This kind, mild man will be dearly missed.