August 3, 2009 Briggs Junction, OR

Most of this day was so beautiful, I've decided to claim part of Sunday's devotional reading as my mantra for the month. Ps 113.3 "From the rising of the sun, to the place where it sets, the name of the Lord is to be praised." . . . . After a really good breakfast at the Best Western Hotel, I left with Peg, Virginia and Kathie (mentioned yesterday) and rode all day with them. They like to stop for photos and breaks and wait for each other at the top of hills - we make a good riding group. The road out of Hood River was a long climb but got us ready for whatever was to come. Finally reached the plateau high above the Columbia River where we road for miles among fruit trees (apples, grapes, apricots). Seeing the river way down below surrounded by the awesome gorge really was breathtaking. From time to time we could also see Mt. Hood and Mt. St. Helens (when we stopped and turned around). On the right along this historic road, the plateau meadows were beautiful and the orchards on the left (river side) were perfectly manicured. For the 1st 10 miles or so we were riding in the Mark O'Hatfield Park - former Senator and OR Governor who was (I'm told) adamantly opposed to the Vietnam War. Had a second good climb up to Rowena Crest with an outstanding view. Then it was down 5 miles or so along lazy switchbacks to the Columbia Discovery Center. We stopped there for 1.5 hrs to enjoy the air conditioning and the wonderful historical displays of OR history and this area in particular. The Salmon industry was huge in the early 20's. Chinese immigrants provided the labor. When they weren't processing and canning the fish, they canned fruit. Can you just imagine the mix of odors! The museum also had wonderful Lewis & Clark exhibits. I've promised myself to read UNDAUNTED COURAGE when I get home. . . After this stop we proceeded on to The Dalles where we stopped at Cousins and shared their fabulous cinnamon rolls. Each one is about 2.5 by 4 and were really good. With only 46 miles today it was good to have time to stop and smell the roses. . . After The Dalles we had to get back on I84 which no one likes, but again, the historical road gives out and it's the only option. At least it was mostly downhill. Tonight in Biggs, we're staying in a truck stop. That's basically what Biggs is. The weighing scales are just across the highway. It's clean, though, and quite adequate. The outside thermometer registered 98.