We left Sky View Motel fairly early because the weather forecast showed the winds increasing throughout the day. The very first part of the ride was a steep hill out of Pagosa Springs. After that, however, we were rewarded with a 10-mile or so gradual downhill. Soon after that, the terrain became a little hilly. We were able to see Chimney Rock, but didn't have enough time or energy to stop and hike.

Throughout the ride, Michelle was feeling worse. Her throat was sore, and that combined with dry weather, high elevation, and some steep climbs was too much to bear. She pushed herself and made it to Bayfield where we stopped at a grocery store and ate lunch.

When we got going again, it was obvious that Michelle was not feeling good. The winds were steadily increasing and the hills were becoming steeper. Finally, we decided that it would be best if she got a ride into town (we only had about 12 miles left). It didn't take long to flag down a pickup truck headed toward Durango. Michelle got in and Emily and Rebekah biked the last segment to Durango. It was a beautiful ride, but hard to enjoy the scenery with the heavy traffic and narrow shoulder. 

We all met up in downtown Durango at a local bike shop. Rebekah got her new wheel re-trued and we also bought some more tubes and butt cream. From there, we headed on the Animas River Trail to go to the hospital. The trail was amazing; it stayed right next to the Animas River where people were whitewater rafting and kayaking. We also saw a lot of other bikers, runners, and walkers. After just a couple miles, we reached the Animas Surgical Hospital where Michelle got her throat checked out.

While we were waiting, we talked to the receptionist about finding a cheap hotel. This is nearly an impossible task in Durango...accommodations are pricey here! After making a few phone calls and turning up nothing, Michelle's doctor, offered us his house to stay at. Of course, we accepted the offer. But first, we stopped for dinner downtown at Steamworks Brewing Company. We all enjoyed veggies burgers with the works. As for Michelle's condition, it is most likely a viral infection. She was prescribed antibiotics, just in case. Mostly, her body just needs rest and fluids.

We biked a couple more miles and reached Dr. Mike's house. It is a huge, gorgeous house tucked away in a private subdivision amid the mountains. We were warmly greeted by his wife and given a quick tour. Since it was late, we each took a shower and headed to bed. 
 
Thank you Mike and family for opening up your beautiful home to us!!