Today is a rest day here in Telluride. I knew Telluride would be beautiful and very pleasant, but I'm still struck but how gorgeous the terrain is here. It's really a bit of cultural whiplash after being in some very poor parts of America to be here in this - let's face it - very white and very privileged part of the country. Which is not to say I'm not enjoying myself. The ride yesterday was once again just amazing and being here is nice and restful. I hiked 5 miles up into the mountains to see a really epic waterfall, and soon I'll be going on a paddle boarding expedition.
Rest days are proving to be difficult for me. When I'm on the bike, everything makes sense and there is a sense of clarity, which my life often lacks. But when I get off the bike and have to deal with the real world, I do get a bit melancholy. Today was the first day where I really wished that I had someone by my side to experience this place with me. Many years ago, in what seems like a different life, I got engaged in Vail, which is very similar to Telluride. Yes, there is the team here with me, and that is awesome, but we mostly did our own thing today. And that's OK; that's just what life is giving me right now. I certainly can't complain. And tomorrow we get back in the saddle. Others on the team may disagree, but I can't wait!
Oh, and P.S. - if you're ever in Telluride, go to the Cornerhouse Grille. The only cheap restaurant in town, and amazingly delicious!
