The Nevada Tourism Board, quoting AAA from 1986, describing the road we're on: "It's totally empty', says a AAA counselor. 'There are no points of interest.  We don't recommend it.'" 

As we cycle through this not-to-be-recommended stretch of road, I think it seems like an appropriate time for a short recap of the Top 10 Things I Learned About Myself This Trip: 

1. I really enjoy distance cycling, or ultra cycling.  This is not a surprise, of course, but still, it's really confirmed it: I love this stuff.  I love getting up everyday and riding 80+ miles through random stretches of the world.  I love cycling. 

2. I still don't like coffee.  I tried.  Honest I did. 

3. My body is up for the challenge.  I am actually pretty good at this.  Nothing hurts.  I'm tired sometimes, but not especially so.  I honestly feel really good.  Even the altitude didn't get to me. 

4. My Achilles Heel is heat.  That's the one thing that will make me cranky and unhappy and want to quit.  I don't mind climbs, long distance is fine.  But heat does me in. 

5. I don't actually mind waking up at 5:30 AM when I have something to do. 

6. I can handle not having a shower once in a while.  This is a revelation.  Don't get it twisted, though: I still love showers. 

7.  I prefer mountains and rivers to dry open plains, even if it means doing more climbing. 

8. I'm still not terribly good at groups or at making friends, but at least nobody openly dislikes me or anything. 

9. I'm not gonna live in Utah or Nevada.  Just not gonna happen. 

10. If I eat garbage, then no matter how much I exercise, I won't lose weight.  I might get in better shape and even feel better, but my body shape really won't change.