There's a reason why...

This is a vaguely philosophical post. Be warned.

Today is Day 21 of the trip. And this is what I say: there's a reason why people live in houses, cook on real stoves, and sleep in real beds. It's because real houses are warmer and more comfortable than tents, real stoves cook better than a camp stove and a pot, and real beds are more comfortable than a mummy bag and an air mattress. It's true.

That's not to knock camping -- it's all right. But the bottom line is that it's the price you pay for doing and/or being someplace cool. The camping is the means to an end -- in this case, riding some of the best country you'll ever see.

I think my strategy from here on out is going to be to camp in RV parks with showers whenever possible (which is usually every 2-3 days). We've been hanging out in cheap motels from time to time, but they can actually get pretty depressing. So, no more motels absent some sort of crisis. Camping is cheaper and usually just as good a night's sleep. Word.