Last night was the most comfortable nights sleep we have had so far. Delia we very accommodating, and it felt like home. We had a later start at 0600 and were out for 0800 after saying our goodbyes to Delia, her family and pets.
Leaving Fargo and North Dakota behind us, we rode parallel to the interstate along County roads most of the morning. A 20mph Southeasterly headwind, gusting at 30, made us question the reports of a prevailing Westerly wind we received before setting out. We have had maybe three tailwinds this trip.
Until lunch it was pretty similar to what we have been dealing with across North Dakota; long straight roads with corn or pea crops on either side. Our progress was laborious, rarely reaching speeds in double figures. We stopped at Rothsay for a lunch of burgers and cherry pie at the truckers cafe and it took some effort to will ourselves onwards back into the headwind.
We turned off the direct route into Fergus Falls in order to enter from the West and pass the local Walmart Supercenter for a resupply of gas for the camping stove. From Fergus Falls we joined the Central Lakes State Trail, a crushed limestone cycle path along an old railway line. The surface is compacted like tarmac and is very quick; With trees lining the route, the wind was somewhat abated and our speed picked up.
By the time we joined the cycle route it was getting to 5pm and time to look for a nearby campsite. We pushed onwards to Dalton where we are camped in the City Park. Free of charge, but with only a water tap and a drop toilet. A local kid, Tyrone, came over inquisitively asking about our trip, and the UK. He seemed bright and motivated, playing a number of instruments and very keen on his cycling; He will go far.
Fingers crossed for a lighter wind tomorrow. With thunderstorms set to pass over tonight we are hopeful the wind will abate soon after.
PS. We are officially half way there! (Bon Jovi that's your cue).
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