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I camped outside last night, despite a threat of rain. I woke
and my tent was still dry.
It looked like rain when I left camp, but I figured it would
be warm enough to endure a downpour without a rain jacket, which
I left in my luggage. It wasn't long before the rain began and
I realized I was quite wrong. Worries about hypothermia crept
into my mind as I pedaled onward. My hands had become quite numb
later in the ride. I was shivering uncontrollably.
Eventually, I stopped at a Shell station to take refuge with
others (see photo above). After a few minutes, I decided it was
futile. The rain had no sign of stopping and I was already wet.
Might as well continue on. At another gas station later on I caught
up to Justin:  .
We stopped only long enough to grab a quick snack and use the
restroom. While not exercising, it was extremely cold.
In addition to the frigid temperatures, the downpour was making
things very slippery. There were numerous cycle crashes, luckily
no more deaths.
The Prairie Du Chien sign was a very welcome sight ,
though I had a difficult time finding the campground. I was anxious
to get there, but it was nowhere in sight. Eventually, I stopped
and looked around in a confused manner. A man on a bicycle told
me I was on the right track – keep going.
Finally, I was back to Prairie Du Chien. I loaded my bike onto
the car. Still in soaking clothes, but no longer exercising, I
got very cold. When the luggage finally showed up and we were
able to shower, Justin & I headed back for Wausau.
It felt great to be dry and warm. Riding in Justin's car – with
the comfortable seats and the heater – it was very hard to stay
awake. It was an exciting week I won't forget anytime soon.
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