10. Rest Day, Pasadena, CA, USA

I woke up this morning feeling like someone had replaced my bone marrow with cement. I was so tired I couldn’t pick up my own limbs. So I took a so-called "zero day" to give my body a break.

Perhaps because everything was otherwise going so well, my brain started casting about for something to obsess over. It found my drivetrain. Have I set my derailleur too tight? Is my cassette wearing out prematurely? Am I over-lubing my chain?

For mechanical and, it turns out, psychological support, I visited the Trek shop conveniently located across the street from my hotel. The staff there treated me so kindly. A tech named Chris patiently explained to me the likely natural history of my drive train. The manager asked me all sorts of questions about my rig. And the staff gathered around to admire Louise, which of course she appreciated mightily.

I also popped into REI for more anxiety assuagement and to purchase a merino wool bra, having discovered that nylon bras don't smell so swell after a week on the road. (Although I prefer not to use any animal products, I now make an exception for ethically sourced merino wool because it wicks well and doesn't stink.)

After getting a massage, raiding a CVS to purchase my newly discovered cure for saddle sores (a Hibiclens + Eucerin paste), and chatting with Tony, the nicest innkeeper on Earth, I devoured a lovely Indian dinner and crashed out early, my laundry flapping gently in the AC.

Distance: 0 mi / 0 km

Climbing: 0 ft / 0 m

Totals: 521 mi / 839 km; 19,957 ft / 6,083 m

Sleep Spot: Green Tree Inn