Happy-ish Thanksgiving!

There are good days. There are bad days. And then there are days that are just a bust. Today was a bust. No, nothing bad happened. No injuries – other than my ongoing toothache. No mechanical issues. The only thing that stood out on the day was the wind. Again.

Today’s wind was much like the wind from yesterday, but apparently angrier. My goal for the day was to reach Mobile, Alabama. At 140 km away, Mobile would’ve been a decent ride in good conditions but with the 25 km/h winds and the limited number of daylight hours, it didn’t take long to realize I was going to need a new plan. I had accommodations arranged in Mobile but that would have to wait.

I managed to ride for about two hours today before I realized that beating the wind wasn’t in the cards today. I won yesterday, but I conceded victory to the wind today. I’m sure my aching tooth didn’t help matters. And so, after a pathetic 30 km, I decided my day would end in Gulfport, MS.

There isn’t much in Gulfport, at least not that I’ve discovered, but it has once stretch of road with several motels and the usual services that accompany such a strip. It was certainly more than I needed. No, I wouldn’t be experiencing an authentic American Thanksgiving but I wouldn’t be going hungry either.

On the downside, my motel stay has been less than ideal. On the upside, I was able to check in before noon. On the downside, the WiFi isn’t functioning and the smoke detector in the room next door keeps chirping. I assume it’s a low battery issue but apparently there are no maintenance people on site to fix it (it’s a holiday, don’t you know). Upon inspection of the smoke detector in my room, it appears to be a more industrial design than the standard home version. I’m sure I could change rooms but quite frankly, I can’t be bothered.

The remainder of my day was spent doing some freelance work and watching football. The football aspect was my sad attempt to experience an American Thanksgiving. However, with dinner comprised of chicken strips from Walmart (yes, I’m serious), animal crackers, and some Mini-Wheats, it’s safe to say that I’ve still yet to experience a real American Thanksgiving. Maybe next year.

Today’s totals:
Distance travelled: 35.77 km
Ride time: 2:16:20
Average speed: 15.74 km/h
Maximum speed: 26.47 km/h