Eric B. at Eureka, Montana

(Call made 9:59 a.m. Sunday, June 14)

Hey, it’s Eric Bruntjen calling in from Eureka, Montana. Back in the states! Canada was terrific and as usual they’re just wonderful people, but I’m glad to be back home.

Yesterday’s ride really went well, 130-some miles. Jeremy Noble and I pushed on just past the single-track connector, which was really steep and really muddy, but it was only a mile log. We camped out, got up this morning and bombed down Gallatin Pass - holy cow, what a ride. Across the border, no problem, just had lunch - or breakfast - and now we’re separated but I’m on my way to Whitefish. I think Jeremy is planning on the same thing. Been having a nice time riding with Jeremy and Cricket and Stephen and a little bit with Ray. Lost the Italians, haven’t got a clue where they ended up.

And had a nice thing happen yesterday with the wildlife: Riding up cabin pass, a wild grouse came out and defended his territory, that was pure comedy gold. He had his ring feathers all puffed out and he was strutting his stuff in front of me, wouldn’t let me by. Cricket actually said she was attacked by a chicken on the pass, but I’m pretty sure that was the grouse that went after her, too.

So anyways, going to try and make Whitefish tonight, but I’m not sure of the snow situation, so I’ve got enough food to spend the night out again. That’s it. Thanks. Bye.