In Aberdeen I took a hotel to rest and recover, it helped immensely. Taking a hot shower and a bath does a number for aches. I made adjustments to my bicycle hoods to positions my shoulders and arms better. The difference was noticeable. 

The route today took me across the border into Oregon, if I could make it 124km I would have the opportunity for more frequent resupplies, accommodations, and view points.

In the first 20km of my ride today, I stopped at a diner from 1932 called Clarks. It has changed hands several a times but currently has been in family ownership since 1963. They serve ice cream for breakfast, and my inner six year old came out for a vanilla sunday.

Unfortunately it rained... all day. I should have known that the Pacific Northwest would greet me with unexpected rains. It rained so badly that the weather forecast never had time to update. The storm came from no where and soaked me to the bone. I had considered mailing home my rain gear since the forecast listened no precipitation, I am thankfully that I didn't.

There was not much to see on this section of the ride, There were many rural house and plots, but no downtown areas. I think this area of Washington is quite sparely populated due to logging. 

Lately I have been considering living or at least spending much more time in remote wilderness - a cabin in the woods sounds quite nice - but seeing some of the rural areas in Washington has made me realize the upkeep can be overwhelming. Nature wants to reclaim land here and wear it away.

Somehow I was able to push on today and do the same distance a the day before with less pain, faster speed, and higher morale. I wonder if I am finally adjusting. My outlook is starting to improve as well. Consistently thinking that my cycling distances safe overwhelming then accomplishing those distances everyday is rewarding. 

Astoria is a cute town, I was able to arrive early enough to head into town. Astoria is somewhere between an industrial port town and an old victorian style town on a hill, it really has two sides and I think that's great. It reminds me of Gothenburg, Sweden because it so clearly has an industrious port history, yet also the cultural decorations of that wealth - nice contrast. I was able to try out a Thai restaurant in town which lifted the spirits, I am continuously amazed by how effective a meal and a shower can be to your mental health. 

Thank you to everyone who has been writing me with words of encouragement, I have read everything even if I haven't had the time to respond just yet. Thank you to Donna, Kate, David, and many more.

I am looking forward to the rest of Oregon.