Jennifer and Chris offered us another night with them, and although it was VERY tempting, we felt like we needed to move forward. We did, however, decide to stay for most of the afternoon and see some sights of El Paso. Jennifer prepared a delicious breakfast. We did our laundry, and sorted through our new supplies. We left a sizable pile of things that Jennifer graciously agreed to mail back- some clothes, and a couple of camp meals. Every ounce counts. They took us on a tour of El Paso along the Scenic Drive which went up the Franklin Mountains. We saw Kern Place, where UTEP students hang out. We went to two overlooks, and were almost blown off the mountain with the cold wind! The kindness continued as they agreed to drive us back to the trail, to avoid the harrowing road. But before we left, we were treated to some delicious Kale soup that Jennifer had made. It definitely warmed us up before we braced to cycle in the cold! Back on the trail, we rode the final miles of El Paso, and in fact Texas, mainly on a bike path along the Rio Grande-which was dry as a bone. We passed the miles chatting about how much fun we had at Jennifer’s, as well as marveling that we were finally leaving Texas, after 24 days and 1200 miles! We did a circuitous path through the state but it was worth it! We really felt like it was a milestone. Entering New Mexico was very unceremonious- no welcome to New Mexico sign or anything. The only way we knew we were there was the change in route number, and the route sign no longer had the shape of Texas. Right away we were riding through pecan groves. It was so interesting seeing these rows and rows of trees in such a dry area. In some places the groves were flooded via irrigation. We found it surprising to see these trees standing in a foot or more of water. Of course, we got a late start, so when we got to the place where the groves are on both sides of the road, and so close that they canopy the road, it was nearly dark. It was no less cool, however-mile after mile in this pecan tunnel! We exited the tunnel and were soon in Mesilla, New Mexico. This ancient town dates to the 1500’s with Spanish and Mexican influences. We decided to stop here for the evening. We went to the Hacienda de Mesilla, and were treated like royalty! A great end to a great day! Total cycling mileage: 37 Total hiking mileage: 2Â