Steady Climb and Glorious Downhill

The day started with a memorable sunrise and solar eclipse, or "balloon eclipse". Only lasts a few moments while lighting up the sky with cloud highlighted aurora. 

With full sunlight another shot of the balloon descending above the bridge and river below. Never get tired of scanning the horizon in early morning and twilight to see who is aloft. 

 Today's ride was a variation on a variation. Having already explored the road to Prats we decided that the moderate climb and substantial ascent was ideal on a very chilly morning. After arriving in Saint Laurent we reversed course and took the hard right up the D60. 

At the summit we took the road less traveled, and that made all the difference. The way down was steeper, narrower, with patches of gravel. The downhill was glorious around pastures occupied by happy cows and rolling fields, and the continuous downhill to Saint Pompom was worth the climb. Will have to do this again before we leave. 

Stopping at the summit was a good place to shed clothes and grab a needed baguette break. Downhills don't require much energy but a little more glucose in the blood stream can't hurt. 

Kim loves to draw the attention of the cows who probably see few cyclists along this quiet road. Can only wonder what they are thinking.

You can see the curious expression on her face.