Storm Alley at Salome.

Sitting in my tent 4.45pm in Salome and the hailstorms are howling through the valley. Hoping and praying the tent and I don't take off. Oops, just had to just pop outside and hammer some pegs in as the tent side caved it. The hail was about the size of a 5p piece and covered the ground like snow. Now the sun is out and the wind has dropped - but it will be back, seems to come in waves. What a country. We woke this morning to a bright, sunny day with a tail/side wind. No rain so the shorts were on again although it was much cooler. Thank goodness - too much sun is not good for you. Just saying. Left at 8.00am after a wonderful nights sleep in the motel. A mere 40 miles today so made Salome before 1.00pm. A few gradual hills so quite pleasant. This is gold mining country and everyone is free to try and find gold. Most gold mines are closed but some are reopening as gold is now a very valuable commodity. Stopped at a trailer diner for homemade crisps or 'potato chips', and talked at length with 'Joyce and Arleer' about the area. It is full of RV Parks because so many people, like them, migrate south for the winter ,from cold north USA. The owner of the 'roadside cafe' was going to church so left huge flasks of coffee for everyone to just help themselves. This is the local meeting place and much fuss was made of us. Southern hospitality. Saw loads of '3 pronged cowboy' cacti today. Apparently, it is peculiar to this area and grows no-where else. On leaving the small town of 'Hope' there is a sign that states 'You Are Beyond Hope'......says it all doesn't it. I start the day cycling with the group then after 15/20 miles, if I am confident with the route cycle on my own. I enjoy the space and freedom. So far away for Mother's Day but thanks Michael, Richard and Jill for messages. Happy MD Granny Grace - I hope you got a card..... It is now 8.00pm and storm seems to have passed. Eating and drinking plenty. Camp site tonight in RV park and quite good. Still loving it........