June 10
Colonial Campground (near Diablo Resevoir)
Skagit River
This is a quiet campground, mostly tent camping, very few RV’s and no full hook-ups for them. A family of several members are fishing from a small pier when I suddenly hear a large splash and see through the trees a girl of about ten has fallen into the water. This isn’t normal water. It is glacial run-off and extremely cold. I run over to see if they need any help and her father is calmly instructing her to swim under the pier to reach the shore. All is well, but she’s having a fair bit of shock. Crisis passed.
This evening as the sun is setting and I’m in my tent, I hear the very distinct and pronounced crash of something I know very well. A semi truck failed to negotiate a curve in the highway below the campground and has crashed into the bridge. A quick check of things and the driver survived but the bridge is blocked completely and they work all night to clear the road. Ear plugs required, but another crisis passed, we move on in the morning headed for Washington Pass hoping for no more crises, as what is ahead is test enough.
In Memory of Warmer Summers 
Let’s hope your calamities are behind you now; a well-titled episode! Here’s to “smooth sailing!” Judy
After all the excitement…may you both sleep well
The scenery is breathtaking but, hate riding when it’s cold and wet. True, you’ve already had enough excitement for one trip!
Hi Carl, great to see you’re on the road. We sure miss you here in the big D. Ken won’t give me the radio; can you put in a good word? If you need any more bike parts I’ve got a bunch taking up space and I’m sure some of them might fit your bike. I can just send the whole box and you can bring whatever you don’t use back to FL; I’ll pick them up when I install the skull entrance sign at your driveway. Its great you saw Ryan, we’re following his journey as well. Stay safe.
Best,
MikeF
Mike – thanks for the offer. Ship the box. I have room in my panniers, but skip the COD this time okay?