Since we last blogged, we’ve cycled 230km over two days. Day 5 was 138km with a 40 km uphill through really, really pretty mountain scenery. The grade was only about 1-2% and there wasn’t a headwind so not as hard as we had anticipated. Unlike most of the previous days which were through desert, on day 6 we cycled through densely populated areas. There was lots of activity, lots of markets and also long stretches of farmland as well. Most of our energy was spent avoiding cars, donkey carts, and people and waving… we did lots and lots of waving. 
HORDES of kids lined the streets waving and screaming at the top of their lungs…”Hello, Hello, Hello”, “What’s your name”, “Welcome” and “Money, Money, Money”. I think I know how the Queen feels now. 
We were amongst the first riders passing by and had a really amazing experience. Unfortunately, some of the kids must have gotten bored waving because the last riders had rocks and sand thrown at them. A little unnerving.
Today, glory be, we had a rest day in Luxor. A sweet, sweet rest day to see the sights in Luxor, do laundry, check email and of course rest our sore muscles and bums. (I know you’re getting tired of hearing about our bums…but you have to understand that all we do is cycle, eat and sleep. Bums are a major topic of conversation around here). Luxor is interesting place, with really incredible temples, museums and a great market. It is a tourist hot spot, so you have to be prepared to be continuously approached for felucca rides or taxis. It can get annoying but you can’t blame a person for trying make a living either.
Now I have to introduce you to Abdullah. Abdullah is an 8 year old cutie who decided he would be our guide for the day. He didn’t speak English but somehow we managed. You should have seen him trying to stop traffic to help us cross the street or getting into an argument with the orange juice vendor who was trying to overcharge us for juice. He was richly rewarded with lots of ice cream and cake of course.
In other news, we have already started to loose weight. We are eating continuously but when you are cycling as much as we are you really can’t eat enough. You are ALWAYS hungry. The TDA does a really good job of making sure there is always food, and the meals are pretty tasty (especially considering they are cooking out of a truck). My only small compliant is that… well…it’s all healthy stuff. Carefully planned meals to make sure we are getting all the carbs and protein we need. I know, I know…that’s a good thing…but…guh…how many times in my life can I eat completely guilt free!!! I want cake dammit! Bring on the french fries I say. I have no intention of wasting this opportunity which is why we stock pile on snickers bars, chips and ice cream every chance we get.
That’s all we have to report for now. The cycling is long and hard, but we are really enjoying it. No crying on the side of the road just yet! Mind you, it’s still early and Egypt is the easy part…stay tuned.
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