Roswell: more to offer than UFOs

The 70-mile ride into Roswell on highway NM-246 was perfection. Smooth asphalt, about one car per hour, and crisp air allowed me to fully enjoy the landscape. About halfway through, the insects started to multiply. Grasshoppers, crickets, and a variety of other unknowns littered the highway, both dead and alive. It seemed the living were feeding on those who had been run over. At first I tried avoiding them but after awhile I realized my efforts were futile.

Yesterday and today, Roswell was holding their annual Chili Cheese Festival. I didn't see much cheese but there were plenty of chilies sold, both raw and dried. I tried a funnel cake for the first time in over a decade and although it was tasty my stomach is still a little upset. The local boy scouts were in awe of my endeavor as was the volunteer from the Roswell Womens Democratic Club.

Continuing eastward I was unsure of my evening destination. About twenty miles out of Roswell the land became almost flat and after another twenty it became completely flat. I managed another 70 miles and entered Tatum with just enough time to grab a bite well after sundown and just before the town's only cafe closed for the night. When the owner heard from her son that I was cycling, she made me eat more, ripped the bill up in front of me, and insisted I camp out back. I told her thanks (after still trying to pay) and that I would see her again at 6am when she opened for the day.