Ears popping, lips chapping and 104...

Hello all from lovely Ft. Stockton, Tx.  Lovely is a relative term and I am using it in the most liberal of interpretations.  This will be my last update from the road - tomorrow I re-enter New Mexico and home.

I spend the last couple of days in Rockport, Tx getting the last bit of rest and relaxation prior to my trip being complete.  As with just about every city I've been in, Rockport was a ton of fun.  I had the opportunity to meet up with several old friends which is always a joy.

Several years back (I think it was 2002), I crossed the Gulf of Mexico with my Dad and a couple of other guys.  I had the good fortune of meeting Shane and Richard again during my stay in Rockport.  3/4 of the folks on that cruise are now retired and living on a yacht.

My parent's sailboat:

Richard's sailboat:

Shane's absolutely amazing +70 foot, 1300 HP cruiser:

And my little run about:

For the record: I don't own a cruise ship.

Part of my dues to stay in their house, I had to start up and ride their Harley around.  It's a fun bike, but a completely different ride then my BMW.

Crossing from Port Aransas to Aransas Pass or vice versa.  I don't remember which city is which or which city I was coming/going to/from:

Once time came to leave Rockport, today, I headed out to West Texas.  There isn't much in West Texas except empty roads (the speed limit is 80 MPH!) and heat.  Knowing there are empty roads and heat, is 104 the high temperature or my top speed from today?  Answer: High temperature.  That should have been simple as most of you know I wouldn't embarrass myself with a 104 top speed.

Last note - the drying out process has begun.  I've spend at least the last month in nice and humid environments at or near sea level.  Not anymore:  My ears have been popping all day and I can practically feel my lips cracking.  Anybody know where I can get some Chapstick?