Yesterday leaving Thunderbird, getting out early was the name of the game. Everything was stowed and ready, then it was time to check the pressure on the tires for the drive. When I reached the front right tire, one of the slick new Yokohamas, I could hear air coming out of the valve stem. The tire was having difficulty holding over 60 psi. So much for an easy launch to the day

It was 11 miles or so of tiny back road to reach I-40. I drove easy down bumpy windy lane then down a ramp to a Love’s truck repair. Super busy maybe get it in by late afternoon. Suggested regular tire shops a few ramps further down near OKC.

Tried the Firestone; late afternoon or it’d better to come tomorrow morning. Man, the clock is ticking. Drove over to Hibdin’s. They said no problem, only 6 people ahead of me. I explained my situation, cajoled and offered to pay double. They said they don’t charge for a valve repair. Double of nothing! I offered the young fella $40 as an expediting fee, I won’t mention his name to protect the innocent. I was in and out in twenty minutes with new valve all tires up to desired psi. Thanks bro!

Five hours on the road. Nondescript prairie on Oklahoma side dotted with mostly inoperable oil rigs. Then crossed into Texas north of Amarillo for more of nondescript prairie dotted with inoperable oil rigs. Lots of small towns, and I mean small, that have seen better days during the boom years. Lots of shacks and closed businesses.

About 15 miles out curvy quiet roads I arrived at Sanford Yakes campground. Pretty enough spot. Lots of space between camps. Huge grassy area on the center. It’s a national park. Lake is nice but steep banks. Best to use the boat docks which judging by the number of boats camped up seemed to be the driving force to visit

My site has a nice concrete pad with a newer composite picnic table. Strummed the guitar at the table, met the camp host, then as the rain approached I retreated inside and watched football.

The full thunderstorm didn’t bang in until just before midnight. Rained cats and dogs. The wind got to howling so hard it felt like I was sleeping on a moving freight train going over some rocky tracks. Eased up early hours of Saturday. Looks to be a rain free morning with more clouds coming for the afternoon.