After a few moments the semi circle gathered around the bike parted giving way for the man who entered.  With a firm handshake and speaking good English, he introduced himself as John.   Entertained by the sound of the English being spoken, the entire crowd tightened the circle, poking each other and pointing at us.  As John welcomed me to Tari, it became obvious that he was well respected in town.  It was thrilling to finally have someone to converse with.  I had so many questions about where I had been, where I was going, where could I get some food, a shower, a place to sleep and so much more that had been in the back of my mind these past several weeks of mountain biking.

John probably noticed that I was tired and suggested taking me to a place where I could stay, which sounded great to me.  Escorting me away, the crowd seemed content in not following. He wanted to push the bike, but like all the others who previously tried to ride or maneuver it, he didn't quite get the knack.  Taking it back from him, I promised to teach him later how to ride.  Looking over at him, I got that magical feeling one gets when receiving a surprise gift. That gift being someone finally who would understand me and hopefully answer some of my concerns about what lie ahead, and of course, nutrition.