1235 miles down,

The Pecos River: it's scenic, Del Rio is NOT.

A zillion inches on the map of Texas to go.
I know Texas is proud of its hugeness, but COME ON!
We left our trailer trap in Langtry at sunrise and arrived in Del Rio before lunch.
Yes, Johnny and Mikey, I consumed what I hope is my last can of Beanie Weenies in my life for breakfast.
The David-repaired tandem held up for the 59 miles and we endured the 25 degree increase in temp to 99 degrees, David rather well, and me going into grump mode for the last five miles. It was hilly, chip and sealed and traffic-less until we entered Del Rio confines, and extremely close to the border.
May I comment on the border patrol and not get into a political debate?
Fact: the force is impressive, both in vehicle and personnel.
About every 40 miles, a truck and van terminal exists, exorbitantly fencing in 100+ white vehicles logo'ed with a green border patrol emblem.
All day every day we see a some of these trucks on the road, parked behind mesquite trees, or slowly riding off road along the border.
At checkpoints, traffic is backed up on one side of the road, passing through what resembles a three story high truck weighing station. These are manned (literally, I have yet to see a woman border patrol person)with some gorgeous eye candy in uniform, plus one or more large dogs on leashes.
I am fascinated with these guys. I see groups of six at some of our lunch stops, particularly if there is a pretty waitress around. They're all in dark desert green, many with flak vests, all with holstered guns, and wearing very cool sunglasses.
I'd say 75 percent are possibly Latino. All look exceptionally capable of guarding our borders.
I get it! But I want to research the cost/benefit/RESULTS ratio of effectiveness. From my viewpoint on the bike saddle, I am skeptical.
But maybe it's just because I'd like to see some of the force on bikes. In Lycra. ;-)