Triskelion- You are probably right, scenery made a difference. I was riding a route I do any time I am short on time. It is also one that I have often been harrassed on, just never feels beautiful. The temperature was great and the trees we do get that change were on fire. I guess it was pretty, the dog ride is just never exciting. I know the road you did as part of it is on the Wurst Ride in Texas. The year I did that ride it was grey and dreary but the road still was gorgeous. Must be the magic of the Texas Hill Country vs. the Jollyville Plateau of northern Wilco.