today i saw my first wild armadillo, as it was crossing the highway. i also saw (and hit) my first tumbleweed. those were the good ‘firsts’. then, as we were driving to peninsula valdez, i got another flat….but this time, i fishtailed (twice) for the first time. because i was going fast (70ish mph) and passing a truck on a windy stretch of patagonia, i thought it was just my mistake. it wasn’t that bad….just a little bit of wobbling of the car….but i maintained control and stayed in my lane (…well, i guess the opposite lane, since i was passing). but then, a minute or two later, i decided to stop and check….and sure enough, the tire had gone bad (pic).

peninsula valdez was a bit disappointing after the incredible nearby punta tombo (with millions of penguins). the peninsula has elephant seals, penguins and supposedly a bunch of other creatures we didnt see (whales, dolphins, orcas, etc.). on the way back, we got yet another flat — this time a nail had gone through the tire while driving on the dirt detour.

i think the car might be starting to get old….or at least certain parts. in the last week, i’ve needed new brake pads and have gotten 4 flats (all on the rear driver’s side position….not sure if there’s something wrong with that spot….or if it’s that i keep replacing flat tires with old/worn tires).

anyway, puerto madryn is nice. small, but ok. things also seem to be getting a bit cheaper the further north we go.