Sunday, May 31, 2015

On a Sunday Ride with Friends

Today was A Day of Luxury. We only had some 65 miles to cover from Great Bend to McPherson (pronounced mic FUR son if you want to sound like a local) and we got to sleep in an extra hour today. Temps were 16 degrees warmer on today's start so I did without the wind vest, arm and leg warmers, too. So great to be unencumbered like that. The icing on the cake was wind speed - none.

Beautiful wide breakdown lanes and baby bottom smooth rolling roads made for a charming roll through the mid-Kansas  countryside. Being Sunday, traffic was light so the sounds of trucks roaring over rumble strips was replaced by bird songs and croaking frogs as we passed through areas of early growth wheat and corn.

We started out the ride in a loose peloton of 7 riders, trying to keep a good pace while we had good wind conditions (meaning practically none). Yesterday's slog to Great Bend being still fresh in our minds (and quite frankly in my seat) was the impetus for the quick pace.

Interesting to note that for all the great expanses of farmed lands, there was little evidence of farm houses.  Many family farms from the romantic period have given way to Archer Daniels Midland conglomerate. Understandable as it must be ridiculously difficult to keep a small family farm enterprise going in the face of ever growing consolidation. Happening in manufacturing so I can see the parallel here.

Big surprise of the day was the number of what look like gas fields. Possible fracking area, if I read a sign correctly. At one point in the distance there appeared to be a silhouette of Emerald City. As we got closer it morphed into something more akin to a NASA launch site. Further along, another silhouette that reminded me of the Houston chemical plants.  The juxtaposition with the small town rural rolling hills was stark. America - land of contrasts.

Halfway through our ride, I lost interest in keeping up the peppy pace and hung back with another rider to just enjoy rolling along in the warm sunshine, taking time to stop for a few snapshots. Realizing I'll probably not have a reason or opportunity to see Kansas from this perspective, I simply took time to take a better look. Lucky me. Today's ride, although not spectacular from a distance travelled or remarkable terrain, turned out to be another great day to be on a bike and reminded me of what I enjoy most about cycling.

Tomorrow promises to be similar to today. Going to Dwight Eisenhower's home town of Abilene only another 60+ miles away.  Temps should be in 70's with plenty of sun and back winds. I expect to take time to savor the ride like today and pop into a local lunch spot before heading to the hotel.  But you never know what will happen. Every day there's something new. If you're thinking of ever doing something like this, if you prepare adequately and put your mind to it, it will surprise you every day.





Saturday, May 30, 2015

The Windy Trail to Great Bend

Temps in the low 40's when we started this morning with wind from the north clocking at 20 mph with gusts up to 25. First 18 miles were a constant into the wind struggle; the rest of the day was hard and long. Most riders agreed these  85 miles were hard fought. Along the way to Great Bend, there was a huge windmill farm obviously capitalizing on the prevailing gales. 

Kansas is F-L-A-T and the roads straight. At times I felt like I was on a trainer, pedaling hard making no change in distance. We'd see huge grain elevators that looked like the robot in "The Day The Earth Stood a Still".  
Pedal...Pedal...Pedal....
Hmmm, is it getting closer or receding?
...Pedal...Pedal...Pedal....
Think it's closer yet?
Pedal...Pedal...Pedal....
Maybe.
Pedal...Pedal...Pedal....
Still not closer, yet?
Pedal...Pedal...Pedal....
Maybe my odometer is off, we've pedaled two miles and it's still way out there.
Yep. That's. How the day went.

Couple good things today (always is).
Good time chatting away the miles with other riders while we learned more about each other. 
Saw cool sign. See below.
Just before the hotel - Jackpot! Braum's Ice Cream Shop. Stopped for bacon double cheese, Dr Pepper and a double scoop of chocolate ice cream. Required nourishment after such a long ride.

Sign indicates this spot is midway between San Francisco & NY.
The Silo That Just Stood Still



Friday, May 29, 2015

Riding into Dodge City

Weather has been our friend for the most part. We missed 5 inches of torrential downpours yesterday, in the area we rode through today from Liberal, Kansas to Dodge City. Lots of standing water off the roads we travelled today.  Some headwinds made it a good choice to stay with a pace line in order to share pulling and drafting duties. Made a couple of stops, one at the Dalton Gang hideout, another at a convenience store (not really remarkable but a chance to rest my butt), followed by a visit to the local DQ for a burger and Blizzard combo...refueling needed before stopping @ hotel 2 blocks away.


Other than group meal @ Mexican restaurant, (picture below) I didn't get out much other than to wash and lube my bike. Oh, and there was a slight side trip to Sonic for milkshake just prior to nightly "Route Rap" - review of tomorrow's directions and next stop's cultural heritage.




Pictures below from inside tonight's hotel





Town really plays up its Old West heritage. Colder and stronger winds predicted for tomorrow. That's just the way I like it. Uh huh, Uh huh.

Thursday, May 28, 2015

Liberal Kansas

Probably the easiest day of the tour we'll see. Short hop of 40 miles from Guymon, OK to Liberal KS.
We had overcast skies most of the leisurely 3 hour ride. We did dodge the early morning showers around 4:30 AM and we started  2 hours later than usual. (9:00 AM). 

Watching the  weather forecast each night in these parts, I can't believe the luck we've had escaping torrential rains, hail, and twister alerts. Both Texas and Oklahoma have been hit pretty hard. It almost seems like we're chasing the storm(s) ahead of us. Because of such a short ride we were encouraged to seek out local attractions and stop for lunch before heading to hotel as our rooms may not be ready.  

We did linger at the Hooker (Oklahoma) Chamber of Commerce. Like Winslow, AZ, they did their best to capitalize on their name. It was perhaps not so ironic to see a Chinese Foot Massage Parlor across the parking lot.  It reminded me of the one they closed down in Longmeadow, MA, a year or so ago, but I digress.




We sprinkled our Pacific beach sand at the Kansas border sign again for good luck and rolled into Liberal just around noon. We were offered two options for occupying our time: a visit to the local air museum, or to visit a replica of Dorothy Gale's house - yes of the Wizard of Oz fame.



According to Wikipedia (so it must be true) the Mid-America Air Museum has the fifth largest collection of civilian and military in the United States. It was started with a gift of fifty planes by General Tom (Thomas) Welch, Jr., the museum has more than one hundred aircraft.

Also according to Wikipedia "The Land of Oz" exhibit is a recreation of Dorothy's house and the famed Yellow Brick Road, featuring donated bricks bearing the names of such luminaries as Bob Dole, Ronald and Nancy Reagan, and Liza Minelli. This exhibit was originally designed and displayed for Topeka in 1981, but relocated here eleven years later by its creator Linda Windler.

Instead of going to either, I went to a Walgreens to pick up some necessities, and ducked into a local Wendy's with two other riders to wait out a passing shower and chow down on a Spicy Chicken sandwich. On getting to the hotel, I tagged along with a fellow rider in a cab to head out for some real cappuccino and scones at a local coffee shop. That was a treat. 

We have a big Italian dinner planned at a local restaurant tonight with all of us and a special surprise birthday cake for one of the other riders. Should be a winning evening before we get back on schedule with our normal departure time and 82 miles to get to Dodge City, tomorrow. 

Wednesday, May 27, 2015

The riding is OK-lahoma

Yesterday's ride made me somewhat fretful about today's jaunt to Oklahoma. My sitz bones are rather  disappointed in me or I with them...
However, again a good shower, proper hydration after the ride, and good meal followed by decent night's rest and 'Voila!' - new day new outlook.

We changed time zones again last night so I'm all messed up. Luckily, we got to leave 2 hours later this morning so I had very little anxiety for a change. I didn't forget to turn on my lights, forget to turn on my bike computer, or forget my gloves, helmet, etc, etc, etc.

The 9:00 starters took off like a rocket. The roads were flat, we had favorable light breeze and the sun was warm but not too hot. I couldn't keep up the Rocket pace for too long (Rockin' 20+ mph) so I settled into a still Rockin' 18 or so mph. Only 500 feet of climbing over 72 miles compared to monster days earlier where we did 2,400-5,400 over similar distances.

A couple of good smiles today. One was Big Tex. Apparently, Texans with guns like to shoot at stuff along the highway (signs, roadside attractions). Although you can't see it in photo, Big Tex probably sings tenor.

Next smile was putting notch in the 'states' belt as we punched into Oklahoma.

Next smile was hanging with good man Peter for a fair stretch of highway. We pulled into a small convenience store about 12 miles from destination. Met two great local gals who ran the place and decided to stay a spell and have a couple of grinders and ice teas. Our comrad Matt also stopped by for a spell and a beverage. Just another simple break that made the last 12 miles into Guymon fly by despite some nasty gravel in the breakdown lane.

Finally, an unexpectedly good Chinese Buffet for dinner tonight. No. Really it was good. Hot, fresh, and they had really fresh and tasty Sushi. Sounds dicey, Sushi and Oklahoma, but sometimes you have to let go of those preconceptions and open up to new possibilities (Oh, alright, the Wasabi was a little weak but it was really quite good overall).

Tuesday, May 26, 2015

Nicking tip of Texas

Such hubris thinking today's ride would be cake after yesterday's saddle marathon. Sure, we only had 95 miles today instead of  the advertised 109  yesterday, but my bottom is telling me it's had  enough.
I was well rested, hydrated and fed. Bladder emptied. All positive.  Bike in good shape.  All systems "Go". Four of us took off from hotel in Tucumcari at our assigned departure time. I'm on Team Seven as we depart @ 7:00 each day. Preceded by the "Scouts" who leave @ 6:30 and followed by the fast guys @ 7:30. Thought it would be great ride.

By the time I reached hotel, I wanted someone to just put me down. Like the cattle we saw in the XIT industrial feeding lots, just get it over with. Butt sore, ankles sore, wrists sore....put me out of my misery. I know the restorative properties of a good night's sleep and hope to take the overnight cure yet again tonight.

This part of the country has had severe drought for many years and recently received a lot of rainfall. I acknowledge we were lucky indeed to have cool dry day for riding. We missed a big storm front by just a couple days. I guess a steady headwind is what we had to get through.

Because of the wind and pancake-flat terrain, this was a mentally tough ride. Long flat roads with what felt like mild grade climbing for miles.  Can't explain the sense of isolation and vastness of eastern New Mexico  and the tip of Texas.  We did form a pace line to reduce the monotony and mitigate the effort needed for today's trip into Texas. See the random shots of the open road (spectacularly wide blue sky), pace line buddies, Texas border, and massive feeding lots.

Tonight we were on our own for dinner as there weren't many places that could take a rush of all of us at once. Peter had asked the desk clerk for a Mexican restaurant nearby so he, Cynthia, Maggie, and I walked over to one lonely looking building with a solitary pickup truck parked outside.

Once inside it showed itself to be a no frills venue with maybe a dozen tables and half dozen booths. There was one couple sitting in a booth.  The place looked deserted so I went back into the kitchen and found a 20 something year old man working the stove and asked him if he was still open. As he grabbed some menus he indicated we could seat ourselves anywhere.

Peter, never shy about asking anything, found out that Alberto was running the whole show himself. He was a great kid with a nice smile and engaged with us for quite sometime.  When we asked him to guess what we were doing in town, he guessed we were Mixed Martial Arts Fighters. He was a hoot! He was equally surprised when we told him we were riding cross country.  We had such a good time with him.

We placed our orders and he went back to get drinks and prepared our dinners. Peter. and Cynthia had the Chile Verde,, Peter also had a chicken soup, Maggie, a fish fillet w/rice & beans, and I had the chicken enchiladas. I was a little disappointed they didn't have hot sauce.  When the meals arrived we  started eating when I heard a breathy hoot from Cynthia followed by a similar noise from Peter.

A bite and a half into my enchilada I knew what they were talking about.  That food packed a kick. Wow! It was delicious but fiery hot. My eyes teared up and my forehead began to sweat,  we asked Alberto if that was the usual preparation and he grinned and said yes.  Man did we have fun that nigh.






Monday, May 25, 2015

The Road to Tumcari-No Country for Old Men

Felt great this morning despite restless nights sleep worrying about 107 mile trip ahead. Will be short  post tonight as I'm bushed. I did 111 miles due to having to return to SAG stop to get my Hydration pack. Duh. Rookie mistake.
We celebrated crossing our 1,000 mile mark at an abandoned Texaco Station used as a set piece in "No Country for Old Men." Remarkable descent (9% grade for 3 miles about 35 miles into ride) into canyon from high plains, followed by grueling 0.7 mile climb at 10% grade up "The Wall" at about 60 miles in. The  tough part was the final 30 miles where we encountered the unadvertised Wall 2 and Wall Jr. Shared ice cream and conversation after our meal with Peter, Liam, Maggie, and Cynthia.  Really nice topper for the evening.     See below:


Long roads though the high plains. 


"No Country for Old Men" where we celebrated our 1,000 mile mark.

Abandoned diesel road grader at same location,

Descent through the Canadian Escarpment. Turned a corner from the high Plains and out of nowhere this canyon opens up with 3 mile winding descent to canyon floor... 

Sunday, May 24, 2015

Viva, Las Vegas! Gloves, Goats, and Dogs

Couple of housekeeping items.
1) At the start of each riding day, I get terribly anxious. I worry I won't make it to breakfast on time or I'll have forgotten to bring my bike (or my bags) down to the lobby or I'll have forgotten to pack a snack or my Chapstick or sun screen, or loaded my hydration pack. To mitigate this, the night before,  I lay out my wardrobe in order of dressing and arrange my gear so that I'll have to trip over it to forget it.  So far, other than timeliness, this tactic seems to be working.  Still, I get anxious. It feels like it did on the first day of school where you don't want to go without some essential item or other.

2) Every shower after every completed ride has been such an exquisite delight that words fail me.

Let's get to today's ride from Santa Fe to Las Vegas, New Mexico.
After a great night's rest, up at 4:45 to prepare for new day and new sights. Although just an observation and not a complaint, my rooms have been at the farthest spot from the lobby at just about every location. Today was no exception - staying at a rather large Courtyard Marriott, here in Santa Fe.

Brought the bike down before breakfast (5:30) as I needed to pick up some items at the 24hour Walgreens across the street. Snagged a good early breakfast, still in my street clothes, made a toasted PB&J sandwich for later, pumped my tires, then went to my room to change into bike gear and bring bags down to lobby to load onto the truck. Awesome! Done and back in lobby 6:45 with just enough time to put bike shoes on and shove off with my posse.

"Jim. Where are your new gloves?" Peter asked.

Awe, stink! Back in my room on the desk. I sent the gang on ahead. I then clip-clopped my way on ceramic tiled floors to the front desk to get a new key made so I could clip-clop my way all the way to the back of the hotel, up to the second floor (imagine what metal cleats sound like on those tile floors and in a stairwell on Sunday morning @ 7 AM.)

Really didn't shove off until 7:20 just 10 minutes ahead of the 7:30 crew. Not the end of the world, so I just settled into the cool, mostly sunny Sunday morning air and started following today's directions to Las Vegas.

Today's ride took us along the Santa Fe Trail up to the Glorieta Pass Battlefield monument which is considered the Gettysburg of the West. It is also the highest elevation point in our 7 week trip. Around 7,400 feet or so. What I had attributed to low energy, I'm now realizing may just be adjusting to breathing at such a high altitude.
Further down the road our Cue Sheet warned of a few Cattle Guards - those metal grates imbedded in the road to keep cattle from straying too far - and of dogs that might give chase. Although I heard a couple riders reported some black dogs did give chase, I was  amused by a pack of goats that gave me chase. No, they didn't bite.  Poor Devils couldn't catch me.  The weather for me was perfect for riding, cool but dry and sunny. 

Although I had a late start, struggled a bit getting over the rolling hills, I had to stop at a local gas station where a sparsely- toothed man and older woman were selling fresh made mini-donuts from an outdoor stand. At 4 for a buck, I was all over it. Headed out from there to the SAG stop at mile 40. 

At the SAG I ran into the others who had taken their drinks, sandwiches and were about to 'git' on their way. While there I noticed a cute but obviously over-indulged chihuahua. He certainly hadn't missed any meals. After scoping out the action at the SAG wagon, he left but later returned with his girlfriend - a large mixed breed - but also comfortable in her size. Man, did these two know how to work a crowd.  



Kicking out of the rest area, we found ourselves on long expanses of longish climbs of fairly mild grade, followed by some nice downhills. Rolling finally into Las Vegas, I saw the gang gathered at the Dairy Queen referenced on our cue sheet just one mile from our hotel for the night. 

I grabbed a bacon cheeseburger  and a Blizzard (Extreme Chocolate). Despite the layover at the DQ, I rolled into the Best Western before 2:00 and had a luxurious hot shower. Tomorrow's ride to Tucumcarie will be a beautiful ride but a long 107 miles. 

Saturday, May 23, 2015

Rubbed out in Santa Fe

Heck of a day in old town Santa Fe. Sure most of it caters to the high end tourist trade but I found my way to a great bike shop - Mellow Velo. Stocked up on Chamois Butter, got some long finger gloves for cold days, and some recovery drink.

Since there's a first time for everything, I took the plunge and booked an hour massage at the Hotel Santa Fe - my first ever professional massage. What an indulgence. As expected, it catered to the well heeled crowd. The smell of Sage and Lavender permeated the establishment. Subtle water trickling emanated from a wall full of crystals accompanied by the requisite "New Age" music.

After being ushered into changing room and shown to a natural wood locker, I changed into the sumptuous cotton robe and slippers, locked up my clothes and proceeded to the pillow-cushioned waiting area. I drank the citrus infused water and wondered what I was doing there.

My masseuse collected me and showed me to my room. After positioning myself onto the table and returning to the room, she rubbed warmed oils into my knotted neck and back muscles and let me prattle on about the trip.  Again, small world to find she was from Williamstown, MA.

Before I knew it, she was using hot towels to wipe the oils from my feet and I was shown back to the changing area where I showered using the most complicated plumbing I had ever seen. Yeah. It was awesome. Met some fellow riders and caught a ride back to the hotel where we are now gathering to go to a nice Italian Restaurant.

I've a lot to do so you'll here next from me after we've passed the first 1,000 mile mark on our way to Las Vegas New Mexico tomorrow morning.  Thanks for all your comments and emails.


Friday, May 22, 2015

Running on empty

Ever have one of those low energy days? Ate heartily at the banquet hall last night, turned in early and slept like a log. Started the day feeling great although a bit daunted by knowing there would be 4700 feet of climbing on way out of ABQ.

I've fallen in with a group of 4 other riders and we've found we have similar riding speeds. We started out together but somewhere around 15 miles in, I noticed my legs were missing in action. They.weren't eager to spin at the usual pace (85-95 rpm) but rather in the mid 70's. "Huh, that's odd." I thought.

I decided the best plan of action would be to simply hang back and just drag myself to S/F at whatever speed felt right. Ahead, there were some long, very long climbs. But a little over halfway there, we were rewarded with a hard earned 3 mile descent into Madrid. It's a funky little town littered with cafes, hand made jewelry and art shoppes. One bistro had a sign out front saying their shop was featured in the film Wild Hogs. I did notice a couple of Harley's parked out front.

I stopped to ask a pedestrian for a suggestion for lunch. She, her husband, and son were visiting from Luxembourg. They sent me over to a small cafe where there were several other riders already dining alfresco, sipping on hot chocolate, coffee, and eating pie in the warm sun. We spent a relaxing half hour or so lingering over our coffees and cocoas, talking about the road behind us and the remaining distance ahead. I shared the last third of a burrito with a fellow rider. It was a happy escape from the saddle.

Once recharged, the road into Santa Fe turned out to be a fantastic set of rolling hills. Somehow, The Beatles instrumental "Flying" popped into my head. There it played in a möbius loop while I took my time riding, deciding to take in the views of snow topped mountains in distance and to enjoy the sweet smell of the Pinion Pine and Juniper. Maybe it was oxygen deprivation at 7,000 feet or the endorphins kicking in but the day was the best day of the tour so far. Took time for pictures, stopped to smell the coffee (literally), and enjoyed chewing the fat with the group. Most everyone agreed the terrain was interesting, weather fantastic, and the winds were not nearly the issue they've been in days past.

A little pre-dinner cocktail and conversation with the gang was a great topper to a trouble free day.

We have a day off tomorrow, so after my shower, I ran a load of laundry and washed my bike and degreased and lubed my chain to give me more free time later. I've scheduled an hour massage at a spa downtown for tomorrow. Couple other friends doing the same. We welcomed a new rider (Mary-Jo) to the group. She rode with us today and will continue until Champaign, IL (June 9th). We also say goodby to Russ from Oregon. He signed up for just the Southwest leg which completed today. He'll be missed.

Thursday, May 21, 2015

Early arrival in ABQ

Last night at our "route rap" we reviewed Thunderstorm precautions. The weather forecast indicated a 65% chance of T-storms in ABQ in the early afternoon.  That combined with high headwinds made for a potentially challenging Thursday.

On return from dinner @ local Denny's, we received a text from tour manager indicating that our departure times had been moved to half hour earlier. At 6:30, seven of us decided to form a pace line to fight the headwinds and hopefully beat the T-storms to ABQ. The restaurant staff even came in early so that breakfast was ready by 5:45. We've really had the best of luck so far.

The pace line worked its magic despite an issue with an aggressive dog (one rider got his ankle nipped but no broken skin), and despite a flat and a chain derailing 5 miles out from the Hotel, we arrived early (before 2:00)!
Picture above is just as we start descent into ABQ. Following picture is a few more miles down the road as we got into town. The weather being overcast, kept temps down to the 50's & 60's. My kind of riding weather. 

 One more observation. We've been  traveling  through Navajo Territory. The past few days. As we stopped into roadside stores, I found the people very welcoming and friendly to us folk dressed like Space Aliens.

A 65 mile Gallup to Grants, NM

Sorry for the late post. 
Couldn't get WiFi to work in Grants, NM.
Composed Wednesday, May 20th.

We left Gallup at 9:00 mountain time. Since we usually start our rides at 7:00,
this was a bonus of two extra hours sleep. 

Beautiful blue skies & temps in mid to upper 70's. As we rode, the horizon was full of Mesa's, red rocks and changing vegetation from the lower desert we have been through. It made for another interesting run.

There were yet new challenges today. New Mexico's particularly strict about bikes on the interstate. If you cross the white line from breakdown lane into travel lane they will arrest you. There was a particularly nasty stretch (couple miles?) where the breakdown lane was abysmal. It reminded me of one of the travails the Hobbitt Frodo and friends went through on their way to toss the ring into the volcano. Or maybe the wind and miles were just getting to me.

After that nasty stretch we finally crossed over the Continental Divide today. Stopped for a few photos and refueled. SAG wagon had chocolate covered Strawberries, cream cheese sandwiches and usual assortment of gels, power bars, bananas, and Gatorade. 

From the divide we had nice 10 mile downhill stretch until headwinds kicked in. Tough slog into the 10-14 mph winds. At a Dairy Queen 5 miles out from the hotel, I saw a line of fellow rider's bikes parked in front so I just had to refuel. I couldn't have done another 5 miles in those winds. Even though it was a short 65, miles my bum felt like it was dragged much further.

Meeting tonight reviewed route to Albuquerque and Thunderstorm protocol as we expect high winds and 65% chance of T-storms riding into ABQ tomorrow. We also celebrated Jan's birthday with Cake!

Conquering each day's challenges makes it all alright. Even though one rider had 6 flat tires today, we ended the day in good spirits knowing we have another one on the books and can look forward to tomorrow. All in all it was a good day. 

Tuesday, May 19, 2015

Wind at our backs!

What a difference between yesterday and today. Although the ride was another 92 miles with 2,700 feet of climbing, the Hellish crosswinds were replaced by west winds pushing us along I-40 to the Land of Enchantment - New Mexico.

I hadn't mentioned flats specifically as I knew eventually I would get one. Some riders have had two a day, some more.  Traveling along the Interstate breakdown lane for any length of time let alone more than 80 miles a day, you're bound to pick up metal wires from the steel belted tires that litter the roadside. Today was my day.

Changing flat tires are no big deal and anyone can do it but it is an inconvenience. What should be a 5 minute process usually takes me about 20 minutes. I'm petrified I may pinch the tube or not find the source of the puncture and reflat soon after the change. But I did alright today. It was a perfect day for one. Sunny but cool (70's), easy route to follow, so I was on my way in no time. I had my usual travel buddy continue on ahead of me because the wind was in our favor and the route was easy to follow.

We went parallel to the old fabled Route 66.  Some cool roadside outposts off the interstate. Had great stop near the Petrified Forrest at a Native American post. It was known for its fried dough but I went for the ice cream.

At around mile 71 we hit the New Mexico State line. We sprinkled Pacific Ocean sand at the state line and ran into a major highway construction area. The bike lane/breakdown lane squeezed down from an awesome 8 to 10 feet to only a few inches. At one point a tractor trailer came  dieseling up behind me and decided to pass. I had to hold my breath to keep my line and keep from either hitting the wall of metal going by on my left or falling off 6 inch Tarmac ledge into the sand on my left. I decided to pull of the road to assess the situation. 

Turned out the far left travel lane was closed to traffic so I waited for a break in traffic and pushed off to that lane and traveled a couple miles until out of the construction area and I could make it back over to the restored breakdown lane. It was pretty wild. 

Because of my earlier flat, I was traveling alone for a stretch of time. About 10 miles from our destination in Gallup, NM, three of the stronger riders pulled up and passed me.  Will, from the UK asked if I'd like to join the line so I picked up the pace and took the express train nearly all the way back to the hotel. One of the guys thought he may have picked up a wire so they decided to stop and check their tires and waived me along. 

After checking in tonight and completing my post ride chores, I headed over to the largest Wal-Mart on earth (it must be although I can't confirm) just to find some super glue to fix slice in my tire. I felt I needed a cue sheet to find my way around there. 

We start 2 hours later tomorrow on our way to Grants. We're now on Mountain Daylight time.

Monday, May 18, 2015

Breezy not so easy

Pretty good ride today. Really recharged batteries in Flagstaff. Had new brake pads installed yesterday, really scrubbed chain, gears and lubed the cassette well to be in good shape for start of week 2.  Was rather cool when we left Flagstaff (about 36) so I had put on my wind vest, and arm warmers but skipped the leg warmers.  Acccuweather said it was going to hit the low 70's by the time we hit Holbrook, anyway. Goodbye Falgstaff.  Hope to see you again.


Most of day was spent riding on the shoulder of Interstate 40.  Quite windy. Very loud. Not a lot to look at besides the dead coyotes, metal debris to be avoided, and the massive blue sky. Pretty flat terrain, some Mesas on horizon. Impressed with the number of trains and their length.. Some were at least a half mile long.  Like the commercial I remember seeing says "America moves by rail". Believe it!

Hellish cross winds most of the 91 mile length today on Interstate 40.  Matt, from MD, Cynthia from CA, and I compensated by forming a modest Pace line, taking turns leading the line then falling back to draft. Helped make the time and miles melt away and really helped cut the needed pedaling effort.

I wasn't expecting anything much in Winslow. Yes, the town made famous by Jackson Brown's song popularized by the Eagles "Takin' it Easy". I thought the stop would be a bit hokey. It was and it wasn't. The town was really quiet but there were many shops  playing Eagles music, selling the T-Shirts, making the most of their town's fabled name.  Sure we stopped to have our pictures taken at the Jackson Brown life sized bronze, but I noticed a lady taking her bird for a walk in a baby stroller.
Chatting her up she mentioned her dad did a bike ride from northern. CA, to Alaska.  By himself. Camping.  When he was 65.  He had to deal with animals when he was camping out.  I just need to deal with finding where I left my room key. Kinda put things in perspective...

Two other surprises. How pleasant a ten minute rocking chair break can be on a warm afternoon, just hanging on the sidewalk and how odd it was to find two steel girders from the World Trade Center set up in a memorial park just as you leave town...



Tomorrow we cross into The Land of Enchantment

Sunday, May 17, 2015

Computer geek stuff

Warning! Dull Bike Computer geek stuff to follow in next paragraphs.  Skip if this isn't your thing. I have a Garmin 810 Edge. It includes a feature where I can synch it up with my phone to post real time data as I ride to a web site.  Anyone I invite can view the site to see current progress. I'm disappointed with this feature as I can't seem to get it to "pair" with my phone. It used to work but now just refuses to pair. 

Nevertheless,  I'm including other device detail here to let you see how I use info to figure out how I'm doing over the course of a ride and whether I'm in good shape or in trouble. I think it's pretty neat, but then again I'm the nut who's on a 3400 mile trip.

My bike computer is slowly revealing its secrets to me and now that I'm riding more, have found more uses for its features. I can set up several custom display pages. I can have each page display up to 8 or 9 data elements. My main page shows 9 elements: time elapsed since starting the ride, Cadence (# pedal rotations per minute), Speed, Calories burned, Heart rate (beats per minute), Distance traveled, % of my maximum Heart rate, Temperature, and time of day. It's my default page.  I've also set up some alerts (computer sends out a "chirp") to remind me to keep drinking ever 15 minutes or so and eat every time I burn 300 calories. It really has helped.

At any point along the ride I can swipe the display with my finger to go forward or back a page to get different views of ride data.

I set up other pages with fewer elements e.g. One page has just 4 elements: Current Lap distance (push the lap button at any point and it clocks distance from that point without changing the overall ride odometer),  Last Lap distance, (when lap button pressed, it starts new lap and shows distance of last lap), Total Distance from day's start, and Time of Day. I use this page to help with following the cue sheet directions, to make sure I'm staying on course. 

The cue sheets are 8 1/2 sheets of paper folded into quadrants and clipped to my handlebars. They mark each turn and direction and show total distance and distance to ride before next turn (or hazard, like a cattle guard crossing in the road, or noteworthy start of monster climbs/descents). As I ride I push the lap button at each turn I make. If I get lost I can backtrack using the lap feature.

Another page shows 4 elements: Elevation, % Grade (how steep), Total Ascent (total distance climbed this ride), and Total Descent. Although this is a cool page, my legs and lungs really tell me all I need to know. I rarely bother with it. 

And I configured a screen with just 3 elements: Speed, Distance, and Average Speed this ride. Use this on longer rides to make sure I'm keeping good pace so I can finish early and start resting sooner.  Resting meaning drinking recovery drink immediately after ride to restore glycogen levels,  stretching, snacking, cleaning bike, showering, laundering kit (jersey, bibs, socks, gloves) in sink, rolling up kit in towels jelly roll style, then twisting to wring as much water out as possible, clothes pinning kit to curtains above heater/AC unit to dry, checking weather, setting out next day's kit, more snacking, catching up on email/blog, then go to evening meeting to review day's events and following day's cue sheet. Dinner follows around 6:00 and then return to room finish blog then light out.  I guess it's an "active recovery".  

Completed Boot Camp!

Sorry this posting is a day late! I got really busy after ride yesterday.

The climb from Cottonwood through Sedona and up to Flagstaff promised spectacular vistas with commensurate effort. Unfortunately, another drizzley, cold day. Despite that, one of my favorite days so far. Usually there are spectacular views of the red rock monuments along the road to and out of Sedona but they were shrouded in mist and clouds. There were a few breaks in the mist so some riders had a chance to snap some pictures

We did climb an amazing 5400 feet or so in under 48 miles. The roads were narrow with heavy traffic and no shoulder. Tense riding for a good portion but I just kept focused on putting power to the pedals and focusing on the next length of highway ahead of me.

Although I have a "climbing page" set up,on my computer, I've only looked at it once because it's usually too daunting to know how much more there is to go. Especially when looking up at some of the switchbacks in the Oak Creek Canyon yesterday. I would see other riders way up there and knew I had yet to pedal there. (See second posting on Computer Geek stuff. Shout out to Harold, Gardiner, and Al.)

A bunch of us stopped at the Pink Jeep Tours Coffee shop in Sedona at about mile 19. I was wet and freezing again but not quite as bad as previous descent into Jerome/Cottonwood. I desperately needed hot beverage and more clothing if I was going to complete the next 30 miles. Learned there was a bike shop a bit further ahead on "Jerome" Street so I stopped there looking for jacket, long fingered gloves, and a rain cover for helmet.

Well this was the "Fat Tire" bike shop catering to the Mountain Bike enthusiasts.  Really nice shop and if you're in town look them up. Although I'm a "skinny tire" guy and they didn't have anything for me, they did their best to guide me to another outfitter about a couple miles back in West Sedona who would have what I wanted.

No. I didn't go back. I forged on.  Dumkoff. Next stop was 4 miles ahead at the Dairy Queen. Bought some nuts, soaked up some heat chatting with the owner as the place was deserted (Go figure. No one looking for a frosty treat on a drizzley cold day?). I used their restroom then headed out for another 8 miles of road-grade climbing out of the canyon before I reached the big challenge of the day: 2.2 miles of about a 10% grade. After a week's worth of riding, being cold and wet, I was questioning my ability to complete this last run up to the SAG rest stop at the top of the canyon.

At about  1 1/2 miles up, some gal leaned out the passenger window, long copper hair blowing in the wind, and yelled "You're Bad-Ass, man!". Since she couldn't possibly have know about the delicate condition of my posterior, I took it as the best unsolicited encouragement of the day and laughed and grunted my  way to the top. I'll remember that anonymous young lady for quite some time. Thank you, whoever you are!

At the SAG wagon I guzzled two hot chocolates, quinoa with veggies, crackers, oranges and a couple of energy bars. Oh, yeah, more climbing ahead but more gentle and some level spots on final 12 mile leg up  to Flagstaff. I also "suited-up" by putting some food service plastic gloves on under my open-fingered bike gloves and put some sandwich bags over my socks inside my shoes to keep from getting any wetter. Thunderstorm was possible later in the data. Jan and Robin did great job helping me get it together. All the support crew are top notch. I know I picked the right company to get me across.

The last miles weren't as bad as I expected - no T-storm. Knowing I have completed the first 7  days just amazes me. For the stats folks out there we've gone about 540 miles and climbed more than 2600 feet. Next week we'll cross into New Mexico and our next rest day will be in Santa Fe. Looking forward to it.

Bunch of us went to a relatively upscale restaurant for dinner last night. It was fantastic. Lots of laughs, wine, beer, and good food. I had the roast duck duo confit leg with potatoe cake and slaw (with nice Tarragon cream on side). Others had steaks, Salmon tartar, Pork Tenderloin, etc. Today is a day off so I need to get to the bike store and replace my breaks. Like me, they're pretty worn down.

Friday, May 15, 2015

Ghost Burger

It really feels like this week has been a sort of boot-camp week. Urban riding through the streets of LA, Interstate 10 through the Mojave, bone-crushing, shoulder-numbing washboard and derbies dodging for miles, headwinds, dirt Devils, then 5900 feet of climbing with"False Flats and Summits" over 47 miles on a day following a 116 mile ride which nearly took 11 hours.

But there was a bit more in store for today. Looked like an easy 44 mile ride to Cottonwood: only 2700 feet of climbing and 4600 feet of descent. Should be cake.  Ah, but the weather. Up to now, it was as good as it could be considering geography and time of year.

Started in mid 40's with a light rain. As we ground our way north up to Mingus Mt. the temps dropped to the lower 30's and it started snowing. We had to hold our 7 mile descent from the top until it was safe enough to go down (read as stop raining/snowing). Safety is good.

On the 7 mile shot down to Jerome (read as "Funky Town"), I lost all feeling in my hands save for the electric shocks I got trying to pry them off break levers.  Somehow by willing it so, I arrived in Jerome. I left bike on street and went into The Haunted Hamburger. Most of the group had arrived before me and many were swaddled in blankets and sitting under several electric ceiling heaters.
Jan, one of several support staff on today's ride, rushed up to me and threw blanket over me and rubbed my hands and arms until I stopped trembling. In retrospect it was probably something close to hypothermia.

Yes, I dressed appropriately with leg and arm warmers, had wind vest and raincoat on.  What happened was the sweat generated on my climb up hill just kept moisture close to my body so when temps dropped, the winds on the 7 mile descent just sucked the last amount of heat from my core and chilled me further. I was one Chilly Willy.

Just about everyone had a good story to tell tonight at dinner. I guess shared adversity has a bonding affect. Remarkably, we all seem to recover quite nicely overnight and jump on our bikes again in the morning.

Destination tomorrow is Flagstaff.  Short ride but all uphill. Not feeling it yet but let me sleep on it. It's always better in the AM.  Signing off now to check Accuweather. Best IOS app for weather you can get.

Thursday, May 14, 2015

Small world

Wierdest road trip today. After yesterday's 10 plus hour ride, I didn't know how I'd get through today. It did involve 5,900 feet of climbing over 59 miles. Riding was hallucinatory experience. There was a 7 mile stretch that appeared flat but was actually a climb. Legs kept telling me I was climbing averaging 8-9 mph but my eyes were telling me I should be cruising at 17-20.  Then when we started the climb to Yarnell Pass, kept rounding the corner where I could see the summit, but climb kept going. Last hallucinatory experience was looking ahead to some monster steeps, only to find they melted into mild climb.

The phenomena is known as false flats ant false plateaus. It's a real thing and not my exhausted body going haywire.

Once we cleared Yarnell pass there was a dream (screamer) descent. The road was smoothe as any fresh pavement could be. And compared to the interstate 10 breakdown lanes we traveled a couple days ago, derbies free. Before I knew it a fellow rider mentioned we we going 43+ MPH. I've not planned on doing anything reckless, but bike was stable, long clear view of road ahead and no traffic to speak of made the the 2 mile or so stretch the best day of my trip so far.

But seriously, I'll not do that again.  That's just too damn fast.

The cue sheet mentioned a bike shop just outside town center before the hotel, so I pulled in to pick up some chamois cream. They were out so I decided to pick up new bibs. Checking out and making small talk with the guy, we found out we both went to Easthampton High although 10 years apart.

We talked about the renaissance of Cottage Street, the Arts Center in the old mills on Pleasant Street, riding bikes up Reservation Road to Mt Tom. That little side trip added another half hour to my ride but an unexpected lift to the day.

Finished today's trip by 2:15! Bonus! Had time for (best) hot shower (ever), Burrito at nearby Chipotle, caught up on email, shopped for other supplies (did score chamois cream at the third bike shop I found), did laundry, and reorganized duffle bags for more efficient morning and evening routine. Still need to check tires and clean chain before tomorrow's ride. I'll do it in morning.

Nine of us went to great Italian place for dinner (Papa's on Cortez St) now it's time to lay out gear for trip through Jerome to Cottonwood. Another climbing day but short. Weather is iffy. Good chance of rain. But day five is now on the books and still feeling OK.

Wednesday, May 13, 2015

Serious Saddle Time

10 plus hours riding. Traveling from Blythe, CA to Wickenberg, AZ. New personal record of 116 miles. Sprinkled sand from the Pacific at the state line as part of the tradition with the group.  Bunch of pictures.  Did I mention the heat yesterday? It was great today. Did get up to the low 90's but really cooled off  once we got to Wickenberg - Dude Ranch Capitol of the world and "Recovery Center" capital, too. Eating, Alcohol, Drug, Gambling and sex addiction - all the big ones.

Really gave it all today.  Have to thank Matt, Rick, Peter, and Maggie who helped form a pace line so we all could have a chance to draft to diminish wind resistance. Each rider takes turns leading the line for about 5 minutes, (about a mile) before dropping to the back of the line to let someone else pull the line. Pretty ordinary in cycling clubs but fairly new to me. We tried it in my social-pace group rides in CT but not for the distance or the hours we did today. Because of the crazy miles if I hadn't been with these folks, I'm pretty darned I sure I wouldn't have made it.  We did actually stop to wait for a dust devil cross the road at one point...a mini dust tornado ...that would have thrown us off our bikes if we didn't stop (Thanks for the tip Rick!)

Quick note on the poverty out here. Different from the urban poverty I'm familiar with but pretty stark all the same.  What a country.  I'm really beat and need to get up early tomorrow. We leave at 6:45 AM to get to Prescott. Big climbing day but only half the mileage.  That will be Day 5..

Still can't believe this is happening.

Tuesday, May 12, 2015

Riding on the Interstate

Starting to figure out my post ride routine. Sign in, pick up room key, have snack, down a high carb drink, (once an hour for three hours), shower, call home, do washing, clean / lube bike, recharge phone, iPad, bike computer, go to group, meeting, dinner, set out gear for next day, pack bags, load hydration pack and put in fridge for next day, pack snacks, write blog, then go to sleep. Up at 5:00, breakfast @ 5:45 bring bike to lobby, load bags onto truck, pump tires, hit the road by 7:00, pedal for 8 hours +/-, repeat.

Today was my toughest ride. 97 miles. We did close to 80 miles on the interstate starting with a 12 mile climb. Last 10 miles were rumbling over what can only be described as "heat heaves" small perpendicular ridges spaced 3 - 5 feet apart in the breakdown lane. I'm getting callouses in my saddle area.  I promised myself I will never do that stretch of road on my bike ever again.

We're going to Wickinsberg, Arizona tomorrow after doing 116 miles. It will be our first state line crossing. Will sprinkle some sand from the Pacific beach at this and each subsequent state line.

Monday, May 11, 2015

It's a dry heat...

Interesting ride today probably meant to toughen us up for the days ahead. Three mile climb right after the start followed by a jaunty 7 mile climb about halfway through our 94 miler today. Not sure what was tougher: the 7 mile climb or the 7 mile stretch into Palm Springs into fierce headwinds with temps at 104. First time I've ever ridden on an interstate. We had a couple of short legs on I-10 almost 5 miles. It's allowed if there are no other passable roads available. Clenched teeth the whole way.

Some riders made the trip in 7 1/2 hours and others came rolling in 8, 9, and some in 10 hours. I came in at 4:30 - yeah 9 hours. Just baked in the sun had to run into a Carl's Jr. for a coke and soak up some AC 20 miles shy of the Hotel.

Tomorrow promises to be hotter and longer as we'll running through the Mojave on our way to Blythe CA 97 miles away - with little shade. We had a 45 minute team meeting tonight on desert safety, what to watch out for in terms of dehydration and time limits we need to make before we get swept up and brought to hotel by support team. They're very serious about taking care of their customers. I'm OK with that. We'll see what a good night sleep does for me.

Sunday, May 10, 2015

Resting in Riverside


Up at 4:45 to  dress and get ready for breakfast @ 5:30. Chowed down, brought bike and bags down to lobby. After pep talk from tour leader we left for the Pacific. It was cool but sunny and the beach was moderately busy with joggers, surfers, and folks fishing waist deep in the surf.  After the wheel dip ceremony, we started east to Riverside.

Day was spectacular. Mostly, propelled by adrenalin, we made our way through city streets, with the wind mostly at our backs. Bike lanes here were well marked and although we had a few detours, we all successfully managed to make our way to the Courtyard Marriott.

I did get off track a couple times and broke the "man rule" and actually stopped and asked for directions. What can I say. It worked.

At the last SAG stop around mile 50, I did notice it was 94 degrees but it was a dry heat.  Today's trip was around 80 miles including unintended side trips.  We'll hit Palm Springs on our way to Indio we'll rack up 90 plus miles each of the next two days before we hit the hundred mile days. Let's see if I can maintain that smile by the time we have our first day off in Flagstaff.





Friday, May 8, 2015

Heading into LA


Arrived in LA Wednesday night. Still fascinated by the city's sprawl. Weather here has been unusually cold, wet, and windy the past two days. School was actually cancelled due to snow in one of the hill communities. 

Yesterday, rather than hang around the hotel waiting for my bike to arrive, I took to the streets to find some eats and took in a movie. Don't know about you but it was my first experience with assigned seating at a matinee show. I guess for $15 bucks they need to put on an air of exclusivity to make your seat seem well worth it. That combined with an usher that actually announced the film and recommending we stay for a special feature after the show made for an interesting experience.

I did chuckle to see the late arrivals struggle to find their seats in the dim theater. The resourceful ones used the flashlight feature on their phone to find their seats. The special feature was actually a promo filmed at the theater by all the stars in the film we just watched. Well, I guess they had all been  in town anyway at the premiere a few weeks back so why not shill for the theater chain while they were at it...

Last night on my way back to the hotel and again at breakfast today started meeting other riders and some of the support team. Two from England, guys from VA, CT, and gals from SC.  A bunch more I need to make acquaintances with.  Some excited, albeit nervous laughter as we realize our big adventure is actually starting...

Wednesday, May 6, 2015

Leaving for airport after lunch

Weighed my stuff yesterday: Two bags, 28.7 pounds total weight. I'm under the weight limit by 1.3 pounds. Woo Hoo! Cleared for takeoff! I'll land in LA around 9:30 P.M. local time and should be at the El Segundo Courtyard Marriott shortly thereafter. Bike should be delivered to hotel Thursday morning.

Just hanging out today, clearing up email, finalizing bill payments. Just busy work. Thanks for all the encouraging emails. Let me know if you have any specific questions as I roll along. Be happy to get back to you here or via email. More to come.

Monday, May 4, 2015

...Six...

Got the Will notarized today.  Unpacked and re-packed, then unpacked again, delaying the weigh-in ceremony. You are correct.  It's avoidance behavior for sure.  No haircut. Dull detail but the
strategy is to leave some busy work for tomorrow otherwise I'll climb the walls. I'm just that excited.

Sunday, May 3, 2015

Seven days to start...

Starting to feel pre-trip jitters more strongly. Maybe it was just the four cups of coffee at iHop this morning. Yet another speed bump at Pharmacy. When I picked up scripts  I found they only filled order for a 30 day supply. Yes I need 60. They said they'd call to get an Insurance override so that meant another trip later in the day.

Got another "Tips" email from the tour operator recommending "cleat guards" for bike shoes for walking around while taking our lunch stops. Went to local bike shop on way home from 1st trip to drug store. My clerk there thought they had some for my cleat style (Speed Play) but couldn't find them while rummaging through several under counter drawers. He asked me to let him keep looking and he'd give me a call. Went home with two strikes and low expectations.

Decided to continue making packing piles. Organized bike vs street clothes, on-bike vs off-bike tools. Lots of trips up and down stairs, out to garage and back so it was all good anxiety displacement exercise. Tried on the arm warmers I bought in the winter only to find they fit really "snug" (cut-off-circulation-in-arms snug).

Figured it was a good time for another drive to drug store to see if pills were ready. Success there. Jazzed, I decided to hit up the bike shop on way home and Bingo - they found the cleat guards and had large size arm warmers. All just minor speed bumps.

Ended the day with having packed most of gear but figure I need to re-evaluate my in-bag organization in morning to see if it makes sense after a good night's sleep.

Getting Will notarized tomorrow, haircut, then maybe a Spin class to round out the day.

Saturday, May 2, 2015

.....8.....

Last minute details falling into place.
I've been following emails from other riders about the challenges they've had getting their gear to fit into two duffle bags weighing no more than a total of 30 pounds. One rider asked if he could borrow another rider's 1.4 spare pounds. Reminds me of companies trying to buy/sell Carbon credits.

I've got the recommended 2.5 gallon Hefty Zipper bags used for compartmentalizing duffle bag contents and picked up some clothes pins for "in-room" laundering along the way. Managed to get my Will and Health Proxy done (Legacywriter.com is awesome) and will run out to Triple-A on Monday for Notary and witnessing services. My partner is much relieved.

Other than hunting for some Handi-Wipes and Lip Clear Invisible Bandages (no dice) and taking dog for walk, I've been taking it easy today. We cruised out to our favorite lunch spot and I caved in for the awesome BBQ ribs. As usual, order was so big had take half the order home...hey, just trying to bulk up... Felt funny not being on my bike for half the day but it was a good change. Serious packing exercise and weigh-in tomorrow. Nice phone calls with both sister and brother brightened my early afternoon.

Just took dog out for his evening stroll round the back yard and looks like another spectacularly full moon tonight. Yet again, as it floated in and out behind some clouds I still smiled to think how far away that rock is. In just a week from now I'll be getting some shut eye before the serious pedaling begins. Gulp.

Friday, May 1, 2015

...10....9.... days to takeoff

Trust but verify. Why don't I take my own advice? You know what I'm talking about. Something sounds too good to be true or just way too easy...
Called insurance company last month asking about getting approval for advance on prescriptions for 7 weeks. Nice guy just said to go to pharmacy tell them I need vacation supply and they'd call Insurance Company for approval. Cool. That sounds easy.
Went to Drugstore last Monday to order "Vacation" prescriptions - enough for the 7 week trip and clerk said I was asking too early and need to come back on Friday....Hmmm...really? (Why didn't I ask to speak to the Pharmacy Manager? I'm usually not that guy but starting to think maybe I should be.)

Went to the pharmacy today (Friday) and was told by different clerk I needed to have Dr. call in a 90 day order. That's a new story. Have you tried getting in touch with three Drs on a Friday afternoon? Just small speed bump. One Doc was great, called it in right away, One was off today - will be in on Monday - Secretary will see what she can do, (fair enough) and the third office was just closed until Monday. So I have a little list of last minute details to take care of.
Not the end of the world and figure I'll get it ironed out by Tuesday before I leave on Wednesday.

Not related to cycling just another interesting pharmacy related thing...just  happened yesterday. Friend went to pick up a script at same pharmacy- $200 for 1 month supply. "No thanks." Went back to Dr and was told to try Wal-Mart for generic. Generic version sold there for $10. Fact. Wow. I'm not endorsing the mega store but again, wow.

Oh yeah, biking...
Determined a new favorite 50 mile loop with 4,000' of climbing. Did it twice this past week. It was part of refining my drinking and fueling needs.  Felt good after each ride because of setting 15 minute timer on my bike computer to remind me to drink/eat. But I do need some more work there. Realized I need to figure out a better way of eating while riding. Mechanically speaking I'm really awkward at digging in back pocket for baggie of GORP (Good Old Raisins and Peanuts), opening zipper baggie and then digging out handfuls and popping in mouth. I leave more on the road than in my mouth.
Not anxious to take another tumble after breaking clavicle last September.

Starting to hear from family & friends asking me when I leave and wishing me well. Some friends already asked me to reserve seats at the post ride banquet in June. They're driving up to Boston from CT. Good guys they are. I have a bunch of calls yet to make. Yoga instructor gave me some suggestions for post ride poses today (Filed it for future use). Next on the agenda after this post is to draft will and medical proxy. Just being practical. It's not morbid just something I should have ready. Actually, Med proxy is done Just have to find copy.

Got list of the other riders names and birthdays from the tour operator. Guy from Scotland, another from New Zealand, and another practically next door in Wethersfield, CT maybe 35 miles from me. Mixed group of folks and we've been posting pictures in our bike gear and street clothes with short bios to a shared email list. Having fun already.