Day 75: September 25th, 2010 (Route: Yorktown, VA to Mechanicsville, VA)
Technical Data:
Distance, miles: 92.78
Ride Time 6:29:47
Work, kJ: 3615
Average Power, watts: 153
Normalized Power, watts: 186
Average Speed, mph: 14.13
Forecast: Hot and windy...
Woke up at 6:15 and looked at the phone, not sure how I slept through my alarm that was set for 5:30. The plan today was to be on the bike and rolling out of Yorktown at sunrise, however I lost a little bit of time due to sleeping right through my alarm. I had to listen to my body though and go with it. Once out of bed I felt great, ready to ride and get this last leg all wrapped up! I love mornings where I feel energized and ready to go, today was definitely one of those mornings! Must have been all that rest I got at the "RiverView" over the last couple of days.
The "RiverView" is a small house on the Episcopal Church land that over looks the river, hence the name. It's a cozy little place and I was fortunate to have the place all to myself the last three nights. I only planned on staying two, however I lost one day to putting together application information for schools so I stayed an extra day to take in the history. I'm glad I stay the extra day too, I was able to see where the Revolutionary War ended and really just enjoy the day!
This morning I got things ready, had a packet of oatmeal and loaded up BoB for an early departure. I had a small breakfast because I plan on eating ever hour, taking in a banana an hour today, lately I have been feeling a little heavy and I think its because I got into a bad routine of eating one large meal a day, not to mention probably overeating when I had my stationary days in Maryland and North Carolina.
Once on the bike, everything felt great, the sun was already up behind me and I was on my way. 23 miles to Jamestown on the Colonial Parkway I go. The parkway is not a very nice ride to be honest, the road sucks! It's an old concrete road that has stones sticking up, probably unnoticable in a car, however on a bike is rough. The scenery though is spectacular, trees lining the parkway only to open up to a nice view of the river, sometimes on both sides of the road. The duck blinds are obvious in this marsh land I'm viewing from the parkway. The ride goes by quick, passing close to 30 cyclist heading the opposite direct I take a right off the parkway to the connecter that will put me onto highway 5. Once onto five I'm just setting into cruise mode and really enjoying the day, nothing like getting close to 30 miles knocked out in a couple of hours, the weather was nice this morning, head wind was noticeably otherwise I think I would have cruised well underneath 3 hours for 30 miles.
Having downed a couple of bottles of water by now I stop to refill. So nice to have ice on the trip that I don't have to pay for. Didn't stay very long at the convience store as I really don't need anything. I was lucky enough to score some cannisters of fuel at the "Riverview" as a couple cyclist left two cans. I'm assuming because they were flying out and fuel on the plane is illegal so I scored as I still had not picked any up since North Carolina, been eating mostly dry food, bagels, peanut butter, peanuts, et cetera. Off the Colonial Parkway I start to notice my legs are feeling a little better, the left took a little while to warm up as they often do after a couple day off. However, I did ride each day I took off when in Yorktown, rode to the grocery and to the library, had to get some work done!
Now off the colonial trail I was really looking forward to some nice smooth roads where I could really pick up the pace and have a solid day of riding. The weather was going to be hot today just like all the last few, I would imagine it would hit 90's or sure today. Everythings going as planned, then it hits me. A large O' S&*% moment, the right quad is starting to bother me and its not really going away. I figure maybe it was a little lactate passing through, however I haven't really been hitting the power, so I'm not sure what's going on. I checked the power files and really nothing out of the ordinary as to a large effort. It doesn't make since, I've taken the last two days of nice easy recovery riding to the store and the library, the legs should feel fresh, I've had so much time off I just cannot understand.
I'm about 40-45 miles in at the moment when my right quad wakes up and I'm not sure what is going on. Every pedal stroke its like a razor blade is cutting away at my muscle fiber. It's rather painful, however I can't stoke pedaling I'm thinking. I think it will go away, but with no luck. I stand on the pedals and that's not good either, actually more painful when I load the quad. Since I really don't have an idea on what muscle it is I decide to text a good friend of mine and see if he can help me out. Waiting for an answer I get back on the bike and continue to ride. The goal today was to ride as far as possible, grab another 100 miles and see where I land. The pain is now coming and going, however only when I load the quad and on the up stroke of my pedal stroke. Standing is not going to be an option today, I know the terrain so I'm going to be okay, however in a few days when the Appalachians hit, I'm going to be in deep trouble I keep thinking. Not sure what to do I continue to pedal slowly on down the road. When I mean slow I mean slow, I've switch to a higher cadence to avoid a large load on the right leg, however I'm not sure that's going to work either at the moment, if this is truly an overuse injury then more rpm's should only make it worse correct, well maybe depending on the load as well. Maybe it's just a strain, maybe its a micro tear in the muscle belly? What could it be?
I continue to pedal and remember Kirk mentioned there were a couple places to stay on the trip out East via text the other day. I remember a place called Bumbass where I could pitch a tent for free so that's what I've been shooting for all day. I continue to ride and miles fade away with the most comfortable pedal stroke one can imagine. By now my mind is telling me I must continue, however the body is helling something different! I stop for more water and down some calories, then continue pedaling as I really want to make it to Bumbass.
About 10 miles out from Mechanicsville, VA I really cannot tolerate the leg and decide that I'm going to shut it down for the day when I arrive in Mechanicsville. According to Kirk there is a church near the route he camped near so I'm just going to do that. It's about 3PM in the afternoon and its hot out, I text back and forth with Kirk as the gentlmen across the street helped Kirk out when he was there so I thought I would give this a try. The reason why was I got word from my friend in Tulsa that I should really ice, elevate, rest, and compress if at all possible as this could be serious. I hope that the diagnositics over the telephone are just there to scare me, however I always listen to my body and there is something definitely going on with my right quad, medial, and 3-4 inches proximal to the knee cap. I'm wishing I was a PT right now so I could diagnose and treat!
After sitting at the church for a couple of hours and just relaxing, I thought about the website I have not used in some time, warmshowers.com. I look up Mechanicsville, there is one couple listed, Clyde and Carol Mackey so I give them a call. I tried the cell number and no answer, then I try the home phone. Clyde answers and I tell him my situation and he agrees to allow me to stay the night at their place. I ride over there which was another 8.5 miles and the leg felt like it did at the start of the pain, I just grin and bear it as I am not liking the discomfort. Once to the Mackey's they great me with open arms and that Southern Hospitality one remembers the south for! Both are great and treat me as a honored guest in their beautiful home. They ask me what I need and I really just mention I need some ice for an ice bath! I don't want to take any chances with this leg to be honest, the legs have been full of fluid for a couple days now, well to be honest I think they have had swelling in them most of the trip. Ice bath, elevation, and more ice was on the agenda for this evening.
I grab a quick shower, and down the dinner Carol so graciously bought me from the store when picking up the ice. After dinner I head to the bath to have a nice cold ice bath, its been a while since I have had one and boty I wasn't ready for that burning sensation when everythings going numb. I know that it will be well worth it! I read 50/50 a while back and they said he took ice baths every night, well if I only had the support these guys have on sponsored trips! After the bath I head straight to bed to elevate and crash for the evening. I'm so grateful for connecting with the Mackey's!
I wake up the next day to an empty house, the entire family has headed to a triathlon out near the coast. Both boys were competing which I thought was cool, the note on the counter read a lot to be honest, but the message was make yourself at home and take a rest day if you want. I decide this is the best thing as the leg going up and down the stairs was not feeling 100% so I head right back up stairs after having a small bowl of cereal to ice the leg and elevate some more. I decide to read the book my Uncle gave me while in Raleigh as I really haven't touched it. I spent all day reading, and I mean all day, I didn't come out of the bedroom, unless to get some water or use the bathroom. I read all but 40 pages that day, it was one of those reads where it just sucks you in! The title of the book was the "The Killer Angels", all about the battle of Gettysburg. I'm wishing now I would have taken a few more books with me as this book read so fast...
Tuesday, September 28, 2010
Friday, September 24, 2010
Day 72: September 22nd, 2010 (Route Branchville, VA to Yorktown, VA)
Day 72: September 22nd, 2010 (Route Branchville, VA to Yorktown, VA)
Technical Data:
Distance, miles: 115.5
Ride Time 7:21:31
Work, kJ: 4306
Average Power, watts: 160
Normalized Power, watts: 182
Average Speed, mph: 15.49
Forecast: Sunny and hot with a lite breeze 5-10 mph...
Waking up this morning was easy, I was excited this morning to get on the road, thinking I had 80+ miles or so to Yorktown was a great feeling, however I really didn't know how many miles, all I knew it was another days ride. Waking up and crawling out of the tent that layed the back yard of a very generous Virginia family was nice. I woke a couple hours early this morning, however the darkness kept me stationary. Listening to the crickets chirp was nice, along with looking up out of the tent at the distant stars made me realized why I'm out here and what I am doing. The peace and quiet of the country side has allowed me to collect my thoughts from all the hustle and bustle of life when you're completely plugged into society.
I didn't hesitate on getting on the bike once I got out of the tent, I loaded things and I got out of there. I think because I wanted to ride as much as possible in the coolness of the day, lately the afternoons have been getting brutally hot, and I really did not want to get caught up in the heat of the day like yesterday. I can tell I am not acclimated for this type of heat like I was 70 days ago, training in the heat and humidity of Missouri sure did help, however the NW spoiled all my acclimazation.
Stopping at the next town about 20 miles down the road for water, I refill bottle and just set the bike on cruise control. Roads are nice, flat, and I have a slight tail wind. I noticed I clipped off the first couple of riding without a bit of effort this morning which was nice, however I started to realize the ride was going to be a bit further than expected as the signs did not favor my 80 mile thought. The goal this mornin was to get across the river by noon so I pushed on. The trees and cotton fields lining the rural roads I chose to ride where still this morning, not much going on at all. The peacefulness of the country side is something to enjoy though, I just kept trying to take in ever moment I possible can as I know once I get back to the Midwest things are going to ramp up and I'll get busy again.
Roads were smooth and wonderful to ride on today, nothing like a smooth road, blue skies, and tail wind! I kept thinking, today should be my fastest ride yet! Stopping at a truck stop to get water, I decide to check the phone and see if there is any life out there, phones almost dead which isn't a good thing. I need to make sure I have some electrons to make contact with the host at the Episcopal Church there in Yorktown. Then I thought, I'll figure it out, I'm pretty resourceful, think about it, I'm 70+ days into this journey and have been very fortunate so far, so need not to worry! Just believe in the journey at hand and embrace every minte.
Thoughts all over the place today, thinking about the application process, going back to school in the Spring and hopefully being addmitted to a D.P.T program for the Fall of 2011. I would really like to be admitted to a good school, well they are all good schools, I should write, I just wanted to be admitted some where. I do have my favorites though.
Thoughts in and out today or riding then back to the future, truely not taking in every moment I can. The thoughts of getting back to work, back to school, back to a life of full responsibilities, well different then the present. The growth that has occurred on this trip will be something that will never be forgotten for sure! I often think about growing up, then I think what's the point? I just want to mature, no need to grow up. I'm as tall as I'm going to get so growing might be out of the question, now its just time to mature and learn from all those I encounter in this journey we call life.
I just lost all my work - internet here is spotty so I'm going to call this a day and relax...some days you have great connections, others well they're like today! Tune in tomorrow and days to come as tomorrow I'm heading back to the Midwest and I'm thinking 9 days till Louisville!
Technical Data:
Distance, miles: 115.5
Ride Time 7:21:31
Work, kJ: 4306
Average Power, watts: 160
Normalized Power, watts: 182
Average Speed, mph: 15.49
Forecast: Sunny and hot with a lite breeze 5-10 mph...
Waking up this morning was easy, I was excited this morning to get on the road, thinking I had 80+ miles or so to Yorktown was a great feeling, however I really didn't know how many miles, all I knew it was another days ride. Waking up and crawling out of the tent that layed the back yard of a very generous Virginia family was nice. I woke a couple hours early this morning, however the darkness kept me stationary. Listening to the crickets chirp was nice, along with looking up out of the tent at the distant stars made me realized why I'm out here and what I am doing. The peace and quiet of the country side has allowed me to collect my thoughts from all the hustle and bustle of life when you're completely plugged into society.
I didn't hesitate on getting on the bike once I got out of the tent, I loaded things and I got out of there. I think because I wanted to ride as much as possible in the coolness of the day, lately the afternoons have been getting brutally hot, and I really did not want to get caught up in the heat of the day like yesterday. I can tell I am not acclimated for this type of heat like I was 70 days ago, training in the heat and humidity of Missouri sure did help, however the NW spoiled all my acclimazation.
Stopping at the next town about 20 miles down the road for water, I refill bottle and just set the bike on cruise control. Roads are nice, flat, and I have a slight tail wind. I noticed I clipped off the first couple of riding without a bit of effort this morning which was nice, however I started to realize the ride was going to be a bit further than expected as the signs did not favor my 80 mile thought. The goal this mornin was to get across the river by noon so I pushed on. The trees and cotton fields lining the rural roads I chose to ride where still this morning, not much going on at all. The peacefulness of the country side is something to enjoy though, I just kept trying to take in ever moment I possible can as I know once I get back to the Midwest things are going to ramp up and I'll get busy again.
Roads were smooth and wonderful to ride on today, nothing like a smooth road, blue skies, and tail wind! I kept thinking, today should be my fastest ride yet! Stopping at a truck stop to get water, I decide to check the phone and see if there is any life out there, phones almost dead which isn't a good thing. I need to make sure I have some electrons to make contact with the host at the Episcopal Church there in Yorktown. Then I thought, I'll figure it out, I'm pretty resourceful, think about it, I'm 70+ days into this journey and have been very fortunate so far, so need not to worry! Just believe in the journey at hand and embrace every minte.
Thoughts all over the place today, thinking about the application process, going back to school in the Spring and hopefully being addmitted to a D.P.T program for the Fall of 2011. I would really like to be admitted to a good school, well they are all good schools, I should write, I just wanted to be admitted some where. I do have my favorites though.
Thoughts in and out today or riding then back to the future, truely not taking in every moment I can. The thoughts of getting back to work, back to school, back to a life of full responsibilities, well different then the present. The growth that has occurred on this trip will be something that will never be forgotten for sure! I often think about growing up, then I think what's the point? I just want to mature, no need to grow up. I'm as tall as I'm going to get so growing might be out of the question, now its just time to mature and learn from all those I encounter in this journey we call life.
I just lost all my work - internet here is spotty so I'm going to call this a day and relax...some days you have great connections, others well they're like today! Tune in tomorrow and days to come as tomorrow I'm heading back to the Midwest and I'm thinking 9 days till Louisville!
Thursday, September 23, 2010
Day 71: Semptember 21, 2010 (Route: Raliegh, NC to Branchville, VA)
Day 71: Semptember 21, 2010 (Route: Raliegh, NC to Branchville, VA)
Technical Data:
Distance, miles: 101.84
Ride Time 6:42:22
Work, kJ: 4052
Average Power, watts: 166
Normalized Power, watts: 197
Average Speed: 15.04
Forecast: Overcast with temperatures in the mid to upper 80's. Winds changing throughout the day at 5-10 mph.
I have a lot to write about over the last five days, I took a long extended needed break in Raleigh, NC with family and will write more about my time there in another post soon. Having taking five days off I was ready to ride, however not as ready as others. I can tell the comfort of a home is in my near future, going back to riding when I can and enjoying the bike between work, school, dinners. This morning was like many other mornings I have experienced on the trip, however this was a little more emotional than others. Having spent five days with family, getting to know them as I haven't seen them in close to 5 years or so, it made it tough to leave. Again, the hospitality was far superior to any place I have stayed so far, its family what can you expect! :)
Well, let me keep to the day tough. Waking at around 6:15AM I wasn't jumping out of bed like I have in the past. I was really just wanting to roll back to sleep to be honest. I stayed up late talking with my cousin, which only left about 5.5 hours of sleep. I was well rested though, having slept numerous hours over the last five days. After getting up I made sure I had all my things in one place, rotated the tires on the bike, should have done this the first day I rolled into Raleigh, however sharing moments with family was a litte more important. I found the little piece of wire that has been causing the slow leak in the rear, which I was excited about, had trouble finding it up in Maryland and since it was one of those slow leaks I just rode it into North Carolina. Once the mechanical work was completed I went into enjoy a breakfast my Aunt made and enjoyed their company! Again, I think I could have stayed...
After exchanging hugs and taking a few photos I headed off on the bike and it felt good to be back where I have considered home the last 70 days. Wow, did i just type 70 days? It felt good as I have been eating like crazy since I have been stationary and I have been looking forward to getting back to burning some calories! Today's destination was unknown so riding was high on the agenda and just enjoying the day. With the sky being overcast I was looking forward to the ride and the legs were feeling great so nothing but smiles this morning!
I roll out of the driveway, and don't look back. One thing I hate more than anything in this world is goodbye's. I have avoided them much of my life to be brutally honabandonment when I was young child. However, I know now its important, though I will see these family members again, and hopefully soon! I would prefer sooner than later to be honest, so many est. I have snuck out the back door, the front door, the side door in the past to just avoid the emotional experience of what saying goodbye brings. I think this to do with the feeling of more questions to ask and things to learn!
I love to ride this silly bicycle and I'm still glad I'm on this journey, however I can tell the feeling of being "home' - whereever that may be is a want at the present moment in time. I may just possibly be ready for change. While in Raliegh I visited Duke University and their Physical Therapy program and planning on applying to their program along with a few others across the nation. A visit back to North Carolina would ensure a visit with family, hence why I would prefer sooner than later, however I really don't need a reason to come back and visit, besides just wanting too!
Today's goal on the bike was to not eat, I know this is a little different then past post however I want to see how well my body is processing the fat storage I have put on over the last couple of weeks. Many would say I'm crazy, however this is a key to racing strong in long endurance events and I wanted to see how it went today. Not to mention I want to get back to where I was when I started this ride. When I don't feel lite and fit I don't feel good about myself, hence why I do a lot of riding, running, and swiming! So the goal is to consume as much water as possible and shed a few pounds today and document as I would in my logs for training!
The first 30 miles today went by fast, the mind was else where during this first part of the ride which is always good. If the mind is thinking about riding and pushing I know I'm in for a long day. The legs had power today, however I can tell the high end has lost almost all I have gained over the years. I need to get back to doing some power training which I plan on doing once back to the place I plan on calling home for a while, along with upper body workouts, core work and some running and swimming. The goal when I get back along with a lot of other things is to completely start over! I have no choice here...
Riding over the beautiful rolling terrain of North central North Carolina was great, up and down all the way to where I lay at the moment. I was nailing about 15 miles an hour over the first 3 hours and thought what If I could do a sub 6:30 century today. I know this may not sound fast to a lot of cyclist out there, however I am pulling a 50 lb trailer so I think averaging over 15 mph for the day is a great goal to have! 16 mph would be pushing it for sure though...
In and out of convenient stores for water and the use of the facilities I start getting close to Roanoke Rapids, NC where I stayed outside of in Weldon just a few days ago. I decided to hit the chain restaurants for ice water as I knew they would be free, avoiding giving away change to the locals. I know this does not sound like me, however I'm in conservation mode and on the last leg and want to make sure I avoid spending any excess and I find this excess.
The body has been feeling achie in some areas over the course of the first 50 miles on this ride, the joints especially the wrist/ankles have been acting up on me. I credit this to the taking the last five days off and allowing the body to come down from all the hard work I have been doing since July 11th. The mind filled with thoughts of school, family, bikes, conversations and so much more, however I just keep pedaling! I have stopped in the past when the mind has filled with thougths like today and captured them via text, however today i just keep pedaling. I have a goal today, to document how the body responds to not taking in many calories.
No real stand out interactions today on the bike, the roads were wide open and I was loving it! Foliage has yet to start here in North Carolina and tonight Virginia, but I'm certain its just around the corner. The body holds to the 50 mile marker today with no problem, close to 3.5 hours into my ride with no calories and not really feeling much different then I did when I took off from the house this morning. I can tell the hydration is a little off, however all and all the power is being distrubeted nicely with no cramping, muscles soreness or loss of power. I'm really not surprised at this point in time though as I have trained and road 5+ hours on nothing but water in the past, the real question today is how I'm going to feel at the 6+ hour marker. Many may think I'm crazy, however again I ate way too much over the last two weeks and want to feel fit and look fit once back to Tulsa, the strength to weight ratio is very important and I'll need it on the Wednesday night ride if my high end is weak, which it will be unless I do some "Power" training in the Ozarks, however I really can't if I want to keep this volume up.
Rolling out of a Subway where I stayed strong and didn't purchase anything, just grabbed some ice water and used the facilities. I did take in 180 calories at this point, I had some peanut butter crackers and I just couldn't resist. I really want to kick this habit of eating whatever on the road and today was the first day I wanted to do it so I'm going to start tracking consumption along with Technical Data if I can remember. I'm about 75 miles in now and the last 25 miles have been great, however I can tell the mental focus has slipped a little, I'm not sure if this is a fueling issue or a hydration issue, could be salt. I'm realatively alert though, having talked with the employees at Subway, not feeling like I'm processing slow. I continue on and really feeling fine energy wise which is great, I'm close to a century and I'm running on a good breakfast and some peanut crackers. This makes me think my body has really adapted to burning fat as fuel source in a very effiecient manner. Now to figure out exactly how much body fat I can start a race with and still feel fit, providing me with the necessary energy to get the job done. (I'm not a Physiologist by any means, however I can contest from my training over time that this is beneficial)
Heading out of Weldon, NC I decide I'm going to take 186 (?) out of Garysburg a few miles up the road and head start towards Yorktown. I figure once I get 100+ miles in I'll start looking for a place to set up camp and rest for the night, I'm looking at places at around mile 82 so I want to document this in my Power Files to let me know that the mind broke on the energy levels today at around this point. Given that's only 30 miles short of an Ironman distance bike leg I'm feeling pretty good about this, this point was not a completely bonking scenario, just a note that the mind thought about calling it a day. I had plenty of energy today, really thought about riding longer, however once I found a place to camp I was going to take it. I'm in Virginia now, with no camp ground really any place, I have to take what I can get and I found a wonderful family in Branchville, VA that allowed me to throw my tent in their backyard, which I find a beautiful sanctuary!
Many thoughts to document today and I can tell that the lack of nutrition on the bike today is catching up to me right now as I type this.
Technical Data:
Distance, miles: 101.84
Ride Time 6:42:22
Work, kJ: 4052
Average Power, watts: 166
Normalized Power, watts: 197
Average Speed: 15.04
Forecast: Overcast with temperatures in the mid to upper 80's. Winds changing throughout the day at 5-10 mph.
I have a lot to write about over the last five days, I took a long extended needed break in Raleigh, NC with family and will write more about my time there in another post soon. Having taking five days off I was ready to ride, however not as ready as others. I can tell the comfort of a home is in my near future, going back to riding when I can and enjoying the bike between work, school, dinners. This morning was like many other mornings I have experienced on the trip, however this was a little more emotional than others. Having spent five days with family, getting to know them as I haven't seen them in close to 5 years or so, it made it tough to leave. Again, the hospitality was far superior to any place I have stayed so far, its family what can you expect! :)
Well, let me keep to the day tough. Waking at around 6:15AM I wasn't jumping out of bed like I have in the past. I was really just wanting to roll back to sleep to be honest. I stayed up late talking with my cousin, which only left about 5.5 hours of sleep. I was well rested though, having slept numerous hours over the last five days. After getting up I made sure I had all my things in one place, rotated the tires on the bike, should have done this the first day I rolled into Raleigh, however sharing moments with family was a litte more important. I found the little piece of wire that has been causing the slow leak in the rear, which I was excited about, had trouble finding it up in Maryland and since it was one of those slow leaks I just rode it into North Carolina. Once the mechanical work was completed I went into enjoy a breakfast my Aunt made and enjoyed their company! Again, I think I could have stayed...
After exchanging hugs and taking a few photos I headed off on the bike and it felt good to be back where I have considered home the last 70 days. Wow, did i just type 70 days? It felt good as I have been eating like crazy since I have been stationary and I have been looking forward to getting back to burning some calories! Today's destination was unknown so riding was high on the agenda and just enjoying the day. With the sky being overcast I was looking forward to the ride and the legs were feeling great so nothing but smiles this morning!
I roll out of the driveway, and don't look back. One thing I hate more than anything in this world is goodbye's. I have avoided them much of my life to be brutally honabandonment when I was young child. However, I know now its important, though I will see these family members again, and hopefully soon! I would prefer sooner than later to be honest, so many est. I have snuck out the back door, the front door, the side door in the past to just avoid the emotional experience of what saying goodbye brings. I think this to do with the feeling of more questions to ask and things to learn!
I love to ride this silly bicycle and I'm still glad I'm on this journey, however I can tell the feeling of being "home' - whereever that may be is a want at the present moment in time. I may just possibly be ready for change. While in Raliegh I visited Duke University and their Physical Therapy program and planning on applying to their program along with a few others across the nation. A visit back to North Carolina would ensure a visit with family, hence why I would prefer sooner than later, however I really don't need a reason to come back and visit, besides just wanting too!
Today's goal on the bike was to not eat, I know this is a little different then past post however I want to see how well my body is processing the fat storage I have put on over the last couple of weeks. Many would say I'm crazy, however this is a key to racing strong in long endurance events and I wanted to see how it went today. Not to mention I want to get back to where I was when I started this ride. When I don't feel lite and fit I don't feel good about myself, hence why I do a lot of riding, running, and swiming! So the goal is to consume as much water as possible and shed a few pounds today and document as I would in my logs for training!
The first 30 miles today went by fast, the mind was else where during this first part of the ride which is always good. If the mind is thinking about riding and pushing I know I'm in for a long day. The legs had power today, however I can tell the high end has lost almost all I have gained over the years. I need to get back to doing some power training which I plan on doing once back to the place I plan on calling home for a while, along with upper body workouts, core work and some running and swimming. The goal when I get back along with a lot of other things is to completely start over! I have no choice here...
Riding over the beautiful rolling terrain of North central North Carolina was great, up and down all the way to where I lay at the moment. I was nailing about 15 miles an hour over the first 3 hours and thought what If I could do a sub 6:30 century today. I know this may not sound fast to a lot of cyclist out there, however I am pulling a 50 lb trailer so I think averaging over 15 mph for the day is a great goal to have! 16 mph would be pushing it for sure though...
In and out of convenient stores for water and the use of the facilities I start getting close to Roanoke Rapids, NC where I stayed outside of in Weldon just a few days ago. I decided to hit the chain restaurants for ice water as I knew they would be free, avoiding giving away change to the locals. I know this does not sound like me, however I'm in conservation mode and on the last leg and want to make sure I avoid spending any excess and I find this excess.
The body has been feeling achie in some areas over the course of the first 50 miles on this ride, the joints especially the wrist/ankles have been acting up on me. I credit this to the taking the last five days off and allowing the body to come down from all the hard work I have been doing since July 11th. The mind filled with thoughts of school, family, bikes, conversations and so much more, however I just keep pedaling! I have stopped in the past when the mind has filled with thougths like today and captured them via text, however today i just keep pedaling. I have a goal today, to document how the body responds to not taking in many calories.
No real stand out interactions today on the bike, the roads were wide open and I was loving it! Foliage has yet to start here in North Carolina and tonight Virginia, but I'm certain its just around the corner. The body holds to the 50 mile marker today with no problem, close to 3.5 hours into my ride with no calories and not really feeling much different then I did when I took off from the house this morning. I can tell the hydration is a little off, however all and all the power is being distrubeted nicely with no cramping, muscles soreness or loss of power. I'm really not surprised at this point in time though as I have trained and road 5+ hours on nothing but water in the past, the real question today is how I'm going to feel at the 6+ hour marker. Many may think I'm crazy, however again I ate way too much over the last two weeks and want to feel fit and look fit once back to Tulsa, the strength to weight ratio is very important and I'll need it on the Wednesday night ride if my high end is weak, which it will be unless I do some "Power" training in the Ozarks, however I really can't if I want to keep this volume up.
Rolling out of a Subway where I stayed strong and didn't purchase anything, just grabbed some ice water and used the facilities. I did take in 180 calories at this point, I had some peanut butter crackers and I just couldn't resist. I really want to kick this habit of eating whatever on the road and today was the first day I wanted to do it so I'm going to start tracking consumption along with Technical Data if I can remember. I'm about 75 miles in now and the last 25 miles have been great, however I can tell the mental focus has slipped a little, I'm not sure if this is a fueling issue or a hydration issue, could be salt. I'm realatively alert though, having talked with the employees at Subway, not feeling like I'm processing slow. I continue on and really feeling fine energy wise which is great, I'm close to a century and I'm running on a good breakfast and some peanut crackers. This makes me think my body has really adapted to burning fat as fuel source in a very effiecient manner. Now to figure out exactly how much body fat I can start a race with and still feel fit, providing me with the necessary energy to get the job done. (I'm not a Physiologist by any means, however I can contest from my training over time that this is beneficial)
Heading out of Weldon, NC I decide I'm going to take 186 (?) out of Garysburg a few miles up the road and head start towards Yorktown. I figure once I get 100+ miles in I'll start looking for a place to set up camp and rest for the night, I'm looking at places at around mile 82 so I want to document this in my Power Files to let me know that the mind broke on the energy levels today at around this point. Given that's only 30 miles short of an Ironman distance bike leg I'm feeling pretty good about this, this point was not a completely bonking scenario, just a note that the mind thought about calling it a day. I had plenty of energy today, really thought about riding longer, however once I found a place to camp I was going to take it. I'm in Virginia now, with no camp ground really any place, I have to take what I can get and I found a wonderful family in Branchville, VA that allowed me to throw my tent in their backyard, which I find a beautiful sanctuary!
Many thoughts to document today and I can tell that the lack of nutrition on the bike today is catching up to me right now as I type this.
Wednesday, September 15, 2010
Day 66: September 15th, 2010 (Route: Weldon, NC to Raleigh, NC)
Day 66: September 15th, 2010 (Route: Weldon, NC to Raleigh, NC)
Technical Data:
Distance, miles: 85.62
Ride Time 5:45:01
Work, kJ: 3689
Average Power, watts: 175
Normalized Power, watts: 209
Average Speed, mph: 14.58
Forecast: HOT!!!
Waking up behind a convenient store was a first for me, however it wasn't too bad to be honest! Last night though, around 10PM a guy was standing next to the edge of the car wash I was camped out behind, he just stood there smoking a cigerette. I said something, like hey you, unzipped the tent to see what he was doing. By the time I climbed out of the tent he was gone. I thought this really odd to be honest, I sure did scare him off though. Had the feeling of nervousness the rest of the night before I cashed out. I had been warned by so many people in this small town while I was there about the crazy's in Weldon. I thought this guy may have been one of them for sure as it was an odd experience. I got out of the tent to make sure I was taking care of myself to be honest. I've been on the road for 65 days now and I'm not about to let anyone take anything from me, especially the bike! I have often thought about this on the trip, after the kid in Corvalis, OR was looking at it I have been extremely carerful not to let it out of my sight!
The rest of the evening was quiet, just typed up my blog and fell sleep, it was hot so I didn't really need a sheet or blanket, just lying there sweating!
Up and at 'em first thing this morning though. I wanted to get on the road before the heat hit as yesterday was a hot one and today was not supposed to be any cooler! Being this close to facilities I used them and changed, packed up a wet tent from the condensation and headed out to find a place with wi fi to upload the last two blogs. I have found the best place for this is a hotel, there always open and the wi fi is free. Not to mention the bathrooms are always clean!
After uploading my blogs I head out onto highway 48 South. This stretch of road was short, about 17 miles or so. Legs really didn't feel like pedaling today, once onto the bike I felt great, then I started to push a little power and the legs didn't like it. Today would have been one of those training days where you pedal over to the RedBox, grab a movie and head home to rest. However I don't have the luxery on this trip to enjoy such a day. The goal today is Raleigh, NC my Uncle Steve's house. Having a destination is nice, when I am just riding and find a place to sleep I'm not to motivated to really hit the throttle, however today was a little different!
The terrain was nice and rolling with long climbs, short climbs, and climbs you just want to attack! The terrain reminded me a lot of a Time Trial in Oklahoma I did a couple years back, hard to believe it was that long ago! I thought a lot about this TT on this trip, hitting the throttle heading down some of the descents, while powering up the accents I was having so much fun! I think next year the plan is to have two "A" races if I am in Oklahoma. The Tribbey 40k TT and the Kansas State Championship 40k TT, and the goal of course is to win! I have really given up on the time committment it takes to race Ironman and since my future is unknown I think its more realistic to race a shorter distance race that will keep me in shape and allow for a life outside of training and racing. This trip has opened the eyes a little wider to the world outside of training and racing all the time and I'm looking forward to exploring as many avenues as I possible can once I'm back home (home will have to be where the heart is as I'm not sure of the location).
Thought a lot about flying kites today, the headwind must have sparked the thought! I used to lie out in the field next to where I grew up and just fly my kite, I didn't do it often but it really brought me down to earth when I did. I love to feel the power of nature, whether it be the wind, the ocean currents, river currents, and all the weather that is produced by the gentleness of winds that fly my kites. Nature sure is an amazing piece of beauty that should never be over looked or taken for granted! Without all the those air molecules we wouldn't be able to fly or sail for starters. Chemistry is nice when you think of in terms of things you can do that put the wind in your hair! lol Maybe a little too abstract today, however thoughts are thoughts!
Temperature is rising fast today and I failed again to don some sunscreen. The legs are nice and tan, however the arms got a little too much sun yesterday, on the West coast I was almost always wearing sleeves, looks like I'll have to make sure I put it on first thing in the morning as today was brutally hot! I thought September the weather was supposed to change, I guess living in the South you get heat up till November and possible even December, not sure, I'll have to ask the locals!
Continuing the ride I fill with the warmest of emotions. The last couple of days I have been riding on a somewhat busy highway and now I'm really in the country away from the busy free ways and rushed people. The spaces are open, which reminds me of home and I'm really enjoying riding today! The feeling was that of being at peace within side, the feeling of comfort vs. the discomfort I have felt riding in Southern California and in most metropolitan areas. The feeling of being out in the country feels at home for me! Having been raised in a similiar environment it just reminded me of home today. The ability to sneek out into the country and look for miles upon farm land with the wind and sun beating down on me. Really nice to have this on the trip and at a most needed time on the journey as lately the thougths have been a little overwhelming, I think just do to the amount of people I have been exposed to.
Being naturally introverted, with great moments of being an extrovert I just needed some time alone. This is how I recharge my batteries per se, and I know it works! I need people though as I think most everyone does, however when I get like I have been its usually because I need some time alone, to reflect, to enjoy nature, to just be. Everyone has these types of moments, moments of wanting to be in an area of comfort, its a balancing act of course, and if this balance is able to balance the stress levels never venture into the red. Having this balance will also keep the depressed thoughts at bay, which I need.
So many thoughts today on the road and I'm really enjoying this ride, though its getting extremely hot! I think they were calling for high 80's today, however right now the bank sign reads 94 and I'm soaked with sweat so the humidity levels have to be up there as well. Only a few more miles, 30 to be exact and I should be close to my destination for the evening! Rolling out of Louisburg, NC I continue pedaling and enjoying the rolling terrain. I love this type of terrain as I really never lose focus on the task at hand, the down hills capture enough speed to get a little thrill, in return the uphills cause me to work so I love it, allowing the body to adjust, the lactate to flush, and so on and so on!
Riding my bike for me is something that has become a part of who I am. I really don't see myself driving much any more. With a small trailer like this, trips to the store will be easy and pedaling around to see friends and events will be easy, now I just need to find a place to make it happen. Life slows when your on a bike, allowing for the release of endorphins, allowing for exercise, allowing to have the feeling of accomplishment and so many other wonderful thoughts. Making a difference...
Almost to Raliegh and the traffic has started to pick up a little, navigating by memory and the help of some notes I made I make it to Neuse Falls road. This road was quite busy for 3PM in the afternoon, however I make it safe and sound to the Starbucks near Uncle's house. House is only .5 to a mile away. I hang out at the Starbucks for a while as my phone died and I needed to charge it. So many people in and out, collecting electrons I sit down to people watch and type a little. Pleasant little place, with so many people, make a little conversation but really just sit and take in the moments!
After making a couple calls I get ahold of Uncle Steve and plan on meeting him at the house in 5, then walks in my Aunt Leslie, we exchange hugs and greetings and its so nice again to see a familiar face! Chatting a little bit we head to the house and catch up. I haven't seen them since a trip they took to Arkansas a few years back and its nice to have made the time, though some might think crazy (500-600 miles by bike off the route), I thought necessary as I'm on the this side of the country and its not often I get to see them, so what the heck I'm doing what I love whats another 600 miles!
After catching up we head to dinner...I'll be taking a couple of days off here in NC and then back on the road after the tropical storm decides on what its doing off the coast! Also, yesterday it sounded like Kansas got hit with some interesting weather as well so the trek home is going to be a fun one!
Technical Data:
Distance, miles: 85.62
Ride Time 5:45:01
Work, kJ: 3689
Average Power, watts: 175
Normalized Power, watts: 209
Average Speed, mph: 14.58
Forecast: HOT!!!
Waking up behind a convenient store was a first for me, however it wasn't too bad to be honest! Last night though, around 10PM a guy was standing next to the edge of the car wash I was camped out behind, he just stood there smoking a cigerette. I said something, like hey you, unzipped the tent to see what he was doing. By the time I climbed out of the tent he was gone. I thought this really odd to be honest, I sure did scare him off though. Had the feeling of nervousness the rest of the night before I cashed out. I had been warned by so many people in this small town while I was there about the crazy's in Weldon. I thought this guy may have been one of them for sure as it was an odd experience. I got out of the tent to make sure I was taking care of myself to be honest. I've been on the road for 65 days now and I'm not about to let anyone take anything from me, especially the bike! I have often thought about this on the trip, after the kid in Corvalis, OR was looking at it I have been extremely carerful not to let it out of my sight!
The rest of the evening was quiet, just typed up my blog and fell sleep, it was hot so I didn't really need a sheet or blanket, just lying there sweating!
Up and at 'em first thing this morning though. I wanted to get on the road before the heat hit as yesterday was a hot one and today was not supposed to be any cooler! Being this close to facilities I used them and changed, packed up a wet tent from the condensation and headed out to find a place with wi fi to upload the last two blogs. I have found the best place for this is a hotel, there always open and the wi fi is free. Not to mention the bathrooms are always clean!
After uploading my blogs I head out onto highway 48 South. This stretch of road was short, about 17 miles or so. Legs really didn't feel like pedaling today, once onto the bike I felt great, then I started to push a little power and the legs didn't like it. Today would have been one of those training days where you pedal over to the RedBox, grab a movie and head home to rest. However I don't have the luxery on this trip to enjoy such a day. The goal today is Raleigh, NC my Uncle Steve's house. Having a destination is nice, when I am just riding and find a place to sleep I'm not to motivated to really hit the throttle, however today was a little different!
The terrain was nice and rolling with long climbs, short climbs, and climbs you just want to attack! The terrain reminded me a lot of a Time Trial in Oklahoma I did a couple years back, hard to believe it was that long ago! I thought a lot about this TT on this trip, hitting the throttle heading down some of the descents, while powering up the accents I was having so much fun! I think next year the plan is to have two "A" races if I am in Oklahoma. The Tribbey 40k TT and the Kansas State Championship 40k TT, and the goal of course is to win! I have really given up on the time committment it takes to race Ironman and since my future is unknown I think its more realistic to race a shorter distance race that will keep me in shape and allow for a life outside of training and racing. This trip has opened the eyes a little wider to the world outside of training and racing all the time and I'm looking forward to exploring as many avenues as I possible can once I'm back home (home will have to be where the heart is as I'm not sure of the location).
Thought a lot about flying kites today, the headwind must have sparked the thought! I used to lie out in the field next to where I grew up and just fly my kite, I didn't do it often but it really brought me down to earth when I did. I love to feel the power of nature, whether it be the wind, the ocean currents, river currents, and all the weather that is produced by the gentleness of winds that fly my kites. Nature sure is an amazing piece of beauty that should never be over looked or taken for granted! Without all the those air molecules we wouldn't be able to fly or sail for starters. Chemistry is nice when you think of in terms of things you can do that put the wind in your hair! lol Maybe a little too abstract today, however thoughts are thoughts!
Temperature is rising fast today and I failed again to don some sunscreen. The legs are nice and tan, however the arms got a little too much sun yesterday, on the West coast I was almost always wearing sleeves, looks like I'll have to make sure I put it on first thing in the morning as today was brutally hot! I thought September the weather was supposed to change, I guess living in the South you get heat up till November and possible even December, not sure, I'll have to ask the locals!
Continuing the ride I fill with the warmest of emotions. The last couple of days I have been riding on a somewhat busy highway and now I'm really in the country away from the busy free ways and rushed people. The spaces are open, which reminds me of home and I'm really enjoying riding today! The feeling was that of being at peace within side, the feeling of comfort vs. the discomfort I have felt riding in Southern California and in most metropolitan areas. The feeling of being out in the country feels at home for me! Having been raised in a similiar environment it just reminded me of home today. The ability to sneek out into the country and look for miles upon farm land with the wind and sun beating down on me. Really nice to have this on the trip and at a most needed time on the journey as lately the thougths have been a little overwhelming, I think just do to the amount of people I have been exposed to.
Being naturally introverted, with great moments of being an extrovert I just needed some time alone. This is how I recharge my batteries per se, and I know it works! I need people though as I think most everyone does, however when I get like I have been its usually because I need some time alone, to reflect, to enjoy nature, to just be. Everyone has these types of moments, moments of wanting to be in an area of comfort, its a balancing act of course, and if this balance is able to balance the stress levels never venture into the red. Having this balance will also keep the depressed thoughts at bay, which I need.
So many thoughts today on the road and I'm really enjoying this ride, though its getting extremely hot! I think they were calling for high 80's today, however right now the bank sign reads 94 and I'm soaked with sweat so the humidity levels have to be up there as well. Only a few more miles, 30 to be exact and I should be close to my destination for the evening! Rolling out of Louisburg, NC I continue pedaling and enjoying the rolling terrain. I love this type of terrain as I really never lose focus on the task at hand, the down hills capture enough speed to get a little thrill, in return the uphills cause me to work so I love it, allowing the body to adjust, the lactate to flush, and so on and so on!
Riding my bike for me is something that has become a part of who I am. I really don't see myself driving much any more. With a small trailer like this, trips to the store will be easy and pedaling around to see friends and events will be easy, now I just need to find a place to make it happen. Life slows when your on a bike, allowing for the release of endorphins, allowing for exercise, allowing to have the feeling of accomplishment and so many other wonderful thoughts. Making a difference...
Almost to Raliegh and the traffic has started to pick up a little, navigating by memory and the help of some notes I made I make it to Neuse Falls road. This road was quite busy for 3PM in the afternoon, however I make it safe and sound to the Starbucks near Uncle's house. House is only .5 to a mile away. I hang out at the Starbucks for a while as my phone died and I needed to charge it. So many people in and out, collecting electrons I sit down to people watch and type a little. Pleasant little place, with so many people, make a little conversation but really just sit and take in the moments!
After making a couple calls I get ahold of Uncle Steve and plan on meeting him at the house in 5, then walks in my Aunt Leslie, we exchange hugs and greetings and its so nice again to see a familiar face! Chatting a little bit we head to the house and catch up. I haven't seen them since a trip they took to Arkansas a few years back and its nice to have made the time, though some might think crazy (500-600 miles by bike off the route), I thought necessary as I'm on the this side of the country and its not often I get to see them, so what the heck I'm doing what I love whats another 600 miles!
After catching up we head to dinner...I'll be taking a couple of days off here in NC and then back on the road after the tropical storm decides on what its doing off the coast! Also, yesterday it sounded like Kansas got hit with some interesting weather as well so the trek home is going to be a fun one!
Day 65: September 14th, 2010 (Route: Hanover, VA to Weldon, NC)
Day 65: September 14th, 2010 (Route: Hanover, VA to Weldon, NC)
Technical Data:
Distance, miles: 107.89
Ride Time 7:03:37
Work, kJ: 4790
Average Power, watts: 185
Normalized Power, watts: 211
Average Speed, mph: 14.95
Forecast: I'm in the South, 92 degrees F wih the wind blowing out of the southwest at 10 mph, with gust up to 17+. I'm heading SW!
I did not want to wake up this morning! I just laid there in the tent next to the side of the busy 301, the cars causing noise, the construction crews causing noise, the dogs barking on the other side of the fence where I lay. I wasn't really sore or tired, I was just comfortable! If I had an alarm clock with me I would have hit the snooze button a dozen times for sure.
Crawling out of the tent I could tell it was going to be a great day! The early morning clouds were burning off and the first person to great me this morning with a huge smile, the Sherriff of the local county. He just asked how I slept and greeted me as this happens all the time, I'm starting to think it might! This little town is on the TransAm route so it very well could. Bill came out of the store and insisted I come and have some breakfast, I thought this guy has provided enough all ready! But I didn't want to be rude so I followed him into the store. He gave me some OJ and a Sausage Biscuit along with the use of the facilities to freshen up. I will remember this place for the rest of my days! Kelley's Country Store - more like a museum to be honest! With more antiques then I could possible think of jammed into this little shop, it has more character then any place or person I have ever met! I could spend all day looking over the collectibles! From Smurf Tops (that you spin), snow skies, empty cigar tubes, cigerrette memorbila, to old soap, old weaties boxes, rocking chairs, high chairs, grocery carts, pictures everywhere. This place is a treasure for sure!
Thoughts came to mind what my place will look like down the line, I'm pretty sure I'll be a minimalist, however this place sure had class! After eating breakfast I headed out to put all my things into BoB's belly and get ready for the day, then I returned to the store to clean up and grab a shave! Nothing like a fresh shave while on the road, I don't like the bread look that much anymore and to be honest its hot here, it was 90+ degrees today. After cleaning up I heading out to finish tidying up and along comes Bill again. He insist I take some snacks with me and ask me if I have any spending cash while we head back into the store. Filling a brown sack with 2 apples, 2 packages of crackers, slice of cake, package of zingers and some pretzels he hands me $40 dollars. I said I can't accept this you have provided way too much as it is, then he said well then just take $20 so I did not to be rude. Talk about Southern Hospitality!!!
The store has been there for 42 years I found out and the gal working there with the Kelley's has been there I think 24 of them. What a treat to work with them for that long. I really think if it came down to it Bill would have given me the shirt off his back if he needed too. What a blessing it was to stay in Hanover, VA last night and meet Bill! If anyone is ever in this area I do recommend you stop, fill up the tank, and go into Kelley's Country Store and get some lunch and pick up some snacks as Bill is a wonderful soul to just be around!!!
Rolling out of Hanover I think about the generosity I had just experienced, spawing thoughts about what I would like to be when I age and the characteristics I would like to have. I have met so many people on this trip, all making me think about the characterstics of each and everyone of them. Piecing together traits from so many people I think I could create a very splendid individual! Being in the South is nice, hot but extremely nice. You can't go down the block without someone greeting you with the warmest smile!
Before I pushed off I noticed the back tire was a bit low, so I added some air and thought I must have a slow leak, not really wanting to change it I just added more air throughout the ride to ensure it would get me where I wanted to go today. The goal today was to head straight south and get into North Carolina. The ride would be close to 95 to the VA/NC border. With this being the goal it would leave close to 100 miles or so for the trip tomorrow into Raleigh where my Uncle resides. Down the 301 now with a lot of stop and go traffic, I'm feeling pretty good for as little I ate the night before.
I blew right through Richmond, Colonial Hieghts, and Petersburg. I could tell I was in the South as the homes have changed from victorian to colonial and its HOT! Its going to take a couple weeks to get used to this heat. I told myself leaving the country store that food is necessary today, however water is a must!!! I stopped close to 10 times today seeking ice water. Due to the recession it appears this poverty stricken area is hurting even worse as you see signs of it, for instance charging me for ice when I don't even need a cup and insisting I pay something! I was pretty surprised even when I went into a filling station to get water and they mentioned even if I get it out of the bath that they would charge me. I was thinking something is definitely wrong with this picture!
So much history on this side of the country with signs every where about this gentlemen was born here, this battle happened there, and so on! If I had a better memory right now I would add the names and places, however I just finished up another 107 mile day and I'm a little tired, and to boot, its extremely hot in this tent and the mosquitoes outside are not better so I think I'll deal with the heat versus getting eatan alive while I type this.
Rides was good, small shoulder coming down the 301 however high quality roads to ride on. In and out of thoughts all day, from what I'm going to do when I get to the next chapter of my life, to what my friends are doing, to if I'll race again, what my nieces are doing, what my uncles place is going to be like tomorrow, to will I need a new bike when all of this is over. Speaking of that, if anyone wants to start taking donations to purchase me a new road bike, feel free to do so! I ride a 58 cm and would prefer a new Trek Madone or Orbea if at all possible, with American Classic racing wheels (These wheels because I met the owner of the company in Florida when I lived there) with a PT in the rear hub and Sram Red components. I know I'm asking a lot but a guy can dream right!
Tons of thoughts today and the mind was pretty clear, no dark places today which is always good. I thought of the gal in Oregon a little and what she's up to but nothing really to deep today. So many thoughts! I also have decided that once I depart my Uncles I will head back up to Yorktown to complete the TransAm from Start to finish combining the two legs, if the weather holds I might add on, however I did get the feeling today that I'm ready to start another chapter in my life. Today is day 65 and I'm enjoying it, however I keep thinking about what I'm missing out on, then I pause and think about how I'm on the road and this may be a once in a lifetime adventure! Live it up!!!
After thinking this I continue to roll down the road and those passing must think I'm crazy, I'm singing outloud and really enjoying myself! What a day, the suns out, its hot and pushing into a nice head wind! Does it get any better??? I'm sure it does, I could have a 65 degree day with a tail wind, or I could be in the presence of a beautiful women dancing my legs off, or at a ball game with friends watching the Pirates win the world series (okay - I might have to wait a century for that to happen). All an all the day was a great day becuase I chose to make it so, I could have been pissed at the truck that all most took me out a few miles back, or the grandma that honked, then passed and her grandkid flipped me off. I had to think about all the class in that car for a moment, then I shook it off and road on.
Its up to me and us to determine the outlook of our days! I have a really great friend that reminds me not to wish away my days and this helps to put things into perspective! I just met a friend that mentioned this the other day, that she becomes victem of destructive thoughts as I do sometimes. I would like to let her know if she ever reads this, that when those thoughts come, you give me a call and we'll chat! Taken from from one friend as a gift to give to another I say "Don't allow these thoughts to take away from your days, just as the thought of wishing them away" We are not our thoughts, we can be controlled by them and live in the emotion they provide and its good and bad, all depending on how you look at it. Today I chose to make a positive decision when all those bad things brought negative/destructive thoughts to my mind, however I won the battle today and I'm very thankful I did.
One water stop to another, I cruise on down the road. Not much to see on the first 75 miles of this stretch, lots of open country with trees again lining the highway! Awe a farm, so nice to see a farm with some open country, cotten farm to be exact! So much cotton along this stretch, from fresh plants to plants ready for harvest (see photos in FB). It was great to see the cotton farms of the south and to see all the different growth stages too, what a treat! Heading on south I continue to fill bottles and use the facilities with very little human interaction. I did meet a nice lady name Melby (sp) I think was her name and she asked me how many miles I was riding today and where I was headed et cetera. She was so nice, just like most all the people I have met down here in the South!
7 miles till I hit Garysburg, NC where I plan on staying for the. Not knowing what's there, or how big I'm really winging this trip down to see my Uncle. True its close to 600+ miles off the TransAm, however I'll back track and ride it home with no worries! I thought since I was out here, why not head down to see him. I haven't seen them since a trip to Arkansas a few years back. I arrive into to Garysburg, NC and its a pretty poverty stricken place, what appear to be homeless outside the convienent store I smile and nod or wave, can't recall which. I go into the store and no water, I'm thinking, what place doesn't have running water? Out of the store I go to talk with a friendly gentlemen that mentions there is water across the street at the Dollar Store. I think about it for a while, then decide to push on to the next small town of Weldon, NC as I'm sure to find a place with water and ice! Hopefully they won't charge me this time around.
Heading into to Weldon I do find a place, however 15 cents for ice, I figure they got a deal! Its 5PM and I'm thirsty and just water isn't going to cut it, I want some ice! Again, I will never take for granted the simple little thing as ice. I guess in the South its a commodity, given the 100 degree days they see on a normal basis in the summer. I got lucky though as the first Northerner has already hit this part of the country making it 65 degrees last week, so 90 is a treat to the locals compared to the 100s they have been experiencing all summer long.
Now to find a place to crash! After talking to a few locals, that appear to know as little as possible about the area I score a place right behind a convenient store, not where I would have thought, however its out of sight and on the route to Raleigh so its perfect in my eyes! Water, bathroom, and food if I want it! I sit here now, sweating because the temperature has only fallen a few degrees in my tent escaping the mosquitoes that attacked me when I was setting up my tent. it's now 9:10PM (Eastern) and I hope to get up early and make my way down to my Uncle's by mid afternoon, so this means I need to be on the road early which I'm going to enjoy! It will keep me out of the heat of the South! Now to try to get to sleep while lying in a pile of filthy sweat after a long day in the sun...
Technical Data:
Distance, miles: 107.89
Ride Time 7:03:37
Work, kJ: 4790
Average Power, watts: 185
Normalized Power, watts: 211
Average Speed, mph: 14.95
Forecast: I'm in the South, 92 degrees F wih the wind blowing out of the southwest at 10 mph, with gust up to 17+. I'm heading SW!
I did not want to wake up this morning! I just laid there in the tent next to the side of the busy 301, the cars causing noise, the construction crews causing noise, the dogs barking on the other side of the fence where I lay. I wasn't really sore or tired, I was just comfortable! If I had an alarm clock with me I would have hit the snooze button a dozen times for sure.
Crawling out of the tent I could tell it was going to be a great day! The early morning clouds were burning off and the first person to great me this morning with a huge smile, the Sherriff of the local county. He just asked how I slept and greeted me as this happens all the time, I'm starting to think it might! This little town is on the TransAm route so it very well could. Bill came out of the store and insisted I come and have some breakfast, I thought this guy has provided enough all ready! But I didn't want to be rude so I followed him into the store. He gave me some OJ and a Sausage Biscuit along with the use of the facilities to freshen up. I will remember this place for the rest of my days! Kelley's Country Store - more like a museum to be honest! With more antiques then I could possible think of jammed into this little shop, it has more character then any place or person I have ever met! I could spend all day looking over the collectibles! From Smurf Tops (that you spin), snow skies, empty cigar tubes, cigerrette memorbila, to old soap, old weaties boxes, rocking chairs, high chairs, grocery carts, pictures everywhere. This place is a treasure for sure!
Thoughts came to mind what my place will look like down the line, I'm pretty sure I'll be a minimalist, however this place sure had class! After eating breakfast I headed out to put all my things into BoB's belly and get ready for the day, then I returned to the store to clean up and grab a shave! Nothing like a fresh shave while on the road, I don't like the bread look that much anymore and to be honest its hot here, it was 90+ degrees today. After cleaning up I heading out to finish tidying up and along comes Bill again. He insist I take some snacks with me and ask me if I have any spending cash while we head back into the store. Filling a brown sack with 2 apples, 2 packages of crackers, slice of cake, package of zingers and some pretzels he hands me $40 dollars. I said I can't accept this you have provided way too much as it is, then he said well then just take $20 so I did not to be rude. Talk about Southern Hospitality!!!
The store has been there for 42 years I found out and the gal working there with the Kelley's has been there I think 24 of them. What a treat to work with them for that long. I really think if it came down to it Bill would have given me the shirt off his back if he needed too. What a blessing it was to stay in Hanover, VA last night and meet Bill! If anyone is ever in this area I do recommend you stop, fill up the tank, and go into Kelley's Country Store and get some lunch and pick up some snacks as Bill is a wonderful soul to just be around!!!
Rolling out of Hanover I think about the generosity I had just experienced, spawing thoughts about what I would like to be when I age and the characteristics I would like to have. I have met so many people on this trip, all making me think about the characterstics of each and everyone of them. Piecing together traits from so many people I think I could create a very splendid individual! Being in the South is nice, hot but extremely nice. You can't go down the block without someone greeting you with the warmest smile!
Before I pushed off I noticed the back tire was a bit low, so I added some air and thought I must have a slow leak, not really wanting to change it I just added more air throughout the ride to ensure it would get me where I wanted to go today. The goal today was to head straight south and get into North Carolina. The ride would be close to 95 to the VA/NC border. With this being the goal it would leave close to 100 miles or so for the trip tomorrow into Raleigh where my Uncle resides. Down the 301 now with a lot of stop and go traffic, I'm feeling pretty good for as little I ate the night before.
I blew right through Richmond, Colonial Hieghts, and Petersburg. I could tell I was in the South as the homes have changed from victorian to colonial and its HOT! Its going to take a couple weeks to get used to this heat. I told myself leaving the country store that food is necessary today, however water is a must!!! I stopped close to 10 times today seeking ice water. Due to the recession it appears this poverty stricken area is hurting even worse as you see signs of it, for instance charging me for ice when I don't even need a cup and insisting I pay something! I was pretty surprised even when I went into a filling station to get water and they mentioned even if I get it out of the bath that they would charge me. I was thinking something is definitely wrong with this picture!
So much history on this side of the country with signs every where about this gentlemen was born here, this battle happened there, and so on! If I had a better memory right now I would add the names and places, however I just finished up another 107 mile day and I'm a little tired, and to boot, its extremely hot in this tent and the mosquitoes outside are not better so I think I'll deal with the heat versus getting eatan alive while I type this.
Rides was good, small shoulder coming down the 301 however high quality roads to ride on. In and out of thoughts all day, from what I'm going to do when I get to the next chapter of my life, to what my friends are doing, to if I'll race again, what my nieces are doing, what my uncles place is going to be like tomorrow, to will I need a new bike when all of this is over. Speaking of that, if anyone wants to start taking donations to purchase me a new road bike, feel free to do so! I ride a 58 cm and would prefer a new Trek Madone or Orbea if at all possible, with American Classic racing wheels (These wheels because I met the owner of the company in Florida when I lived there) with a PT in the rear hub and Sram Red components. I know I'm asking a lot but a guy can dream right!
Tons of thoughts today and the mind was pretty clear, no dark places today which is always good. I thought of the gal in Oregon a little and what she's up to but nothing really to deep today. So many thoughts! I also have decided that once I depart my Uncles I will head back up to Yorktown to complete the TransAm from Start to finish combining the two legs, if the weather holds I might add on, however I did get the feeling today that I'm ready to start another chapter in my life. Today is day 65 and I'm enjoying it, however I keep thinking about what I'm missing out on, then I pause and think about how I'm on the road and this may be a once in a lifetime adventure! Live it up!!!
After thinking this I continue to roll down the road and those passing must think I'm crazy, I'm singing outloud and really enjoying myself! What a day, the suns out, its hot and pushing into a nice head wind! Does it get any better??? I'm sure it does, I could have a 65 degree day with a tail wind, or I could be in the presence of a beautiful women dancing my legs off, or at a ball game with friends watching the Pirates win the world series (okay - I might have to wait a century for that to happen). All an all the day was a great day becuase I chose to make it so, I could have been pissed at the truck that all most took me out a few miles back, or the grandma that honked, then passed and her grandkid flipped me off. I had to think about all the class in that car for a moment, then I shook it off and road on.
Its up to me and us to determine the outlook of our days! I have a really great friend that reminds me not to wish away my days and this helps to put things into perspective! I just met a friend that mentioned this the other day, that she becomes victem of destructive thoughts as I do sometimes. I would like to let her know if she ever reads this, that when those thoughts come, you give me a call and we'll chat! Taken from from one friend as a gift to give to another I say "Don't allow these thoughts to take away from your days, just as the thought of wishing them away" We are not our thoughts, we can be controlled by them and live in the emotion they provide and its good and bad, all depending on how you look at it. Today I chose to make a positive decision when all those bad things brought negative/destructive thoughts to my mind, however I won the battle today and I'm very thankful I did.
One water stop to another, I cruise on down the road. Not much to see on the first 75 miles of this stretch, lots of open country with trees again lining the highway! Awe a farm, so nice to see a farm with some open country, cotten farm to be exact! So much cotton along this stretch, from fresh plants to plants ready for harvest (see photos in FB). It was great to see the cotton farms of the south and to see all the different growth stages too, what a treat! Heading on south I continue to fill bottles and use the facilities with very little human interaction. I did meet a nice lady name Melby (sp) I think was her name and she asked me how many miles I was riding today and where I was headed et cetera. She was so nice, just like most all the people I have met down here in the South!
7 miles till I hit Garysburg, NC where I plan on staying for the. Not knowing what's there, or how big I'm really winging this trip down to see my Uncle. True its close to 600+ miles off the TransAm, however I'll back track and ride it home with no worries! I thought since I was out here, why not head down to see him. I haven't seen them since a trip to Arkansas a few years back. I arrive into to Garysburg, NC and its a pretty poverty stricken place, what appear to be homeless outside the convienent store I smile and nod or wave, can't recall which. I go into the store and no water, I'm thinking, what place doesn't have running water? Out of the store I go to talk with a friendly gentlemen that mentions there is water across the street at the Dollar Store. I think about it for a while, then decide to push on to the next small town of Weldon, NC as I'm sure to find a place with water and ice! Hopefully they won't charge me this time around.
Heading into to Weldon I do find a place, however 15 cents for ice, I figure they got a deal! Its 5PM and I'm thirsty and just water isn't going to cut it, I want some ice! Again, I will never take for granted the simple little thing as ice. I guess in the South its a commodity, given the 100 degree days they see on a normal basis in the summer. I got lucky though as the first Northerner has already hit this part of the country making it 65 degrees last week, so 90 is a treat to the locals compared to the 100s they have been experiencing all summer long.
Now to find a place to crash! After talking to a few locals, that appear to know as little as possible about the area I score a place right behind a convenient store, not where I would have thought, however its out of sight and on the route to Raleigh so its perfect in my eyes! Water, bathroom, and food if I want it! I sit here now, sweating because the temperature has only fallen a few degrees in my tent escaping the mosquitoes that attacked me when I was setting up my tent. it's now 9:10PM (Eastern) and I hope to get up early and make my way down to my Uncle's by mid afternoon, so this means I need to be on the road early which I'm going to enjoy! It will keep me out of the heat of the South! Now to try to get to sleep while lying in a pile of filthy sweat after a long day in the sun...
Day 64: September 13th, 2010 (Route: Davidsville, Maryland to Hanover, VA)
Day 64: September 13th, 2010 (Route: Davidsville, Maryland to Hanover, VA)
Technical Data:
Distance, miles: 102.06
Ride Time 7:02:05
Work, kJ: 4528
Average Power, watts: 178
Normalized Power, watts: 203
Average Speed, mph: 14.75
Forecast: Just doesn't get better than today! 65-70 degrees with clear blue skies, light winds switching from a tail wind to a head wind throughout the day.
Waking up this morning was tough as woke around 3:30 and just couldn't get back to sleep. I wrote a little while up and tried my best to get back to sleep however it just wasn't happening! I did get back to sleep around 5:45 or so and grab just a few minutes of shut eye. Up at 6:45 and eager to ride today, I have had so much rest I was starting to go a little stir crazy. I grab a quick shower, packed up my things and said my fairwells to Howard and his wife, along with little Beth! The boys were either gone or getting ready for school, I'm not sure!
I have to give the Marks family a huge "Thank You" for putting me up for a couple days while I recover from all the mileage on the bike and the jet lag from traveling cross country! The food was exceptional while I was there, I have never seen a house full of so much food, however when you have three children with the two oldest boys I understand why. Growing up with an older brother and a younger sister that were all active I'm sure we had just as much food! It was great to observe another family, how they interact, what goes on a daily basis at there place. So much love inside this place I wasn't sure I wanted to leave to be honest! Howard had a large remodel project going on which I was curious about, I wish I new more about the trade of remodeling a house so I could have lent a better hand!
I spent most of the time sleeping though as I was pretty beat up from all the riding the last 60 days to be honest. The rest in LA and San Diego appeared to be just a start to what was to come when I landed in Baltimore. I slept on the plan, wrote a little and read, however once to the Mark's house I just turned the mind off from riding and it kicked in, it being much needed recovery! I was fortunate to help Howard out with a little project in the bathroom, setting me up with the knowledge to tackle the two baths at my place when the time is right. The icing on the cake though was I got to play chess on a chess board that was close to 50-75 years old with Howard. When we used to work in Wichita together I played a lot of chess of the lunch hour, and this is where Howard and I first played! I'm not sure who won the game in ICT, however I was the victor on this go around. I'll remember his quote probably for the rest of my days! (Two rooks worth one queen, I dont' think thats a good move!) Little did he know I was looking 5-6 moves down the board and after capturing his queen, I took two rooks, a knight and a bishop!
Heading out this morning I failed to eat breakfast, however I wasn't really hungry as I had ate way too much the last four days! Four lefts, a right and I'm on hwy 301 heading to North Carolina to see my Uncle Steve. I have always wanted to visit and being 300 miles to north I figured I would "b" line it to his place before heading to York town to start the rest of the TransAm. Nothing like adding another 500+ miles to the third leg! I'm also contemplating heading to another city once in Missouri if the weather holds. Speaking of weather, I sit here right now enjoying some of the most beautiful weather I have got to experience on my journey! Green trees only to be changing soon, sun set dropping on the timber line, and the simpliest of evenings!
Heading south on 301 was great, the shoulder was about the size of another lane and I was really enjoying myself! I was singing and really just dancing on the pedals this morning, like I said I was eager to ride! The trailer felt a lot lighter than it has, nothing has really changed weight wise. I have just been able to absorb some of the fitness gains over the last week! Nothing really exciting on this stretch to be honest, I was just trying to be in the moment and enjoy the day. The roads here are lined with trees so seeing anything spectacular today was not really on the agenda. Like I said I am heading to my Uncles and trying to utilize the most direct route possible! Feeling great today I journey along, stopping for water and using the facilities a couple times.
Spending a little time on the tape recorder today, I haven't done this much at all, however when the mind is sharp I like to talk into the mic about all kinds of things, mostly thoughts and planning for the next chapter in my life. The mileage is fading today quickly as I feel extremely strong, I sure can't wait to hit up that Wednesday night ride if I make it back in time, those boys aren't going to know what hit 'em! lol
The terrain here is more like what I have experienced in Oklahoma and Florida of all places. Long gradual grades that just keep going and going, which I like! Well, I like it all when it comes to riding. Maryland is a nice looking state from what I have seen, pretty clean and the trees everywhere makes it nice to just sit and wonder. Pulling up to a little store to fill my bottles I notice I have a low back tire, sure enough I have a slow leak. After changing it I change the batteries in my hug as it appears they have gone dead over the course of resting. I started the day off with being mad at PowerTap, thinking they need to make a better product, however I have been on the road a while so I can't hold them too accountable. About 50 miles in to the ride and at the base of the bridge that goes of the Potomac River I get directed to the Maryland Transportation Office. It appears I need to be taken to the other side via a truck as they don't allow bikes on the one mile length bridge. I'm game with it as I really don't have a choice.
Once over the bridge I shake hads with Brian the maintanence man that took me across. We shared stories about the unemployment situation and a few questions regarding the area, then I pushed on. Heading into Virginia now I notice the shoulder has dwindled down to a few inches and I'm thinking this is going to suck. I have another 50 miles or so before I try and locate a place to crash and the traffic is pretty thick, the good thing was it was a four lane divided highway so traffic has room to get over, plus the speed limit was 55 and not 65 so that's also a bonus. Still feeling great I continue to motor on down the highway. Having 120 psi tires and a tap thats now working I enjoy the remainder of my ride.
Sipping on sustained energy all day was the plan for nutrition and it seems to be working. Talking into the recorder I mentioned that I need to refocus my eating habits as they have been pretty poor lately, I want to be in great shape when I return! Okay, riding 6K-7.5K miles is going to make me in great shape, however I want to fly up those climbs on the Wednesday night ride for some reason.
Back to sunscreen and lip balm as the sun feels like its middle of summer, just without the high temperatures. I'm sure I'll tan up now that I'm in the South! Many thoughts today, about what I plan on doin once this journey changes chapters to what's the climbing going to be like in the Northern part of Virginia, will the weather change the trees while I'm out here. I sure hope so, summer to fall transition and I'll be living outside for the complete change, this is going to be awesome! Howard offered me another flight up to Maine, however I thought this might take to long and I don't want to get caught in winter like weather in the North, just not appealing, though the foliage would be worth it!
One small town after another today! Coming to Hanover, VA I stop for water a little filling station and mention I'm going to be camping out some where south of Richmond, VA. The plan was to ride 100+ miles and find a "free" place to camp. Found one, Bill the owner of the store heard me talking to an elderly women about my journey and said just throw your tent over there in the grass, I thought well looks like I'm done riding for the day. I did plan on riding 120 miles, however what's transposing two digits going to matter, 102 will do! Heading into the shop for some water, Bill offers to make me a sandwich and a bowl of soup with crackers. i think this isn't happending. Head outside to move my bike and get things set up. After adjusting some things I head back into the shop to collect the generosity of a true southorner! He greets me with a warm smile and wishing my best in my travels. After looking at a map I am on the TransAm - of all the places to stop while heading to my Uncles house I happen to stop directly on the route I will be on in the next couple of days after spending time with family. Every thing happens for a reason!
I'm sitting here after had enjoyed a ham/cheese sandwich on white, with a bowl of chicken noodle soup and four zesta crackers, along with three bottles of water. This is all the food I have taken in all day and I still fill full from all the food I ate at the Mark's place. I didn't think I had that much, however I must have! Lots of things going on here, I'm outside this shop on hwy 301 that leads into Richmond, VA. Couple cats are at the shop and one is dining on a baby squirrel, not the best entertainment for the evening, however I can't seem to get him to take it some where else. As a biologist I can understand this is just nature, however I really would like him to enjoy his meal some where else!
Its a very peaceful evening and my mind is right here tonight, not thinking about anything besides just being in the moment! Two jackasses are in the pens next to me, the cats are doing there thing, and it looks there is going to be some construction tonight as signs are getting put out on the highway. I'm not that far off the hwy myself tonight, not an ideal place to camp for sleep, however I'll take what I can get when traveling on a budget like I am. The plan tonight is to read and try and finish Steinbeck as I want to try and complete all of Hemingway's works by the end of the year. Well, I may write a little later as its only ten til seven. Going to prep things for tomorrows ride, I'm close to 170 miles NorthEast of my destination where I will take one, possible two days to visit and then push on. The weather is a concern as I don't want to get caught in one of those fall ice storms in the midwest out here on the bike. I know its still early, however I'm looking at close to 30 days left before the next chaper begins...
Technical Data:
Distance, miles: 102.06
Ride Time 7:02:05
Work, kJ: 4528
Average Power, watts: 178
Normalized Power, watts: 203
Average Speed, mph: 14.75
Forecast: Just doesn't get better than today! 65-70 degrees with clear blue skies, light winds switching from a tail wind to a head wind throughout the day.
Waking up this morning was tough as woke around 3:30 and just couldn't get back to sleep. I wrote a little while up and tried my best to get back to sleep however it just wasn't happening! I did get back to sleep around 5:45 or so and grab just a few minutes of shut eye. Up at 6:45 and eager to ride today, I have had so much rest I was starting to go a little stir crazy. I grab a quick shower, packed up my things and said my fairwells to Howard and his wife, along with little Beth! The boys were either gone or getting ready for school, I'm not sure!
I have to give the Marks family a huge "Thank You" for putting me up for a couple days while I recover from all the mileage on the bike and the jet lag from traveling cross country! The food was exceptional while I was there, I have never seen a house full of so much food, however when you have three children with the two oldest boys I understand why. Growing up with an older brother and a younger sister that were all active I'm sure we had just as much food! It was great to observe another family, how they interact, what goes on a daily basis at there place. So much love inside this place I wasn't sure I wanted to leave to be honest! Howard had a large remodel project going on which I was curious about, I wish I new more about the trade of remodeling a house so I could have lent a better hand!
I spent most of the time sleeping though as I was pretty beat up from all the riding the last 60 days to be honest. The rest in LA and San Diego appeared to be just a start to what was to come when I landed in Baltimore. I slept on the plan, wrote a little and read, however once to the Mark's house I just turned the mind off from riding and it kicked in, it being much needed recovery! I was fortunate to help Howard out with a little project in the bathroom, setting me up with the knowledge to tackle the two baths at my place when the time is right. The icing on the cake though was I got to play chess on a chess board that was close to 50-75 years old with Howard. When we used to work in Wichita together I played a lot of chess of the lunch hour, and this is where Howard and I first played! I'm not sure who won the game in ICT, however I was the victor on this go around. I'll remember his quote probably for the rest of my days! (Two rooks worth one queen, I dont' think thats a good move!) Little did he know I was looking 5-6 moves down the board and after capturing his queen, I took two rooks, a knight and a bishop!
Heading out this morning I failed to eat breakfast, however I wasn't really hungry as I had ate way too much the last four days! Four lefts, a right and I'm on hwy 301 heading to North Carolina to see my Uncle Steve. I have always wanted to visit and being 300 miles to north I figured I would "b" line it to his place before heading to York town to start the rest of the TransAm. Nothing like adding another 500+ miles to the third leg! I'm also contemplating heading to another city once in Missouri if the weather holds. Speaking of weather, I sit here right now enjoying some of the most beautiful weather I have got to experience on my journey! Green trees only to be changing soon, sun set dropping on the timber line, and the simpliest of evenings!
Heading south on 301 was great, the shoulder was about the size of another lane and I was really enjoying myself! I was singing and really just dancing on the pedals this morning, like I said I was eager to ride! The trailer felt a lot lighter than it has, nothing has really changed weight wise. I have just been able to absorb some of the fitness gains over the last week! Nothing really exciting on this stretch to be honest, I was just trying to be in the moment and enjoy the day. The roads here are lined with trees so seeing anything spectacular today was not really on the agenda. Like I said I am heading to my Uncles and trying to utilize the most direct route possible! Feeling great today I journey along, stopping for water and using the facilities a couple times.
Spending a little time on the tape recorder today, I haven't done this much at all, however when the mind is sharp I like to talk into the mic about all kinds of things, mostly thoughts and planning for the next chapter in my life. The mileage is fading today quickly as I feel extremely strong, I sure can't wait to hit up that Wednesday night ride if I make it back in time, those boys aren't going to know what hit 'em! lol
The terrain here is more like what I have experienced in Oklahoma and Florida of all places. Long gradual grades that just keep going and going, which I like! Well, I like it all when it comes to riding. Maryland is a nice looking state from what I have seen, pretty clean and the trees everywhere makes it nice to just sit and wonder. Pulling up to a little store to fill my bottles I notice I have a low back tire, sure enough I have a slow leak. After changing it I change the batteries in my hug as it appears they have gone dead over the course of resting. I started the day off with being mad at PowerTap, thinking they need to make a better product, however I have been on the road a while so I can't hold them too accountable. About 50 miles in to the ride and at the base of the bridge that goes of the Potomac River I get directed to the Maryland Transportation Office. It appears I need to be taken to the other side via a truck as they don't allow bikes on the one mile length bridge. I'm game with it as I really don't have a choice.
Once over the bridge I shake hads with Brian the maintanence man that took me across. We shared stories about the unemployment situation and a few questions regarding the area, then I pushed on. Heading into Virginia now I notice the shoulder has dwindled down to a few inches and I'm thinking this is going to suck. I have another 50 miles or so before I try and locate a place to crash and the traffic is pretty thick, the good thing was it was a four lane divided highway so traffic has room to get over, plus the speed limit was 55 and not 65 so that's also a bonus. Still feeling great I continue to motor on down the highway. Having 120 psi tires and a tap thats now working I enjoy the remainder of my ride.
Sipping on sustained energy all day was the plan for nutrition and it seems to be working. Talking into the recorder I mentioned that I need to refocus my eating habits as they have been pretty poor lately, I want to be in great shape when I return! Okay, riding 6K-7.5K miles is going to make me in great shape, however I want to fly up those climbs on the Wednesday night ride for some reason.
Back to sunscreen and lip balm as the sun feels like its middle of summer, just without the high temperatures. I'm sure I'll tan up now that I'm in the South! Many thoughts today, about what I plan on doin once this journey changes chapters to what's the climbing going to be like in the Northern part of Virginia, will the weather change the trees while I'm out here. I sure hope so, summer to fall transition and I'll be living outside for the complete change, this is going to be awesome! Howard offered me another flight up to Maine, however I thought this might take to long and I don't want to get caught in winter like weather in the North, just not appealing, though the foliage would be worth it!
One small town after another today! Coming to Hanover, VA I stop for water a little filling station and mention I'm going to be camping out some where south of Richmond, VA. The plan was to ride 100+ miles and find a "free" place to camp. Found one, Bill the owner of the store heard me talking to an elderly women about my journey and said just throw your tent over there in the grass, I thought well looks like I'm done riding for the day. I did plan on riding 120 miles, however what's transposing two digits going to matter, 102 will do! Heading into the shop for some water, Bill offers to make me a sandwich and a bowl of soup with crackers. i think this isn't happending. Head outside to move my bike and get things set up. After adjusting some things I head back into the shop to collect the generosity of a true southorner! He greets me with a warm smile and wishing my best in my travels. After looking at a map I am on the TransAm - of all the places to stop while heading to my Uncles house I happen to stop directly on the route I will be on in the next couple of days after spending time with family. Every thing happens for a reason!
I'm sitting here after had enjoyed a ham/cheese sandwich on white, with a bowl of chicken noodle soup and four zesta crackers, along with three bottles of water. This is all the food I have taken in all day and I still fill full from all the food I ate at the Mark's place. I didn't think I had that much, however I must have! Lots of things going on here, I'm outside this shop on hwy 301 that leads into Richmond, VA. Couple cats are at the shop and one is dining on a baby squirrel, not the best entertainment for the evening, however I can't seem to get him to take it some where else. As a biologist I can understand this is just nature, however I really would like him to enjoy his meal some where else!
Its a very peaceful evening and my mind is right here tonight, not thinking about anything besides just being in the moment! Two jackasses are in the pens next to me, the cats are doing there thing, and it looks there is going to be some construction tonight as signs are getting put out on the highway. I'm not that far off the hwy myself tonight, not an ideal place to camp for sleep, however I'll take what I can get when traveling on a budget like I am. The plan tonight is to read and try and finish Steinbeck as I want to try and complete all of Hemingway's works by the end of the year. Well, I may write a little later as its only ten til seven. Going to prep things for tomorrows ride, I'm close to 170 miles NorthEast of my destination where I will take one, possible two days to visit and then push on. The weather is a concern as I don't want to get caught in one of those fall ice storms in the midwest out here on the bike. I know its still early, however I'm looking at close to 30 days left before the next chaper begins...
Saturday, September 11, 2010
Getting ahead of myself...
How many people put the cart before the horse sometime? Well - I think that sums me up in a nutshell! Always getting a little ahead of myself and freaking people out. Somethings I really wish I could take some things back, however I can't take back the past. I have overdone it yet again... :( Silence here I come...
As I venture towards wherever I go without cell service and will write and post when I can. I need this time to ensure I leave someone alone and make sure I know who I am, I do and I was when I met them. However I have scared someone and I can not take that back. To love someone else, my dear friend says I have to love myself. I do and with the blinders on I can be a little overbearing because its someone I am not, however with them off as I was that day on the pass I am who I am. So with that I close and disappear into the Virginia wilderness to ensure I continue this journey intact...
When it comes to women I can be niave sometimes, I guess thats my downfall for not dating much in high school and college...Being old fashion doesn't really help in today's society either, or maybe it does?
As I venture towards wherever I go without cell service and will write and post when I can. I need this time to ensure I leave someone alone and make sure I know who I am, I do and I was when I met them. However I have scared someone and I can not take that back. To love someone else, my dear friend says I have to love myself. I do and with the blinders on I can be a little overbearing because its someone I am not, however with them off as I was that day on the pass I am who I am. So with that I close and disappear into the Virginia wilderness to ensure I continue this journey intact...
When it comes to women I can be niave sometimes, I guess thats my downfall for not dating much in high school and college...Being old fashion doesn't really help in today's society either, or maybe it does?
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