Day 99: October 20th, 2010 (Route: Roadside Camping to Marshfield, MO)
Technical Data
Distance, miles: 105.4
Ride Time 8:04:36
Work, kJ: 4151
Average Speed, mph: 12.93
Average Power, watts: 142
Normalized Power, watts: 181
Forecast - Cloudy and in the 60's with winds out of the North to NorthEast
As I wake from the picnic table on the roadside this morning I sit and watch the leaves fall, take in a fresh breat of fall air and think about my journey. Do I want this to end, does it have to end? I know that for doors to open one has to close, though I lay here thinking about the work ahead of me today I just be...
Being in the moment is something I don't think I have written about over the last couple of weeks, however this morning all the stress is at bay and I'm about to take on another 100 mile day. So much work when using the small chain ring, however its well worth it!
I start packing up and notice a couple middle age women out for a walk near the creek I slept next too, what a way to start the day. To wake, call a friend, and go for a walk in the beautiful ozarks in the cool fall temperatures. The trees are wonderful, dropping the most precious gifts that humans over look on a daily basis, leaves provide oxygen for us to live our lives. It is said that 1 acre of trees provides enough oxygen for 18 people on daily basis. AS the leaves fall I give tribute to the work they have provided over the summer months on working so hard in keeping us alive, now to the fall where the trees will help replenish nutrients to the earth we walk on. I think this is one of the many reasons I love the forest, the trees in our local parks, and even those rare trees that lie in the middle of the crop fields I have passed on this trip. I think I could go on and on about the trees out there, I mean think about it. Take the time and think about how many uses we have for trees, and not to be "Thankful" for them would be silly.
I think about so many that use the term "Tree Hugger" in a negative way, if you can't think of 50 ways for the use of Trees you need to read "The Giving Tree" by Shel Silverstein. The book is well within everyone's reading ability and as one of my favorite author's I love to read this on occasion just to bring me back to reality. As I travel I have seen so many mills on this journey which makes me think of this book and how many things trees provide for us. Okay, I need to back up...
So I pack up and I'm hungry, without eating dinner last night I have a hunger that I haven't had for a while. Heading out I climb and what a way to start your day, I thought the gals walking along the creek was something, try climbing out of the Ozarks for a warmup of a hundred mile ride. Gotta love it!!!
I hit the top of the hill and my energy levels are low, I figure because its the lack of planning my nutrition last night and thinking about the end of my trip. So close, yet a couple hundred miles away. I continue to ride and hit up the next town to fill my bottles with ice water, I ask around about a small cafe' in town for some breakfast and the ladies at the store point me to the "The Moose Cafe" to the South and up this hill, I figure what the heck, I won't make it if I don't fuel myself. This would be like trying to cover a 300 mile drive with no fuel in the tank, its just not going to happen!
After telling my story to many locals, I down some pancakes, eggs, and hashbrowns and then hit the road. Leaving the diner feeling full I slug along in my small chain ring. Not feeling like I have any energy I just push along. The mind is struggling today, the energy appears to be there, however the drive is exactly the opposite. Mind is looking to the reward if I get the mileage in today, a short ride tomorrow and all finished. Crazy to think about what I'll be doing once I'm off my bike, I think the goal is to make some money and fix what I need repaired and purchase a new sleeping pad and sleeping bag. The sleeping pad that I have been using since I left needs repaired, however about half way through the trip it just needs to be thrown out. I've been sleeping on the ground for about 60 days now without any air underneath me and its time to break down and purchase a new one, I figure this one being 10 years old is seen its days so I'm not feeling bad for having to replace it.
Near home now, the terrain is starting to look like SouthEast Kansas where I grew up, the farms, the open country, so beautiful! Even the smells take me back to my childhood. I like the fact that I'll be riding back to close where I grew up versus finishing on the coast and having to catch a ride back via a plane, train, or bus! Nothing like where you grew up...
I ride and really didn't want to get off the bike so I continue to ride along highway 38, just wanting to ride into the night I push on. This is a struggle, my legs are dead, the mind is saying its time for a break, however there is a part inside of me that says keep going! The ride yesterday put me in a hole physically, I don't think it would have if I would have had dinner, however last night I was smoked! I still think the riding in VA is tougher then the Ozarks, however the Ozarks are not to be taken lightly! As with all the terrain on this trip I can't wait to get back here and drop the Bob and attack some of these climbs, the good thing about these climbs are that they are close if I choose to stay in this area once I finish up...
Riding into Hartville, MO I read the signs, with 25 miles to go to hit Marshfield, MO I think about what to do. The goal today was to ride to a town just west of Marshfield called Fair Grove where I plan on sleeping behind a little store, with my legs feeling like they are I'll see how this goes. Refilling bottles and downing some snacks I get back on the road. Thinking just push through it. I have had so many times like this on my trip, down times only to bounce back, with the thoughts of just pushing forward I think about life. Life has so many of these moments, so many down times, then it all bounces back, with the mind controling things I just be, be in the moment and take in the pain of the legs burning, the lungs aching as I pursue my goals on todays ride. The climbing has come to a steady set of rollers, however with the weight I'm unable to roll them, I know if I didn't have the load I would be cruising and have knocked out a hundred miles by now.
The sunshine is so beautiful, with the sun hiding behind the clouds I enjoy the sunset as rays of light peak through, I wonder how many are taking in this sunset this evening? So beautiful, so still, so many moments now to capture! I continue to ride and enjoy the evenin, as the dark clouds to the South continue to push south, I miss the small rain showers I had a couple hours ago, so nice to have warm rain drops hit me while I ride. Taking it all in I think about what's next, where will I end up. I have a plan, however will that plan fall through like others that I have had. Should I even plan?
Pulling into Marshfield, MO I stop and refill some bottles, talk to the clerk about how long the next town is and make a decision that 20 miles would be doable, however not with this light. The days have shortened with the cool temperatures in the morning and the change of seasons, so the allowable ride time for me has shortened significantly. That's okay as I'll find a local park to crash in. After asking the clerk where the park is I decide I need to refuel from yesterday and today, so I head to a local Mexican Cantina for some chips and salsa and a little fuel for tomorrows ride, which could possible be the last in this chapter, definitely won't be the last ride I can and will contest to that! There is just something about riding my bike, that allows me to be free and alive! The open road has so many secrets to it, a new one around every corner, riding to leave no stone unturned on this journey of mine. So many moments to capture, to remember to cherish!
I pull into the park and I'm surprised to see a couple of cyclist, a couple from Europe heading from San Fran to Florida. I chat with them for a little bit, however they are more interested in eating, its dark now I'm sure they have been riding all day and I'm feeling the same. I decide tonight I'm going to actually set up the tent as its supposed to be low 40's and I'm wanting a good nights sleep. Kinda amped from the day I have trouble falling sleep, I text a few people, however no replies so I just sit and think. Think about Oregon and how I would love to connect still with EJ and see how she has been, it has been so long, then again maybe it only feels like a long time since I have experienced so much between then and now. To sleep I go to feel the last moments of the ride tomorrow or possible the next day, its 120 miles to my final destination to ride home with my two nieces, to enjoy the ride from the pool with a 4 year old and a 2 year old that's turning three in a few days. My finish line...
Tuesday, October 19, 2010
Day 98: October 19th, 2010 (Route: Farmington, MO to Roadside camping Spot, MO)
Day 98: October 19th, 2010 (Route: Farmington, MO to Roadside camping Spot, MO)
Technical Data
Distance, miles: 101.96
Ride Time 7:11:29
Work, kJ: 4637
Average speed, mph: 14.11
Average Power, watts: 128
Normalized Power, watts: 225
Forecast: Sunny and in the 70's with a West wind 5-10 mph...
Woke early at Al's place in Farmington, MO and started to clean, this place is so nice I didn't want to leave a trace that I was here. So I swept the floors, did the laundry, cleaned the bathrooms and straightened up as much as I could before I left. Before leaving I sat down and tried to get caught up on all the blog post I had neglected over the last four days. Traveling with someone doesn't leave that much time for blogging, which was nice, it was sad to see Dakota go even though we only traveled together for a couple of days. I think that traveling all alone for the 95% of the trip is starting to get to me. Eating alone last night was tough and I hope not to have to do that much more in my life, however I'm sure it will happen.
After writing for a little bit I put together my rig that I stored downstairs in the bike area, filled bottles, loaded the wet/dry bag and changed. I started my ride later than expected, around 10:30 or so. I figured this would allow plenty of time to get to my final destination for the day, which I was planning on Summersville, MO. Riding out of town I stopped and checked the highways I would be traveling and blasted my way south. Rolled through a couple of small towns, Doe Run was the first little one I ran into and all the others became a blur as I traveled. The weather was great, the traffic low and the hills were in abundance! The Ozarks are known for there up and down continues hills and let me tell ya it was a lot of work today!
Riding without my left shifter really sucks to be honest, there were some flats today that I really wanted to push the pace as I was feeling great! With the legs feeling strong I continued to ride, trying to stick to the map as close as possible, I did get off my planned route, however not that far. I ended up climbing and descending and doing it all over again, and again, and again! The trees are specatular, the reds, yellows, oranges, purples, browns all contrasting nicely with the light blue sky! I stop to just take in the scenery today and enjoy every minute of it. Have you ever just watch a single leaf fall to the ground, tumbling with the force of gravity to touch the earth. Some tumble in balance, flipping over and over while others float as if carrying some delicate cargo. Riding today is somethign I will cherish for many years to come, the winding of the roads, the smoothness, the steep grades, the fast descents, I will remember today as if it were my last, though I have a few more to go!
Stopping for water I pick up some .49 cent crackers and down a few bananas I had left from the day before. Fueling not as good as I would like today, however I'm fresh and the legs are feeling great I continue to push on. The sun is falling out of the cloud filled sky now and I'm thinking am I going to make it? The mind is going to race mode now, thinking I have to make it, unknowning on how far I have traveled, as I forgot to reset my computer I keep thinking just ride until it gets dark then pitch the tent on the side of the road. Through Ellington where I stopped at the grocery to use the facilities, refill water, and grab some more bananas for the road. Thinking I better make this quick I roll out of Ellington with 27 miles to the next town Eminence, and another 19 miles to Summersville where I really wanted to get. The nexst 27 miles are tough, with lots of climbing, cross a couple of rivers and really fighting for the days mileage. With my normalized power being 225 today I know I worked my tail off and from my RPE I can tell you I did, it was a great day of riding for sure! Once into Eminence I thought 19 more miles I can make it, the sun was about an inch or two above the horizen so I pressed on. I got another 5 miles before I decided to shut it down.
I shut it down unknowning of the distance traveled and in a mood of not wanting to quit, I sure do wish somedays I had lights to ride at night, however I made the right decision. Riding at night on these winding hilly roads is not the smartest of all ideas so I made the decision to ride it tomorrow. I still was able to get close to 102 miles in today in this rolling terrain so that's not a bad day. It was a lot of work and well worth it too, as I am now two days out from my brothers house where I will get to spend the rest of the week and enjoy my nieces birthday party and all in all, just relax and start thinking about plugging myself back into society...
Technical Data
Distance, miles: 101.96
Ride Time 7:11:29
Work, kJ: 4637
Average speed, mph: 14.11
Average Power, watts: 128
Normalized Power, watts: 225
Forecast: Sunny and in the 70's with a West wind 5-10 mph...
Woke early at Al's place in Farmington, MO and started to clean, this place is so nice I didn't want to leave a trace that I was here. So I swept the floors, did the laundry, cleaned the bathrooms and straightened up as much as I could before I left. Before leaving I sat down and tried to get caught up on all the blog post I had neglected over the last four days. Traveling with someone doesn't leave that much time for blogging, which was nice, it was sad to see Dakota go even though we only traveled together for a couple of days. I think that traveling all alone for the 95% of the trip is starting to get to me. Eating alone last night was tough and I hope not to have to do that much more in my life, however I'm sure it will happen.
After writing for a little bit I put together my rig that I stored downstairs in the bike area, filled bottles, loaded the wet/dry bag and changed. I started my ride later than expected, around 10:30 or so. I figured this would allow plenty of time to get to my final destination for the day, which I was planning on Summersville, MO. Riding out of town I stopped and checked the highways I would be traveling and blasted my way south. Rolled through a couple of small towns, Doe Run was the first little one I ran into and all the others became a blur as I traveled. The weather was great, the traffic low and the hills were in abundance! The Ozarks are known for there up and down continues hills and let me tell ya it was a lot of work today!
Riding without my left shifter really sucks to be honest, there were some flats today that I really wanted to push the pace as I was feeling great! With the legs feeling strong I continued to ride, trying to stick to the map as close as possible, I did get off my planned route, however not that far. I ended up climbing and descending and doing it all over again, and again, and again! The trees are specatular, the reds, yellows, oranges, purples, browns all contrasting nicely with the light blue sky! I stop to just take in the scenery today and enjoy every minute of it. Have you ever just watch a single leaf fall to the ground, tumbling with the force of gravity to touch the earth. Some tumble in balance, flipping over and over while others float as if carrying some delicate cargo. Riding today is somethign I will cherish for many years to come, the winding of the roads, the smoothness, the steep grades, the fast descents, I will remember today as if it were my last, though I have a few more to go!
Stopping for water I pick up some .49 cent crackers and down a few bananas I had left from the day before. Fueling not as good as I would like today, however I'm fresh and the legs are feeling great I continue to push on. The sun is falling out of the cloud filled sky now and I'm thinking am I going to make it? The mind is going to race mode now, thinking I have to make it, unknowning on how far I have traveled, as I forgot to reset my computer I keep thinking just ride until it gets dark then pitch the tent on the side of the road. Through Ellington where I stopped at the grocery to use the facilities, refill water, and grab some more bananas for the road. Thinking I better make this quick I roll out of Ellington with 27 miles to the next town Eminence, and another 19 miles to Summersville where I really wanted to get. The nexst 27 miles are tough, with lots of climbing, cross a couple of rivers and really fighting for the days mileage. With my normalized power being 225 today I know I worked my tail off and from my RPE I can tell you I did, it was a great day of riding for sure! Once into Eminence I thought 19 more miles I can make it, the sun was about an inch or two above the horizen so I pressed on. I got another 5 miles before I decided to shut it down.
I shut it down unknowning of the distance traveled and in a mood of not wanting to quit, I sure do wish somedays I had lights to ride at night, however I made the right decision. Riding at night on these winding hilly roads is not the smartest of all ideas so I made the decision to ride it tomorrow. I still was able to get close to 102 miles in today in this rolling terrain so that's not a bad day. It was a lot of work and well worth it too, as I am now two days out from my brothers house where I will get to spend the rest of the week and enjoy my nieces birthday party and all in all, just relax and start thinking about plugging myself back into society...
Sunday, October 17, 2010
Day 97 REST DAY (@ AL's Place)
The last couple of days I have taken off from writing, mainly because I wanted to take in the last couple of days of my journey to just soak it in. The feelings have been bitter/sweet! I'm close to 3-4 days left on this chapter in my life and the emotions, feelings, thoughts have been all over the place! I hope to finish on day 100...
Today I sit at Al's Place in Farmington, MO a Host site for the Tour de Missouri where a few locals put together the funds to create a cycling hostel in the area for racers and Trans Am tourist. Its a pretty plush hostel, wifi, cable, showers, laundry services, all within walking distance of resturants and a discount store if you need anything. Farmington is located in the Eastern part of Missouri a few hours south of St. Louis, about 300 miles away from where I started!
I rolled into Farmington with Dakota, an adventurous soul searching for the ins/outs of where the food comes from that she consumes. She is spending weeks volunteering at farms across the country, and from conversation learning a lot. She was raised in Alaska, and having spent a few days in conversation it was nice to learn about Alaska and the youthful views she shared. So good to have friends younger and older as it keeps a wide perspective on things.
Many may think why I took a couple days off from writing, well to be completely honest I lost a little drive in writing the last couple of weeks because the end nears and I don't want it to end! I return to a blank slate, a slate where I will have to start painting over again the life I want, this brings with it feelings of the unknown, of being scared, of curiousity, so many things running through the mind on this subject. Do I stay in the Midwest, do I moved out East or West. So many questions to think about in the next couple of days before I return home. I wish I new whether or not I was in school all ready so I don't have to wait another year!
I'm in need of a new left shifter for my bike, it went out a couple days ago! So I'll be riding in with no large gear, which is okay as the Ozarks are hilly, however I sure would like to have a large ring on this section to switch things up! With 300 miles to go I'll have to bear it and enjoy it, not sure when I'll have the time to do this again...
I will be taking donations for a "New" bike if anyone would like to make a donation to my new bike fund. The bike I have completed this journey on is 10 years old and has been my rain bike for training, however its time to start saving for a new road bike to race on next season!
Other thoughts that have been going through the mind on this rest day is that of racing RAMM next year if I can get a qualifier in. I keep thinking about shutting down the physical pursuits and heading into school, however without knowing if I'm in its tough to focus 100% on that path. We will have to see where everything goes once I get back, still have to spend the rest of the year writing and reflecting on this journey I have just undertook. So many thoughts so many options.
Conversation over the last couple of days was great. Questions of pursuing the peace corp, school, physical pursuits, or even just getting back to work. Traveling with someone for the last couple of days was nice, having someone to talk to was a bonus as I have been traveling 95% by my self on this trip, add the next couple of days and it will be 97% of the journey which is a lot of time alone to think, reflect on life and to just sit in my thoughts! Bouncing ideas off of someone is something I will need in the future and this I know, so I think once I get back I'll try my best to get the applications ready for submittal though I have just a few days to meet a few deadlines for schools I would like to attend. I would really like to attend Duke U. out in Durham given the opportunity. This means I need to take some classes come the spring time, which I'm looking forward too. Maybe I can take classes in the Spring, save some money and do this again next summer before school starts. Maybe, you just never know!
I wish I had captured some of the thoughts over the last couple of days, however I have no regrets on taking a few days off from writing, the more I think about it, it has been over three months of "Pedaling & Writing" so I think I have done a pretty good job of capturing the majority of the adventure! (Giving me great work to write a book with when I return to the destination I will write it!)
All kinds of questions come to mind when I think about returning to whereever I end up? Will I stay in Tulsa, go to Colorado, or head to the East or West coast? I'll have to figure this out soon as I'm going to be wrapping this trip up this week. Pretty emotional as I will have accomplished something out of the ordinary to a lot, however here on the road its normal to those I come across! I have traveled a lot of miles by pedal power which I love to do, however with both a small and large ring! lol
So where is life heading?????
I have figured out a lot on this trip, however all the unknown future of mine is a little scarey! Will I have the time to enjoy life once out of school or will my life be so busy I won't be able to pen like I have the last three months. So many things to think about, so many...
I'm sitting here delaying my departure trying to get as much text in while I clean Al's place, I'm probably going a little over board on the cleaning however this place is so clean I want to make sure I leave it like I found it!
Today I sit at Al's Place in Farmington, MO a Host site for the Tour de Missouri where a few locals put together the funds to create a cycling hostel in the area for racers and Trans Am tourist. Its a pretty plush hostel, wifi, cable, showers, laundry services, all within walking distance of resturants and a discount store if you need anything. Farmington is located in the Eastern part of Missouri a few hours south of St. Louis, about 300 miles away from where I started!
I rolled into Farmington with Dakota, an adventurous soul searching for the ins/outs of where the food comes from that she consumes. She is spending weeks volunteering at farms across the country, and from conversation learning a lot. She was raised in Alaska, and having spent a few days in conversation it was nice to learn about Alaska and the youthful views she shared. So good to have friends younger and older as it keeps a wide perspective on things.
Many may think why I took a couple days off from writing, well to be completely honest I lost a little drive in writing the last couple of weeks because the end nears and I don't want it to end! I return to a blank slate, a slate where I will have to start painting over again the life I want, this brings with it feelings of the unknown, of being scared, of curiousity, so many things running through the mind on this subject. Do I stay in the Midwest, do I moved out East or West. So many questions to think about in the next couple of days before I return home. I wish I new whether or not I was in school all ready so I don't have to wait another year!
I'm in need of a new left shifter for my bike, it went out a couple days ago! So I'll be riding in with no large gear, which is okay as the Ozarks are hilly, however I sure would like to have a large ring on this section to switch things up! With 300 miles to go I'll have to bear it and enjoy it, not sure when I'll have the time to do this again...
I will be taking donations for a "New" bike if anyone would like to make a donation to my new bike fund. The bike I have completed this journey on is 10 years old and has been my rain bike for training, however its time to start saving for a new road bike to race on next season!
Other thoughts that have been going through the mind on this rest day is that of racing RAMM next year if I can get a qualifier in. I keep thinking about shutting down the physical pursuits and heading into school, however without knowing if I'm in its tough to focus 100% on that path. We will have to see where everything goes once I get back, still have to spend the rest of the year writing and reflecting on this journey I have just undertook. So many thoughts so many options.
Conversation over the last couple of days was great. Questions of pursuing the peace corp, school, physical pursuits, or even just getting back to work. Traveling with someone for the last couple of days was nice, having someone to talk to was a bonus as I have been traveling 95% by my self on this trip, add the next couple of days and it will be 97% of the journey which is a lot of time alone to think, reflect on life and to just sit in my thoughts! Bouncing ideas off of someone is something I will need in the future and this I know, so I think once I get back I'll try my best to get the applications ready for submittal though I have just a few days to meet a few deadlines for schools I would like to attend. I would really like to attend Duke U. out in Durham given the opportunity. This means I need to take some classes come the spring time, which I'm looking forward too. Maybe I can take classes in the Spring, save some money and do this again next summer before school starts. Maybe, you just never know!
I wish I had captured some of the thoughts over the last couple of days, however I have no regrets on taking a few days off from writing, the more I think about it, it has been over three months of "Pedaling & Writing" so I think I have done a pretty good job of capturing the majority of the adventure! (Giving me great work to write a book with when I return to the destination I will write it!)
All kinds of questions come to mind when I think about returning to whereever I end up? Will I stay in Tulsa, go to Colorado, or head to the East or West coast? I'll have to figure this out soon as I'm going to be wrapping this trip up this week. Pretty emotional as I will have accomplished something out of the ordinary to a lot, however here on the road its normal to those I come across! I have traveled a lot of miles by pedal power which I love to do, however with both a small and large ring! lol
So where is life heading?????
I have figured out a lot on this trip, however all the unknown future of mine is a little scarey! Will I have the time to enjoy life once out of school or will my life be so busy I won't be able to pen like I have the last three months. So many things to think about, so many...
I'm sitting here delaying my departure trying to get as much text in while I clean Al's place, I'm probably going a little over board on the cleaning however this place is so clean I want to make sure I leave it like I found it!
Day 96: October 16th (Route: Chester, IL to Farmington, MO)
Day 96: October 16th (Route: Chester, IL to Farmington, MO)
Technical Data
Distance, miles: 44.75
Ride Time 3:58:43
Work, kJ: 2050
Average Power, watts: 140
Normalized Power, watts: 196
Average Speed, mph: 11.02
Forecast Doesn't get much better!
*Again - took a break from writing to enjoy the ride and soak in the last 10 days of my trip! Not what I wanted to do, however I can see traveling with someone else doesn't leave much time for solo task...
-Chester - Home of Popeye
-Fish Fry at the Eagles
-Slept in a shed with 9 bunks
-Watched a movie on the labtop on the "Mississippi"
-Had some Ice Cream last night with chocolate milk
-Took a long walk, watched a little of the high school foot ball game
-Small town - lots of people walking around, gave me the feel of Parsons, KS where I grew up
-Woke early to take off to Farmington
-Didn't sleep well on the bunk - back slightly bothering me, maybe slept wrong
-Shifter still not working
-Eagles owners (Joe&Donna)
-Heading to Al's a cycling hostel in Farmington
-PC Charger, wire boot has frayed and doesn't work any more :(
-Great rolling terrain to Farmington
-RedBoxed a couple of movies with promo codes at Al's
-Dakota took off to head to a farm north of Farmington (she's traveling around the country working/volunteering on farms to understand agriculture)
-Feeling of loneliness sets in
-Taking a day off tomorrow before I push on to Carl Junction - should be there on day 100!
Technical Data
Distance, miles: 44.75
Ride Time 3:58:43
Work, kJ: 2050
Average Power, watts: 140
Normalized Power, watts: 196
Average Speed, mph: 11.02
Forecast Doesn't get much better!
*Again - took a break from writing to enjoy the ride and soak in the last 10 days of my trip! Not what I wanted to do, however I can see traveling with someone else doesn't leave much time for solo task...
-Chester - Home of Popeye
-Fish Fry at the Eagles
-Slept in a shed with 9 bunks
-Watched a movie on the labtop on the "Mississippi"
-Had some Ice Cream last night with chocolate milk
-Took a long walk, watched a little of the high school foot ball game
-Small town - lots of people walking around, gave me the feel of Parsons, KS where I grew up
-Woke early to take off to Farmington
-Didn't sleep well on the bunk - back slightly bothering me, maybe slept wrong
-Shifter still not working
-Eagles owners (Joe&Donna)
-Heading to Al's a cycling hostel in Farmington
-PC Charger, wire boot has frayed and doesn't work any more :(
-Great rolling terrain to Farmington
-RedBoxed a couple of movies with promo codes at Al's
-Dakota took off to head to a farm north of Farmington (she's traveling around the country working/volunteering on farms to understand agriculture)
-Feeling of loneliness sets in
-Taking a day off tomorrow before I push on to Carl Junction - should be there on day 100!
Day 95: October 15th (Route: Carbondale, IL to Chester, IL)
Day 95: October 15th (Route: Carbondale, IL to Chester, IL)
Technical Data
Distance, miles: 48.02
Ride Time 3:53.40
Work, kJ: 1927
Average Power, watts: 135
Normalized Power, watts: 162
Average Speed, mph: 12.12
Forecast Wonderful Day for riding!!!
*Short because took a few days off from writing...
-Slept at Joe and Geordi's last night
-Checked at bike shop to fix shifter, too pricey, have to ride the small ring home
-All you can eat spaghetti last night for $3.99 (great choice)
-Thermarest I slept on was plush (I want one)
-Joe made breakfast which was great (oamlet with veggies)
-Missing Fat Tire Fest this weekend
-Road with Dakota to Chester
-Taking the time to soak in the rest of the trip, cool to ride with someone, means later I will have what it takes to ride with someone
-Watched a lot of t.v. with Joe/Geordi/Dakota - all about food/dirt/pawn shows
-Both J&G have road across America twice - once together and other with MS
-Beautiful ride from Carbondale to Chester
Technical Data
Distance, miles: 48.02
Ride Time 3:53.40
Work, kJ: 1927
Average Power, watts: 135
Normalized Power, watts: 162
Average Speed, mph: 12.12
Forecast Wonderful Day for riding!!!
*Short because took a few days off from writing...
-Slept at Joe and Geordi's last night
-Checked at bike shop to fix shifter, too pricey, have to ride the small ring home
-All you can eat spaghetti last night for $3.99 (great choice)
-Thermarest I slept on was plush (I want one)
-Joe made breakfast which was great (oamlet with veggies)
-Missing Fat Tire Fest this weekend
-Road with Dakota to Chester
-Taking the time to soak in the rest of the trip, cool to ride with someone, means later I will have what it takes to ride with someone
-Watched a lot of t.v. with Joe/Geordi/Dakota - all about food/dirt/pawn shows
-Both J&G have road across America twice - once together and other with MS
-Beautiful ride from Carbondale to Chester
Day 94: October 14th (Route: Elizabeth, IL to Carbondale, IL)
Day 94: October 14th (Route: Elizabeth, IL to Carbondale, IL)
Technical Data
Distance, miles: 90.95
Ride Time 7:05:40
Work, kJ: 3486
Average Power, watts: 135
Normalized Power, watts: 177
Average Speed, mph: 11.81
Forecast - Sunny with lite winds - 70+ degrees
*Short because I took a few days off from writing!
Couple notes from todays ride...
-Road with Dakota from Alaska for a little bit
-Got lost and ended up doing an extra 10 miles
-Fall Foliage is spectacular, on the alternate route I saw Riggs Lookout Tower
-Rode 10 miles on dirt/gravel when I got lost
-Physcially starting to feel fatigue from the last couple days of riding
-Nutrition not on track
-Slept on a picnic table last night
-Great conversation on the road with Dakota last night (met up with her yesterday and road for about 10-20 miles)
Technical Data
Distance, miles: 90.95
Ride Time 7:05:40
Work, kJ: 3486
Average Power, watts: 135
Normalized Power, watts: 177
Average Speed, mph: 11.81
Forecast - Sunny with lite winds - 70+ degrees
*Short because I took a few days off from writing!
Couple notes from todays ride...
-Road with Dakota from Alaska for a little bit
-Got lost and ended up doing an extra 10 miles
-Fall Foliage is spectacular, on the alternate route I saw Riggs Lookout Tower
-Rode 10 miles on dirt/gravel when I got lost
-Physcially starting to feel fatigue from the last couple days of riding
-Nutrition not on track
-Slept on a picnic table last night
-Great conversation on the road with Dakota last night (met up with her yesterday and road for about 10-20 miles)
Day 93: October 13th (Route: Utica, KY to Elizabethtown, IL)
Day 93: October 13th (Route: Utica, KY to Elizabethtown, IL)
Technical Data
Distance, miles: 105.75
Ride Time 7:46:11
Work, kJ: 4632
Average Power, watts: 164
Normalized Power, watts: 197
Average Speed, mph: 13.48
Forecast: Nice fall weather! Chilly in the AM, however hot in the afternoon!
*Post is short like the next four as I took a couple days off from writing...soaking it all in before the end nears...
Left the park this morning and it was great to sleep under the stars last night! Ride was great, however the shifter on my bike (left) went out, which means I don't get the opportunity to shift from my small chain ring to my large, stuck in my small chain ring which means high cadence for the remainder of the ride!
Technical Data
Distance, miles: 105.75
Ride Time 7:46:11
Work, kJ: 4632
Average Power, watts: 164
Normalized Power, watts: 197
Average Speed, mph: 13.48
Forecast: Nice fall weather! Chilly in the AM, however hot in the afternoon!
*Post is short like the next four as I took a couple days off from writing...soaking it all in before the end nears...
Left the park this morning and it was great to sleep under the stars last night! Ride was great, however the shifter on my bike (left) went out, which means I don't get the opportunity to shift from my small chain ring to my large, stuck in my small chain ring which means high cadence for the remainder of the ride!
Thursday, October 14, 2010
Day 92: October 12th, 2010 (Route: Hodgenville, KY to Utica, KY)
Day 92: October 12th, 2010 (Route: Hodgenville, KY to Utica, KY)
Technical Data
Distance, miles: 127.37
Ride Time 8:35:33
Work, kJ: 5558
Average Power, watts: 178
Normalized Power, watts: 211
Average Speed, mph: 14.68
Forecast - Rainy all day and about 60 degrees with wind from the NW at 10-15 at times...
Not sure where to begin on this post? Maybe I'll dry up and then start writing! It rained from noon till I got off the bike, however I did get a treat tonight which is always nice.
So the day started off early, I woke around 6AM and just lingered as I really could start riding then, the sun wasn't up and riding without lights can be dangerous so I waited until the sun came up. It's starting to get a little cold in the mornings like up in the Mountains out here in Kentucky. I really don't like riding in the cold so allowing the sun to warm up the air temperature is nice to have! I rolled out of the Park at about ten minutes till eight and took off! I really wanted today to be a big day, along with tomorrow, however we will see how the legs feel and if the weather cooperates.
I didn't feel bottles or have breakfast this morning even though I was up early. I ran out of fuel last night while cooking dinner so no hot water for oatmeal this morning. I road 10 miles before I filled up my bottles and thats were I started my nutrition plan for the day. I ate a Gu and a banana, with the plan of hitting Gu's every 40 minutes on the ride. I had a plan and a destination today, the destination was Sebree, KY - close to 140-150 miles from where I started. I know this may seem a bit large in volume for the day, however I really wanted to see how the leg was feeling and get back to riding! The legs great as you can see from the distance I was able to cover today!
After refilling my bottles I get to the road. The mind is full of all kinds of thoughts, however about 5 more miles in to the ride the mind goes into riding mode! I'm enjoying the day, watching the ride time and really just enjoying the ride. Scenery is amazing, trees starting to hit peak foliage, sun fighting with the clouds whether or not the rays will be able to shine bright today. Clouds building out west, and when I mean build, as if the whole Western sky is turning the darkest of dark. I continue to monitor the weather and enjoy the ride, passing by some of the most beautiful fall foilage one gets to see in the autumn. Trees line the road, then open up to see some of America's farm land, lots of corn fields! Colors from all shades of green, to orange, to reds, yellows, browns, pretty much all the pigments one can possibly think of I saw today, truely a blessed morning. Along this stretch this morning I also passed a horse and buggy, Amish country here in Kentucky.
This took me back as there is a small Amish community that lives North of Wichita where I went to school. They make some of the best home cooked meals you will ever taste if you get the chance, and the bread is to die for! I passed a couple has there heading the opposited direction, I wondered were they were going and I'm assuming they thought the same of me! I was nice to see a couple enjoying the day, traveling by horse has got to be a much slower pace then even by bike, maybe comparable however I've never traveled by horse and buggy, another thing to add to the list! Cruising along I just enjoyed the day, (not raining yet) taking in the views of the farm lands and the trees. Then I saw something I haven't seen in a long time, an Amish gentlemen out plowing the fields by horse accompanied with his dog. I watched as I traveled on by and wondered what it must be like to live the life with all the traditions they have. Some day I'll have to go and see...
Traveling on I'm in the zone now, taking in some Gu packets every 40 minutes to allow the continuous trickle of carbohydrates to my system, feeling great I keep an eye on the miles traveled and the ride time. With the terrain I have the ability to average close to 15 mph for the day if everything goes as planned. Hyrdating and hitting the Gu's for energy I continue on, up the hills, down the hills and taking the curves as if I'm racing! Really enjoying the ride, not thinking about my leg as it appears to be healed up and ready to rock n' roll! I continue on, heading into this big dark wall in front of me, low on water I stop at this little convenient store about 50 miles into the ride, once I dismounted my bike the clouds opened up and started to down pour. I grabbed a few things out of the bag and headed into the store, I figured the storm was going to be here for a while, so I wanted to take the opportunity to dry out and charge my phone.
After close to an hour I got back on the bike. Traveling down the soaked highway I take on water in my shoes from the spray from my front tire and really just enjoy it! Nothing I can do now, I have to ride a little bit more alert as wet roads and old tires sometimes don't mix so this is going to slow me some. I keep riding strong but more cautious. Minds really tuned into the ride, not really thinking about much else besides left leg, right leg driving the pedals into the ground. Mentally alert I continue on at the task at hand, that is to get to Sebree by nightfall. Now that I have lost an hour to the rain I start to question if I'll make it by then. I continue to ride and not really paying attention to the roadsigns I miss my turn and go seven miles North out of my way, the mind so locked into just riding that I failed to make a left turn. I pack track after running perpendicular into highway 60. I'm pretty mad at myself as I needed the time it would take to go 14 miles out of the way on todays ride. I make the back track and find the correct road. Enjoying the ride as it sprinkles here and there with the occasional rain I just put my head down and ride.
Up and down some solid climbs I enjoy the rain as it falls on me while I ride down the road. Nothing like riding in the rain! Continuing on I really don't think about much besides attacking the ride, really wanting to get to Sebree I ride as if I'm in race. A steady race as I'm not really trying to push it, just stay aerobic and enjoy the ride, however on some of the climbs I went into a power interval zone and just enjoyed that too! It was a lot of work climbing the hills today, with one that rose to at least 13%, it was short, however long enough to get me out of the saddle and want to quit at the top, I did ride it, it felt so great to climb that little pitch with no pain, a couple weeks ago this would have been a no can do. So thankful to be healed up!
The legs back for sure! Not sure if its 100% however I know its on the mend. I continue to ride, stop and fill bottles then it starts to rain a little harder. Nothing I can really do besides ride, there is not shelter near in open farm country here in Kentucky. I could go to a farm house, however riding on wet muddy gravel up to the house to stay for just a few minutes I don't think is worth the trouble. The rain is warm rain so I'll continue to ride. It's getting later in the day now, close to 4PM and I'm now thinking I need to get after it if I want to make Sebree. I continue to ride, stop to check the map and when doing so the rear goes flat, I'm thinking great, another delay on this long day will definitely not allow me to get to my goal destination. I patch it and head out, however 1/4 mile down the road it goes flat again, I check and the patch didn't hold, could have been the moisture in the air. So I try and patch it again, however this time I get dumped on again as the dark clouds open up and rain on me with a fierce presence as to tell me I shouldn't be out here. The lightening has been striking pretty close, along with the booming of the thunder, I love T-Storms, however they are much more enjoyable sitting on your front porch wathing them, versus riding through them!
After about 30 minutes I go to a new tube and forget about patching the tube. I figure by now I'm close to 50-60 miles out and there is no way I'll make it to Sebree, KY. So alternatives, I think church with a pavillion or something, really not sure where I'll be staying at this point in time, though I really don't care, there is still light available to ride and that's what I'm going to do! (That was the goal of the day) Back on the saddle I'm riding, thoughts at bay and focused on getting as far as I can with the weather conditions I'm in. Riding through this little town I run into another cyclist headed East and he mentions Utica Fire Station is about thirty miles away, so I have a new destination and looking forward to getting dry!
Ten miles down the road I stop at Whitesville, KY and make a phone call to my friend Brian Hofstrom that I used to work with back in my asphalt days. He lives in Owensboro just 10 miles north, not really wanting to get off the route I mention he could meet up with me in Utica at the fire station. He gladly accepts the invitation and offers to bring dinner and I'm thinking a hot meal, what a treat after riding ~130 miles in rain and rolling terrain. I continue to push the twenty miles to Utica from Whitesville. When I start the quest to Utica there is still a little light available, however its getting dark and I mean dark. No sunset tonight just dark filled clouds blanket the sky above. The spirit is high though, as I have a destination and a reason to get there now so I continue to ride!
Once through Pleasant Ridge I know that I have about 10 miles to go so I start to push the pace as its getting dark! Not thinking about anything besides I shouldn't be riding at night I continue to ride. Brian and his son Oliver pull up next to me, state I have a couple miles and I'm there. The hills through this 20 mile section were a little unexpected, but fun! I love to be challenged and this was a great day to be challenged! Rain almost all day, with rolling terrain that you could roll if you carried the momentum through the base of the hills, into the center of the hill, then worked your tail off to roll the crest of the hill! Well worth it as you get to descend the other side and enjoy the force of gravity. I some times think I'm only riding 65 miles of a 130 mile ride in terrain like this as I only have to work half of the time! The other half I enjoy the scenery!
In Pleasant Ridge, I got waved down by a car and offered to stay in the church, however with a warm meal just ten miles away I had to decline. I think this may be the first thing on the trip I have turned down, however I knew she understood and I'm thankful that the offer was on the table, though I probably should have accepted as riding at night with no lights is not safe and I wouldn't support doing so even though I did tonight. I like to lead by example and this is not something I am proud of, however I needed to make it and the traffic was low so I went for it.
Pulling into the fire station Brian and Oliver help me pull my rig into the Fire Station. I eat a wonderful chicken dinner and some yogurt and we talk for close to a couple of hours, reflecting on the past and new ideas on the Hofstom World. It was great to see a friendly face that I haven't seen in years! After hanging out for a little while I get to typing and thinking about the ride tomorrow, the goal tomorrow is to get into Illinois, Eddyville, IL to be exact! Looking forward to the ride after I wake and wipe all the cob webs away, just to do it all again...
Technical Data
Distance, miles: 127.37
Ride Time 8:35:33
Work, kJ: 5558
Average Power, watts: 178
Normalized Power, watts: 211
Average Speed, mph: 14.68
Forecast - Rainy all day and about 60 degrees with wind from the NW at 10-15 at times...
Not sure where to begin on this post? Maybe I'll dry up and then start writing! It rained from noon till I got off the bike, however I did get a treat tonight which is always nice.
So the day started off early, I woke around 6AM and just lingered as I really could start riding then, the sun wasn't up and riding without lights can be dangerous so I waited until the sun came up. It's starting to get a little cold in the mornings like up in the Mountains out here in Kentucky. I really don't like riding in the cold so allowing the sun to warm up the air temperature is nice to have! I rolled out of the Park at about ten minutes till eight and took off! I really wanted today to be a big day, along with tomorrow, however we will see how the legs feel and if the weather cooperates.
I didn't feel bottles or have breakfast this morning even though I was up early. I ran out of fuel last night while cooking dinner so no hot water for oatmeal this morning. I road 10 miles before I filled up my bottles and thats were I started my nutrition plan for the day. I ate a Gu and a banana, with the plan of hitting Gu's every 40 minutes on the ride. I had a plan and a destination today, the destination was Sebree, KY - close to 140-150 miles from where I started. I know this may seem a bit large in volume for the day, however I really wanted to see how the leg was feeling and get back to riding! The legs great as you can see from the distance I was able to cover today!
After refilling my bottles I get to the road. The mind is full of all kinds of thoughts, however about 5 more miles in to the ride the mind goes into riding mode! I'm enjoying the day, watching the ride time and really just enjoying the ride. Scenery is amazing, trees starting to hit peak foliage, sun fighting with the clouds whether or not the rays will be able to shine bright today. Clouds building out west, and when I mean build, as if the whole Western sky is turning the darkest of dark. I continue to monitor the weather and enjoy the ride, passing by some of the most beautiful fall foilage one gets to see in the autumn. Trees line the road, then open up to see some of America's farm land, lots of corn fields! Colors from all shades of green, to orange, to reds, yellows, browns, pretty much all the pigments one can possibly think of I saw today, truely a blessed morning. Along this stretch this morning I also passed a horse and buggy, Amish country here in Kentucky.
This took me back as there is a small Amish community that lives North of Wichita where I went to school. They make some of the best home cooked meals you will ever taste if you get the chance, and the bread is to die for! I passed a couple has there heading the opposited direction, I wondered were they were going and I'm assuming they thought the same of me! I was nice to see a couple enjoying the day, traveling by horse has got to be a much slower pace then even by bike, maybe comparable however I've never traveled by horse and buggy, another thing to add to the list! Cruising along I just enjoyed the day, (not raining yet) taking in the views of the farm lands and the trees. Then I saw something I haven't seen in a long time, an Amish gentlemen out plowing the fields by horse accompanied with his dog. I watched as I traveled on by and wondered what it must be like to live the life with all the traditions they have. Some day I'll have to go and see...
Traveling on I'm in the zone now, taking in some Gu packets every 40 minutes to allow the continuous trickle of carbohydrates to my system, feeling great I keep an eye on the miles traveled and the ride time. With the terrain I have the ability to average close to 15 mph for the day if everything goes as planned. Hyrdating and hitting the Gu's for energy I continue on, up the hills, down the hills and taking the curves as if I'm racing! Really enjoying the ride, not thinking about my leg as it appears to be healed up and ready to rock n' roll! I continue on, heading into this big dark wall in front of me, low on water I stop at this little convenient store about 50 miles into the ride, once I dismounted my bike the clouds opened up and started to down pour. I grabbed a few things out of the bag and headed into the store, I figured the storm was going to be here for a while, so I wanted to take the opportunity to dry out and charge my phone.
After close to an hour I got back on the bike. Traveling down the soaked highway I take on water in my shoes from the spray from my front tire and really just enjoy it! Nothing I can do now, I have to ride a little bit more alert as wet roads and old tires sometimes don't mix so this is going to slow me some. I keep riding strong but more cautious. Minds really tuned into the ride, not really thinking about much else besides left leg, right leg driving the pedals into the ground. Mentally alert I continue on at the task at hand, that is to get to Sebree by nightfall. Now that I have lost an hour to the rain I start to question if I'll make it by then. I continue to ride and not really paying attention to the roadsigns I miss my turn and go seven miles North out of my way, the mind so locked into just riding that I failed to make a left turn. I pack track after running perpendicular into highway 60. I'm pretty mad at myself as I needed the time it would take to go 14 miles out of the way on todays ride. I make the back track and find the correct road. Enjoying the ride as it sprinkles here and there with the occasional rain I just put my head down and ride.
Up and down some solid climbs I enjoy the rain as it falls on me while I ride down the road. Nothing like riding in the rain! Continuing on I really don't think about much besides attacking the ride, really wanting to get to Sebree I ride as if I'm in race. A steady race as I'm not really trying to push it, just stay aerobic and enjoy the ride, however on some of the climbs I went into a power interval zone and just enjoyed that too! It was a lot of work climbing the hills today, with one that rose to at least 13%, it was short, however long enough to get me out of the saddle and want to quit at the top, I did ride it, it felt so great to climb that little pitch with no pain, a couple weeks ago this would have been a no can do. So thankful to be healed up!
The legs back for sure! Not sure if its 100% however I know its on the mend. I continue to ride, stop and fill bottles then it starts to rain a little harder. Nothing I can really do besides ride, there is not shelter near in open farm country here in Kentucky. I could go to a farm house, however riding on wet muddy gravel up to the house to stay for just a few minutes I don't think is worth the trouble. The rain is warm rain so I'll continue to ride. It's getting later in the day now, close to 4PM and I'm now thinking I need to get after it if I want to make Sebree. I continue to ride, stop to check the map and when doing so the rear goes flat, I'm thinking great, another delay on this long day will definitely not allow me to get to my goal destination. I patch it and head out, however 1/4 mile down the road it goes flat again, I check and the patch didn't hold, could have been the moisture in the air. So I try and patch it again, however this time I get dumped on again as the dark clouds open up and rain on me with a fierce presence as to tell me I shouldn't be out here. The lightening has been striking pretty close, along with the booming of the thunder, I love T-Storms, however they are much more enjoyable sitting on your front porch wathing them, versus riding through them!
After about 30 minutes I go to a new tube and forget about patching the tube. I figure by now I'm close to 50-60 miles out and there is no way I'll make it to Sebree, KY. So alternatives, I think church with a pavillion or something, really not sure where I'll be staying at this point in time, though I really don't care, there is still light available to ride and that's what I'm going to do! (That was the goal of the day) Back on the saddle I'm riding, thoughts at bay and focused on getting as far as I can with the weather conditions I'm in. Riding through this little town I run into another cyclist headed East and he mentions Utica Fire Station is about thirty miles away, so I have a new destination and looking forward to getting dry!
Ten miles down the road I stop at Whitesville, KY and make a phone call to my friend Brian Hofstrom that I used to work with back in my asphalt days. He lives in Owensboro just 10 miles north, not really wanting to get off the route I mention he could meet up with me in Utica at the fire station. He gladly accepts the invitation and offers to bring dinner and I'm thinking a hot meal, what a treat after riding ~130 miles in rain and rolling terrain. I continue to push the twenty miles to Utica from Whitesville. When I start the quest to Utica there is still a little light available, however its getting dark and I mean dark. No sunset tonight just dark filled clouds blanket the sky above. The spirit is high though, as I have a destination and a reason to get there now so I continue to ride!
Once through Pleasant Ridge I know that I have about 10 miles to go so I start to push the pace as its getting dark! Not thinking about anything besides I shouldn't be riding at night I continue to ride. Brian and his son Oliver pull up next to me, state I have a couple miles and I'm there. The hills through this 20 mile section were a little unexpected, but fun! I love to be challenged and this was a great day to be challenged! Rain almost all day, with rolling terrain that you could roll if you carried the momentum through the base of the hills, into the center of the hill, then worked your tail off to roll the crest of the hill! Well worth it as you get to descend the other side and enjoy the force of gravity. I some times think I'm only riding 65 miles of a 130 mile ride in terrain like this as I only have to work half of the time! The other half I enjoy the scenery!
In Pleasant Ridge, I got waved down by a car and offered to stay in the church, however with a warm meal just ten miles away I had to decline. I think this may be the first thing on the trip I have turned down, however I knew she understood and I'm thankful that the offer was on the table, though I probably should have accepted as riding at night with no lights is not safe and I wouldn't support doing so even though I did tonight. I like to lead by example and this is not something I am proud of, however I needed to make it and the traffic was low so I went for it.
Pulling into the fire station Brian and Oliver help me pull my rig into the Fire Station. I eat a wonderful chicken dinner and some yogurt and we talk for close to a couple of hours, reflecting on the past and new ideas on the Hofstom World. It was great to see a friendly face that I haven't seen in years! After hanging out for a little while I get to typing and thinking about the ride tomorrow, the goal tomorrow is to get into Illinois, Eddyville, IL to be exact! Looking forward to the ride after I wake and wipe all the cob webs away, just to do it all again...
Day 91: October 11th, 2010 (Route: Louisville, KY to Hogdenville, KY)
Day 91: October 11th, 2010 (Route: Louisville, KY to Hogdenville, KY)
Technical Data
Distance, miles: 64.77
Ride Time 4:36:16
Work, kJ: 2669
Average Power, watts: 158
Normalized Power, watts: 189
Average Speed, mph: 13.79
Forecast - One of the most beautiful days yet! 85 and sunny with west wind 5-10 mph...
The last couple days have been wonderful! Kirk Kandle a friend of mine that I met on the TranAm in Oregon took wonderful care of me this weekend! Fed me, gave me a place to crash, a hot shower, a cool dog to play with Miya, and the works! Hanging out with him and Sarah over the weekend in Louisville was well worth the 80+ miles round trip off route to get there! So many great things happened over the three days I was there I'll have to write up a post when I have the time about my time off. All I can say is that Kirk knows how to host!!! Thank you my good friend for everything and I look forward to catching up soon...
I departed Kirk's place around 11AM this morning, I decided to depart late becuase I was only planning on traveling 65 or so miles to Hogdenville, KY where I have access to the Larue Country Park behind the middle school which I figured would take a little over four hours to get there. Heading out of Kirk's place the temperature was perfect for riding, not to hot and not to cold. The sun was shining bright but tucked behind a small thin layer of clouds that you could barely notice however it made for a nice warm feeling without the intense UV rays that one might feel without cloud cover. I rolled down Payne street where I hooked up with Bardstown road which I planned on taking all the way to Hogdenville. No turns today, just a straight shot all the way, however I did have to turn in Bardstown, KY as the road meandered to the west. Riding through Louisville I took it all in, all the bike shops (4 on this street within a couple miles) the restaurants, coffee shops, and all the local shops (so many of these). I really like the city of Louisville as its layed out nicely for commuting and the traffic is really great I think!
Heading South on Bardstown I pull up to a light and an orage VW (old one) pulls up next to me. The guy driving mention he really likes my trailer, we exchange a little conversation before the light changes about my travels and him wanting to get back into cycling, he thought it really cool I was lugging all that gear behind me! I continue south passing underneath a couple major highways and dealing with a fair bit of traffic when I finally ride out of the city, the ride from Kirk's to the edge of the city was great, wide four/six lane road then once out of the city it turns to a two lane with really no shoulder, I didn't really care as I'm extremely careful when riding these roads. I pretty much ride the white line, when climbing hills I stall out my pedal stroke to allow for cars to pass and really take all the necessary precautions one would take when riding on the highway. Kirk and I talked a lot about this when I as in Louisville, the fact that many don't ride in the road or at all because of fear of drivers. The facts of the matter are though, when your riding in the road you are a car, I best is to allow yourself room to manage traffic if they dare buzz you, meaning don't ride on the curb, I don't like hugging the curb becuase its just not safe. I typically ride in the passenger tire ware mark on a four lane road if not the middle of the right hand lane. If its one a two lane road I'll ride close to the curb but not too close, I want to feel comfortable with the road and riding directly on the curb is just not safe.
Heading out of Mt. Washington I navigate the rolling terrain with no problem, I'm feeling extremely strong today, I should after a couple days of rest and great food! The thoughts are really silent today as I'm really just enjoying the ride, the mind is engaged in pedaling and thinking about making it under 4.5 hours today. The wind might have something to say about that though as I have kind of a southwest wind today. I like it as its warmer then the wind I had last week and much more enjoyable to ride in!
I enjoy the fall foliage as its turning and this is what I've been waiting for! It's breath taking, I had to stop and take a couple photos today on the road and I think it was well worth it. The leaves appear redish orange with this neaon glow to them when the light hits them, so beautiful. This is what reminds me of Louisville back in 2008 when I first experienced a fall/autumn like this. I know this is why I love Louisville so much, not to mention all its culture, friendly southern hospitible people, and don't forget the "Pie Kitchen", along with so many other great things I love! For those of you that have never been to Louisville, I recommend going and make sure you have plenty of time to visit the Louisville Slugger Museum, Mahammod Ali Museaum, Locus Grove, Falls of the Ohio, Art Museums, Church Hill Downs, 4th Street Live, and so many other great attractions. I know my favorite though and that's the "Pie Kitchen" - this place will please any sweet tooth! If you have time to make it out to Hubers (sp) Winery in Souther Indiana I recommend it as well - especially in the fall to pick fresh apples, pumpkins, along with tasting that fresh apple cider...
Hitting Bardstown I refill my bottles and continue on, I would have filled my bottles five miles before Bardstown, however the guy wanted to charge me for ice and I was in the mood to pay for ice even though I found 30 cents on the pavement at stop lights today! (Feeling rich!) I continue south with only a 20 miles or so to go, still feeling strong I'm thinking about what it is I'll do once to the sight tonight, in work mode today, thinking short day before a couple long days. I hope to be out of KY and IL by Thursday of this week and in MO, ready to finish off the remaining miles. All depends on how I'm feeling and if I'm doing the right things. I failed to eat on the bike all day today, just really wasn't hungry so I downed as much water as I could though as I didn't want to dehydrate. The energy levels never fell off the table for the entire ride which was awesome, I didn't push it today at all just rode nice and steady!
When I was in Bardstown today I took off my jersey and just rode in my bibs today, I haven't done this on the trip at all, however I wanted to get some sun today. It felt so good to just ride and enjoy the sunshine beating down on me, I figured a coupe hours of sun on my pale white body would be good source of vitamin D that I often crave on this trip and to be honest I need to start evening out the cycling tan I have, after 90 days on the road I have a killer tan!
Once into Hogdenville I stop at the library, refill bottels and head to the park. I get to the park around 4:30PM and make up some dinner, take a quick nap and really just start feeling tired and sluggish. I know its from not eating on the bike today, however I really didn't think about it while riding today, I was just riding. Mind goes into a little down place, pretty cranky so I know I need to get some food in me. Took a short walk, maybe close to two miles or so for some bananas and yogurt which hit the spot, then I walked back and started typing. Now its time for bed!
O' one last thing - after I downed the 32 oz of yogurt and 4 bananas I saw the brightest shootign star I have ever seen in my life! What a sight it was, it took my mind right back to normal!!!
Technical Data
Distance, miles: 64.77
Ride Time 4:36:16
Work, kJ: 2669
Average Power, watts: 158
Normalized Power, watts: 189
Average Speed, mph: 13.79
Forecast - One of the most beautiful days yet! 85 and sunny with west wind 5-10 mph...
The last couple days have been wonderful! Kirk Kandle a friend of mine that I met on the TranAm in Oregon took wonderful care of me this weekend! Fed me, gave me a place to crash, a hot shower, a cool dog to play with Miya, and the works! Hanging out with him and Sarah over the weekend in Louisville was well worth the 80+ miles round trip off route to get there! So many great things happened over the three days I was there I'll have to write up a post when I have the time about my time off. All I can say is that Kirk knows how to host!!! Thank you my good friend for everything and I look forward to catching up soon...
I departed Kirk's place around 11AM this morning, I decided to depart late becuase I was only planning on traveling 65 or so miles to Hogdenville, KY where I have access to the Larue Country Park behind the middle school which I figured would take a little over four hours to get there. Heading out of Kirk's place the temperature was perfect for riding, not to hot and not to cold. The sun was shining bright but tucked behind a small thin layer of clouds that you could barely notice however it made for a nice warm feeling without the intense UV rays that one might feel without cloud cover. I rolled down Payne street where I hooked up with Bardstown road which I planned on taking all the way to Hogdenville. No turns today, just a straight shot all the way, however I did have to turn in Bardstown, KY as the road meandered to the west. Riding through Louisville I took it all in, all the bike shops (4 on this street within a couple miles) the restaurants, coffee shops, and all the local shops (so many of these). I really like the city of Louisville as its layed out nicely for commuting and the traffic is really great I think!
Heading South on Bardstown I pull up to a light and an orage VW (old one) pulls up next to me. The guy driving mention he really likes my trailer, we exchange a little conversation before the light changes about my travels and him wanting to get back into cycling, he thought it really cool I was lugging all that gear behind me! I continue south passing underneath a couple major highways and dealing with a fair bit of traffic when I finally ride out of the city, the ride from Kirk's to the edge of the city was great, wide four/six lane road then once out of the city it turns to a two lane with really no shoulder, I didn't really care as I'm extremely careful when riding these roads. I pretty much ride the white line, when climbing hills I stall out my pedal stroke to allow for cars to pass and really take all the necessary precautions one would take when riding on the highway. Kirk and I talked a lot about this when I as in Louisville, the fact that many don't ride in the road or at all because of fear of drivers. The facts of the matter are though, when your riding in the road you are a car, I best is to allow yourself room to manage traffic if they dare buzz you, meaning don't ride on the curb, I don't like hugging the curb becuase its just not safe. I typically ride in the passenger tire ware mark on a four lane road if not the middle of the right hand lane. If its one a two lane road I'll ride close to the curb but not too close, I want to feel comfortable with the road and riding directly on the curb is just not safe.
Heading out of Mt. Washington I navigate the rolling terrain with no problem, I'm feeling extremely strong today, I should after a couple days of rest and great food! The thoughts are really silent today as I'm really just enjoying the ride, the mind is engaged in pedaling and thinking about making it under 4.5 hours today. The wind might have something to say about that though as I have kind of a southwest wind today. I like it as its warmer then the wind I had last week and much more enjoyable to ride in!
I enjoy the fall foliage as its turning and this is what I've been waiting for! It's breath taking, I had to stop and take a couple photos today on the road and I think it was well worth it. The leaves appear redish orange with this neaon glow to them when the light hits them, so beautiful. This is what reminds me of Louisville back in 2008 when I first experienced a fall/autumn like this. I know this is why I love Louisville so much, not to mention all its culture, friendly southern hospitible people, and don't forget the "Pie Kitchen", along with so many other great things I love! For those of you that have never been to Louisville, I recommend going and make sure you have plenty of time to visit the Louisville Slugger Museum, Mahammod Ali Museaum, Locus Grove, Falls of the Ohio, Art Museums, Church Hill Downs, 4th Street Live, and so many other great attractions. I know my favorite though and that's the "Pie Kitchen" - this place will please any sweet tooth! If you have time to make it out to Hubers (sp) Winery in Souther Indiana I recommend it as well - especially in the fall to pick fresh apples, pumpkins, along with tasting that fresh apple cider...
Hitting Bardstown I refill my bottles and continue on, I would have filled my bottles five miles before Bardstown, however the guy wanted to charge me for ice and I was in the mood to pay for ice even though I found 30 cents on the pavement at stop lights today! (Feeling rich!) I continue south with only a 20 miles or so to go, still feeling strong I'm thinking about what it is I'll do once to the sight tonight, in work mode today, thinking short day before a couple long days. I hope to be out of KY and IL by Thursday of this week and in MO, ready to finish off the remaining miles. All depends on how I'm feeling and if I'm doing the right things. I failed to eat on the bike all day today, just really wasn't hungry so I downed as much water as I could though as I didn't want to dehydrate. The energy levels never fell off the table for the entire ride which was awesome, I didn't push it today at all just rode nice and steady!
When I was in Bardstown today I took off my jersey and just rode in my bibs today, I haven't done this on the trip at all, however I wanted to get some sun today. It felt so good to just ride and enjoy the sunshine beating down on me, I figured a coupe hours of sun on my pale white body would be good source of vitamin D that I often crave on this trip and to be honest I need to start evening out the cycling tan I have, after 90 days on the road I have a killer tan!
Once into Hogdenville I stop at the library, refill bottels and head to the park. I get to the park around 4:30PM and make up some dinner, take a quick nap and really just start feeling tired and sluggish. I know its from not eating on the bike today, however I really didn't think about it while riding today, I was just riding. Mind goes into a little down place, pretty cranky so I know I need to get some food in me. Took a short walk, maybe close to two miles or so for some bananas and yogurt which hit the spot, then I walked back and started typing. Now its time for bed!
O' one last thing - after I downed the 32 oz of yogurt and 4 bananas I saw the brightest shootign star I have ever seen in my life! What a sight it was, it took my mind right back to normal!!!
Day 88: October 7th, 2010 (Route: Danville, KY to Louisville, KY)
Day 88: October 7th, 2010 (Route: Danville, KY to Louisville, KY)
Technical Data
Distance, miles: 86.96
Ride Time: 6+
Work, kJ: 3425
Average Power, watts: 152
Normalized Power, watts: 195
Average Speed, mph: 13.09
Forecast: Hot and sunny with a NW wind...
Seventh day of a 85+ miles of riding - I'm tired and I'm going to leave this post at a one liner!
Technical Data
Distance, miles: 86.96
Ride Time: 6+
Work, kJ: 3425
Average Power, watts: 152
Normalized Power, watts: 195
Average Speed, mph: 13.09
Forecast: Hot and sunny with a NW wind...
Seventh day of a 85+ miles of riding - I'm tired and I'm going to leave this post at a one liner!
Thursday, October 7, 2010
Day 86: October 6th, 2010 (Route: Booneville, KY to Danville, KY)
Day 86: October 6th, 2010 (Route: Booneville, KY to Danville, KY)
Technical Data:
Distance, miles: 96.13
Ride Time 7:26:18
Work, kJ: 4639
Average Power, watts: 171
Normalized Power, watts: 201
Average Speed, mph: 12.74
Forecast: Sunny and windy...(Temps in the 70's and wind out of the W/NW at 10-15 mph
Last night was cold! I slept out on the deck of the little hostel that has been built behind the church in Booneville, KY as I did the night before in Whitesburg. I figured I would be warm enough, however the wind got to me during the wee hours of the morning and I woke, however I did manage to get some quality sleep last night, I actually think I slept 4-5 hours straight before waking which is great considering I haven't been sleeping well. When I woke I was cold, not sure if this is what woke me or something stirring about? The fog had settled in and was so think I couldn't see the church which was right next to me. Once I saw this I thought, I'm going to sleep in and wait for the sun to burn off the fog. The forecast for today is supposed to nice and sunny so no need to ride in the cold!
Talking with Kirk last night about my ETA to Louisville I told him odds are it would be Thursday. This is a little off the route, however with six days logged in at 85+ miles I'm due some rest, with one more day to go which I'm sure will be 70+ I'm looking forward to 1-3 days off the bike and let the legs rest up before the last charge to the finish line! I'm getting excited about getting back and plugging myself into society. Scarey as it may sound I'm actually looking foward to it. I hope I can find employment quickly and get all my ducks in a row for school in the spring, I've decided that I'm going to to pursue a PhD with hopes of teaching someday at the university level, where I will continually be challenged and hopefully have a few summers off to explore, travel, and potentially do some more bike touring! As the universal constant is always present, we will just see how things turn out!
After capturing as many minutes possible of sleep, I decide its time to get up so I do and its pretty chilly so I'm going to wait a little more before pushing on westward. After waiting a while and grabbing a hot chocolate to warm the insides a bit I decide its time to push on, out of the foothills of the Appalachians I will travel into the BlueGrass of central Kentucky. I'm looking forward to today as after today I should be close to 700-800 miles from my final destination and this is pretty cool. I'm so close to completing what I started and all in one piece. The leg has calmed and I'm hoping it will hold for the remaining, however you never truely know out here on the road whats going to get thrown your way!
Rolling out of the church I hit more climbing and I'm really not enjoying it to be honest, the mind is but the legs, well not so much! With five days in and two more to go before I hit up the Louisville Slugger museum the legs are screaming its time for some couch time and some movies! What are you doing to us? I'm sure those passing me are wondering what's that fool doing talking to himself, however I didn't care, this morning I was in need of some motivation and talking myself into riding was much needed this morning! Telling myself just two more days to go, huge reward of an ice bath, a warm epsom salt bath, and some rest is just around the corner. The mind was all over the place today, thinking about the boys in the tour that were racing when I started and the fact that they get rest, proper nutrition, massages, and pampered when there riding, I'm thinking that must be nice! I could use that right about now, then the thought popped into my head that they should race with trailers! (Now that would be something!)
The ride today was just like all the others, little climbing here and a little more climbing there! Then it started to flatten out and roll which I liked, then I noticed the head wind and thought, I'll take the hills and long climbs back please. The deal with wind is it never stops, at least when your climbing even the longest of climbs it has an ending, the wind however not so much. The wind was blowing today out of the west at 10-15 mph and it was more like 15 the entire day so I knew I wasn't going to make my destination by the time I wanted as this would slow me for sure!
The dogs of Kentucky did show themselves, the word in the touring community is that the dogs are wild in Kentucky and love cyclist. I think they are like the crazy fans that cheer on the riders in the Tour de France. Thinking about it, all they do is run next to you, barking, in this case cheering me on! Only there wearing fur coats, with no capes or devil costumes, or even naked for that matter. Just running along side barking. Its the silent ones you have to watch out for, the ones that sneak upside and attack at the last minute, though this is rare they do exist! Overall the dog count the last 6 days was close to 40, from small dogs to large ones all just happy to be off a chain. If I were to count the dogs chained up or in kennels along this trip it would be in the hundreds I'm for certain, so many dog lovers in Kentucky! Made me think about my little Jack, in a couple of weeks him and I will be hitting up the dog park for sure!
Rolling along, I notice I need to true my back wheel, this is a first and I'm sure its from riding on the shoulder a couple of days ago, the rumble strips and the debris probably knocked it out, I'll have to wait till Louisville to do this as when passing through the towns today they were all closed as I rode into dusk since I got a late start. I didn't mind getting a late start today though, it was sunny and nice, though the wind made it a little chilly the first half of the day.
I wish something excited would have happened today, however it was a pretty basic day out here on the road. The leg is on the mend and I'm enjoying getting back to normal, I have noticed that I have put on a lot of muscle in the quads and buttocks which is nice. Looking forward to the rest and growth that goes along with it. (As Kirk puts it, tear and repair!) Once I'm back I have so much on my plate, get the nutrition dialed back in, find employment, finish my applications for school, enroll for the spring semester, reconnect with family and friends, reconnect with my pup, and so many more loose ends to tie up! I'm looking forward to it thought, I'm finally getting my motivation and drive back from all the stress thats been thrown at me the last couple of years. I know that many might think, your telling me the motivation/drive has been missing? Yes to be honest I'm a little more motivated and driven then the next guy, seeming to have an endless supply of energy, not sure where all this spawns from, however I got it and I love it! Wonder what I would be like if I actually drank caffeine? I haven't had a soda since high school and its rare I ingest caffeine, true I give up an edge on race day however thats okay with me, I like to try and do things the natural way. Though on occasion I have had some gu or caffeine on this trip to wake me up and give me that extra edge say on day 7 of a 7 day block of training. When I'm rested though, watch out!
Trying to make it to Harrodsburg, KY I failed this evening and shut it down in Danville, KY a few miles south, 9 to be exact. I didn't want to take the risk of riding into the dark, and it just so happens I'm sleeping on a stage again! Danville, KY fairgrounds turned out to be a perfect spot for tonight, I"ll be sleeping on the stage right next to where I can peek out and see the stars! Just wish the light pollution was a little less so I could really take it all in! It's a cool night, hoping I don't get too cold, however I'll be out of the wind and out of sight right on the road I will be traveling North on in the morning. Well its 15 till 10 and I've had a full day of "work" and it all starts again around 6:30AM tomorrow as I want to beat the heat and get to resting, and chores...
Technical Data:
Distance, miles: 96.13
Ride Time 7:26:18
Work, kJ: 4639
Average Power, watts: 171
Normalized Power, watts: 201
Average Speed, mph: 12.74
Forecast: Sunny and windy...(Temps in the 70's and wind out of the W/NW at 10-15 mph
Last night was cold! I slept out on the deck of the little hostel that has been built behind the church in Booneville, KY as I did the night before in Whitesburg. I figured I would be warm enough, however the wind got to me during the wee hours of the morning and I woke, however I did manage to get some quality sleep last night, I actually think I slept 4-5 hours straight before waking which is great considering I haven't been sleeping well. When I woke I was cold, not sure if this is what woke me or something stirring about? The fog had settled in and was so think I couldn't see the church which was right next to me. Once I saw this I thought, I'm going to sleep in and wait for the sun to burn off the fog. The forecast for today is supposed to nice and sunny so no need to ride in the cold!
Talking with Kirk last night about my ETA to Louisville I told him odds are it would be Thursday. This is a little off the route, however with six days logged in at 85+ miles I'm due some rest, with one more day to go which I'm sure will be 70+ I'm looking forward to 1-3 days off the bike and let the legs rest up before the last charge to the finish line! I'm getting excited about getting back and plugging myself into society. Scarey as it may sound I'm actually looking foward to it. I hope I can find employment quickly and get all my ducks in a row for school in the spring, I've decided that I'm going to to pursue a PhD with hopes of teaching someday at the university level, where I will continually be challenged and hopefully have a few summers off to explore, travel, and potentially do some more bike touring! As the universal constant is always present, we will just see how things turn out!
After capturing as many minutes possible of sleep, I decide its time to get up so I do and its pretty chilly so I'm going to wait a little more before pushing on westward. After waiting a while and grabbing a hot chocolate to warm the insides a bit I decide its time to push on, out of the foothills of the Appalachians I will travel into the BlueGrass of central Kentucky. I'm looking forward to today as after today I should be close to 700-800 miles from my final destination and this is pretty cool. I'm so close to completing what I started and all in one piece. The leg has calmed and I'm hoping it will hold for the remaining, however you never truely know out here on the road whats going to get thrown your way!
Rolling out of the church I hit more climbing and I'm really not enjoying it to be honest, the mind is but the legs, well not so much! With five days in and two more to go before I hit up the Louisville Slugger museum the legs are screaming its time for some couch time and some movies! What are you doing to us? I'm sure those passing me are wondering what's that fool doing talking to himself, however I didn't care, this morning I was in need of some motivation and talking myself into riding was much needed this morning! Telling myself just two more days to go, huge reward of an ice bath, a warm epsom salt bath, and some rest is just around the corner. The mind was all over the place today, thinking about the boys in the tour that were racing when I started and the fact that they get rest, proper nutrition, massages, and pampered when there riding, I'm thinking that must be nice! I could use that right about now, then the thought popped into my head that they should race with trailers! (Now that would be something!)
The ride today was just like all the others, little climbing here and a little more climbing there! Then it started to flatten out and roll which I liked, then I noticed the head wind and thought, I'll take the hills and long climbs back please. The deal with wind is it never stops, at least when your climbing even the longest of climbs it has an ending, the wind however not so much. The wind was blowing today out of the west at 10-15 mph and it was more like 15 the entire day so I knew I wasn't going to make my destination by the time I wanted as this would slow me for sure!
The dogs of Kentucky did show themselves, the word in the touring community is that the dogs are wild in Kentucky and love cyclist. I think they are like the crazy fans that cheer on the riders in the Tour de France. Thinking about it, all they do is run next to you, barking, in this case cheering me on! Only there wearing fur coats, with no capes or devil costumes, or even naked for that matter. Just running along side barking. Its the silent ones you have to watch out for, the ones that sneak upside and attack at the last minute, though this is rare they do exist! Overall the dog count the last 6 days was close to 40, from small dogs to large ones all just happy to be off a chain. If I were to count the dogs chained up or in kennels along this trip it would be in the hundreds I'm for certain, so many dog lovers in Kentucky! Made me think about my little Jack, in a couple of weeks him and I will be hitting up the dog park for sure!
Rolling along, I notice I need to true my back wheel, this is a first and I'm sure its from riding on the shoulder a couple of days ago, the rumble strips and the debris probably knocked it out, I'll have to wait till Louisville to do this as when passing through the towns today they were all closed as I rode into dusk since I got a late start. I didn't mind getting a late start today though, it was sunny and nice, though the wind made it a little chilly the first half of the day.
I wish something excited would have happened today, however it was a pretty basic day out here on the road. The leg is on the mend and I'm enjoying getting back to normal, I have noticed that I have put on a lot of muscle in the quads and buttocks which is nice. Looking forward to the rest and growth that goes along with it. (As Kirk puts it, tear and repair!) Once I'm back I have so much on my plate, get the nutrition dialed back in, find employment, finish my applications for school, enroll for the spring semester, reconnect with family and friends, reconnect with my pup, and so many more loose ends to tie up! I'm looking forward to it thought, I'm finally getting my motivation and drive back from all the stress thats been thrown at me the last couple of years. I know that many might think, your telling me the motivation/drive has been missing? Yes to be honest I'm a little more motivated and driven then the next guy, seeming to have an endless supply of energy, not sure where all this spawns from, however I got it and I love it! Wonder what I would be like if I actually drank caffeine? I haven't had a soda since high school and its rare I ingest caffeine, true I give up an edge on race day however thats okay with me, I like to try and do things the natural way. Though on occasion I have had some gu or caffeine on this trip to wake me up and give me that extra edge say on day 7 of a 7 day block of training. When I'm rested though, watch out!
Trying to make it to Harrodsburg, KY I failed this evening and shut it down in Danville, KY a few miles south, 9 to be exact. I didn't want to take the risk of riding into the dark, and it just so happens I'm sleeping on a stage again! Danville, KY fairgrounds turned out to be a perfect spot for tonight, I"ll be sleeping on the stage right next to where I can peek out and see the stars! Just wish the light pollution was a little less so I could really take it all in! It's a cool night, hoping I don't get too cold, however I'll be out of the wind and out of sight right on the road I will be traveling North on in the morning. Well its 15 till 10 and I've had a full day of "work" and it all starts again around 6:30AM tomorrow as I want to beat the heat and get to resting, and chores...
Day 85: October 5th, 2010 (Route: Whitesburg, KY to Booneville, KY)
Day 85: October 5th, 2010 (Route: Whitesburg, KY to Booneville, KY)
Technical Data:
Distance, miles: 85.23
Ride Time 6:12:53
Work, kJ: 3726
Average Power, watts: 165
Normalized Power, watts: 208
Average Speed, mph: 12.65
Forecast: Partly Cloudy, highs 55 with wind out of the NW at 10-15 mph
Last night I slept on the stage in this little park in Whitesburg, KY. Surrounding this little park is a small track, (5 times around for a mile) and people were using it at all times of I was there. When I rolled into the park, people were walking and running, I didn't really care, this was the place I was going to lay my head for the night. Having done 90 miles in the hills of VA and KY I wasn't pedaling any further. The leg was feeling it a little, however over all it is feeling stronger, I can tell though the body is need for some rest!
When I mean all times, there was this kid running laps at 10:30PM, I closed my eyes for bed at 8:30PM only to wake to the slapping of sneakers to pavement a couple hours later. I don't even think this kid knew I was there which was a kick, I woke and really couldn't get back to sleep so I just laid there thinking, looking at the ceiling of this stage. The stage was great for sleeping, it was close to 20 feet deep, covered and great for blocking the wind. I didn't bother setting up my tent as there was no need, I actually got hot later that night as I was wearing my rain jacket to make sure I was warm. It was supposed to get down to 40 so I wanted to plan ahead, with no wind all I really needed were the clothes I had on and my sheet/blanket.
Waking this morning was tough, no motivation, I took one look at the bike and thought I can ride today, then I took one look at the sky and thought, can this really be happening? The sky was dark, it wasn't raining yet but the smell was in the air. I just laid there, then a guy started to walk the track, he didn't see me until 6-7 laps around the track, then another couple and another. I thought, okay its time to get up and get out of here! I even text Sean this morning for a quick coaching pep text, it worked and I was up and off!
30 miles to Hazard, KY. Okay, "Hazard" for a name of a town has got to be one of the most unique names I have run across, however if you ever take the time to look at some of the names of places you will be surprised, I know I was! Not looking forward to the ride today, I wasn't really looking forward to battling coal trucks, yes I am in coal mining country! It's beautiful here, however the small shoulders doesn't make for safe travels. I sure wish I wouldn't have miss my turn yesterday. I have to play the hand that was dealt to me though, so I pedal on. If I had to classify today, it would be "Ride the Rumble Strip Day"...With a name like thay I don't think anyone would sign up for a ride like that, I sure wouln't! I rode 30 miles on a foot wide shoulder and rumble strips and it sucked! Considering I was so focused on riding today, the thoughts were held at bay. This wasn't my best move on the trip so far, I should have cut over and grabbed a side road, however that's not easy to do in mining country. The grids out here are not set up like Kansas, for those that know Kansas if you want to go North and miss a turn there is a road just a few miles down that goes, goes well North of course, nice to have all that flat open country to just lay a road where you want, not subjected to terrain.
I survive the 30 mile stretch from Whitesburg, KY and I'm very Thankful I made it. I make it to Hazard where I plan on stopping at a library and updating the last couple days blog entrys when I pull up to the library, sign reads. "Closed till further notice, water problems", I think are you serious, I ride 6000+ miles to see your library and its closed. Okay, that not true, but I really did want to update my blog and shoot off a few emails. What a bummer this was today, so I get back on the road, heading to Booneville, KY. I jump onto highway 28 and have another 50+ miles to go and the real climbing starts. I can tell the bottom bracket of the rig is about to go as its crackling every time I get out of the saddle, I've had this before so I'm pretty sure that's what the sound is. Up one hill, up another, and another, and another! Along with the rumble strips, today is about climbing the terrain here in Eastern, KY. I'm loving it, I just wish my bike was solid and the sound was gone!
The trees have still not turned, there are signs that they ready to however I think they may be waiting for that first freeze of the season, then I'll know they will turn. I might not be out here then thought, I have ~800-900 miles left and I'm not going to wait for the foilage, to be honest, I'm getting tired of freezing when I'm on the bike in the morning and descending without leg warmers is getting old, okay not really but I am a little sensitive to the colder climates. I really like to ride in the warm weather, but I'm playing the cards I was dealt with this trip and making the best of it. Really its like an ice bath when I'm riding, the first 5-10 minutes is cold, then everything goes numb and I can't feel much of anything so I just keep riding, the legs and core stay warm because I'm exercising making for a pretty enjoyable ride after the weather warms to above 50 - wonder what its going to be like when its 70's over the upcoming weekend?
I continue to ride, tired and ready for some shut eye, I roll into Booneville, KY drained and ready to sleep! I would write more, however after 5 days straight at 85+ a day I'm feeling like sleep and food are much more important then writing tonight. I plan on making it to Louisville in the next couple of days where I will take 1 if not 2 days off and enjoy the city, then make my final push to the Midwest final destination.
To sleep I go, this picnic table is going to be so comfortable...
Technical Data:
Distance, miles: 85.23
Ride Time 6:12:53
Work, kJ: 3726
Average Power, watts: 165
Normalized Power, watts: 208
Average Speed, mph: 12.65
Forecast: Partly Cloudy, highs 55 with wind out of the NW at 10-15 mph
Last night I slept on the stage in this little park in Whitesburg, KY. Surrounding this little park is a small track, (5 times around for a mile) and people were using it at all times of I was there. When I rolled into the park, people were walking and running, I didn't really care, this was the place I was going to lay my head for the night. Having done 90 miles in the hills of VA and KY I wasn't pedaling any further. The leg was feeling it a little, however over all it is feeling stronger, I can tell though the body is need for some rest!
When I mean all times, there was this kid running laps at 10:30PM, I closed my eyes for bed at 8:30PM only to wake to the slapping of sneakers to pavement a couple hours later. I don't even think this kid knew I was there which was a kick, I woke and really couldn't get back to sleep so I just laid there thinking, looking at the ceiling of this stage. The stage was great for sleeping, it was close to 20 feet deep, covered and great for blocking the wind. I didn't bother setting up my tent as there was no need, I actually got hot later that night as I was wearing my rain jacket to make sure I was warm. It was supposed to get down to 40 so I wanted to plan ahead, with no wind all I really needed were the clothes I had on and my sheet/blanket.
Waking this morning was tough, no motivation, I took one look at the bike and thought I can ride today, then I took one look at the sky and thought, can this really be happening? The sky was dark, it wasn't raining yet but the smell was in the air. I just laid there, then a guy started to walk the track, he didn't see me until 6-7 laps around the track, then another couple and another. I thought, okay its time to get up and get out of here! I even text Sean this morning for a quick coaching pep text, it worked and I was up and off!
30 miles to Hazard, KY. Okay, "Hazard" for a name of a town has got to be one of the most unique names I have run across, however if you ever take the time to look at some of the names of places you will be surprised, I know I was! Not looking forward to the ride today, I wasn't really looking forward to battling coal trucks, yes I am in coal mining country! It's beautiful here, however the small shoulders doesn't make for safe travels. I sure wish I wouldn't have miss my turn yesterday. I have to play the hand that was dealt to me though, so I pedal on. If I had to classify today, it would be "Ride the Rumble Strip Day"...With a name like thay I don't think anyone would sign up for a ride like that, I sure wouln't! I rode 30 miles on a foot wide shoulder and rumble strips and it sucked! Considering I was so focused on riding today, the thoughts were held at bay. This wasn't my best move on the trip so far, I should have cut over and grabbed a side road, however that's not easy to do in mining country. The grids out here are not set up like Kansas, for those that know Kansas if you want to go North and miss a turn there is a road just a few miles down that goes, goes well North of course, nice to have all that flat open country to just lay a road where you want, not subjected to terrain.
I survive the 30 mile stretch from Whitesburg, KY and I'm very Thankful I made it. I make it to Hazard where I plan on stopping at a library and updating the last couple days blog entrys when I pull up to the library, sign reads. "Closed till further notice, water problems", I think are you serious, I ride 6000+ miles to see your library and its closed. Okay, that not true, but I really did want to update my blog and shoot off a few emails. What a bummer this was today, so I get back on the road, heading to Booneville, KY. I jump onto highway 28 and have another 50+ miles to go and the real climbing starts. I can tell the bottom bracket of the rig is about to go as its crackling every time I get out of the saddle, I've had this before so I'm pretty sure that's what the sound is. Up one hill, up another, and another, and another! Along with the rumble strips, today is about climbing the terrain here in Eastern, KY. I'm loving it, I just wish my bike was solid and the sound was gone!
The trees have still not turned, there are signs that they ready to however I think they may be waiting for that first freeze of the season, then I'll know they will turn. I might not be out here then thought, I have ~800-900 miles left and I'm not going to wait for the foilage, to be honest, I'm getting tired of freezing when I'm on the bike in the morning and descending without leg warmers is getting old, okay not really but I am a little sensitive to the colder climates. I really like to ride in the warm weather, but I'm playing the cards I was dealt with this trip and making the best of it. Really its like an ice bath when I'm riding, the first 5-10 minutes is cold, then everything goes numb and I can't feel much of anything so I just keep riding, the legs and core stay warm because I'm exercising making for a pretty enjoyable ride after the weather warms to above 50 - wonder what its going to be like when its 70's over the upcoming weekend?
I continue to ride, tired and ready for some shut eye, I roll into Booneville, KY drained and ready to sleep! I would write more, however after 5 days straight at 85+ a day I'm feeling like sleep and food are much more important then writing tonight. I plan on making it to Louisville in the next couple of days where I will take 1 if not 2 days off and enjoy the city, then make my final push to the Midwest final destination.
To sleep I go, this picnic table is going to be so comfortable...
Day 84: October 4th, 2010 (Route: Rosedale, VA to Whitesburg, KY)
Day 84: October 4th, 2010 (Route: Rosedale, VA to Whitesburg, KY)
Technical Data
Distance, miles: 89.19
Ride time 6:38:53
Work, kJ: 3948
Average Power, watts: 163
Normalized Power, watts: 200
Average Speed, mph: 13.23
Forecast: Cloudy, cold and raining...
Having found the church last night was such a blessing. Waking up to warm air when its 40 degrees out is something that I'm not accustomed to as I have been sleeping out in the cold and rain for the last couple of days has been something. Rolling out of Rosedale I'm thinking just cross the border into to KY and get as many miles as you can in these hills. I write this now, tired! I landed today in Whitesburg, KY a little off the route, however I'll jump back on tomorrow, staying at a little park tonight and I'm going to crash. I'm allowed to forgo one day of work on this trip, the accumulative fatigue may just be catching up to me, so until tomorrow...I'm out!
Technical Data
Distance, miles: 89.19
Ride time 6:38:53
Work, kJ: 3948
Average Power, watts: 163
Normalized Power, watts: 200
Average Speed, mph: 13.23
Forecast: Cloudy, cold and raining...
Having found the church last night was such a blessing. Waking up to warm air when its 40 degrees out is something that I'm not accustomed to as I have been sleeping out in the cold and rain for the last couple of days has been something. Rolling out of Rosedale I'm thinking just cross the border into to KY and get as many miles as you can in these hills. I write this now, tired! I landed today in Whitesburg, KY a little off the route, however I'll jump back on tomorrow, staying at a little park tonight and I'm going to crash. I'm allowed to forgo one day of work on this trip, the accumulative fatigue may just be catching up to me, so until tomorrow...I'm out!
Day 83: October 3rd, 2010 (Route: Draper, VA to Rosedale, VA)
Day 83: October 3rd, 2010 (Route: Draper, VA to Rosedale, VA)
Technical Data
Distance, miles: 93.78
Ride Time 7:19:57
Work, kJ 4510
Average Speed, mph: 12.66
Average Power, watts: 169
Normalized Power, watts: 210
Forecast: Cloudy, 50-55 degrees with light rain pretty much all day. (Can someone say COLD!)
Crickets chirpping all around, unzip the tent and look out to see what the morning has to offer. Sky blanketed with dark clouds, brisk chill in the air, start the morning routine. Packing up the tent, blanket, and clothes. Download data from yesterday then put away the pc. Fill water bottles and we're off. BoB and I, trekking Westward. Terrain is rolling, gradual inclines that peak around 12%. Suns rays of light fight to break through the blanket above, autumn colored trees canvass the countryside while dairy clouds graze in the pastures.
Westward clouds, dark, racing across the sky to the south bring cold temperatures and percipitation. Thoughts come and go, those that stay have one pondering of life. What are we here for, to serve those that we interact with on a daily basis, to please ourselves, or to serve the God above? Many will debate that all three are equal, maybe their thoughts are true, maybe their false, do we really know, does anyone that is still alive truly know? Faith is all we have, the belief in something we cannot see or touch, still the unknowing. Holding on to positive thoughts of the future, that we will be taken care of out here on the road. Too many surreal situations to be just coincidence on this journey of ours, there must be a higher power then one we can see, touch, feel here on the thrid planet from the sun.
Wind picks up, darkness above us now, lite rain, then harder and harder. Must seek shelter quickly, store about a mile down, pull in out of what mother natures has in store for us today. Soaked to the bone, cold that the bones are chilled. Out of the weather, wondering will this pass, will I warm, will we cover the mileage wanted today? Locals coming in and out, looking at me, wondering what they are thinking. Not caring, turn, look outside, still raining. Break into a laugh inside, thinking this is so epic! Smile...
Calculating distance, should we, could we in this rain? Questions fill the mind, fork in the road, must make decision soon or lose precious ride time. Risk it, having faith it will pass and stop or head to a hostel, sit it out for a day or two. Chilled to the bone, clouds break to a lighter shade of gray, sun still hiding decide to press on. Thinking can't lose another couple of days to weather. Legs been quiet up to this point, thinking good thought on this subject we push on. Roads soaked, water standing in sections I travel down the highway free as a bird, falling into a world of emptiness, one that's empty of stress, of busyness, of congestion, of worry's, of the meaningless things that cloud our vision, our thoughts of the greater meaning of what it means to fully be alive. Water splashes up and soakes my feet, feet cold as if in a blizzard we contiue to press on down the highway, free...
Smiling, mind feels with wonderful thoughts of healing, of being free, and just enjoying the moment. Riding my bicycle today, versus the survival mode we have been in the last couple of days, BoB and I press on. Loving it, the leg is on the mend, however must not get ahead of myself just too soon. Stopping to refill and to warm up, thinking shouldn't stop, just have to try and warm up again on the bike. Temperatures in the 50's and raining feels like mid 40's, however the mind is aleart and knowing what's going on. 100% in the moment today, from the thoughts to the weather to the rain that soaks the pavement that lies in front of me I ride. I ride to find myself, to think, to ponder, to explore, to learn, cherishing every moment that has passed over the days to the current moments, to those that lie just around the corner of time.
Looking down, computer reads 80 miles in, thinking this is great, I continue to ride, the leg has been feeling great all day, allowing me to push the big ring, the last three days of spinning possibly has helped, I'm sure its in need for some rest, however today I was riding, today the confidence is back, today I am complete. Cresting the peak I continue to ride, the wind picking up and the rain drops tapping on my clear suit made of plasitic. Descending, slow to not take a tumble, thinking must come back when the weather is favorable for fast descents and the feeling of living on the edge, the feeling of being alive...
*Most adventure seekers that I have spoke with all seem to mention the same things, when in the moment, whether on a cliff, 2000+ ft, exposed with your life in your hands, to riding a motorcycle with tunnel vision at 130+ mph, to riding a bicycle down a mountain at 60+ mph, the mind has no option but to live in the moment, as its life or death that is in the moment in the near future, the feeling of being alive, minds exposed with nothing but the present. To find this ability without the catalyst described above is difficult to do, some take decades, some a lifetime, some will never accomplish this, however when one does those feelings like when seeking that adventure will fill your heart with the softest, most gentle peace one can ever experience in life, one that brings smiles for eternity.
Am I growing, daily I would respond. To become the Man that God wants me to be, to become the leader, the mentor, the adventurer, the lover, the father, and husband, and most of all me, just being me is all he ask for and that I can do, and will!
So many thoughts fill the mind when I think about this, so many people out there try and be like others, like their father, like their mother, and so on. What if every one just allowed people to be themselves, so many live in fear of not expressing themselves for what others think, I question why? You are who you are, no one is to judge you for who you are besides the man upstairs. So today, I challenge everyone to just be themselves and enjoy life today, who are you supposed to be, what do you want to be?
I have so many things in life that I have yet to do, and I'm not planning on letting much get in the way of that. To continue to grow, to learn, to explore! Are you? Are you living up to your potential, fullfilling your dreams? There is no time like the present to make that change if there is something you want to change in your life to help fullfill those dreams and become who you want to become, better yet who God what's you to be...
Rolling on down the road I'm close to 90+ miles and really need to find a place to pitch the tent tonight, I passed on an ideal spot 10 miles back and now I'm kicking my thoughts thinking, you should of, then I just turned the thoughts to rely on the faith that I possess, thinking something will come up, something has too! Over the mountain, a church with a pavillion, a blessing to my cold wet being. Pull into the pavillion and park my bike, then I look down and a sign, "Biker's Welcome", I try the door and its unlocked, a safe haven in one of many of God's homes scattered across the nation, a dry place to sleep, water and heat. I strip down to get out of the wet clothes and can't believe how soaked I was, water could be ringed out of the tops I was wearing, I think I might need better rain gear now!
Only one thought tonight..."Thank You Lord for providing for me yet again when in need" Faith brought me to where I am, closer to home and tomorrow I shall press on with hopes of being back within two weeks or so, weather depending of course! Godspeed...
Technical Data
Distance, miles: 93.78
Ride Time 7:19:57
Work, kJ 4510
Average Speed, mph: 12.66
Average Power, watts: 169
Normalized Power, watts: 210
Forecast: Cloudy, 50-55 degrees with light rain pretty much all day. (Can someone say COLD!)
Crickets chirpping all around, unzip the tent and look out to see what the morning has to offer. Sky blanketed with dark clouds, brisk chill in the air, start the morning routine. Packing up the tent, blanket, and clothes. Download data from yesterday then put away the pc. Fill water bottles and we're off. BoB and I, trekking Westward. Terrain is rolling, gradual inclines that peak around 12%. Suns rays of light fight to break through the blanket above, autumn colored trees canvass the countryside while dairy clouds graze in the pastures.
Westward clouds, dark, racing across the sky to the south bring cold temperatures and percipitation. Thoughts come and go, those that stay have one pondering of life. What are we here for, to serve those that we interact with on a daily basis, to please ourselves, or to serve the God above? Many will debate that all three are equal, maybe their thoughts are true, maybe their false, do we really know, does anyone that is still alive truly know? Faith is all we have, the belief in something we cannot see or touch, still the unknowing. Holding on to positive thoughts of the future, that we will be taken care of out here on the road. Too many surreal situations to be just coincidence on this journey of ours, there must be a higher power then one we can see, touch, feel here on the thrid planet from the sun.
Wind picks up, darkness above us now, lite rain, then harder and harder. Must seek shelter quickly, store about a mile down, pull in out of what mother natures has in store for us today. Soaked to the bone, cold that the bones are chilled. Out of the weather, wondering will this pass, will I warm, will we cover the mileage wanted today? Locals coming in and out, looking at me, wondering what they are thinking. Not caring, turn, look outside, still raining. Break into a laugh inside, thinking this is so epic! Smile...
Calculating distance, should we, could we in this rain? Questions fill the mind, fork in the road, must make decision soon or lose precious ride time. Risk it, having faith it will pass and stop or head to a hostel, sit it out for a day or two. Chilled to the bone, clouds break to a lighter shade of gray, sun still hiding decide to press on. Thinking can't lose another couple of days to weather. Legs been quiet up to this point, thinking good thought on this subject we push on. Roads soaked, water standing in sections I travel down the highway free as a bird, falling into a world of emptiness, one that's empty of stress, of busyness, of congestion, of worry's, of the meaningless things that cloud our vision, our thoughts of the greater meaning of what it means to fully be alive. Water splashes up and soakes my feet, feet cold as if in a blizzard we contiue to press on down the highway, free...
Smiling, mind feels with wonderful thoughts of healing, of being free, and just enjoying the moment. Riding my bicycle today, versus the survival mode we have been in the last couple of days, BoB and I press on. Loving it, the leg is on the mend, however must not get ahead of myself just too soon. Stopping to refill and to warm up, thinking shouldn't stop, just have to try and warm up again on the bike. Temperatures in the 50's and raining feels like mid 40's, however the mind is aleart and knowing what's going on. 100% in the moment today, from the thoughts to the weather to the rain that soaks the pavement that lies in front of me I ride. I ride to find myself, to think, to ponder, to explore, to learn, cherishing every moment that has passed over the days to the current moments, to those that lie just around the corner of time.
Looking down, computer reads 80 miles in, thinking this is great, I continue to ride, the leg has been feeling great all day, allowing me to push the big ring, the last three days of spinning possibly has helped, I'm sure its in need for some rest, however today I was riding, today the confidence is back, today I am complete. Cresting the peak I continue to ride, the wind picking up and the rain drops tapping on my clear suit made of plasitic. Descending, slow to not take a tumble, thinking must come back when the weather is favorable for fast descents and the feeling of living on the edge, the feeling of being alive...
*Most adventure seekers that I have spoke with all seem to mention the same things, when in the moment, whether on a cliff, 2000+ ft, exposed with your life in your hands, to riding a motorcycle with tunnel vision at 130+ mph, to riding a bicycle down a mountain at 60+ mph, the mind has no option but to live in the moment, as its life or death that is in the moment in the near future, the feeling of being alive, minds exposed with nothing but the present. To find this ability without the catalyst described above is difficult to do, some take decades, some a lifetime, some will never accomplish this, however when one does those feelings like when seeking that adventure will fill your heart with the softest, most gentle peace one can ever experience in life, one that brings smiles for eternity.
Am I growing, daily I would respond. To become the Man that God wants me to be, to become the leader, the mentor, the adventurer, the lover, the father, and husband, and most of all me, just being me is all he ask for and that I can do, and will!
So many thoughts fill the mind when I think about this, so many people out there try and be like others, like their father, like their mother, and so on. What if every one just allowed people to be themselves, so many live in fear of not expressing themselves for what others think, I question why? You are who you are, no one is to judge you for who you are besides the man upstairs. So today, I challenge everyone to just be themselves and enjoy life today, who are you supposed to be, what do you want to be?
I have so many things in life that I have yet to do, and I'm not planning on letting much get in the way of that. To continue to grow, to learn, to explore! Are you? Are you living up to your potential, fullfilling your dreams? There is no time like the present to make that change if there is something you want to change in your life to help fullfill those dreams and become who you want to become, better yet who God what's you to be...
Rolling on down the road I'm close to 90+ miles and really need to find a place to pitch the tent tonight, I passed on an ideal spot 10 miles back and now I'm kicking my thoughts thinking, you should of, then I just turned the thoughts to rely on the faith that I possess, thinking something will come up, something has too! Over the mountain, a church with a pavillion, a blessing to my cold wet being. Pull into the pavillion and park my bike, then I look down and a sign, "Biker's Welcome", I try the door and its unlocked, a safe haven in one of many of God's homes scattered across the nation, a dry place to sleep, water and heat. I strip down to get out of the wet clothes and can't believe how soaked I was, water could be ringed out of the tops I was wearing, I think I might need better rain gear now!
Only one thought tonight..."Thank You Lord for providing for me yet again when in need" Faith brought me to where I am, closer to home and tomorrow I shall press on with hopes of being back within two weeks or so, weather depending of course! Godspeed...
Day 82: October 2nd, 2010 (Route: Troutville, VA to Draper, VA)
Day 82: October 2nd, 2010 (Route: Troutville, VA to Draper, VA)
Technical Data:
Distance, miles: 85.11
Ride Time 7:12:57
Work, kJ: 3484
Average Power, watts: 132
Normalized Power, watts: 187
Average Speed, mph: 11.64
Forecast: Bright and Sunny!
Sleeping in the Troutville, VA city park turned out to be the most restless sleep I have on this entire trip. The Park is located right next to a set of active railroad tracks, trains were blowing through town all night, feeling the vibrations from the train I woke almost everytime the trains rolled through. Sleeping on a picnic table under a pavillion last night was great, I like doing this when I want to get up in the morning and get going. It saves on setting up the tent, breaking down the tent, along with drying out the tent later in the day. Once up I was ready to ride, it was cold but I had everything set up for an early departure. Ate some oatmeal, filled up and downed a couple of bottles of water and headed out.
This morning was still, with blue skies, and the feeling of autumn! It was nice, so nice I just wanted to go back to the park and just sit and hang out at the farmers market that was setting up under the other pavillion, chat with the farmers and enjoy the day, however I had work to do. I've had the feeling of wanting to get off this leg the last couple of days so I'm doing my best to cover a god set of mileage every day so I can push closer and closer to Missouri where I started. A part of me doesn't want to be done, however another says its time.
Rolling out of Troutville, VA the leg feels great as it has been at the beginning of every ride, I wish all the miles coule be like the first 30-40 miles of the day, however I'm not that lucky! The terrain is hilly, lots of hilly terrain here which makes for some of the most scenic views of rolling hills full of farms, with it being autumn all all the crops in for the season, its time to celebrate the harvest and you can tell most of the farmers are getting into the season of fall/autumn. The pumpkins are out, the corn stalks, the cornecopians, and the fall leaves are on there way. The colors while riding are so beautiful, the reds, the yellows, the different shades of brown, the greens (though I wish they would fade, however they do provide the contrast to enjoy the views), and so many more. I've passed so many trees the last couple of days that I know will turn into hours of beauty, I sure do wish I had my camera to photograph the views I'm taking in.
Enjoying the day I'm just thinking about covering as many miles I can, I know this isn't what I should be doing, however I know the leg is going to wake up and I'm going in an out of thoughts of wanting to be wrapped up. The leg does wake up at about mile 30 today, with all the climbing it was just a matter of time before it hit me. I know that I'm not going to quit though, I'll fight this out and make it back if I'm going 5 mph and have to ride all day long! The sun is nice and bright today, just a few clouds in the sky, not hot just right! I continue to ride and see the beautiful scenery that Virginia has to offer and the East is starting to grow on me, the rolling terrain looking out over the tree tops to the valleys and small springs producing the fertile valleys I have been traveling alongside the last couple of days. Today is one of those days that one just wants to have 365 days a year!
Rolling into Elliot, I stop and have a small bite to eat, I've covered close to 48 miles and really looking forward to getting in 100 miles today, however the mind is starting to tire with the lack of sleep I got the night before. I take a 45 minute lunch break and just take in the moments. A couple of hunters showing off the buck that tagged this morning, its first day of bow season and boy did these boys start it off right, a 10 point that looked great. Cyclist passing, thinking this is a great place to train I have the feelings of jealously, watching them cruise past just enjoying the day and not towing anything! Don't get me wrong, I love BoB, but he's starting to do a toll on my body I think and its time to make it home and rest up! I had the thought the other day, over the last 80 days the United States Topography and I have been going at it and its starting to win the battle, however I know I will win the war and make it home!
Setting off after lunch I pass a couple of triathlets in Virginia Tech gear heading right for me and talk about bring up old times! I wonder what they are training for, are they Ironman athletes or training for short course tri's? One can only imagine as they roll passed. Having taking a little break I'm feeling pretty good, however this fades quickly as the body is just tired. Not sure if its nutrition (though I doubt it), or just fatigue, l'm thinking lack of sleep! I continue to battle with the rolling terrain and the 26/12 I'm riding. The thoughts continue to flood the mind with questions like: What will I do when I return? Will I race again? Will I get into the school I would like to get in? What are all my friends doing today as I ride? How fast will this leg heal once I get off the bike? What's my dog doing right now? So many thoughts, so little time I keep thinking, then the mind fills with what I would like to do over the course of my life and I'm thinking when am I going to get the chance to do all this. Thoughts continue like, I would like to obtain a D.P.T, a PhD, got to culinary school, massage therapy school, travel the world, sail the great blue oceans, ride my bike to very state to the highest point and climb the peaks, so many thoughts today! I can tell I'm coming to the end of the journey as my mind is flooding with thoughts of the next chapter in life.
Continuing riding I'm starting to get tired, I hit the 85 mile marker and pull into this little general store in Draper and ask the attendant where the nearest place to camp is. She mentioned I could camp out back so I took it, set up the tent, ate a little food and crashed! I'm writing this the following moring as I slept close to 13 hours, talk about being tired! More to come on this journey as I'm sure the mindset will adjust to enjoy the next couple of weeks...
Technical Data:
Distance, miles: 85.11
Ride Time 7:12:57
Work, kJ: 3484
Average Power, watts: 132
Normalized Power, watts: 187
Average Speed, mph: 11.64
Forecast: Bright and Sunny!
Sleeping in the Troutville, VA city park turned out to be the most restless sleep I have on this entire trip. The Park is located right next to a set of active railroad tracks, trains were blowing through town all night, feeling the vibrations from the train I woke almost everytime the trains rolled through. Sleeping on a picnic table under a pavillion last night was great, I like doing this when I want to get up in the morning and get going. It saves on setting up the tent, breaking down the tent, along with drying out the tent later in the day. Once up I was ready to ride, it was cold but I had everything set up for an early departure. Ate some oatmeal, filled up and downed a couple of bottles of water and headed out.
This morning was still, with blue skies, and the feeling of autumn! It was nice, so nice I just wanted to go back to the park and just sit and hang out at the farmers market that was setting up under the other pavillion, chat with the farmers and enjoy the day, however I had work to do. I've had the feeling of wanting to get off this leg the last couple of days so I'm doing my best to cover a god set of mileage every day so I can push closer and closer to Missouri where I started. A part of me doesn't want to be done, however another says its time.
Rolling out of Troutville, VA the leg feels great as it has been at the beginning of every ride, I wish all the miles coule be like the first 30-40 miles of the day, however I'm not that lucky! The terrain is hilly, lots of hilly terrain here which makes for some of the most scenic views of rolling hills full of farms, with it being autumn all all the crops in for the season, its time to celebrate the harvest and you can tell most of the farmers are getting into the season of fall/autumn. The pumpkins are out, the corn stalks, the cornecopians, and the fall leaves are on there way. The colors while riding are so beautiful, the reds, the yellows, the different shades of brown, the greens (though I wish they would fade, however they do provide the contrast to enjoy the views), and so many more. I've passed so many trees the last couple of days that I know will turn into hours of beauty, I sure do wish I had my camera to photograph the views I'm taking in.
Enjoying the day I'm just thinking about covering as many miles I can, I know this isn't what I should be doing, however I know the leg is going to wake up and I'm going in an out of thoughts of wanting to be wrapped up. The leg does wake up at about mile 30 today, with all the climbing it was just a matter of time before it hit me. I know that I'm not going to quit though, I'll fight this out and make it back if I'm going 5 mph and have to ride all day long! The sun is nice and bright today, just a few clouds in the sky, not hot just right! I continue to ride and see the beautiful scenery that Virginia has to offer and the East is starting to grow on me, the rolling terrain looking out over the tree tops to the valleys and small springs producing the fertile valleys I have been traveling alongside the last couple of days. Today is one of those days that one just wants to have 365 days a year!
Rolling into Elliot, I stop and have a small bite to eat, I've covered close to 48 miles and really looking forward to getting in 100 miles today, however the mind is starting to tire with the lack of sleep I got the night before. I take a 45 minute lunch break and just take in the moments. A couple of hunters showing off the buck that tagged this morning, its first day of bow season and boy did these boys start it off right, a 10 point that looked great. Cyclist passing, thinking this is a great place to train I have the feelings of jealously, watching them cruise past just enjoying the day and not towing anything! Don't get me wrong, I love BoB, but he's starting to do a toll on my body I think and its time to make it home and rest up! I had the thought the other day, over the last 80 days the United States Topography and I have been going at it and its starting to win the battle, however I know I will win the war and make it home!
Setting off after lunch I pass a couple of triathlets in Virginia Tech gear heading right for me and talk about bring up old times! I wonder what they are training for, are they Ironman athletes or training for short course tri's? One can only imagine as they roll passed. Having taking a little break I'm feeling pretty good, however this fades quickly as the body is just tired. Not sure if its nutrition (though I doubt it), or just fatigue, l'm thinking lack of sleep! I continue to battle with the rolling terrain and the 26/12 I'm riding. The thoughts continue to flood the mind with questions like: What will I do when I return? Will I race again? Will I get into the school I would like to get in? What are all my friends doing today as I ride? How fast will this leg heal once I get off the bike? What's my dog doing right now? So many thoughts, so little time I keep thinking, then the mind fills with what I would like to do over the course of my life and I'm thinking when am I going to get the chance to do all this. Thoughts continue like, I would like to obtain a D.P.T, a PhD, got to culinary school, massage therapy school, travel the world, sail the great blue oceans, ride my bike to very state to the highest point and climb the peaks, so many thoughts today! I can tell I'm coming to the end of the journey as my mind is flooding with thoughts of the next chapter in life.
Continuing riding I'm starting to get tired, I hit the 85 mile marker and pull into this little general store in Draper and ask the attendant where the nearest place to camp is. She mentioned I could camp out back so I took it, set up the tent, ate a little food and crashed! I'm writing this the following moring as I slept close to 13 hours, talk about being tired! More to come on this journey as I'm sure the mindset will adjust to enjoy the next couple of weeks...
Friday, October 1, 2010
Day 81: October 1st, 2010 (Route: Afton, VA to Troutville, VA) *City Park Tonight
Day 81: October 1st, 2010 (Route: Afton, VA to Troutville, VA) *City Park Tonight
Technical Data
Distance, miles: 103.57
Ride Time: 8:36:31
Work, kJ: 4943
Average Power, watts: 158 (not important now that my legs bummed)
Normalized Power, watts: 208
Average speed, mph: 11.9
Forecast: Sunny, windy I think in the 80's
Having stayed at the Cookie Lady's cycling house for the last couple of days, has got me thinking that I'm not ready to finish! So many more miles I could possibly put into this journey, however its not the miles that matter, its what I'm finding out on this journey that matters the most. Today's going to be a test to see how the leg is holding up, with 2.5 days off, which was most needed I think the leg is ready to go, not ready to race but ready to get me back on the road!
Waking up, I look at the clock, its 6:10 and I'm not ready to get up. I made the mistake of staying up last night listening to all the songs and lectures I have on Itunes on my pc. I don't have many so when I say all I mean it! I didn't download my collection of music to my pc before I left, which I think was a good thing! It's good to get out of the same routine and listen to other things, so I'm listening to the samples over and over! lol Not really, I listened to the lectures my brother gave me before I left again. All about leadership and they are really good so I didn't mind staying up late last night listening to them again! I've been craving some human interaction over the last couple of days, the mind has been pretty quiet over the last couple of days too, very peaceful!
Waking up a few minutes later after looking at the clock I head the bathroom, I think if I didn't have to go I would have slept on that couch for another hour or so. Once up, I got some breakfast (Oatmeal), and packed up my things as its time to ride! After all this down time, which in reality isn't much I was ready to see how the legs going to hold up for the remainder of this trip and get over these series of small hills that I have, since I picked up the Adventure Cycling map at the church in Yorktown I know the topography, I really don't like knowing, however I thought I would give one map a run to see what its like. Loading up the Bob and hitching it to the bike, I run the keys back up to the Cookie Lady's place. It's early so I just leave the keys on the door and head back to my bike. Odds are she was up, however I wasn't really looking forward to a long conversation in the morning, even though I have been craving some human interaction. Back down the hill I notice the rear tire's side wall is starting to get pretty warn, I'm sure it doesn't have much life let, however since I like to run things till they blow on this trip I'll leave it and change it over the next couple of days.
Up the first climb I'm feeling pretty good, seated as not to really press the quad too soon I feel strong. The legs feel loose, not tight and I can tell its going to be a good ride. The clouds have not burnt off, and they are just racing across the sky at about 20-30 mph. The forecast called for a windy day and they were correct about that for sure! The storm front is just to my left, which is south since I'm heading West. The sun has not made it up and over the storm clouds, and to be honest I'm glad it hasn't. It's so beautiful this morning, series of storms clouds blanketing the sky, so picturesque! I sure do wish I had my good camera back that went out on Pikes last year. All in due time I'll be back to not only painting pictures with text, but I'll be able to share what I have seen with photos! One of the things I love is to take pictures, I really like black and white versus color, not sure why just my preference.
Now on Blue Ridge Parkway I'm cruising, I'm feeling strong and the leg has not twinged once! This is a good sign, however its early too. The climbing for today is all in the first 30-40 miles, which could be looked as good or bad depending on how you look at things. I figure the stronger I am when climbing the better off, as I'll be able to really cover some ground while fresh. Up on the Parkway the mind is really all over the place! Wanting to stop and write some poetry or just add some notes for the blog.
The clouds are racing across the sky in front of me, air temperature is cold, wind is causing me to have the chills, the roads are wet and covered in leaves. Its the 1st of October and its gorgeous out here! Riding into a wall of fog, riding on faith as I have no idea whats in front of me. Fog so think I can't see but 10 feet, riding on faith today as I'm in new territory and not sure what type of debris may be in the road, just continue to ride. Stiff wind blows me from side to side, cold wind pulls tears from my eyes as I descend. Fog lifts, clouds part, blue skies ahead...
The Parkway is something, I really want to bring a group of riding partners back here some day and really push the pace. So many short climbs and all the beautiful lookouts! I wonder if I'll ever have the opportunity to make it here again? The trees are starting to turn, they are not fully ready yet as the temperatures have been so warm, however it won't be long now! Random thoughts running through my mind today! Thoughts as to why are leaves not black? I understand the chlorophyll provides the green pigment, however if sunlight is attracted to black more than any other color, why not pull as much in to utilize for photosynthesis as possible? I'm assuming this might be too much light, however I'm not botany expert, just a lonely biology wanna be since I took the Economics route, however I'm going back! And one other thought, are there any plants that their leaves turn white in the fall? Just some random thoughts. I'm sure its all about balance!
Another couple of thoughts that came to mind today was about the conversation I had with a friend of mine just yesterday on relationships and the balance of the male and female. I often thought that a relationship would be best if 50/50 in give and take since, however I have shifted to a ?/? ratio of relationships of give and take. Let me explain, in times of need the male may need more from the female and vice versa. I think the best example that comes to mind is if one spouse has an illness, the other spouse has to pick up the slack so the ratio can be 80/20 or 20/80. The point I was trying to make the other day is that its not about the ratio of give and take, however its about the fact that there is a ratio and that is what matters. All relationships have so many different ratios it would be tough to narrow down exactly the perfect one for any relationship and to be honest you can't because its always changing. I was thinking about this today on my ride becuase when I'm 100% I like to think the power distribution between my right and left legs are equal, however now that one is a little under the weather the left is having to pick up a lot more of the work and I can tell. Just made me think today...
Rolling into mile 30 the leg is starting to wake and I'm a little upset to be honest, I have been hoping and praying that this was just a short term muscle strain or something that would be gone in a couple days, however I'm close to a week now and its still there! I know this is going to be a challenge to make it home as it really bothers me! I ride through it for another 20 miles or so and just really taking it easy! The mind is taken to the thoughts of what is going on in there, I sure do wish I had the education to understand the anatomy to a deeper level then I do, all in due time I suppose! I pull in for lunch and have a peanute butter wrap and some raisens I had left over, refill the bottles with water and press on. I figure by now I have close to 45 miles to where I would like to camp. I plan on making it to Troutville, VA as they are supposed to have free camping there at a park and I'm certain I can make it!
After leaving the store I stoped at I cruise on to Lexington, VA and really just pass through, Stonewall Jacksons house is here, however I really don't want to stop as going the pace I am I'll need all the sunlight I can get. Rolling out of town the rear tire blows and I'm thinking, man is this the tire issue I had this morning that I thought would make it a couple more days or is it something else. Sure enough the side wall is starting to wear through, so I change tire and patch the tube and I'm on my way. Less than five miles down the road a small puncture forces me to patch the rear tire again, I'm thinking what's going to happen next? After patching the second one I stroll on through the farm lands of western Virginia and really just take in the sights! The weather is warm now with bright blue skies, the wind is still blowing out of the North. I manage to make it Buchanon with really no problem, the leg has been in and out with pain since the 45 mile marker. I'm not sure what to think of it, the pain is always there, its just the intensity that comes and goes. If I was on flats I really don't think I would have an issue, however with the topography I have to cover I do have sharp pain at times.
Rolling out of Buchanon I run into two cyclist heading to Yorktown. Stop and chat with them for almost 30 minutes I would imagine, finally my interaction with people close to my age out doing the same thing. Stacie and another guy, I don't like using that phrase for his name, however I can't seem to remember it at the moment, the only reason I remember hers is becuase she game me a handmade card with her blog information on it. It was good to catch up and chat with some folks on the TransAm today, it has been so long since I have seen another cyclist let alone got to talk to them. This brought the spirits back up for sure, making me think I should just keep riding once back to Missouri, that is if the leg will allow. Odds are I'll do the right thing and take the time needed to let this leg completely heal up, I have so much more life to live and doing it on a bum leg does not sound appealing!
19 miles to Troutsville go by without a hitch! I pull into the park and the park manager approaches me and ask if I can set up at the other patio area, I said not a problem. After chatting with him for a bit I head to the grocery pick up some dinner, then head to the fire station to grab a quick shower (Park manager mention it), I figured I haven't had a shower or a shave in close to 6 days so I might as well take advantage while its here. After cleaning up I head over to eat up some dinner and wind down for the evening, another long day ahead of me tomorrow as I would like to be back in Missouri by Oct. 15th, however weather and leg permitting...
Technical Data
Distance, miles: 103.57
Ride Time: 8:36:31
Work, kJ: 4943
Average Power, watts: 158 (not important now that my legs bummed)
Normalized Power, watts: 208
Average speed, mph: 11.9
Forecast: Sunny, windy I think in the 80's
Having stayed at the Cookie Lady's cycling house for the last couple of days, has got me thinking that I'm not ready to finish! So many more miles I could possibly put into this journey, however its not the miles that matter, its what I'm finding out on this journey that matters the most. Today's going to be a test to see how the leg is holding up, with 2.5 days off, which was most needed I think the leg is ready to go, not ready to race but ready to get me back on the road!
Waking up, I look at the clock, its 6:10 and I'm not ready to get up. I made the mistake of staying up last night listening to all the songs and lectures I have on Itunes on my pc. I don't have many so when I say all I mean it! I didn't download my collection of music to my pc before I left, which I think was a good thing! It's good to get out of the same routine and listen to other things, so I'm listening to the samples over and over! lol Not really, I listened to the lectures my brother gave me before I left again. All about leadership and they are really good so I didn't mind staying up late last night listening to them again! I've been craving some human interaction over the last couple of days, the mind has been pretty quiet over the last couple of days too, very peaceful!
Waking up a few minutes later after looking at the clock I head the bathroom, I think if I didn't have to go I would have slept on that couch for another hour or so. Once up, I got some breakfast (Oatmeal), and packed up my things as its time to ride! After all this down time, which in reality isn't much I was ready to see how the legs going to hold up for the remainder of this trip and get over these series of small hills that I have, since I picked up the Adventure Cycling map at the church in Yorktown I know the topography, I really don't like knowing, however I thought I would give one map a run to see what its like. Loading up the Bob and hitching it to the bike, I run the keys back up to the Cookie Lady's place. It's early so I just leave the keys on the door and head back to my bike. Odds are she was up, however I wasn't really looking forward to a long conversation in the morning, even though I have been craving some human interaction. Back down the hill I notice the rear tire's side wall is starting to get pretty warn, I'm sure it doesn't have much life let, however since I like to run things till they blow on this trip I'll leave it and change it over the next couple of days.
Up the first climb I'm feeling pretty good, seated as not to really press the quad too soon I feel strong. The legs feel loose, not tight and I can tell its going to be a good ride. The clouds have not burnt off, and they are just racing across the sky at about 20-30 mph. The forecast called for a windy day and they were correct about that for sure! The storm front is just to my left, which is south since I'm heading West. The sun has not made it up and over the storm clouds, and to be honest I'm glad it hasn't. It's so beautiful this morning, series of storms clouds blanketing the sky, so picturesque! I sure do wish I had my good camera back that went out on Pikes last year. All in due time I'll be back to not only painting pictures with text, but I'll be able to share what I have seen with photos! One of the things I love is to take pictures, I really like black and white versus color, not sure why just my preference.
Now on Blue Ridge Parkway I'm cruising, I'm feeling strong and the leg has not twinged once! This is a good sign, however its early too. The climbing for today is all in the first 30-40 miles, which could be looked as good or bad depending on how you look at things. I figure the stronger I am when climbing the better off, as I'll be able to really cover some ground while fresh. Up on the Parkway the mind is really all over the place! Wanting to stop and write some poetry or just add some notes for the blog.
The clouds are racing across the sky in front of me, air temperature is cold, wind is causing me to have the chills, the roads are wet and covered in leaves. Its the 1st of October and its gorgeous out here! Riding into a wall of fog, riding on faith as I have no idea whats in front of me. Fog so think I can't see but 10 feet, riding on faith today as I'm in new territory and not sure what type of debris may be in the road, just continue to ride. Stiff wind blows me from side to side, cold wind pulls tears from my eyes as I descend. Fog lifts, clouds part, blue skies ahead...
The Parkway is something, I really want to bring a group of riding partners back here some day and really push the pace. So many short climbs and all the beautiful lookouts! I wonder if I'll ever have the opportunity to make it here again? The trees are starting to turn, they are not fully ready yet as the temperatures have been so warm, however it won't be long now! Random thoughts running through my mind today! Thoughts as to why are leaves not black? I understand the chlorophyll provides the green pigment, however if sunlight is attracted to black more than any other color, why not pull as much in to utilize for photosynthesis as possible? I'm assuming this might be too much light, however I'm not botany expert, just a lonely biology wanna be since I took the Economics route, however I'm going back! And one other thought, are there any plants that their leaves turn white in the fall? Just some random thoughts. I'm sure its all about balance!
Another couple of thoughts that came to mind today was about the conversation I had with a friend of mine just yesterday on relationships and the balance of the male and female. I often thought that a relationship would be best if 50/50 in give and take since, however I have shifted to a ?/? ratio of relationships of give and take. Let me explain, in times of need the male may need more from the female and vice versa. I think the best example that comes to mind is if one spouse has an illness, the other spouse has to pick up the slack so the ratio can be 80/20 or 20/80. The point I was trying to make the other day is that its not about the ratio of give and take, however its about the fact that there is a ratio and that is what matters. All relationships have so many different ratios it would be tough to narrow down exactly the perfect one for any relationship and to be honest you can't because its always changing. I was thinking about this today on my ride becuase when I'm 100% I like to think the power distribution between my right and left legs are equal, however now that one is a little under the weather the left is having to pick up a lot more of the work and I can tell. Just made me think today...
Rolling into mile 30 the leg is starting to wake and I'm a little upset to be honest, I have been hoping and praying that this was just a short term muscle strain or something that would be gone in a couple days, however I'm close to a week now and its still there! I know this is going to be a challenge to make it home as it really bothers me! I ride through it for another 20 miles or so and just really taking it easy! The mind is taken to the thoughts of what is going on in there, I sure do wish I had the education to understand the anatomy to a deeper level then I do, all in due time I suppose! I pull in for lunch and have a peanute butter wrap and some raisens I had left over, refill the bottles with water and press on. I figure by now I have close to 45 miles to where I would like to camp. I plan on making it to Troutville, VA as they are supposed to have free camping there at a park and I'm certain I can make it!
After leaving the store I stoped at I cruise on to Lexington, VA and really just pass through, Stonewall Jacksons house is here, however I really don't want to stop as going the pace I am I'll need all the sunlight I can get. Rolling out of town the rear tire blows and I'm thinking, man is this the tire issue I had this morning that I thought would make it a couple more days or is it something else. Sure enough the side wall is starting to wear through, so I change tire and patch the tube and I'm on my way. Less than five miles down the road a small puncture forces me to patch the rear tire again, I'm thinking what's going to happen next? After patching the second one I stroll on through the farm lands of western Virginia and really just take in the sights! The weather is warm now with bright blue skies, the wind is still blowing out of the North. I manage to make it Buchanon with really no problem, the leg has been in and out with pain since the 45 mile marker. I'm not sure what to think of it, the pain is always there, its just the intensity that comes and goes. If I was on flats I really don't think I would have an issue, however with the topography I have to cover I do have sharp pain at times.
Rolling out of Buchanon I run into two cyclist heading to Yorktown. Stop and chat with them for almost 30 minutes I would imagine, finally my interaction with people close to my age out doing the same thing. Stacie and another guy, I don't like using that phrase for his name, however I can't seem to remember it at the moment, the only reason I remember hers is becuase she game me a handmade card with her blog information on it. It was good to catch up and chat with some folks on the TransAm today, it has been so long since I have seen another cyclist let alone got to talk to them. This brought the spirits back up for sure, making me think I should just keep riding once back to Missouri, that is if the leg will allow. Odds are I'll do the right thing and take the time needed to let this leg completely heal up, I have so much more life to live and doing it on a bum leg does not sound appealing!
19 miles to Troutsville go by without a hitch! I pull into the park and the park manager approaches me and ask if I can set up at the other patio area, I said not a problem. After chatting with him for a bit I head to the grocery pick up some dinner, then head to the fire station to grab a quick shower (Park manager mention it), I figured I haven't had a shower or a shave in close to 6 days so I might as well take advantage while its here. After cleaning up I head over to eat up some dinner and wind down for the evening, another long day ahead of me tomorrow as I would like to be back in Missouri by Oct. 15th, however weather and leg permitting...
DAY 78: September 28th, 2010 (Route: Shed 605/603 to Afton, VA "Cookie Lady")
DAY 78: September 28th, 2010 (Route: Shed 605/603 to Afton, VA "Cookie Lady")
Technical Data:
Distance, miles: 61.49
Ride Time 5:11:19
Work, kJ: 2857
Average Power, watts: 151
Normalized Power, watts: 199
Average Speed, mph: 11.71
Forecast: Sunny Skies and 70's
Waking up in a shed is something, surrounded by trackers and the feel of the country I was looking forward to getting up! Lets face it, I slept last night on a shelve made to store fuel and other odds and ends. I one cool part about sleeping in the shed, it was full of holes on the sides, giving the apperance of sleeping under the stars, surrounded by all different rays of light that brought joy to my being as I woke. I woke up and put my runners on right away, as I had to go! The watermelon I ate last night sure did rehydrate me as I woke a couple times in the night to use the restroom (that of a tree outside). After doing the normal routine of getting things packed away into Bob I took some time just to look out at the open field and take it all in. Years from now I'll be thinking about that night I slept next to the Monstor VW Bug and the thoughts that filled my mind, on how much fun that must be! lol
Attaching the Bob to my Trek I start to roll the rig out to the gravel drive that leads into this santuary David will retire to some day. The peace and and tranquility this place provides, will provide the time to think. I can only imagine what its like to live off the land and to live where no one else does. To pick fresh vegetables, to hunt, and to fish on a daily basis eating off the land and just enjoying the peace and quiet of nature. He and his wife will definitely be happy here I certain of that. To sit under the Willow Tree in the hammock soaking in the sunshine of the summer months would do anyone wonders, to wash the stress of life away and to soak it all in, to think clearly about the world we live upon, pulled down by the gravitaional forces that we take for granted on a daily basis. What if, just what if...
I roll out on the country road and notice when I changed my tire last night I failed to seal the tube in the tire, I thought how fortunate I am to not have to change another tube! Usually when this happens at 120 psi you have a loud noise and have to start over, thank goodness for durable tubes! While I fix this the neighbors dogs welcome me with an endless array of barks, so many dogs! I think this individual had close to 10-12 dogs. I guess when you live out in the country and have the means to do so you can have as many pets as you wish. I think ones plenty, however I often think having two would be nice so he could have a dog to play with when I'm away. The dogs parking this early in the morning, awoke the owner who came outside yelling "Quiet", I thought "Sorry", however the sun was up so it was time to get the day started!
The roads were wet from the night rain, trees changing color, however still in the early stages. Feeling good, the game plan is to take it easy as I have a lot of climbing ahead of me and this leg is a major concern. I have no intentions of taking a greyhound bus home (where ever home is), the plan was to use my pedal power to get me across this country and that's what I plan on doing! If I have to rest I'll rest...
Enjoying the morning ride I have my sites set on a 60 mile day or so and ending at he first small climb that I will come across on this next 1000+ miles until I reach the garage I left from. Terrain is rolling and I'm feeling surprisingly great, the leg feels like there is power available, however I stick to the plan of taking it easy. Stopping for water I think this could be a great day of riding if the leg doesn't wake up and cause me any pain! All is good for the first 20-40 miles and I'm surprised to be honest, the last couple days have been so hard and now I'm feeling like a champ ready to rock, however I'm on a governor today, nothing over 200 watts unless I'm climbing, seated as much as possible.
The feeling I had the last couple of days is pain right above the knee cap, I say right, however its about 3-4 inches above and more medial so I'm thinking adductor magnus or gracilus (what my research has told me and talking with my friend in Tulsa). Feels like I have something in there cutting away at my muscle tissue, lots of pain on the downward stroke of the pedal, when force (load) is applied, and then again on the upward stroke.
Rolling along the country roads in Virginia I pass Presidents Monroe's and Hamilton's homes, I would say estates as the land and the house must be a site to see, I just road passed, however I figure I will be back someday to take in the history, but for now I'm making my own I kept thinking! I roll into Charlottsvilles, VA and figure its a great opportunity to rest the leg, update the blog and just relax, having ridden 40 miles already this morning I deserve some rest to ensure I have the strength to climb the upcoming hill. I really hate feeling like this as I have l climbed so much, and probably tougher climbs to be honest over the course of my trip and now I'm sounding like a broken record, o' poor me, I've come this far and now I'm hurt. Just keep pushing along you wuss and get the job finished that you started I keep thinking, its time to show yourself what you made of in a different light. Think about it, you can push yourself to the edge and back, however when it comes time to slow yourself your turning into this pitiful child, just rest and finish what you started! It's now or never and riding a greyhound bus home is "NOT" an option. No matter what you will finish this and you will finish with the strength you started with!
I pulled into a Marriott and figured I could get wi fi in the lounge, so this is what I did. I had a little bit of peanut butter and tortillas that I purchased a few days before and just relaxed and wrote. Taking nearly an hour and a half in the lounge I was ready to roll on down the road. While in the lounge I observed a lot of things, people coming and going, the clerk at the front desk just sitting there thinking, I was wondering what they were thinking as they were in such deep concentration, or they could have been sleeping for all I know. A young lady interviewing other young people. I asked what she was interviewing for and it was for Vanderbilt Law school, I thought how interesting. I'm assuming the Universtiy of Virginia that is right next door has a pre-law undergradute degree program, and here in the hotel is a recruiter trying to pick out the best and brightest of tomorrows future leaders of the World. I say the World as I think of the global economy, not just one domestic as the butterflies wings flap in the ever changing wind so does our economic situation, this those young minds sitting there must embrace if they want to succeed in the economic conditions that will present themselves in the near future. Embracing change is one trait all humans should embrace, and do so at a young age as its truely present at all moments we live.
The recruiter was young attractive blonde, Swedish if I'm remembering correctly and mentioned she used to ride all the time in Sweden. Since I have never traveled out of the country I must show my ignorace here, she mentioned you could ride every where and that the United States needs to embrace this idea as well, I had no disagreement here, however with the size of the two countries I would presume the cost would be very tough to do so, not that we don't want to, because I feel the need of change (did I really type that), change is going to happen whether we want it to or not. My ignorance is on what the infrastructure looks like over there, I feel another road trip coming on! All in the all conversation came to a pretty adbrupt end, with both agreeing that we need more cycling going on in the United States.
One of the interviewees reminded me of someone out West.
Leaving the Mariott I continued down the highway heading to Afton, lots of rolling terrain which I love! I just wish the leg was willing to push the pace as I was mentally wanting to hit it, 60 miles is a great distance to cover, however I love to hit the century marker, just gives me a since of accomplishment! I think I just love the feeling of the muscles being sore, the ache, the twingyness of the muscles later in the evening, the feeling of doing something. I can get this is I really hit a 60 mile ride, however not at this pace I've been governored too.
Traffic is lite on these picturesque roads here in the Virginia, I love the colonial homes and the large plantation estates, makes for some breathtaking views. I can tell the mind is back, the last couple of days I have been in a poor pitiful state of mind, leaving me trapped in my thoughts of unproductiveness. I wonder how many other Americans live in this state of mind on a daily basis, trapped, unwilling to make the change to a more positive state of mind. If I can do it out here on my own, I know those that go through this can change, just talk with someone about it. I have made the desicion to adjust, slow the pace, allow the body to heal and live again in the moment that I have failed to do over the last couple of days. What has allowed me to change this thought process I ask? Where was the updraft that I needed the moment things were changing, was it someone I talked to, was it a sight I saw along the road, was it a thought of wanting to change?
Starting to climb I'm thinking of my right leg, I figured if my right leg stays pain free throughout the climb I'll be ready to go over the next couple of days if I ease into things. The plan is to take a couple days off at the "Cookie Lady's" place, a hostel for cyclist that are traveling on the TransAm route. The leg is starting to act up a little so I back off the pace more to make sure I can make it to the house without any pain, this would be a great confidence builder for the day if I was able to come out of this with a 4-5 days of rest with no serious injury, that's the goal as I cannot afford the time, money, or emtional turmoil that would come with yet another injury. For those of you that don't know, I have had 8 surgeries over the course of my young life and really would not like to have another! With the experience on the table that I have had, I know the emotional pain that accompanies the physical pain and this is what I fear the most, the down time, the thinking of not being able to come back, the feeling of lossing so much of who I am. I think about this however there will come a time when sacrifice will have to be made, a given up of something I love. When that day comes I hope I am mature enough to embrace it right way and not fight it, as life is way to short to look at things we cannot change. So many sit and fight the change, losing so many precious moments in life. Embrace the change at all cost, I know it hurts, however it must be done as you have only so few precious moments, this is what I thought about when I was going through those trials. Staring at the PT clinic ceiling of what it, what if I don't come back, what will I do, what will my dreams be? So many thoughts...
Climbing to the sign that reads "June Curry" Cookie Lady I think I made it and with little pain, now for a couple of days rest which I know my leg needs and I'll embrace it here at a famous stop on the TransAm route. I head up to get the keys from June and she greats me with a wonderful smile and worries of heading West this late in the season. I would say that June is in her 80's and doing well for her age, considering she is living on her own, however observing from our conversation which I recorded I think the heart attack a few years back is catching up to her. The thoughts she was sharing I was thinking how sad, such a vibrant soul that loves to share her live with those traveling across the country. June has been serving the cycling community for over 35 years now and its evident in the Cycling House!
I sit here now typing in the Cycling House that is a museum of the TransAm, so many thoughts going through the mind as I cherish this precious moment in my history that I am creating for myself. Thousands of postcards cover the walls, t-shirts, cycling memorabilla, and news paper articles of cycling make this place a special stop on the trip! I would say that more than 15,000 people have visited this place and all have either left or sent a piece of their journey back to this place, a true museum of the route history her at one place. Last couple to sign the log was 6 days ago, so happens it was the Australian couple I saw on the west coast, how cool would that have been to see them again on their journey.
As I rest for the next couple of days I hope to read and rest the leg, as the weather closes in for the winter I keep thinking about how nice it will be to have a bed I can call my own. One thing I really am missing on this trip are "FireSide Chats" with my good friend Jan in Colorado, thinking of the winter months makes me think of Colorado. I hope to have a fire place of my own someday where I can continue chats like these with all those I love, so many friends and family that I would enjoy just sitting and learning about! Off to sleep I go now, to get up and rest the next couple of days and just soack in the history here in Afton, VA, a quite little town nestled in the foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains.
Technical Data:
Distance, miles: 61.49
Ride Time 5:11:19
Work, kJ: 2857
Average Power, watts: 151
Normalized Power, watts: 199
Average Speed, mph: 11.71
Forecast: Sunny Skies and 70's
Waking up in a shed is something, surrounded by trackers and the feel of the country I was looking forward to getting up! Lets face it, I slept last night on a shelve made to store fuel and other odds and ends. I one cool part about sleeping in the shed, it was full of holes on the sides, giving the apperance of sleeping under the stars, surrounded by all different rays of light that brought joy to my being as I woke. I woke up and put my runners on right away, as I had to go! The watermelon I ate last night sure did rehydrate me as I woke a couple times in the night to use the restroom (that of a tree outside). After doing the normal routine of getting things packed away into Bob I took some time just to look out at the open field and take it all in. Years from now I'll be thinking about that night I slept next to the Monstor VW Bug and the thoughts that filled my mind, on how much fun that must be! lol
Attaching the Bob to my Trek I start to roll the rig out to the gravel drive that leads into this santuary David will retire to some day. The peace and and tranquility this place provides, will provide the time to think. I can only imagine what its like to live off the land and to live where no one else does. To pick fresh vegetables, to hunt, and to fish on a daily basis eating off the land and just enjoying the peace and quiet of nature. He and his wife will definitely be happy here I certain of that. To sit under the Willow Tree in the hammock soaking in the sunshine of the summer months would do anyone wonders, to wash the stress of life away and to soak it all in, to think clearly about the world we live upon, pulled down by the gravitaional forces that we take for granted on a daily basis. What if, just what if...
I roll out on the country road and notice when I changed my tire last night I failed to seal the tube in the tire, I thought how fortunate I am to not have to change another tube! Usually when this happens at 120 psi you have a loud noise and have to start over, thank goodness for durable tubes! While I fix this the neighbors dogs welcome me with an endless array of barks, so many dogs! I think this individual had close to 10-12 dogs. I guess when you live out in the country and have the means to do so you can have as many pets as you wish. I think ones plenty, however I often think having two would be nice so he could have a dog to play with when I'm away. The dogs parking this early in the morning, awoke the owner who came outside yelling "Quiet", I thought "Sorry", however the sun was up so it was time to get the day started!
The roads were wet from the night rain, trees changing color, however still in the early stages. Feeling good, the game plan is to take it easy as I have a lot of climbing ahead of me and this leg is a major concern. I have no intentions of taking a greyhound bus home (where ever home is), the plan was to use my pedal power to get me across this country and that's what I plan on doing! If I have to rest I'll rest...
Enjoying the morning ride I have my sites set on a 60 mile day or so and ending at he first small climb that I will come across on this next 1000+ miles until I reach the garage I left from. Terrain is rolling and I'm feeling surprisingly great, the leg feels like there is power available, however I stick to the plan of taking it easy. Stopping for water I think this could be a great day of riding if the leg doesn't wake up and cause me any pain! All is good for the first 20-40 miles and I'm surprised to be honest, the last couple days have been so hard and now I'm feeling like a champ ready to rock, however I'm on a governor today, nothing over 200 watts unless I'm climbing, seated as much as possible.
The feeling I had the last couple of days is pain right above the knee cap, I say right, however its about 3-4 inches above and more medial so I'm thinking adductor magnus or gracilus (what my research has told me and talking with my friend in Tulsa). Feels like I have something in there cutting away at my muscle tissue, lots of pain on the downward stroke of the pedal, when force (load) is applied, and then again on the upward stroke.
Rolling along the country roads in Virginia I pass Presidents Monroe's and Hamilton's homes, I would say estates as the land and the house must be a site to see, I just road passed, however I figure I will be back someday to take in the history, but for now I'm making my own I kept thinking! I roll into Charlottsvilles, VA and figure its a great opportunity to rest the leg, update the blog and just relax, having ridden 40 miles already this morning I deserve some rest to ensure I have the strength to climb the upcoming hill. I really hate feeling like this as I have l climbed so much, and probably tougher climbs to be honest over the course of my trip and now I'm sounding like a broken record, o' poor me, I've come this far and now I'm hurt. Just keep pushing along you wuss and get the job finished that you started I keep thinking, its time to show yourself what you made of in a different light. Think about it, you can push yourself to the edge and back, however when it comes time to slow yourself your turning into this pitiful child, just rest and finish what you started! It's now or never and riding a greyhound bus home is "NOT" an option. No matter what you will finish this and you will finish with the strength you started with!
I pulled into a Marriott and figured I could get wi fi in the lounge, so this is what I did. I had a little bit of peanut butter and tortillas that I purchased a few days before and just relaxed and wrote. Taking nearly an hour and a half in the lounge I was ready to roll on down the road. While in the lounge I observed a lot of things, people coming and going, the clerk at the front desk just sitting there thinking, I was wondering what they were thinking as they were in such deep concentration, or they could have been sleeping for all I know. A young lady interviewing other young people. I asked what she was interviewing for and it was for Vanderbilt Law school, I thought how interesting. I'm assuming the Universtiy of Virginia that is right next door has a pre-law undergradute degree program, and here in the hotel is a recruiter trying to pick out the best and brightest of tomorrows future leaders of the World. I say the World as I think of the global economy, not just one domestic as the butterflies wings flap in the ever changing wind so does our economic situation, this those young minds sitting there must embrace if they want to succeed in the economic conditions that will present themselves in the near future. Embracing change is one trait all humans should embrace, and do so at a young age as its truely present at all moments we live.
The recruiter was young attractive blonde, Swedish if I'm remembering correctly and mentioned she used to ride all the time in Sweden. Since I have never traveled out of the country I must show my ignorace here, she mentioned you could ride every where and that the United States needs to embrace this idea as well, I had no disagreement here, however with the size of the two countries I would presume the cost would be very tough to do so, not that we don't want to, because I feel the need of change (did I really type that), change is going to happen whether we want it to or not. My ignorance is on what the infrastructure looks like over there, I feel another road trip coming on! All in the all conversation came to a pretty adbrupt end, with both agreeing that we need more cycling going on in the United States.
One of the interviewees reminded me of someone out West.
Leaving the Mariott I continued down the highway heading to Afton, lots of rolling terrain which I love! I just wish the leg was willing to push the pace as I was mentally wanting to hit it, 60 miles is a great distance to cover, however I love to hit the century marker, just gives me a since of accomplishment! I think I just love the feeling of the muscles being sore, the ache, the twingyness of the muscles later in the evening, the feeling of doing something. I can get this is I really hit a 60 mile ride, however not at this pace I've been governored too.
Traffic is lite on these picturesque roads here in the Virginia, I love the colonial homes and the large plantation estates, makes for some breathtaking views. I can tell the mind is back, the last couple of days I have been in a poor pitiful state of mind, leaving me trapped in my thoughts of unproductiveness. I wonder how many other Americans live in this state of mind on a daily basis, trapped, unwilling to make the change to a more positive state of mind. If I can do it out here on my own, I know those that go through this can change, just talk with someone about it. I have made the desicion to adjust, slow the pace, allow the body to heal and live again in the moment that I have failed to do over the last couple of days. What has allowed me to change this thought process I ask? Where was the updraft that I needed the moment things were changing, was it someone I talked to, was it a sight I saw along the road, was it a thought of wanting to change?
Starting to climb I'm thinking of my right leg, I figured if my right leg stays pain free throughout the climb I'll be ready to go over the next couple of days if I ease into things. The plan is to take a couple days off at the "Cookie Lady's" place, a hostel for cyclist that are traveling on the TransAm route. The leg is starting to act up a little so I back off the pace more to make sure I can make it to the house without any pain, this would be a great confidence builder for the day if I was able to come out of this with a 4-5 days of rest with no serious injury, that's the goal as I cannot afford the time, money, or emtional turmoil that would come with yet another injury. For those of you that don't know, I have had 8 surgeries over the course of my young life and really would not like to have another! With the experience on the table that I have had, I know the emotional pain that accompanies the physical pain and this is what I fear the most, the down time, the thinking of not being able to come back, the feeling of lossing so much of who I am. I think about this however there will come a time when sacrifice will have to be made, a given up of something I love. When that day comes I hope I am mature enough to embrace it right way and not fight it, as life is way to short to look at things we cannot change. So many sit and fight the change, losing so many precious moments in life. Embrace the change at all cost, I know it hurts, however it must be done as you have only so few precious moments, this is what I thought about when I was going through those trials. Staring at the PT clinic ceiling of what it, what if I don't come back, what will I do, what will my dreams be? So many thoughts...
Climbing to the sign that reads "June Curry" Cookie Lady I think I made it and with little pain, now for a couple of days rest which I know my leg needs and I'll embrace it here at a famous stop on the TransAm route. I head up to get the keys from June and she greats me with a wonderful smile and worries of heading West this late in the season. I would say that June is in her 80's and doing well for her age, considering she is living on her own, however observing from our conversation which I recorded I think the heart attack a few years back is catching up to her. The thoughts she was sharing I was thinking how sad, such a vibrant soul that loves to share her live with those traveling across the country. June has been serving the cycling community for over 35 years now and its evident in the Cycling House!
I sit here now typing in the Cycling House that is a museum of the TransAm, so many thoughts going through the mind as I cherish this precious moment in my history that I am creating for myself. Thousands of postcards cover the walls, t-shirts, cycling memorabilla, and news paper articles of cycling make this place a special stop on the trip! I would say that more than 15,000 people have visited this place and all have either left or sent a piece of their journey back to this place, a true museum of the route history her at one place. Last couple to sign the log was 6 days ago, so happens it was the Australian couple I saw on the west coast, how cool would that have been to see them again on their journey.
As I rest for the next couple of days I hope to read and rest the leg, as the weather closes in for the winter I keep thinking about how nice it will be to have a bed I can call my own. One thing I really am missing on this trip are "FireSide Chats" with my good friend Jan in Colorado, thinking of the winter months makes me think of Colorado. I hope to have a fire place of my own someday where I can continue chats like these with all those I love, so many friends and family that I would enjoy just sitting and learning about! Off to sleep I go now, to get up and rest the next couple of days and just soack in the history here in Afton, VA, a quite little town nestled in the foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains.
Tuesday, September 28, 2010
Day 77: September 27th, 2010 (Route: Mechanicsville, VA to Highway Intersection 605/603 VA)
Day 77: September 27th, 2010 (Route: Mechanicsville, VA to Highway Intersection 605/603 VA)
Technical Data
Distance, miles: 61.71
Ride time 4:46:06
Work, kJ: 2395
Average Power, watts: 139
Normalized Power, watts: 183
Average Speed, mph: 12.87
Forecast - 50-65 and raining, rained all day long! Nice rain at times, then some heavy down pours...
Last night I had so many dreams. Dreams all over the board too, I would dream then wake up, then fall sleep dream some more, this went on a couple more times, when I finally woke up all I wanted to do was fall back a sleep and continue to dream. All of the dreams were interesting, from playing baseball to dance under the moon light. What a night I thought when I woke up. The night before really wasn't all that different from any other night besides I had more vegetables then I have had since Raleigh.
I woke up thinking that I would be back to normal with my leg and that things would be okay, however once down the stairs I could tell it was going to be a rough day. I'm hoping at this point that the ride will be a nice one, wind at my back while the legs feel strong. I crawl out of bed, do the normal hygeine routine and collect my things. Head down stairs and greet the Mackey's. Sons are getting ready for school while Carol works in the kitchen, not sure where Clyde, assuming getting ready for work. Its close to 6:45 at this point and I'm really anxious to see how the leg is going to feel after another day of rest. I gladly accept some breakfast, cereal and some grape juice (can't remember the last time I had grape juice). While eating breakfast I write in the cycling log that Carol brings me. Most host families have some time of journel to write in to log all the cyclist over time that have stayed at their house. I think is a great way to record all the people they have helped out throughout their time hosting. There is something about hosting that brings joy. I know once I settle somewhere, hopefully on a major cycling route I'll be able to host.
After breakfast I back my things and look outside and its raining, not a hard rain, more like a mist. I plan on riding today no matter what the weather, I'm really getting the feeling of wanting to be through since the leg started acting up a couple days ago. I'm sure this attitude/thoughts is only because of the leg, otherwise I was ready to hit the road and ride like I have been riding for the last 70+ days. Since its raining I decide to finish the last few pages I couldn't get through last night. Everybody has left now except Carol, she mentions she is going with the neighbor for a walk. I said okay and turn back to the book, I figure if I finish it I can send it back to Uncle Steve so it won't get ruined, since it was raining out I figured I might see a lot more rain over the next couple weeks so best be safe and just mail it back and finish it now.
I finish the book right when Carol finished her walk, so I packed things up and get ready to depart. She wanted me to stay until she finished her walk so she could snap a few photos of me before I headed out on my journey. Before doing so, she loaded me up with a few granola bars, some raisens, and some roasted soy beans. I gladly accepted anything she was going to offer as I know I have close to 1000+ miles to go. I'm not sure how many I have, all I know is that I'm in the middle of Virginia and I'm heading to Missouri a couple states over and I'm sure I'll burn any calories she wants to send with me. After saying our good byes I head out into the lite rain!
I figured it would rain a little then ease up, however it only started to rain harder the longer the ride went. Rolling out of the neighborhood I was excited to be back on the bike, however the rain was not something I looked forward too. I thought to myself this is going to be a mental challenge today, starting in the rain and finishing in the rain is what will probably happen. The mind was solid and really wanting to get to the next camp ground early to allow the leg to rest. Riding out I didn't feel anything, however I new it was going to be a tough day.
Through Ashland then Coatesville, I'm cruising at a low intensity and making sure I watch the power, watching the power should allow me to log in more miles with this leg. So I continue to ride and I'm feeling pretty good the first 20-25 miles and thinking the rest really helped then it hit me. AT mile 35 the quad woke up and said no more, I stopped and rested on the side of the highway for a little bit. These roads here in VA are really not highways, more country rural roads that are great for riding! Narrow and lined with beautiful tress and I really enjoy, just wish the weather was more forgiving so I could enjoy the day. The wind picked up, could sense the dark skies closing in, then it hit me. Hard rain, I figured, I'm soaked by now so why stop, might as well keep on riding.
Mentally I'm starting to break, I keep thinking about having to quit becuase of an overuse injury. I keep think, great all I want to do is finish what I started. Over the last couple of years I have started so many things and things have either been taken from me or I had to walk away, this trip on the other hand is something I do not want to walk away from. This trip is to prove to myself that I have what it takes, to build the confidence and to start back fresh upon my return. I can't quit, there is not stopping me, even if I have to pedal the remainder of this trip with my left leg!
Continuing on I'm fighting not to stop then I do pull over about mile 60 and think what the hell is going on. My friends want me to take it easy and I know I should, I'm not going to do anything stupid, however I just don't want to quit. I'm an intelligent young man and I know what needs to be done. I need to 1) rest as this is the only way to allow myself to get back to 100%. I've put my body through the ringer the last couple of months with a few more weeks to go, so the plan going forward is to listen to the body. It the body says stop I'll stop, however I'm not going to give up on this trip. If I have to hike back I'll do that, I can walk with no pain its just the pedal stroke that gets me, and walking up stairs. So I'll take some rest when I get it and take it easy on the bike, coast on the downhills and pedal as easy as I can going up hill, however this is the pain generator and with the hills coming up I'm not sure what I'm going to do. I'll figure it out though!
I continue to ride and the thoughts are pretty much just thinking of the rain, though the leaves look great I'm trying to keep the water out of my eyes by just focusing on the ride I don't really notice much of what else is going on. Right at about mile 60 I pull off and check the distance from where I would like to get for the night, it appears the long distance days may have come to an end, this I mentally must accept even though it pisses me off. Survival mode is what I must go to now, meaning get home at all means possible using any physical way possible, pedal with one leg, walk my rig home, what ever else comes to mind. I'm not going to quit, as I am not a quitter!
After checking the map and eating a little I decide its time to push on, still raining I start to ride and the rear is flat. I must have ran over something when I stopped. I'm thinking what a time to have a flat, the days just get more interesting. I use the spare tube in the blow out bag and figure this will be the quickest, then I notice it has a hole. No luck today for me, I take the time and patch it making sure not to get the area wet with ran. Many cars passing now, wondering if anyone is going to stop and just check, its not like I would accept a ride but I figured just out of courtesy. I get the tire changed and a couple people stop, I wave one lady on. The guy in the truck turned around and I talked with him for a bit. I asked him if there was a place to camp within the next 20 miles or so, I figured it was now 3PM and if I could find some type of cover I would be set. I was soaked by this time, however BoB had a dry change of clothes in his belly for me!
David, the driver of the truck mentioned a shed about five miles down the road. I said that will work, I've been riding in the rain for over 5 hours, feeling like its a snails pace because of my quad causing me troubles. I know the forecast called for rain all day with thunderstorms in the late evening and night so I was in for it if I camped out, which was okay. I'm on an adventure, however its still tough to swallow mentally with this leg issue (I don't want to use the word injured as that would mean throwing in the towel). We arrive at David's place, off the major route a couple of miles and its plush, its a shed, but I'm thinking its dry and its out of the wind and perfect for tonight.
David showed me his place, this is his rental. Not too shabby I'm thinking, 160 acres and its a rental. Open fields, areas to hunt, a pond to fish in, and a garden to pick fresh vegetables from along with a small watermelon patch. He allows me to eat what I can find and I'm gladly going to accept, a watermelon sounds great right about now. Once he heads out I head down to the pond where the watermelons are and pick one, figure I'll rehydrate with this fresh melon and have a great dinner in the shed. After eating 3/4 of the watermelon I sit down to read and just sit in the moment in the shed, something I haven't been able to do the last couple of days due to the thoughts I have been having with this quad/thigh issue.
Sitting in the moment I observe. This shed has a John Deer trackor, a souped up Beetle that sits about eight feet tall, some chairs, a bath tub (yes for bathing), and some other lawn equipment. The things that really intrigued me were the spiders, the field mice, the small snakes crawling around (counted two of these). At this moment I have my bed roll on the floor, however once I saw the snake up on the platform I decide I'm going to sleep up off the ground as to not get too close with the critters as dark closes in. The rain is beginning to fall, the water droplets pelting the tin roof, and continues into the night. I drift off thinking and praying that my leg will be strong enough to pedal me back to where I started this journey...
Technical Data
Distance, miles: 61.71
Ride time 4:46:06
Work, kJ: 2395
Average Power, watts: 139
Normalized Power, watts: 183
Average Speed, mph: 12.87
Forecast - 50-65 and raining, rained all day long! Nice rain at times, then some heavy down pours...
Last night I had so many dreams. Dreams all over the board too, I would dream then wake up, then fall sleep dream some more, this went on a couple more times, when I finally woke up all I wanted to do was fall back a sleep and continue to dream. All of the dreams were interesting, from playing baseball to dance under the moon light. What a night I thought when I woke up. The night before really wasn't all that different from any other night besides I had more vegetables then I have had since Raleigh.
I woke up thinking that I would be back to normal with my leg and that things would be okay, however once down the stairs I could tell it was going to be a rough day. I'm hoping at this point that the ride will be a nice one, wind at my back while the legs feel strong. I crawl out of bed, do the normal hygeine routine and collect my things. Head down stairs and greet the Mackey's. Sons are getting ready for school while Carol works in the kitchen, not sure where Clyde, assuming getting ready for work. Its close to 6:45 at this point and I'm really anxious to see how the leg is going to feel after another day of rest. I gladly accept some breakfast, cereal and some grape juice (can't remember the last time I had grape juice). While eating breakfast I write in the cycling log that Carol brings me. Most host families have some time of journel to write in to log all the cyclist over time that have stayed at their house. I think is a great way to record all the people they have helped out throughout their time hosting. There is something about hosting that brings joy. I know once I settle somewhere, hopefully on a major cycling route I'll be able to host.
After breakfast I back my things and look outside and its raining, not a hard rain, more like a mist. I plan on riding today no matter what the weather, I'm really getting the feeling of wanting to be through since the leg started acting up a couple days ago. I'm sure this attitude/thoughts is only because of the leg, otherwise I was ready to hit the road and ride like I have been riding for the last 70+ days. Since its raining I decide to finish the last few pages I couldn't get through last night. Everybody has left now except Carol, she mentions she is going with the neighbor for a walk. I said okay and turn back to the book, I figure if I finish it I can send it back to Uncle Steve so it won't get ruined, since it was raining out I figured I might see a lot more rain over the next couple weeks so best be safe and just mail it back and finish it now.
I finish the book right when Carol finished her walk, so I packed things up and get ready to depart. She wanted me to stay until she finished her walk so she could snap a few photos of me before I headed out on my journey. Before doing so, she loaded me up with a few granola bars, some raisens, and some roasted soy beans. I gladly accepted anything she was going to offer as I know I have close to 1000+ miles to go. I'm not sure how many I have, all I know is that I'm in the middle of Virginia and I'm heading to Missouri a couple states over and I'm sure I'll burn any calories she wants to send with me. After saying our good byes I head out into the lite rain!
I figured it would rain a little then ease up, however it only started to rain harder the longer the ride went. Rolling out of the neighborhood I was excited to be back on the bike, however the rain was not something I looked forward too. I thought to myself this is going to be a mental challenge today, starting in the rain and finishing in the rain is what will probably happen. The mind was solid and really wanting to get to the next camp ground early to allow the leg to rest. Riding out I didn't feel anything, however I new it was going to be a tough day.
Through Ashland then Coatesville, I'm cruising at a low intensity and making sure I watch the power, watching the power should allow me to log in more miles with this leg. So I continue to ride and I'm feeling pretty good the first 20-25 miles and thinking the rest really helped then it hit me. AT mile 35 the quad woke up and said no more, I stopped and rested on the side of the highway for a little bit. These roads here in VA are really not highways, more country rural roads that are great for riding! Narrow and lined with beautiful tress and I really enjoy, just wish the weather was more forgiving so I could enjoy the day. The wind picked up, could sense the dark skies closing in, then it hit me. Hard rain, I figured, I'm soaked by now so why stop, might as well keep on riding.
Mentally I'm starting to break, I keep thinking about having to quit becuase of an overuse injury. I keep think, great all I want to do is finish what I started. Over the last couple of years I have started so many things and things have either been taken from me or I had to walk away, this trip on the other hand is something I do not want to walk away from. This trip is to prove to myself that I have what it takes, to build the confidence and to start back fresh upon my return. I can't quit, there is not stopping me, even if I have to pedal the remainder of this trip with my left leg!
Continuing on I'm fighting not to stop then I do pull over about mile 60 and think what the hell is going on. My friends want me to take it easy and I know I should, I'm not going to do anything stupid, however I just don't want to quit. I'm an intelligent young man and I know what needs to be done. I need to 1) rest as this is the only way to allow myself to get back to 100%. I've put my body through the ringer the last couple of months with a few more weeks to go, so the plan going forward is to listen to the body. It the body says stop I'll stop, however I'm not going to give up on this trip. If I have to hike back I'll do that, I can walk with no pain its just the pedal stroke that gets me, and walking up stairs. So I'll take some rest when I get it and take it easy on the bike, coast on the downhills and pedal as easy as I can going up hill, however this is the pain generator and with the hills coming up I'm not sure what I'm going to do. I'll figure it out though!
I continue to ride and the thoughts are pretty much just thinking of the rain, though the leaves look great I'm trying to keep the water out of my eyes by just focusing on the ride I don't really notice much of what else is going on. Right at about mile 60 I pull off and check the distance from where I would like to get for the night, it appears the long distance days may have come to an end, this I mentally must accept even though it pisses me off. Survival mode is what I must go to now, meaning get home at all means possible using any physical way possible, pedal with one leg, walk my rig home, what ever else comes to mind. I'm not going to quit, as I am not a quitter!
After checking the map and eating a little I decide its time to push on, still raining I start to ride and the rear is flat. I must have ran over something when I stopped. I'm thinking what a time to have a flat, the days just get more interesting. I use the spare tube in the blow out bag and figure this will be the quickest, then I notice it has a hole. No luck today for me, I take the time and patch it making sure not to get the area wet with ran. Many cars passing now, wondering if anyone is going to stop and just check, its not like I would accept a ride but I figured just out of courtesy. I get the tire changed and a couple people stop, I wave one lady on. The guy in the truck turned around and I talked with him for a bit. I asked him if there was a place to camp within the next 20 miles or so, I figured it was now 3PM and if I could find some type of cover I would be set. I was soaked by this time, however BoB had a dry change of clothes in his belly for me!
David, the driver of the truck mentioned a shed about five miles down the road. I said that will work, I've been riding in the rain for over 5 hours, feeling like its a snails pace because of my quad causing me troubles. I know the forecast called for rain all day with thunderstorms in the late evening and night so I was in for it if I camped out, which was okay. I'm on an adventure, however its still tough to swallow mentally with this leg issue (I don't want to use the word injured as that would mean throwing in the towel). We arrive at David's place, off the major route a couple of miles and its plush, its a shed, but I'm thinking its dry and its out of the wind and perfect for tonight.
David showed me his place, this is his rental. Not too shabby I'm thinking, 160 acres and its a rental. Open fields, areas to hunt, a pond to fish in, and a garden to pick fresh vegetables from along with a small watermelon patch. He allows me to eat what I can find and I'm gladly going to accept, a watermelon sounds great right about now. Once he heads out I head down to the pond where the watermelons are and pick one, figure I'll rehydrate with this fresh melon and have a great dinner in the shed. After eating 3/4 of the watermelon I sit down to read and just sit in the moment in the shed, something I haven't been able to do the last couple of days due to the thoughts I have been having with this quad/thigh issue.
Sitting in the moment I observe. This shed has a John Deer trackor, a souped up Beetle that sits about eight feet tall, some chairs, a bath tub (yes for bathing), and some other lawn equipment. The things that really intrigued me were the spiders, the field mice, the small snakes crawling around (counted two of these). At this moment I have my bed roll on the floor, however once I saw the snake up on the platform I decide I'm going to sleep up off the ground as to not get too close with the critters as dark closes in. The rain is beginning to fall, the water droplets pelting the tin roof, and continues into the night. I drift off thinking and praying that my leg will be strong enough to pedal me back to where I started this journey...
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