After breakfast this morning at 6:00 AM we loaded luggage at 7:00 and were on the road by 7:15. Conditions were cool and breezy with NNW winds increasing in intensity throughout the rest of the day. Our track was North East so the wind buffeted us from the side and as the roads we were riding on turned, we occasionally had the wind in our face, which severely impeded our progress. Oh well, I guess we got spoiled by the big tail winds.
Many of the riders inquired about my injuries this morning and throughout the day. We have become like a big family all looking out for each other. I reassured all that I was okay and ready to ride. Sue the ER nurse on the ride had wrapped my elbow with gauze last evening and Rick helped re-wrap it for today’s ride.
The terrain is increasingly rolling with longer and sometimes steeper hills on the route. Being mostly on country roads again we passed many farms and open fields of lush green grasses outlined with trees.
As we were leaving the small town of Atchison Kansas we rode across a very treacherous bridge to cross the Missouri River. About a mile later we came upon the unimpressive sign announcing the State of Missouri. The roads in Missouri have been rough. At least we get a chance to ride in the shade sometimes now.
Even though today’s ride at 89 miles was shorter mileage than yesterday’s 108 miles. It took nearly as long to complete. Less favorable wind and more hills was the cause.
It is a relief to know that tomorrow we have an off day and can rest or bodies and service our bikes for the next leg of the trip. We will be getting into some of the areas that suffered flooding and will likely have some changes to the route plan as a result.
Thanks to all for your comments on my blog and for emails that I receive. I find that I feel connected to you and I’m energized by your interest. It was nice to receive a comment on yesterday’s post from Carolyn, a previous co-worker at Dominion. My Brother in-law Don and his wife Frieda have been great cheer leaders for me, and are cruising the US in an RV also. Where are you Don and Frieda?
5 comments:
Keep on truckin'!
Hello Jay. In the July issue of "The Pedaler," RABA's newsletter, Bud Vye devotes a paragraph to you, Rick, and Cal Pletcher, all of whom are on a cross-country bike trip. Cal is doing a Bicycle Adventure Club Cross Country Ride from Astoria, Oregon to St. Augustine, Florida. The audience of readers for your blog will probably increase as Bud includes your blog address in the article. //Ron
Jay-
It was great to talk to you last night. We are very happy to that you haven't had much affect from the fall on Saturday. Enjoy your day off in St. Jo's today!
Kristy
Jay,
We've been following your progress - thanks for the chance to share the experience vicariously - glad to see that you survived the fall - we look forward to many long stories when you return. Best wishes and our prays. Jim and Marlene
Jay,
Don and I are still with you all the way, you were following us for awhile but we headed North and are in S.D. now still heading to WI. Every time we went up and down mountain roads thought of you and your fellow riders. You are all doing a great job and will have such great memories. Keep up the good work.
Congratulation it was great to read that you are half way there and please cross railroad tracks more carefully, Pat wants you home in ONE PIECE.
Sorry we haven't blogged lately we are busy taking care of two Russian Blue Kittens acquired when we were in Lander, WY, they are cute but full of piss and vinegar
frieda and don
Post a Comment