Vancouver, BC
I'm here, in a coffee shop on Julia's laptop, and I just told the man next to me I biked from the Atlantic to the Pacific in the past 10 weeks. He says, "Wow, well have a good day in Vancouver." and walks away. When you say it, it just doesn't seem as cool as when you live it.
It's impossible to describe the last 30 miles riding as a huge group through the city yesterday, and even harder--getting wet with Pacific ocean, dipping my front tire, staring out to sea, there. Quite the bike. We went out to dinner as a group to a brew pub and now, a day later, 4 people are already gone. It'll still take a little while to sink in, here I am, Canada, the destination, all those miles, hills, diners, headwinds, conversations, friendships--call it family even, and it's over. Back to real life. Thanks for reading along the whole way, and all the comments. I'll have lots of pictures up September 6, and maybe some more words about Vancouver if I can articulate them. Surreal. Good times.
Love from Vancouver, BC, CANADA!
Nick
Wednesday, August 26, 2009
Grand Finale Pass
Washington Pass, WA. 79 mile ride. The last mountain pass in Washington--and the tallest, over 5,500 ft--to end something like 5 days of mountains. Woke up cold in the tent, excited. Everyone was anxious--the past two years it has been rainy and snowy at the top of the pass so we packed all the clothes we had. The ride started like many others, Wade, Jeremy, and I rollin into an 18 mile descent. We got talking about all kinds of things--family, religion, marriage, carreers--lost in conversation going in every direction. Halfway up the pass there's a group of people 'fixing a flat.' As we approach they turn around and we're pelted with snow balls! There was a huge melting snow patch stuck down mountain--although it was probably high 60's. We continued the climb and in under 2 hours we hit the summit, confused. Confused because we felt awesome! Legs weren't sore, no sweat, not even hard breathing. I kept expecting an intense end climb, then we were at the top, and the views couldn't have been better. Wow! 40 miles of descent! Wow Wow! The best part came after lunch. We came curving around and lake Diablo came into view--the craziest teal blue you'd ever see, something about the glacier minerals. Compounding the beauty, the road broke into the best steep curves of the trip, zooming round and round in the 40's mph. It was straight unreal. Quite the grand finale. Picked up an ostrich burger before the ride was over. Only 130 miles left. All flat. Crazy.
Washington Pass, WA. 79 mile ride. The last mountain pass in Washington--and the tallest, over 5,500 ft--to end something like 5 days of mountains. Woke up cold in the tent, excited. Everyone was anxious--the past two years it has been rainy and snowy at the top of the pass so we packed all the clothes we had. The ride started like many others, Wade, Jeremy, and I rollin into an 18 mile descent. We got talking about all kinds of things--family, religion, marriage, carreers--lost in conversation going in every direction. Halfway up the pass there's a group of people 'fixing a flat.' As we approach they turn around and we're pelted with snow balls! There was a huge melting snow patch stuck down mountain--although it was probably high 60's. We continued the climb and in under 2 hours we hit the summit, confused. Confused because we felt awesome! Legs weren't sore, no sweat, not even hard breathing. I kept expecting an intense end climb, then we were at the top, and the views couldn't have been better. Wow! 40 miles of descent! Wow Wow! The best part came after lunch. We came curving around and lake Diablo came into view--the craziest teal blue you'd ever see, something about the glacier minerals. Compounding the beauty, the road broke into the best steep curves of the trip, zooming round and round in the 40's mph. It was straight unreal. Quite the grand finale. Picked up an ostrich burger before the ride was over. Only 130 miles left. All flat. Crazy.
Thursday, August 20, 2009
Washington Mountains
The days in Washington thus far revolve around a mountain climb. The first day into Chewelah was 74 miles with the climb starting around mile 40. Wade, Theo, Jay, Alli and I made a quick morning and beat the trailer to lunch. Jay talked to a local who recommended an off cue sheet reroute to a diner. We were up for the adventure, that may have even cut off a mile, and enjoyed a great burger 'drowned' in chili. We told the manager what we were doing and she gave us our meal for free. Inconveniently enough, somewhere while we were not paying, I took out my credit card and haven't seen it since. No big deal though, it's all worked out now. The climb was long up flowery trail road but Jay and I took it well and joined Cydney for a long curvy descent. I remember one turn in particular that must have been more than 270 degrees of rotation going in the 30s mph. It was awesome. Hosts provided another great pot luck, I've never eaten a bad pot luck.
The next day I took over sweep for Jon, who's had some saddle sore issues, with Wade for an epic '74 mile' day over Sherman's pass--the biggest mountain pass in the state according to some other bikers. We were having a good ride at the end of the pack in the morning following signs for WA 20 as the cue sheet told us. Lunch should have been at mile 35, so when we hit 38 and still hadn't seen anyone we flagged down a pick-up truck. Turns out we were rolling WA 20 East--not West--for the past 18 miles. We headed for the nearest house and a nice man named Roy let us use his phone--we didn't have service on our cells. I told Nate not to wait for us at lunch, Wade and I were a little off track and would go self supported. Roy left us with a banana and an awesome pice of granola huckleberry bread. Wade and I never discussed if we could do it, only if there would be enough day light. Inconveniently enough I run a flat 3 miles later, and with no extras patch the tube with a self adhesive patch. Flat again within 2 miles--aparently the self adhesive patches are bad for hot weather. Another patch was all we could do, this time the glued kind from Wade--it worked. We got a sub at the grocery store in town and stocked up some granola and water. The climb was intense. Took us about 3 hours to climb the 20 miles in the hottest part of the day--hitting 90's. Of course the descent was worth it--long and awesome, got a video to prove it. We rolled in to Republic about 7:30, just in time for dinner, with 107 miles on the day.
Today started with a climb, not as bad as the past two and led into a descent twice as long as the ascent. Another cafe delayed our day. Then something funny happened. Washington turned desert. Temperatures in the 90s. Didn't know Washington did like this. The last flat 25 miles of the 65 mile day turned out to be quite the unexpected energy drain. Quick shower, nap, and dinner and we're good to go. Kristian's back to finish the ride with us--one of the head B&B guys, organizes all the routes and starts and finishes with us. Good deal.
Another big climb tomorrow. Going into 2 days of camping then only a few more.
The days in Washington thus far revolve around a mountain climb. The first day into Chewelah was 74 miles with the climb starting around mile 40. Wade, Theo, Jay, Alli and I made a quick morning and beat the trailer to lunch. Jay talked to a local who recommended an off cue sheet reroute to a diner. We were up for the adventure, that may have even cut off a mile, and enjoyed a great burger 'drowned' in chili. We told the manager what we were doing and she gave us our meal for free. Inconveniently enough, somewhere while we were not paying, I took out my credit card and haven't seen it since. No big deal though, it's all worked out now. The climb was long up flowery trail road but Jay and I took it well and joined Cydney for a long curvy descent. I remember one turn in particular that must have been more than 270 degrees of rotation going in the 30s mph. It was awesome. Hosts provided another great pot luck, I've never eaten a bad pot luck.
The next day I took over sweep for Jon, who's had some saddle sore issues, with Wade for an epic '74 mile' day over Sherman's pass--the biggest mountain pass in the state according to some other bikers. We were having a good ride at the end of the pack in the morning following signs for WA 20 as the cue sheet told us. Lunch should have been at mile 35, so when we hit 38 and still hadn't seen anyone we flagged down a pick-up truck. Turns out we were rolling WA 20 East--not West--for the past 18 miles. We headed for the nearest house and a nice man named Roy let us use his phone--we didn't have service on our cells. I told Nate not to wait for us at lunch, Wade and I were a little off track and would go self supported. Roy left us with a banana and an awesome pice of granola huckleberry bread. Wade and I never discussed if we could do it, only if there would be enough day light. Inconveniently enough I run a flat 3 miles later, and with no extras patch the tube with a self adhesive patch. Flat again within 2 miles--aparently the self adhesive patches are bad for hot weather. Another patch was all we could do, this time the glued kind from Wade--it worked. We got a sub at the grocery store in town and stocked up some granola and water. The climb was intense. Took us about 3 hours to climb the 20 miles in the hottest part of the day--hitting 90's. Of course the descent was worth it--long and awesome, got a video to prove it. We rolled in to Republic about 7:30, just in time for dinner, with 107 miles on the day.
Today started with a climb, not as bad as the past two and led into a descent twice as long as the ascent. Another cafe delayed our day. Then something funny happened. Washington turned desert. Temperatures in the 90s. Didn't know Washington did like this. The last flat 25 miles of the 65 mile day turned out to be quite the unexpected energy drain. Quick shower, nap, and dinner and we're good to go. Kristian's back to finish the ride with us--one of the head B&B guys, organizes all the routes and starts and finishes with us. Good deal.
Another big climb tomorrow. Going into 2 days of camping then only a few more.
Idaho
Last scheduled 90+ mile day into Idaho. Early stop for a mile hike into the woods to a picture perfect early morning waterfall. Around mile 25 we stopped for a love/hate good bye to Route 2--which we've been following since MN. I noticed a bad wobble in my front tire so at lunch I inspected and a spoke just popped off. I pulled the tire off, found the spoke end under the tape, replaced the spoke, and trued the wheel in about 20. Something I'd never done before, but with the knowledge I've been picking up along the way, any basic bike maintenance is feasible. Arrived in Sandpoint--a descent sized town around 6800 population I believe--for a nice evening and a day off in Idaho.
That night we enjoyed free tickets to the city fair where a symphony played followed by fireworks. Perfect weather for a relaxing day off. 10:00am wake up was a great treat next to our usual 6. Stopped at a crepes and coffee shop on our way to the beach. The lake was beautiful. Sand volleyball and cool water with nothing but mountains in the background. No potatoes, but Idaho left a good taste in my mouth.
Last scheduled 90+ mile day into Idaho. Early stop for a mile hike into the woods to a picture perfect early morning waterfall. Around mile 25 we stopped for a love/hate good bye to Route 2--which we've been following since MN. I noticed a bad wobble in my front tire so at lunch I inspected and a spoke just popped off. I pulled the tire off, found the spoke end under the tape, replaced the spoke, and trued the wheel in about 20. Something I'd never done before, but with the knowledge I've been picking up along the way, any basic bike maintenance is feasible. Arrived in Sandpoint--a descent sized town around 6800 population I believe--for a nice evening and a day off in Idaho.
That night we enjoyed free tickets to the city fair where a symphony played followed by fireworks. Perfect weather for a relaxing day off. 10:00am wake up was a great treat next to our usual 6. Stopped at a crepes and coffee shop on our way to the beach. The lake was beautiful. Sand volleyball and cool water with nothing but mountains in the background. No potatoes, but Idaho left a good taste in my mouth.
Sunday, August 16, 2009
Western Montana
Habitat for Humanity build day in Kalispell--right outside White Fish. Good day doing siding prep work with Alan--a Canadian caravaner. At the church Pastor Dan gave a touching talk to our group before the dinner presentation and ended it by blessing our bikes. He was the most down to earth friendly Pastor I've met this summer and I wish I could stay to hear a service. The day out of White Fish shaped into another great one, almost epic even. It started out with sourdough pancakes cooked by Dr. John Forsberg. I got to talking to him in the kitchen, and ended asking him if I could take some of his sourdough starter along with me. He was happy to share it and wrote down the recipe. This was the coolest souvenier I could imagine! He's been using this starter--yeast culture good for making pancakes, waffles, bread, beer--for 50 years. It was passed to him by a lady in Oregon, who got it from her grandmother from the Yukon gold rush of 1882--this same starter! So now I've just got to keep it cold back to Ohio and I'll experiment and it'll continue to nourish. We only had 50 miles that day, so I hung out in White Fish with Eileen, Jason, and Angel. We drank lots of coffee at a cool little shop, wandered to the bike shop, and checked out boots at a western store. We met two New Zealanders biking the continental divide from Canada to Mexico and a girl who offered Jason places to stay all down the Pacific coast if he decides to continue his ride. It started raining while we headed to White Fish lake. We couldn't help but take a cold refreshing swim in the 55 degree weather. We started our ride at noon and kept a fast pace. Jason spotted a Ponderosa pine which we stopped to admire. Biggest tree I've ever seen--probably 5 of me around--and smelled sweet like butterscotch. We hit Eureka by 4 and Jason and I split what Good Morning America voted the best burger in the country. Pretty good. I enjoyed the potluck provided by the church that night much more.
Saturday, August 15, 2009
The Rockies
Glacier National Park! I started the 66 mile day into St. Mary's taking over sweep with Jason. The first 30 miles were windy and slow, but the mountains grew on the horizon and nothing could get me in a bad mood. I found a Montana License plate and strapped it under my seat. During the second half of the ride a wonderful thing happened. Trees blocked the wind and we could ride again. Matt, Jason and I enjoyed the gradual ascent with a few switchbacks. We stopped to rub aspen bark sun screen on our faces and chew the bark for the drug in Asprin. We ended with the most satisfying 8 mile descent into St. Mary's to camp. The three of us picked up Eileen and went to St. Mary's lake for a refreshingly freezing swim to the most amazing view. I just kept saying, "It's the Rockies!" Camping out, Angel and I looked up at the most stars I've ever seen in Big Sky Country--Montana. Of course there was a meteor shower that night and we saw a dozen shooting stars! Can't get better than that.
Ride through Glacier was Epic. 18 mile ascent, 30 mile descent. The ride up was great. Long gradual incline with switchbacks and so many views to stop and take in. Saw the last of a glacier and the most beautiful array of wildflowers of anywhere. The last 5 miles was where it got fun--rain. By the time we reached the top it was low 40's and raining hard. Our descent was down Logan's pass with construction in 3 places and delays. We stood in the lodge for a few minutes, but there was no question we were doing it. Cydney, Angel, Jeremy, Wade and I started out our insane adventure over Logan's Pass and the continental divide with a rain dance. Two miles in we hit traffic waiting on construction. The rain and wind were cutting through us and we couldn't stop, so we walked the narrow edge past the cars and rode through the construction. Coldest I've ever been?! 2/3 construction traffic. Quick thoughts of waiting on a shuttle. No way. Few more miles. Stop and cydney's worrying a bit but we resolve it with a crazy warm up rain dance. Bike. 3/3 construction, keeping on. Back break pads wore to nothing and the front ones are scraping metal, but doable. The 5 of us crammed into a portabathroom for 5 minutes of warmth. More crazy rain dancing and off again. Stopped and had a little scare when Angel didn't show up for 10 minutes and a car said he hadn't seen him, but he rolled down and we rolled on. After an intense 18 miles, the hill got less steep and we could pedal which helped bring some feeling back. Finally hit Logan Lake Lodge and barrelled into a pizza restaurante with a buffet. Took us an hour in the bathroom to get Angel to stop shaking, but we survived. In the end, half the group understandably took shuttles down, and we ate a dozen slices of pizza each. The crazy part was getting ourselves back on our bikes for 40 more miles. After that initial push, the last stretch turned out to be great. Rolling hills that reminded us of the Adirondacks but with the view of the Rockies in the background. We ended in White Fish, where we were spoiled with showers, a hot tub, a steam room, and a dry sauna at the local fitness center--taking advantage of each. We had just finished 11 straight ride days. Epic.
Eastern Montana
Eastern Montana turned out to be a lot like Eastern North Dakota. Small spaced out towns, windy, flat. One difference is MTis mainly cattle ranches and hay fields, where ND had more crops--corn, soy, and wheat mainly. Also, in MT the wind can change directions! We had a few days in a row that the weather reports were calling for storms. This actually turned out in our favor. We never got wet for one. And we had one day where the winds came from the east. That was the day that we realized how easy it would be to ride West to East. Wade and I got going and took only one 30 second pee break stop for 50 miles. We made it in 2 hours and 2 minutes--average speed 23.9mph! East to West is definitly more rewarding--fighting the wind to make to West, through the Rockies, to Vancouver. But if I were on my own fully loaded, the other direction would be no big deal. From there to Glacier we stumbled on something exciting every day. Had 7 flat tires as a small group in 70 miles one day, but stopped at an indoor hot spring along the way and enjoyed a soak. Three young girls waved us over day and let us ride their horses. Having no experience, they tell me to jump on the horse with no saddle, just a small pad, and give her a kick. I go galloping across the field not knowing how to stop or turn or hold on but enjoyed every second. One of the girls caught me and showed me how to ride a horse in Montana. Wade, Jason and I found an Rod's Drive In--an old-school drive in some cyclists told us about--and the woman who took our order paid for our meal after talking for a while. Delicious burger and fries. Fought constant 25mph crosswinds with 45+mph gusts for 35 miles. A huge wind farm mocked us as we rode into the coldest city in the country, including Alaska--Cut Bank, MT. Once there, enjoyed another free meal from a nice manager--Tammy--at Taco John's. Just keeps getting better.
Teddy Roosevelt National Park
Ride out of Minot started an 11 day straight riding period. The first day we headed to New Town--a small town on an indian reservation. It was the day after that that turned out to be amazing. The 65 mile day started off crossing a major river--I don't remember the name--that was like entering the West. Flat on once side, hilly on the other. We were excited to get to the park so Wade, Jason, Eileen, and I pushed hard the first 20 miles against cross winds over rolling hills. That's when things started to get good. Our directions turned us south west, directly with the wind. We enjoyed the first tail winds in weeks going 20mph up hills and in the 30s down! We were flying through the miles. Already a great ride, we see the downhill sign we're always waiting for 2 miles out of the park entrance and a great ride just got better. I used my camera mount for the first time to tape that beautiful fast descent. When we hear we'd have to wait for a shuttle to get into the park, we jumped back on our bikes, climbed back up the hill, and rode it again. It was only 12:30! We rode 65 miles with an average speed of 17.5mph--fastest yet--and the day was young. After setting up camp, we went for a 4 mile hike. Saw a field of prairie dogs and some amazing panaramic views. We headed back to the camp but dinner wasn't ready, so Jason, Wade, Eileen and I headed out to find what we hadn't seen yet. Just a mile the other direction there they were. About 3 dozen buffalo coming over the ridge. A few came about 30 feet from us. They were massive, making noises, rolling in the dirt, so real it was unreal. Ended the day climbing a slump--small mountain like feature--and watching the sunset from the top. Wow.
Minot, ND
We conveniently had a day off in Minot, ND on the last day of the state fair. Our host church and pastor were great and we started the day with a big pancake breakfast. The group was planning shuttles to the bike shop and fair but on the day off I wanted to be on my own schedule so Jason and I decided to bike around. Jason and I rode to the bike shop for some minor replacement parts--a new derailleur cable and bar end. The shop guy recommended an Irish pub for lunch so we went for a good meal. On to the fair. Saw a dog show, pig race, selection of the prize cow, pig showing, ax throwing, fried everything on a stick, all kinds of stuff. Wade, Jason, and I talked to a girl working the go karts telling her what we were doing and she let us do a ride for free. Best ten minutes on a go kart I've had. It was a great day. Then on our way out, I'm still not sure how it happened, the three of us got completely duped by a carnie worker. I don't want to talk about it but we'll never play a carnival game again--he was so convincing. Recovered with a ground round and got a good sleep.
We conveniently had a day off in Minot, ND on the last day of the state fair. Our host church and pastor were great and we started the day with a big pancake breakfast. The group was planning shuttles to the bike shop and fair but on the day off I wanted to be on my own schedule so Jason and I decided to bike around. Jason and I rode to the bike shop for some minor replacement parts--a new derailleur cable and bar end. The shop guy recommended an Irish pub for lunch so we went for a good meal. On to the fair. Saw a dog show, pig race, selection of the prize cow, pig showing, ax throwing, fried everything on a stick, all kinds of stuff. Wade, Jason, and I talked to a girl working the go karts telling her what we were doing and she let us do a ride for free. Best ten minutes on a go kart I've had. It was a great day. Then on our way out, I'm still not sure how it happened, the three of us got completely duped by a carnie worker. I don't want to talk about it but we'll never play a carnival game again--he was so convincing. Recovered with a ground round and got a good sleep.
Eastern North Dakota
From Duluth we headed to Bemidji, MN--the first town on the Mississippi and home of Paul Bunyan and Babe the Big Blue Ox. Exploring the town with Lauren, I bought a cheap harmonica to practice on long rides. It goes along in my back pocket every day . From there Route 2 took us into North Dakota. This is where our love hate relationship started with Route 2, leaning towards the ladder, but enjoying every second. Eastern North Dakota is flat and windy. The terrain can be nice with some marshes, a talkative hawk, and wind farms, but the wind was the character builder. 88 miles to Crookston, 120 miles to Devil's Lake, 60 miles to Rugby, 65 miles to Minot. All with headwinds. We made it. Interesting little towns. Devil's Lake was an awesome accomplishment. The endorphines that came in those last 15 miles were unreal--just loving it. Rugby is the geographical center of North America. We ate at a diner there and joked about ordering the seafood on the menu--farthest possible place to be from an ocean in the continent. A few minor falls--chain reaction fall over Sydny who bumped off the pavement. I landed over her with no injuries, she broke her helmet and a few scrapes but no big deal. Theo crossed tires in front of me and went down. I hit his bike but stayed up. Luckily it was a cold day and his 4 layers protected him from any injury. Took a quick turn in Minot on a puddle and slid out but left with nothing more than an inch hole in my rain jacket. Through a tough stretch but stronger than ever and ready for the west.
Saturday, July 25, 2009
Duluthm, MN
Ideal Build Day. We had a great time today, all 30 of us were able to build on one site and we got a ton done. I had a hand in putting the trusses on for the whole roof of the house. Most of us headed out that evening for the Duluth Huskies minor league baseball game--free tickets thanks to our gracious hosts at the temple who joined us as well. Another fun day on Bike and Build.
Ideal Build Day. We had a great time today, all 30 of us were able to build on one site and we got a ton done. I had a hand in putting the trusses on for the whole roof of the house. Most of us headed out that evening for the Duluth Huskies minor league baseball game--free tickets thanks to our gracious hosts at the temple who joined us as well. Another fun day on Bike and Build.
Friday, July 24, 2009
Duluth, MN
Quick. After the rough night, I got out first with Nate, Eileen, Alli, and Jason for a fast day. It was supposed to be a flat 57, majority on the bike path. The Willard Munger bike path was great and we rolled really quick. Only problem was after lunch the four of us--Nate, Eileen, Jason and I--continued on the same bike trail, as the cue sheet said. Turns out we were supposed to jump a different path. No matter, we hit a main road and headed for Duluth over 10 extra miles of relatively intense climbs. Great view over the St. Louis valley though. Even with our extra 10 miles, we still arrived with the first group at 2:30. Stayed at a Jewish Temple and enjoyed a kosher dinner. We were welcome to attend their service and they were very helpful in explaining for us who weren't familiar and making us feel comfortable. Great food and experience.
Quick. After the rough night, I got out first with Nate, Eileen, Alli, and Jason for a fast day. It was supposed to be a flat 57, majority on the bike path. The Willard Munger bike path was great and we rolled really quick. Only problem was after lunch the four of us--Nate, Eileen, Jason and I--continued on the same bike trail, as the cue sheet said. Turns out we were supposed to jump a different path. No matter, we hit a main road and headed for Duluth over 10 extra miles of relatively intense climbs. Great view over the St. Louis valley though. Even with our extra 10 miles, we still arrived with the first group at 2:30. Stayed at a Jewish Temple and enjoyed a kosher dinner. We were welcome to attend their service and they were very helpful in explaining for us who weren't familiar and making us feel comfortable. Great food and experience.
Sandstone, MN
Long and Hot. 110 miles, high of 90. Pretty flat though so no big deal. Riding next to Physnick, he hit a rock and took a graceful fall. Nasty calf puncture from his ring, but he toughed it out for the rest of the ride with some one legged pedaling in there. First 'camping' day on the land of the director of Habitat of the area. He grilled out for us and we enjoyed a bonfire as a big group. Sleeping was rough. I slept on the porch. Two options: cover up and sweat mad, get crazy bug bites. I did a combination with little sleeping. I did stay dry though. Lots stayed in tents and woke up swimming in the thunderstorm. Always good times.
Long and Hot. 110 miles, high of 90. Pretty flat though so no big deal. Riding next to Physnick, he hit a rock and took a graceful fall. Nasty calf puncture from his ring, but he toughed it out for the rest of the ride with some one legged pedaling in there. First 'camping' day on the land of the director of Habitat of the area. He grilled out for us and we enjoyed a bonfire as a big group. Sleeping was rough. I slept on the porch. Two options: cover up and sweat mad, get crazy bug bites. I did a combination with little sleeping. I did stay dry though. Lots stayed in tents and woke up swimming in the thunderstorm. Always good times.
Twin Cities, MN.
Day off. Angel, Jay, and I had a great stay with Nancy, Denny and their hospitable family. They graciously shuttled large group of us to and from a late night Harry Potter showing and directed us to a fun day. On the day off we payed off a little bit of sleep debt with a 10am wake up. We took the free bus to U of Minnesota where we bummed onto a tour then checked out "Dinkytown." One of the workers at the bike shop joined us for lunch at a local burrito place. We were then picked up from the church by the Hogans and taken to their house to enjoy great conversation and an amazing home cooked meal of salmon, green beans, and potatoes. Early sleep to get ready for another century.
Day off. Angel, Jay, and I had a great stay with Nancy, Denny and their hospitable family. They graciously shuttled large group of us to and from a late night Harry Potter showing and directed us to a fun day. On the day off we payed off a little bit of sleep debt with a 10am wake up. We took the free bus to U of Minnesota where we bummed onto a tour then checked out "Dinkytown." One of the workers at the bike shop joined us for lunch at a local burrito place. We were then picked up from the church by the Hogans and taken to their house to enjoy great conversation and an amazing home cooked meal of salmon, green beans, and potatoes. Early sleep to get ready for another century.
Tuesday, July 21, 2009
I've been away from computers for the past 11 days and so much has happened. On July 12th we had our first century with 112 miles into Chicago. It was a great ride with 2 amazing non-PB&J lunches that made it easy. Riding into the skyline on a crowded Sunday bike path was an awesome experience. We were even met by two NUS '08 riders with cupcakes waiting for us along the way. Wade and I had a great conversation and Chicago deep dish dinner that night Dan--a leader from last year's trip. An easy day the next day, we spent the morning seeing the bean and millennium park, wrigley field, and a swim and nap on the beach of Lake Michigan.
We rode to Greyslake, IL for a night and then headed to Janesville, WI. On the ride into Wisconsin we stopped at a cheese store where I enjoyed my first cheese curds, along with samples of all different types of cheeses. Delicious. Janesville was alot of fun because one of the girls on our trip--Alli--is from there and her parents and neighbor were nice enough to take us on the boat for water skiing and tubing. I got up on the skis and had a great time. We worked the next day in Janesville for Community Action on a forclosed house. The house needed some demolition work before it could be restored--turned out to be another fun day.
From there we headed another short day to Madison, WI. Madison was a fun biker friendly city. We had a fun evening in town and ate at a great Thai restaurante. We stayed for a successful day working for Habitat for Humanity. I helped a nice woman named Gwen install Subfacia (I don't know if that's spelled right, just learned what it was--part of the house framing just below the roof) for the morning and installed roofing boards in the afternoon.
More Wisconsin. The next day into Gays Mills was my hardest ride day of the trip and maybe hardest workout of my life. The route was scheduled for 101 miles of hilly terrain. Starting earyly with the 5am wake up, I got two flat tires before lunch around mile 35. At mile 50, Wade, Eileen, and I joined/followed Jason on what we called an architecure adventure. We headed for the Taliesin--Frank Lloyd Wright's main house and studio. Turned out the tours were full for the next two hours, and it would have cost us fifty bucks to get in anyway--so we looked from afar. We headed back to the route with an extra 25 miles of very hilly terrain under our belts, no big deal. Ready to get going again, a man flags us down at a gas station and we help him pump up his tire--road bike tires have different nozzels than car tires so the gas station pump wouldn't work. Turns out we were helping the Culver family--owners of Culver's restaurante, a big ice cream/fast food chain in the midwest. We followed him around the block and he gave us each 2 coupons for free ice cream sundays and one for a food basket. Good deal. We pushed the next 40 tough miles to second lunch waiting for us. It was about 4 and Nate--sweep that day--was waiting on us. We were told the van may have to come pick us up because we might not be able to make it before dinner and everyone else was already there or very close--disheartening. We pushed on with Nate, up and down what seemed like Wisconsin Mountains. With about 15 miles to go, the van pulls up. We're all ready to convince Rachel that we can make it and we don't have to ride the van, but it turns out only a few people were at the host, so we went for it. Harder than any football game, pushed the last 15 miles into Gays Mills. 125 miles! Quite an accomplishment. I ate like I never ate before--amazing pot luck with vegetarian chili and cheese potatoes I was just pouring down my throat. The rest of the night was a blur, but I woke up the next day ready to go.
It's crazy when 72 miles is a recovery day. Mississippi River! Road along the river most of the day. We crossed into Iowa, rode into Minnesota, then back to La Crosse, Wisconsin for the night. The next day we continued along the river to Peppin lake, and today we rode again rode the Mississippi to St. Paul and the twin cities. Excited for the first day off tomorrow! More later.
We rode to Greyslake, IL for a night and then headed to Janesville, WI. On the ride into Wisconsin we stopped at a cheese store where I enjoyed my first cheese curds, along with samples of all different types of cheeses. Delicious. Janesville was alot of fun because one of the girls on our trip--Alli--is from there and her parents and neighbor were nice enough to take us on the boat for water skiing and tubing. I got up on the skis and had a great time. We worked the next day in Janesville for Community Action on a forclosed house. The house needed some demolition work before it could be restored--turned out to be another fun day.
From there we headed another short day to Madison, WI. Madison was a fun biker friendly city. We had a fun evening in town and ate at a great Thai restaurante. We stayed for a successful day working for Habitat for Humanity. I helped a nice woman named Gwen install Subfacia (I don't know if that's spelled right, just learned what it was--part of the house framing just below the roof) for the morning and installed roofing boards in the afternoon.
More Wisconsin. The next day into Gays Mills was my hardest ride day of the trip and maybe hardest workout of my life. The route was scheduled for 101 miles of hilly terrain. Starting earyly with the 5am wake up, I got two flat tires before lunch around mile 35. At mile 50, Wade, Eileen, and I joined/followed Jason on what we called an architecure adventure. We headed for the Taliesin--Frank Lloyd Wright's main house and studio. Turned out the tours were full for the next two hours, and it would have cost us fifty bucks to get in anyway--so we looked from afar. We headed back to the route with an extra 25 miles of very hilly terrain under our belts, no big deal. Ready to get going again, a man flags us down at a gas station and we help him pump up his tire--road bike tires have different nozzels than car tires so the gas station pump wouldn't work. Turns out we were helping the Culver family--owners of Culver's restaurante, a big ice cream/fast food chain in the midwest. We followed him around the block and he gave us each 2 coupons for free ice cream sundays and one for a food basket. Good deal. We pushed the next 40 tough miles to second lunch waiting for us. It was about 4 and Nate--sweep that day--was waiting on us. We were told the van may have to come pick us up because we might not be able to make it before dinner and everyone else was already there or very close--disheartening. We pushed on with Nate, up and down what seemed like Wisconsin Mountains. With about 15 miles to go, the van pulls up. We're all ready to convince Rachel that we can make it and we don't have to ride the van, but it turns out only a few people were at the host, so we went for it. Harder than any football game, pushed the last 15 miles into Gays Mills. 125 miles! Quite an accomplishment. I ate like I never ate before--amazing pot luck with vegetarian chili and cheese potatoes I was just pouring down my throat. The rest of the night was a blur, but I woke up the next day ready to go.
It's crazy when 72 miles is a recovery day. Mississippi River! Road along the river most of the day. We crossed into Iowa, rode into Minnesota, then back to La Crosse, Wisconsin for the night. The next day we continued along the river to Peppin lake, and today we rode again rode the Mississippi to St. Paul and the twin cities. Excited for the first day off tomorrow! More later.
Friday, July 10, 2009
Edwardsburg, MI
77 miles turned 85. The pastor accompanied us for the first 12 miles--great to have his enthusiasm and knowledge of the area. In two miles we hit Indiana, where we rode most of the day before heading back into Michigan for the night. After lunch I had fun pushing hard with a quick pace line near the front of the group. Even got a draft off a dump truck--hit 35mph. We followed Kat and Laura's chalk, but when we caught up to them, we were a little lost. With lots of contemplation, and Ashley's iPhone, we rerouted ourselves through beautiful scenery and made it to the church--last group to arrive, everyone else took the perscribed path. Picture of Jason on State Line Road--half Indiana, half Michigan. Taco dinner!
Camden, MI
Tailwinds! Fun country roads good for double row riding, stories, singing, and games of contact. 5 miles into Michigan we stayed in a small town of people waiting for us. It was great--welcome sign and all, look closely. Talked with a reporter, went to a neighbor's house for a shower, had a great dinner of loaded baked potatos, and enjoyed a little talent show--Nick did the peanuts dance, the Pastor sang with his wife, then with Kat, Theo played Cannon on the piano, and Nate balanced Alter chairs and on his chin. The midwest is great!
Tailwinds! Fun country roads good for double row riding, stories, singing, and games of contact. 5 miles into Michigan we stayed in a small town of people waiting for us. It was great--welcome sign and all, look closely. Talked with a reporter, went to a neighbor's house for a shower, had a great dinner of loaded baked potatos, and enjoyed a little talent show--Nick did the peanuts dance, the Pastor sang with his wife, then with Kat, Theo played Cannon on the piano, and Nate balanced Alter chairs and on his chin. The midwest is great!
Bowling Green, OH
90/90 Rule: if we ride over 90 miles, or the wether is calling for over 90 degrees, we wake up at 5am--instead of 6--and have two lunches. 93 miles from Avon to BG was the first. Turned out to be a great day for eating. Woke to the best hot breakfast yet by the church mens group. Cold meat, cheese, pasta salad, the best bread we've had, trail mix, and random snacks from the Van Horns was an awesome change and put everyone in a good mood. The ride was flat. Corn and soy everywhere. The clouds were beautiful--looked like the intro to the Simpsons. Winkle met me in BG and we went and say Erin workin at the sub shop. It was great to see them. Good times.
Avon, OH
Great day for Cleveland. We were quickly sucked in to our first stop of the day to hold some 6 week old kittens--always a good start. After a quick lunch at Mentor beach, Ally, Wade, and I enjoyed a scenic but bumpy ride along Lakeshore blvd into the east side of Cleveland. It was awesome biking into the downtown skyline. We took a quick stop in Public Square and decided to grab a quick bite at Ticket to Tokyo--a little asian restaurante down an ally--and head for a look around the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame. After some pictures Wade and I held a good pace for the last 20 miles through Lakewood and into Avon again along the lake. Total 80 miles. We enjoyed an amazing pot luck with church members and a much appreciated appearance by the Van Horns. We had our first experience with home stays--where members of the church brought us to their homes to sleep in comfort for the night. It was great! Jay and I went watched the sunset over the lake and went home with the Fishers and enjoyed amazing hospitality and a sound sleep.
Monday, July 6, 2009
Ashtabula, OH
Sunny day for Sweep. Each day two people are assigned to be sweep. Sweep has the responsibility of carrying an extra tire and first aid kit, and being the last riders in the group, to make sure everyone is on track, OK, and making time. Today was Jason and my first sweep day. We hung back and left Westfield last but at a fast pace. We caught Nick, Will, Kat, and John at the Pennsylvania border. Kat was feeling real sick so we hung back and waited for the van to come pick her up. We continued the day at a fast pace, and when we caught someone we would find the nearest thing to occupy us. Made a handlebar container for my bike out a Nutty Bar box at a gas station, weighed our bikes--25lbs, and packs--11lbs at a sports store, took a nice nap after lunch, stopped at the Whippy Dip for ice cream in OH--mainly because of the name. Enjoyed a quick visit from the family and the Hopkins with brownies which were much appreciated and quickly devoured by the group. Had a good evening and our group finally had a dry opportunity to paint the trailer. We have some good artists and it came out great.
Build day. We did work for a local community action organization that does work with affordable housing, energy efficiency, and health and human services including the WIC program. I'd never heard of the WIC program before, it provides food vouchers for healthy food for women with infants using federal funding. The whole group worked together to paint their health and human services center. We had a successful paint job finished in half a day and I with many others headed to the library for a rare blog/email opportunity. Another home shower and a trip to the country's largest covered bridge.
Sunny day for Sweep. Each day two people are assigned to be sweep. Sweep has the responsibility of carrying an extra tire and first aid kit, and being the last riders in the group, to make sure everyone is on track, OK, and making time. Today was Jason and my first sweep day. We hung back and left Westfield last but at a fast pace. We caught Nick, Will, Kat, and John at the Pennsylvania border. Kat was feeling real sick so we hung back and waited for the van to come pick her up. We continued the day at a fast pace, and when we caught someone we would find the nearest thing to occupy us. Made a handlebar container for my bike out a Nutty Bar box at a gas station, weighed our bikes--25lbs, and packs--11lbs at a sports store, took a nice nap after lunch, stopped at the Whippy Dip for ice cream in OH--mainly because of the name. Enjoyed a quick visit from the family and the Hopkins with brownies which were much appreciated and quickly devoured by the group. Had a good evening and our group finally had a dry opportunity to paint the trailer. We have some good artists and it came out great.
Build day. We did work for a local community action organization that does work with affordable housing, energy efficiency, and health and human services including the WIC program. I'd never heard of the WIC program before, it provides food vouchers for healthy food for women with infants using federal funding. The whole group worked together to paint their health and human services center. We had a successful paint job finished in half a day and I with many others headed to the library for a rare blog/email opportunity. Another home shower and a trip to the country's largest covered bridge.
Westfield, NY
Headwinds made the relatively flat 86 miles to Westfield quite a workout. We rode around Buffalo and stopped for wings with Wade and Jaye for the local experience. We each enjoyed 20 one hundred calorie wings--according to the man sitting next to us--to a great view of lake Erie, the Buffalo skyline, and a small wind farm. Must have burned every calorie, because the last 10 miles took lots of effort with tired legs and butts. I decided to skip out on the Chataqua fire works and instead took a 2 mile jog to Rosie Fisher's beautiful house on lake Erie. Had great company and an appreciated ride back. Slept the night in another United Methodist church--the vast majority of our stays have been with United Methodists, great hospitality and much appreciated.
Headwinds made the relatively flat 86 miles to Westfield quite a workout. We rode around Buffalo and stopped for wings with Wade and Jaye for the local experience. We each enjoyed 20 one hundred calorie wings--according to the man sitting next to us--to a great view of lake Erie, the Buffalo skyline, and a small wind farm. Must have burned every calorie, because the last 10 miles took lots of effort with tired legs and butts. I decided to skip out on the Chataqua fire works and instead took a 2 mile jog to Rosie Fisher's beautiful house on lake Erie. Had great company and an appreciated ride back. Slept the night in another United Methodist church--the vast majority of our stays have been with United Methodists, great hospitality and much appreciated.
Niagra Falls, NY/Canada
Woke excited for an easy 20 mile ride to the falls. Enjoyed the day taking in the sites. Lots of people did the maid of the mist and walk tour, I opted for the Canadian horse-shoe view from the grass and a much enjoyed nap. We got out of the touristy area and to a small corner bar called Jacks with a roof patio for the evening. Had a great Indian cuisine experience and good conversation at a humble little restaurant. Ended the night meeting Jaye, Nate, and Cidny for a quick Casino experience. Back across the bridge, we slept in a beautiful stone church.
Woke excited for an easy 20 mile ride to the falls. Enjoyed the day taking in the sites. Lots of people did the maid of the mist and walk tour, I opted for the Canadian horse-shoe view from the grass and a much enjoyed nap. We got out of the touristy area and to a small corner bar called Jacks with a roof patio for the evening. Had a great Indian cuisine experience and good conversation at a humble little restaurant. Ended the night meeting Jaye, Nate, and Cidny for a quick Casino experience. Back across the bridge, we slept in a beautiful stone church.
Lockport, NY
Rained on an off all day for 62 miles. It's nice to appreciate 62 miles as short. Arrived in Lockport around 3 and got an early shower at the YMCA. About half of us headed to the Erie canal for a canal and underground boat tour. Enjoyed some history and a walk and boat ride in a man-made cave that was used to redirect water to power industry in the 1800s. Another great pot luck dinner and an early sleep to get ready for the falls.
Rained on an off all day for 62 miles. It's nice to appreciate 62 miles as short. Arrived in Lockport around 3 and got an early shower at the YMCA. About half of us headed to the Erie canal for a canal and underground boat tour. Enjoyed some history and a walk and boat ride in a man-made cave that was used to redirect water to power industry in the 1800s. Another great pot luck dinner and an early sleep to get ready for the falls.
Thursday, July 2, 2009
Rochester, NY
Ride to Rochester was a rough with, as Wade correctly put it, foreboding weather for our longest day yet--91 total miles. Started in the rain trying to fight the wind with a pace line. Had a wet lunch stop around mile 40. Wade, Kelsy and I stopped at the sight of a vintage thrift store where I made a nice sunglasses pick up for 50 cents. Onto a busy highway, we were rolling along in a nice pace line when Julian crossed Kat's tire for a rough but not terrible fall. Soon after we were stopped by thunder, delaying our arrival to RIT to about 6:30. Enjoyed a great sleep on a bed.
Build day in Rochester. I had a great experience building with Flower City Habitat for Humanity. four other bikers and myself got to work on their first LEED certified house. This is a certification that a house or building can get for being more environmentally conscious in building. Some things in this case: 24" between framing boards instead of 16" to save lumber--needs better aligning with roofing boards and is just as sturdy, spray foam insulation instead of fiberglass, better windows, no wood in the dumpster--all recycled for mulching. I was able to help nail up foam board under siding and then hang 4 windows. It was an accomplished day, and only scattered showers. Ended great with a visit , dinner, and ice cream with the grandparents. When I returned to RIT, everyone was eating except for Cydney. She was determined to go to Weman's grocery store because a friend of hers said she would enjoy it, so I joined her for a few mile bike, because I've always heard good things from Aunt Jeannine. Success.
Build day in Rochester. I had a great experience building with Flower City Habitat for Humanity. four other bikers and myself got to work on their first LEED certified house. This is a certification that a house or building can get for being more environmentally conscious in building. Some things in this case: 24" between framing boards instead of 16" to save lumber--needs better aligning with roofing boards and is just as sturdy, spray foam insulation instead of fiberglass, better windows, no wood in the dumpster--all recycled for mulching. I was able to help nail up foam board under siding and then hang 4 windows. It was an accomplished day, and only scattered showers. Ended great with a visit , dinner, and ice cream with the grandparents. When I returned to RIT, everyone was eating except for Cydney. She was determined to go to Weman's grocery store because a friend of hers said she would enjoy it, so I joined her for a few mile bike, because I've always heard good things from Aunt Jeannine. Success.
Monday, June 29, 2009
Palermo, NY
Sunny and windy, today was 66 miles through rolling hills with a net drop in elevation. My legs were tired so it was nice to take an easy pace with Wade, Jason, and Angel. The four of us played a word game called contact all day long. A quick stop at a garage sale, we found a wig that fit Angel perfect for a role in a soap opera. A quick meal at a diner and a big ice cream cone in the little town of Palermo upon arrival held us over before a generous spaghetti dinner provided by our gracious hosts at the United Methodist church. A good game of Taboo and it's time for bed.
Sunday, June 28, 2009
Boonsville, NY
Out of the mountains. Today was a day of rolling hills, pace lines, and lakes. The terrain was great, hills by not too steep and getting that elevation drop from the day before--what goes up must come down kind of thing. Started with a fast pace with Wade and we picked up John around mile 10. Road in for a great lunch spot on Seventh Lake. The lake was beautiful with a sandy bott0m and clear water. It was perfect for a refreshing swim and frisbee toss in the shallow water. Jeremy, Wade and I headed out for another dozen miles past Golden beach and through Old Forge before Will and Nate caught up for a 5 man pace line. We picked up Jason at a lunch stop and went for an amazingly fast last 15 miles in a tight line. There was a stretch of about 4 miles that we didn't go below 25mph. We reached the church and my computer told me 17.4mph average for the 76 total mile day. Seems fast.
(Pictures later, no go on this computer)
Out of the mountains. Today was a day of rolling hills, pace lines, and lakes. The terrain was great, hills by not too steep and getting that elevation drop from the day before--what goes up must come down kind of thing. Started with a fast pace with Wade and we picked up John around mile 10. Road in for a great lunch spot on Seventh Lake. The lake was beautiful with a sandy bott0m and clear water. It was perfect for a refreshing swim and frisbee toss in the shallow water. Jeremy, Wade and I headed out for another dozen miles past Golden beach and through Old Forge before Will and Nate caught up for a 5 man pace line. We picked up Jason at a lunch stop and went for an amazingly fast last 15 miles in a tight line. There was a stretch of about 4 miles that we didn't go below 25mph. We reached the church and my computer told me 17.4mph average for the 76 total mile day. Seems fast.
(Pictures later, no go on this computer)
Indian Lake, NY
Crazy weather. Preparing for a 65 mile day with a big net gain in elevation, we at a huge breakfast at the YMCA. Off by 8, the weather was hot for some steep early climbs. About 15 miles in there was a long hill that went on for a few miles and it seemed to get sunnier as we went up. Then we hit the top and it began raining for the descent. It rained, cleared, brightened, thundered, and poured. Thankfully we just made it over the Hudson river and to a pavilion for lunch before the pouring started. It cleared and we got back to doing the thing. We were ready for our first camping night, but when we reached the RV park we were redirected to the United Methodist church in town for a dry floor. I picked up half gallon of chocolate milk--finished within the hour--and some snap peas for the next ride. The dinner group made tacos and I had an early sleep. Great views all around.
Crazy weather. Preparing for a 65 mile day with a big net gain in elevation, we at a huge breakfast at the YMCA. Off by 8, the weather was hot for some steep early climbs. About 15 miles in there was a long hill that went on for a few miles and it seemed to get sunnier as we went up. Then we hit the top and it began raining for the descent. It rained, cleared, brightened, thundered, and poured. Thankfully we just made it over the Hudson river and to a pavilion for lunch before the pouring started. It cleared and we got back to doing the thing. We were ready for our first camping night, but when we reached the RV park we were redirected to the United Methodist church in town for a dry floor. I picked up half gallon of chocolate milk--finished within the hour--and some snap peas for the next ride. The dinner group made tacos and I had an early sleep. Great views all around.
Silver Bay, NY
Another beautiful day for a bike ride--clear, sunny getting hot. Started right out with another intense climb. The downhill truck sign was the best sight of the day--hello 12% grade 4 mile descent. We won't bother with numbers, I went fast, I'm in control don't worry about it. Stopped in a little town square for lunch and opted for my first cheeseburger in months from a local cafe over another PB&J. Delicious. Threw the frisbee a while then back on the bike. A few miles down the road we got distracted by a farmers market and more food. Ate a delicious spinach empanada and packed my jersey pocket with string peas for the road. On to Lake Champlain for a ferry ride to New York and the Adirondack Mountains. The last miles were rough on the legs but beatiful lake George kept my mind off it. We get to the address of the so-called "YMCA" which turned out to be nothing like any YMCA I've ever seen but instead just short of a resort. We were surprised with a check in for a room. A real room with beds, real towels, pillows, and in-the-same-building showers. We headed for a dinner of pasta and salad bar, cake, and chocolate milk. The evening brough an amazing view of the lake, beach volley ball, and shuffleboard. Bed.
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