Tuesday, July 31, 2012

Day 44: 7/31/12

Today we were given a choice.  We could climb mount Davis, the highest elevation in Pennsylvania, or go an extra 3.5 miles on the same beautiful trail as yesterday.  No shortcuts for this girl...I took the trail!  It was an 80 mile day.  After the first 31 miles on the trail, the rest of the day was a lot of hills.  At mile 60, we had another option to ride an extra 7 miles to see the flight 93 memorial.  Thankfully I got to the entrance in time to ride with Gene, Reesh, and Ben in blue thunder.   Overall today was a pretty rough day so I began an eating frenzy at camp.  I had sour cream and onion chips, rice crispy treats, root beer, coke, chicken, 2 ears of corn, bread, ice cream, and a lemonade.  Oh and we finally got around to building a camp fire and making smores!!!  I have breakfast duty tomorrow, and it is supposed to be the hardest day of the ride so I need to get some rest.  Good night.

Day 43: 7/30/12

Today was an 87 mile ride from Washington to confluence PA.  A large portion of todays ride was on a bike trail so that meant that we had limited access to our support.  The trail was packed limestone, which made for a rough ride but the scenery more than made up for it.  I wanted to stop and take pictures everywhere.  I called it the magical forest.  At one point a deer jumped across the path right in front of us.  There were beautiful wooden bridges, walls of rocks, running water, and tall trees.  It was nice to be shaded.  I was jealous of the people I saw kayaking, rafting, and canoeing.  I wonder if they were jealous of me riding my bike...uh....probably not.  Fred Husak, a 2000 alumni hosted a lunch for us that was great.  Thanks to him and his family.  Near the end of the ride some people decided to go see falling water, a frank Lloyd wright house.  I opted not to go because it was an extra 3.5 miles up a steep climb, plus after 4 days of riding I was desperate to do laundry.  I took a shower, enjoyed $12 night at the lucky dog, then went into town to find a laundromat.  Quiet time sneaks up fast.  Good night.

Sunday, July 29, 2012

Day 42: 7/29/12

Today was a 62 mile ride into Pennsylvania. Again there was no state sign. I will be able to get the picture when we go into Maryland though. Heather asked me to ride with her this morning, and unfortunately she got a flat tire almost immediately out of camp. Thankfully Gene was there to help :) I know she wanted to stop early on but it was foggy and hilly. I really wanted to get to the checkpoint at mile 26 so I encouraged her to keep going. When we got to the stop, Lynn told me to continue because Heather was being sent home. I felt really bad, but I needed to continue. Not to far down the road I ran into Ben and Reesh who were waiting for me. I really thought that was great so I bought them both lunch. It was another early day into camp. Some people got a ride into town, but I just wanted to hang out at camp. I really needed to catch up on my blogs ;)  Dinner was catered and yummy, but so was the brisket that Steve and Rick bought Gene and I when we picked then up from the bbq joint in town.  I'm also looking forward to a campfire and smores tonight!

Saturday, July 28, 2012

Day 41: 7/28/12

Today was an easy 60 mile ride from Burton to New Waterford.  There was a burger king next to the first rest stop so I enjoyed breakfast #2.  I got into camp early, and I was so glad I did.  Shortly after arriving I set up my tent hoping to dry it out.  Almost immediately it began pouring down rain.  Gene went to find the keys to blue thunder because his windows were down while the rest of us tried to move the bags further under the pavilion.  After the rain I showered, napped, ate pizza, and then blogged while a couple other people played cards.  I went to bed near the lake...beautiful!

Day 40: 7/27/12

Today was a 93 mile ride from Sandusky to Burton.  We rode through Cleveland today which is where Liz is from.  It was great because her family hosted the lunch stop.  Luckily we got there and ate before the storm blew in.  We waited it out under a bathroom awning before continuing.  Liz was our tour guide as we ate our way through Cleveland.  We stopped in the west side for coffee, in little Italy for lunch number 2, at on the rise for fresh baked goods, and of course the rock and roll hall of fame for some pics.  My mp3 player fell off in front of blue thunder, and Gene went back to get it for me.  Unfortunately, it didn't sound the same.  Looks like no more music for me.  At camp I enjoyed a couple summer shandy beers while Gene changed my tube and replaced a tire for me.  Steve, another friend from Padre, came out to visit.  He joined us for dinner at tom and jerrys.  It was great to see him since Florida may get him this year.  Another great day on the big ride!

Day 39: 7/26/12

Today was our rest day in Sandusky.  I woke up and started my laundry.  I knew we wanted to get an early start for the amusement park.  On the way over, we got McDonalds for breakfast.We got 16 people together in their Jerseys to take some pictures outside for publicity so we could get free admission to cedar point and soak city.  They also brought us to the dragster roller coaster and gave us immediate entry.  Reesh, Ben, Cam, Sarah, Gene, and I all went to soak city to enjoy the slides and the lazy river.  It was mostly cloudy so it was a little chilly.  We left to go do some roller coasters and of course the sun comes out.  I wanted to go back to the water park so Gene went with me.  As soon as we got in the lazy river, the sun disappeared again.  We decided to make the best of it and go in the hot tub in the adult pool.  We got out at the perfect time.  Before we could buy tickets to an extra ride, this strong storm blew in.  Gene and I waited it out before getting arbys and going back to camp.  Liz had brought blondies back from home which were delicious and perfect for dessert.  Then it was time to pack and get ready for another day of riding.

Day 38: 7/25/12

Today was a 90 mile ride from Napoleon to Sandusky.  We had our first check point in bowling green at a bike shop.  They opened early for us so I bought a new chain.  I also stopped at a coffee shop for breakfast 2.  Lynn's dad joined us for the rest of the ride.  He also told us it was Charleton's birthday in two days, which I'm still not sure if it was true.  Reesh entertained me for a good 10 miles recapping the first two Batman movies for me.  After lunch i noticed I had a slow leak.  I pumped it up and figured I would change it later, or Gene would.  As I rode into camp with Reesh, Ben was already in the pool and got all the strangers to shout for us.  Liz and Molly left with family for the rest day.  It was a $12 night so we headed out for dinner.  Sarah, Todd, Gene, and I went to a great wine bar with tapas style food.  It was great, but pricey.  After dinner we made a stop at Kroger thenwent back to get my credit card from the restaurant.  At camp we watched funny you tube videos (surprised kitten) then went to bed.

Day 37: 7/24/12

Today was 70 miles from Kendallville IN to Napoleon OH.  Steve stopped at a lemonade stand, and bought ice cream for the rest of the riders that were coming through.  Shortly passed that stand, we stopped for lunch.  I did not blog soon enough, so I'm having trouble remembering details of the ride.  After I got into camp, Gene and I went back for ice cream.  I couldn't get it on the ride because it was cash only and I had spent all my cash at the movie last night.  I got pistachio nut soft serve and it was delicious.  At camp, I started my collection of nap time photos.  Dinner was catered in and it was delicious.  We had fried chicken, mac n cheese, scalloped potatoes, green beans, salad, and strawberry shortcake.  To drink we had tea or lemonade which is now my favorite to mix.  It was a hot night, but I survived.

Day 36: 7/23/12

Today we rode 110 miles from Valparaiso to Kendallville.  The day began with rain, therefore making the railroads slick.  I was riding behind Jeffrey around mile 25 when I watched him slip on the tracks and go down.  Unfortunately, I was already concentrating on making it over the tracks safely so my reaction time was delayed after crossing.  I saw Jeffrey down and slid to avoid him getting road rash on my knee and elbow.  I did not break a nail though.  The self proclaimed turtles came up on the wreck, and Molly also went down on the tracks.  Gene cleaned my wounds at lunch.  After that excitement, the sun came out.  It became exceptionally hot.  I was also frightened by a dog at mile 70.  Things got better towards the end.  I found an ice cream shop with sea salt Carmel nut 12 miles from camp.  I was glad to make it into camp.  Since we lost an hour entering eastern time, I had just enough time to shower before dinner which was catered by the chamber of commerce.  Even the mayor came out to eat with us.  She was a very pleasant retired marine.  I quickly set up my tent so Gene, Reesh, Sarah, Cam, and I went into town to see the dark knight rises as this cute old local theater.  It was cash only, and we just barely had enough.  The movie was really good!!!  By the time we got out it was cool enough to consider sleep and that is just what we did.


Sunday, July 22, 2012

Day 35: 7/22/12

First and foremost, today is my nephew Davids birthday so I need to wish him a happy birthday!!!  It was a very early start today. Joy met us at my moms house and we headed to camp.  We intended to stop at Dunkin donuts but they did not open until 5, even though they said 4 when i called the night before.  We tried McDonalds, then ended up back at Dunkin.  I was so worried about being late.  We were able to get some bagels and coffee to the group before they took off.  Dave, my mom, Joy, and I took off for our 88 mile ride to Valparaiso.  My mom and Joy also noticed that I had gotten stronger.  We had a good ride and got in around 2.  The taco dip at lunch was exactly what I wanted.  Indiana has some rough roads and we did not get a state sign.  Joys son was in the hospital for a sting, so they needed to borrow a car from her sister.  Get well soon Charlie.  After they left, I Waited for dinner and then waited for bed.  I think I just needed to relax.  I loved seeing my family, but it will be nice to just focus on the ride again.  Only 2 more weeks :(


Day 34: 7/21/12

Today was such an early start, we were packing up our tents in the dark.Trying to beat the heat for our 107 mile ride to coal city. It was great to have Dave along for the ride.  For the first time I was able to recognize how much stronger and faster I had become.  After mile 70, I think Dave was feeling it.  We made it to coal city around 2.  My mom and mark came to pick up Dave, Sarah, and me to go home for the night. Unfortunately, that meant I would miss seeing Cheryl and Pete.  We went home, showered, and then I went to get my nails done.  Mom and mark made spaghetti, garlic bread, and salad for dinner.  It was delicious!  After dinner, Sarah, Dave, and I went to the store to buy stuff for the ride tomorrow.  Dave bought us some lunchmeat, taco dip, and chips. I missed my Jeep.   Loved driving and listening to country so we decided to make a detour to Starbucks.  We went home, packed laundry, and went to bed. Tomorrow is a 3:45 start.  Good night

Day 33: 7/20/12

We had a later start today because we had to wait for the cafeteria to open.  It was worth the wait though because they had some great blueberry pancakes!  We rode 94 miles to get from Madison to garden prairie/belvedere.  It was disappointing that I realized I packed my music in my bag on the truck :(  A big thanks to Jim for the dairy queen and alcohol...that made it better that I didn't have music.  Of course I waited until I got into camp at 3:30 to enjoy the alcohol.  I decided to get in the pool for a bit since my dad had not even left yet.  Dinner started at 5:30.  Dad, Nel, and Dave got there around then.  We talked to some German tourists traveling on a cool bus, had dinner, then went back to camp.  We set Dave up since he was staying, took some pictures, and visited for a bit.  I felt like our time was cut short because tomorrow brings a 107 mile day and an early start.  I needed to go to bed.  I was really glad to see my dad and Nel, and I am so thankful they were willing to drive out to see me!!!  Love you guys :)


Thursday, July 19, 2012

Day 32: 7/19/12

A bittersweet rest day in Madison.  Bianca, Peter, mom, and I got up and went to breakfast. Then we ran around town a bit until we had lunch at buffalo wild wings. I have to thank Gene for taking care of my bike for me so I could spend more time with Bianca.  We made the unavoidable good bye a quick and painless a possible.  After they left, I kept busy.  I did laundry and cut liz, sarah, and Todds hair.  Gene cut my hair.  A group of us went to dinner, then Gene went to the bike shop with me.  I found a great Chicago bike hat!  Of course we went for ice cream...even found salted pretzel cones.  The last errand of the evening was Walgreens.  I needed Nyquil and Benadryl.  I am so sick of waking up sneezing and blowing my nose, and allegra and Claritin seemed to do nothing for me.  I got back to the dorm to pack up my laundry and catch up on my blogs.  Tomorrow is another 90+ day and we are starting later than usual because we have to wait for breakfast.  I'm glad the rain seemed to temporarily cool off the weather.  I'm also looking forward to seeing dad, Nel, and Dave in Belvedere tomorrow!!!  Good night.

Day 31: 7/18/12

I am trying to remember everything that happened, but one event overshadows all the others so I'll try my best.  It was a century ride to Madison.  We had breakfast on the truck so we were able to leave early.  The day started off cloudy which was great, but of course it warmed up.  It was still hilly too.  All that really mattered though was when I finally made it to the university.  I was sitting outside drinking cold water and talking, when Rick told me and Reesh that we needed to check in so the front desk person could take a break.  I went in quick without even giving it a thought.  While standing at the desk, i heard a familiar voice say my name from my left.  When I turned I saw my Aunt Bianca standing there.  I instantly and very literally froze.  I could feel the flood of tears that were about to pour from my face as soon as the remaining fluids in my body made it to my eyes.  She came to hug me, and I still could not move....plus I was so gross from the ride I didn't want to get her dirty.  I was so happy to see her and meet her boyfriend Peter.  I showered and then Bianca, Peter, my mom, and I joined the big riders for dinner.  After dinner, it started pouring rain like it always does when Bianca and i are together.  When the rain lightened up, we went out for a drink.  It seemed like a better idea to pick up some drinks and bring them to the hot tub in the hotel so that is what we did.  It was another great day on the big ride, and seeing my Aunt the day before she flies back to Germany was a wish come true!!!


Day 30: 7/17 12

Today we slept in a little.  My alarm was set for 5:45 because truck loading was at 6:30.  We had to wait until 7 when the cafeteria opened for us to have breakfast, along with a million hungry football camp kids.  I'm thankful they let us cut in.  Twenty miles in we had our first stop hosted by the Meyers (cousins for a cause).  It was really amazing!!!  In 1998, they brought lemonade to the first group of big riders as they passed through Dakota Minnesota.  They continued the tradition every year, and it has grown into something truly special.  I'm not even sure I could describe it in words, but I will remember it forever.  I hope this tradition continues well passed the time that Mylah can give the interviews :-)  After lunch, we found an amazing lake to swim in.  There was even a rope that Cam, Ben, Liz, and Jeffery all jumped from.  I was too scared i would hurt myself and not be able to ride.  We still had 10 miles to go that I thought was supposed to be mostly downhill.  Someone lied to me.  It was rough!  That night I had my sangria spilled on me by the waitress so the owner took care of the bill.  After dinner I treated myself to an amazing two scoop Ice cream come.  When I got back to camp I was informed that we could sleep in an air conditioned church, but my tent was already set up and the church was down the road.  I decided to stay in my tent.  Never again!  Any time air conditioning is offered, I'm all over it!  I went to bed early because we voted to get up early.  Tomorrow is 100 miles into Madison for our rest day.

Monday, July 16, 2012

day 29: 7/16/12

Today was an 88.8 mile day, and relatively uneventful.  I have noticed that the streets I'm Minnesota are in desperate need of repair.  We made it passed 2,000 miles today!  We are starring In dorms at Winona state university that again have no air conditioning.  It was another really hot day and night.  After getting to camp I did the usual (shower, snack, relax, laundry) but I also cut Genes hair.  After dinner, Sarah and I watched in time.  I'm going to try to sleep in this heat now....glad we get to sleep an extra hour tomorrow.

day 28: 7/15/12

Today we rode from New Ulm to Owatonna Minnesota.  It was also Genes 45th birthday!  I was really excited to go through Waseca today because we were riding right past Barneys, Troy and Kathies drive-in.  They had posted great job Sharon Newman on the board outside!  I stopped with Reesh, Liz, Ben, and Camilo for lunch.  We all jumped in the lake across the street except for Reesh.  I left to finish the 15 miles to camp.  We joined a group for a Mexican dinner, then Heather, Gene, and I went back to Barneys.  It was so much fun!  We rode the waverunner, took out the amphicar, and drove the pink panther around the lake.  We all slept in the fifth wheel, which had air conditioning.  Thank you so much to Troy and Kathie for all their hospitality!!!

Saturday, July 14, 2012

Day 27: 7/14/12

I woke up happy to not be hung over, but so unbelievably hot!  This school has no air conditioning.  My bud-dy Brian drove to New Ulm this morning to come see me.  We had breakfast at the Ulmer Cafe with Reesh and Doron.  After breakfast, Brian and I went to climb the Hermann the German statue (about 100 steps).  My legs were hurting a little.  We stopped by the dorm for a moment before continuing on to the schell brewery.  We went on the noon tour along with Rob, Mike, Doron, and Todd.  It was very interesting, and a lot of fun!  I got some great souvenirs.  Next Brian and I went out for lunch where I could try schell shock...a grapefruit beer.  it was delicious, and so was the Philly steak pizza.  We left 3 minutes before 3 so we had to run to the glockenspiel for the show.  Brian is in quite good shape, but hey my legs are tired.  we stopped in a couple more places including the guten tag haus before he drove me back to the dorm.  I really had another great day.  The only thing that could have made it better would have been if Shelly and the girls could have come.  I'll have to make another trip up here soon.  I took a nap for awhile or tried to in this heat.  Gene, Sarah, Reesh, and I went to burger king for dinner.  I destroyed two cheeseburgers and a bunch of fries.  I am really shocked by the amount of food I can eat, and that I'm always hungry.  Well I should pack up my laundry and try to get to sleep.  I'm excited to see Troy and Kathy tomorrow!  Thanks again to Brian for a truly amazing day!!!

day 26: 7/13/12

Friday the 13th.  We rode 87 miles from Tyler to New Ulm today.  While riding today a truck in front of me lost both rear tires.  It crossed the shoulder and the Axel dragged in the gravel for some distance creating a large cloud of dust.  It was actually quite scary, and i'm glad I was 50 feet or so behind the truck.  That could have really taken me out.  When I got into town, I just relaxed until we got a disappointing dinner.  I went downtown for dinner number 2 which was a much better Weiner schnitzel.  Then let the drinking begin.  I started with 3 different glasses of wine and a grasshopper.  Then we went to Rodneys Tavern where I had a couple of beers, a vodka tonic, and a lemon drop shot.  At least I didn't mix!!!  It was after midnight when Sarah, Reesh, and I decided to tackle that hill home. 

Thursday, July 12, 2012

day 25: 7/12/12

Today was surprisingly easy.  It was mostly cloudy with some light sprinkles.  The wind wasn't terrible either.  I was actually the first one into camp before 1:00.  Of course other riders had distractions like a flat tire, ice cream, or a bike shop.  i was feeling good and just kept pushing.  I think it was probably good that i made it to lunch half an hour before the creamery opened.  I helped unload the gear truck today finally since it is usually done by the time I roll into camp.  then we showered and headed to the bar.  i had a burger, tots, and a couple beers served by the bitchiest waitress.  she eventually warmed up to the group but she is the only person I have come across on this trip with a bad attitude.  then Sarah walked to the gas station with me so i could get a f'real chocolate malt.  it was delicious!  i touched up jeffrey's Mohawk when we returned to the Tyler high school.  after dinner, i met up with Richie, a friend from South padre island.  i am really looking forward to our rest.  oh i almost forgot we crossed into Minnesota today!

Wednesday, July 11, 2012

Day 24: 7/11/12

Today we hit the half way point!  It was a nice relaxing ride today.  The weather was nice although the headwinds could have been tailwinds.  I spent a lot of time thinking, listening to music, and playing the roadkill game today.  I try to identify the animal and fires how long they have been dead.  Morbid...I know, but it's kind of hard to miss.  What I observed is that the birds in South Dakota are either stupid or suicidal.  couldn't they just fly over the cars if they wanted to get to the other side of the road?  Once I got to camp I enjoyed a huge glass of chocolate milk, set up my tent, and took a shower.  Sarah and I went into town (De Smet) to do laundry.  Four days of riding is my max since I only have for pairs of bike shorts.  Then we made a quick trip top a drugstore and a grocery store for some essentials.  Now i'm at the coffee shop where the chamber of commerce is catering our dinner.  They have wifi so I figured I should get my blog our of the way.  I fully intend to go to bed early tonight!


Tuesday, July 10, 2012

Day 23: 7/10/12

Today was the best day of my ride yet!!!  The first 50 miles of my ride seemed to fly by because I was so excited to get to Highmore.  I'm pretty sure I just dropped my bike when I saw uncle Leo and team to give him a hug.  He brought lunch meat which was amazing!  A lady from the newspaper came to take pictures.  I'm really excited to read the article.  Grandma June and grandpa Edgar brought lemonade and desserts.  I had not seen them for 16 years...way too long.  I really wanted to go with them and see the farm, but I still had 23 miles to go until I reached Miller.  I was very sorry to hear that grandma and grandpa had lost a friend in Miller, but we were able to have dinner together before they attended the services.  We went to Willies steakhouse and all ordered the prime rib Philly with a baked potato.  I skipped the salad bar because I am my fathers daughter.  I really had am amazing day, and everyone really enjoyed the lunch stop.  I could not be happier right now :-)

Monday, July 9, 2012

Day 22: 7/9/12

Some things I have noticed about South Dakota...I am apparently allergic to something.  I woke up in the middle of the night having sneezing fits.  They say there are more cows than people in South Dakota, but I would venture to say there are more grasshoppers than cows...even after the hundreds I ran over with my bike.  I also got bit in the knee by am unidentifiable black bug that hurt like hell.  The sky was a perfect blue, and the clouds even looked fake.  After 96 miles of rolling hills we made it in to a middle school in Pierre...the state capital.  Our was a hot day which always makes me feel now tired.  After forcing myself to shower we went to long branch for dinner and beers.  I will be seeing family in highmore tomorrow, and i'm so excited!!!!  Good night!

Sunday, July 8, 2012

Day 21: 7/8/12

Today was a century into kadoka South Dakota.  I got a late start waiting for another rider, but caught up eventually.  We rode through the badlands national park which was beautiful.  Thank you to Marvin and Judy for stopping to talk and take a picture.  It was nice meeting you!  We also stopped to admire the worlds largest prairie dog, and saw some real ones that are apparently feed often so they come close.  Kind of made me worried since we had previously seen signs saying that prairie dogs had the plague.  I had a buffalo hot dog at one stop...it was pretty good.  Dinner and breakfast are at a local restaurant.  I am really having a great time and i'm excited to get closer to family!  Thank you to everyone that had been following along my journey!!!

Saturday, July 7, 2012

Day 20: 7/7/12

Today was another great day off!  Started with an amazing breakfast, a trip to mount Rushmore, and then a trip to the nail salon.  Sarah and I had lunch then took a cab to cosmo for supplies.  We made it back to the dorms just in time to clean our bikes.   Gene and I ran to the bike shop (I needed sunglasses and bike lights)  them went to the firehouse brew pub for dinner.  I think I want another bike hat...love them!  Glad I did my laundry yesterday and sent some stuff home.  Ready to do 102 miles tomorrow. 

Friday, July 6, 2012

Day 19: 7/6/12

Well today was interesting.  The first 40 miles were a bunch of killer hills.  I probably would have been cursing them out more if the well had not already thrown me so many challenges.  At lunch, Ben, Reesh,, and I decided to eat in Custer.  It was a cute touristy town, and I enjoyed a second breakfast of steak and eggs.  The next 20 miles reminded me why hills are not so bad...downhills.  It was great!  They were long and winding...also not bad scenery.  The last 20 miles though looked a lot like yesterday.  Strong headwinds and rolling hills.  At one point I think Ben and I were blown to a screeching halt.  We finally made it.  I immediately showered and did laundry before dinner knowing tomorrow is going to be a busy day of.  I made a to do list.  After dinner Sarah and I watched crazy stupid love.  I am also really glad to have Molly back with us!  Well the van leaves at 7:30 for breakfast and Mt Rushmore.  Good night!

Thursday, July 5, 2012

Day 18: 7/5/12

Omg...wtf!!!  I don't really know what else to say!  Today was so hard it was unreal.  Tuesday was extreme heat, Wednesday was extreme distance, but today was extreme wind.  Today was the worst by far.  20-30 mile am hour head  winds can make downhills feel like uphills and uphills feel like you are going to start moving backwards.  I was hurting after today so we went to the iron horse saloon.  We are staying at a senior community center tonight.  The dinner they fed us was delicious, and they are providing breakfast tomorrow too :-)  looking forward to my day off after tomorrow, and setting Mt Rushmore.  Need to be prepared for what tomorrow will bring so good night.

Day 17: 7/4/12

Happy 4th of July!  I'm slightly bummed there was no beer with dinner to celebrate the holiday.Today was our longest day, and I completed 113 miles riding with Heather.  It was a good day, but really long.  I'm glad we're staying in a high school tonight...no tents.  Just saves a little time.  Well I hope everyone is out celebrating!

Tuesday, July 3, 2012

Day 16: 7/3/12

In all honesty, I was most worried about our 112 mile Ride on the 4th of July.  However, I think today could very well have been the most difficult day physically.  It was over 100 degrees with a strong head wind and we had to Ride over 84 miles.  Tomorrow should be slightly cooler and a possible tail wind.  I was truly exhausted after arriving at camp today, and I am so thankful that Gene fixed my music yesterday.  We took a cab into town to have dinner tonight, and now it is about that time.  Oh, I also talked to my Aunt Bianca today, which made me smile and cry.  I'm so sorry I will not see her while she is in from Germany :-( 

Monday, July 2, 2012

Day 15: 7/2/12

Today was emotional but nice!  I finally had a break down, but it was a good day for it to happen.  I rode alone today for Some much needed me time...also stopping to enjoy some lone beverages before joining the crew.  Once getting to camp we played on the pool, and made a trip to dairy  queen.  We had a lot of free time because it was an easy day.  Beyond basil catered for us again and it was great.  Tomorrow is going to be hot!

Sunday, July 1, 2012

Day 14: 7/1/12

Today was a great day off in Billings Montana.  I had a ton of fun last night, and met the new rider Heather.  She is a teacher from New York and also my age.  This morning I got up and walked to breakfast with Liz, Reesh, Camilo, Ben, and Sarah.  I finally found eggs Benedict.  We then hit up the grocery store and came back to the dorms for the typical shower, bike washing, and laundry chores.  I think everything I brought needed to be washed.  Heather, Sarah, cookie, Rick, and Todd went to lunch at Rockpile.  After lunch Gene, mike, Steve, rob, and I piled in blue thunder and went to the bike store.  Unfortunately, they had nothing for me.  I wanted a pink tank Jersey, a shell, short shorts, and of course sunglasses.  Disappointed on all accounts.  The cheapest sunglasses were $110, and I would probably just lose them again.  The guys needed lunch so we went to subway before going to see prometheus.  Lots of buttery salty popcorn going around.  If that wasn't enough went for sushi afterwards.  I was pleasantly surprised.  I got back to the dorm in time to organize my laundry and get ready for tomorrow.  Thank you to Sarah for putting my stuff in the laundry!  Tomorrow should be an easy day, and tomorrow is a new day!  I am starting to see the first bits of drama over the past couple days...maybe the honeymoon phase is wearing off.