The morning after

Molly, Cookie, Dave (cookies husband), Rick, Cam, mike, Reesh, Liz, Liz's parents and I all went for breakfast at the diner.  I was good and had steel cut oats and fresh berries since I am not sure when I'll be riding again.  It was an emotional good bye for many.  Now we'll see how we all keep in touch.  Reesh, Gene, and I packed up blue thunder and got on the road headed to St Louis shortly after 11.  Currently in Ohio after stopping for dinner at a Japanese steak house.  Thank you all for following my blog and all the support!  This experience has been amazing!!!

Day 48: 8/4/12

Happy birthday dad! Final day of the big ride.  A short bittersweet 40 mile ride.  The first stop was at a Starbucks, which made Sarah happy.  A stretch after that stop was on an extremely busy bike path.  I rode with the turtles again.  We stopped to take pictures at the Washington monument when we got into DC.  We then went over to the old post office for a lunch hosted by another alumni at his Greek restaurant.  I also had to get my late night snack Ben and Jerry's.  Just before noon we lined up to ride to the finish in pairs.  As we prepared to leave, Todd got a flat.  He was at the end of the line so they had enough time to change it.  I rode with Sarah.  We rode to freedom plaza where Lynn and Charleton gave us our medals.  After some pictures, I joined three other riders for an XM radio interview.  I rode over to the state plaza hotel to check in and take a nap.  A group of us had dinner reservations at Paolos in Georgetown. Sarah, Gene, and I arrived early enough for me to find an amazing pair of purple heels from nine west.  After dinner the kids met a couple other riders and went dining and dancing at third edition.  We ended the night in a hotel room watching the Olympics.  In bed around midnight, and surprised I lasted that long.

Day 47: 8/3/12

Today was a 62 mile day from Gettysburg PA to Poolesville MD.  There was fog in the morning covering the battlefields.  I was riding with the turtles today.  It was a hilly day.  We stopped for ice cream.  I had to go to the fire dept to use the bathroom.  Then we stopped again for lunch #2 at bassetts.  When we got to camp we got our stuff and headed to the local pool.  We swam until we had to meet for our rider only social at bassetts from 4-6.  Laura Sanford was in town for it, and it was really nice.  It would really be one of our last moments together as a whole group.  I think some people are starting to realize it is coming to an end :(

Day 46: 8/2/12

Rest day in Gettysburg.  Went to breakfast at cafe St amand and had two meals because I could not decide between sweet or savory.  My sweet was an amazing nutella and banana crepe.  Then I found some vitamin E for my cuts.  Next door was a tanning bed, so why not try to even out a little before going home.  It was great.  They provide lotion and goggles, and they even let me tan for free.  Back at camp, I cleaned my bike and cut Lynn's hair.   Then it was time for my pedicure and massage appointments :)  I was feeling good so I decided to get pretty.  I straightened my hair and put on make up for dinner at the blue parrot.  Got some ice cream on the way home, then off to bed.

Day 45: 8/1/12

Today was 102 miles from Bedford to Gettysburg.  It is day 6 of straight riding and it is filled with hills.  I was nervous about today because I had heard it was the hardest day of the ride.  Reesh and I decided to ride together today at a slower pace.  By the end of the day, it didn't really matter how slow I rode.  My bee sting in my toe from the previous day was swollen and painful.  I also kept forgetting to put chamois butter on.  There were some pluses to today though.  Tony, a 2008 alumni, and his son hosted lunch for us.  He grilled me a burger in the state park.  They also had make your own sundaes for us in Gettysburg with fresh peaches and mangos.  Thanks to them!  Also a big thanks to Rob's Family for the buffs.  I love it!  After getting to camp I quickly fell asleep.  It was very hard to get up for dinner, but Gene dragged me to the Appalachian brewery.  After dinner I went right back to bed.  Today was rough!

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.

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!

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.

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 :)

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.