The Trip Home, May 27 and 28 2011, Amesbury, MA to Essexville, MI

Hallelujah I have made it back to home sweet home!  Friday morning, in Amesbury, I was up at 5:30 a.m., just before the alarm was scheduled to go off.  The first thing I saw was the box I had packed my bike in and I thought, “Whoa baby, I get to go home!!”  I ate a leisurely breakfast at the motel with several members of our group.  We relived some of the events that we experienced, told a few lies and generally “yukked” it up.  At 7:00 a.m. we loaded our bags into a couple of vans and were transported to Logan airport in Boston.  Just prior to leaving I handed my bike off to the desk clerk to await pick up by Fed Ex.  The last I saw of it, it was sitting in the lobby.  I sure hope that I called Fed Ex! 

My flight did not leave until 1:30 p.m. so I had some time to kill.  Ran into Ohio Bob and he and I spent a few hours reliving our accomplishments.  He is the first guy I met in Costa Mesa and the last of the group that I spent any time with.  I found that interesting.  We had a good time.  Arrived in Atlanta with a ½ hour to spare.  When I boarded the plane it was very obvious that the air conditioning was not working.  The plane was hotter than blazes.  The captain and staff were apologizing profusely.  Shortly after takeoff the captain came on the speaker and asked if there was a physician on board.  A few minutes later he announced that they had a medical emergency and we were returning to Atlanta.  Oh joy!!  We returned safely and were met by an ambulance.  They removed one of the flight attendants who apparently had been overcome by the heat.  We then had to wait for a substitute attendant who received a standing ovation (from me) when she arrived.  Two hours after our scheduled departure we were back in the air and landed in Flint at 9:45 p.m. 

I was met at the gate by my welcoming entourage who were waving signs and banners.   It was really quite a sight and a big surprise.  Making up the group were:  Leisa, Mom, Joy Lee, Keri Crane (one of my favorite nieces), Mary Pearsall, Pam Snarey, Pat Beyer, Mary Morin, Dave Pruder and Rusty Wellman.  I was really quite touched and thankful that they came.  We talked for awhile; I told a few stories, answered questions about the gazelles and then hit the road.

I slept like a baby until 5:30 a.m. at which time I awoke confused, not quite knowing where I was.  I found that interesting as for the past 33 days I always knew where I was at and what the day had in store for me when I awoke.  When I rolled over and found Leisa Rose in bed next to me a calming peace came over me and I drifted back to sleep.  Ahhh, home sweet home.  A few hours later I was up and putting the espresso machine to work.  Gosh I like being home.  When I went outside to survey the yard I was very surprised to find that my wonderful life partner, Leisa, had taken care of everything.  The yard and gardens looked absolutely fabulous.  It was obvious that she had spent hours taking care of everything.  I was surprised, as she had told me that there was much to be done, because the weather had prevented her from doing much.  My first thought was, “Daryl was right, she is a saint!!”  My second thought was, “Dang she has done such a good job I think I will turn it all over to her and I will take up quilting.”

It is truly very nice to be home.  I was gone for too long, though I do not have any regrets.  As I sat around today drinking mass quantities of espressos I began the process of reflecting upon what I accomplished.  I am not too shy to say that what we accomplished and experienced was BIG and absolutely mind boggling.  I am thankful for having had the opportunity to do it.  Specifically I am thankful for having the good health, resources and time to do it.  I would be remiss in not making special note of the support and encouragement that Leisa Rose provided throughout this ordeal.  Without her backing I would have never even attempted it.  That Daryl is a smart guy, “She is a saint!”

For those of you, who have followed this blog and shared this adventure with me, thank you!  I hope that you have enjoyed it as much as I have enjoyed sharing it with you.  I have pursued a dream.  I hope that you will pursue yours.  Remember, “If not now, when??”

My Groupies waiting patiently for me to return.

Keri Crane, Joy Lee, Donna Crane, The Saint, Pammy Sue, Pat Beyer, Mary Morin, Mary "I broke my hand" Pearsall, Rusty Wellman, Dave Pruder

What the heck?

I am thinking, "How did Daryl know that she is a saint??"

Keri, Joy Lee, The Saint, Jay, Mom

Jay, Rusty and Dave

Jack had the choice of going to Cedar Pointe with his 8th grade class or meeting me in the airport.  He chose Cedar Pointe.  Imagine that!

Day 33, May 26, 2011, Keene, NH to Amesbury, MA

121 miles and 7100 feet of climbing.  We got ‘er done today and oh what a day it was!  The anticipation of completing this challenge was definitely evident at breakfast.  There was lots of chatter about getting it done, reminiscing about earlier days on the tour and the feeling of being on the verge of completing something big!!  The gazelles set a fast pace (do you think I was surprised??) and we all headed to our rendezvous point 4 miles from the beach.  I was doing fine until after lunch when I inadvertently “decided” to do some bonus miles.  By the time I got back on course I had added 8 miles and wasted a lot of time.  I was quite bummed about this as it would mean that everyone else would have to wait for me before proceeding.  I did my best to make up the lost time and probably rode harder than I had during the entire challenge.  When I finally arrived at the staging area the group gave me a standing ovation.  It probably helped that my back was still a mess, and I walked with a hunched over, lop sided gait.  I think even the most hardened gazelle felt some sympathy for me!  From there we proceeded to the beach under police escort.  At the beach we all dipped our front tires into the surf and had a ceremony that involved pouring a bottle of Pacific Ocean water into the Atlantic.  Afterward the police escorted us to the motel.  We celebrated by having a banquet at a local restaurant and then returned to the motel for a wrap up ceremony.  The staff awarded me their “Perseverance” award and in doing so noted that I spent more time on the bicycle than anyone else.  Apparently I even did it with a good attitude.  I was awarded a U.S. road map with our route highlighted.  It is the same map that they hung in the motel lobbies each evening.  All my fellow riders signed it.  I was quite touched.

It will take some time for me to realize and fully process what we have accomplished.  Right now I am drained, physically, emotionally and mentally.  It has been intense.  My odometer indicates that I covered 3,524 miles in 31 days of riding.  I have spent time with an incredible group of people from throughout the country, England, Norway and New Zealand.  I have worked harder than I ever thought possible.  All I can say now is, “Wow, I  did it!!”

Dipping the wheel in the Atlantic!

I can't believe I rode the  whole thang!!

Jay, Daryl, Minnesota Mark, U.K Steve

Day 32, May 25, 2011, Amsterdam, NY to Keene, NH

124 miles and 7100 feet of climbing.  The 2^nd to last day is done and it was a real challenge.  I was on the bike at 7:00 a.m. and did not get in until 6:00 p.m.  I spent a little over 10 hours on the bike.  Shortly after leaving my left lower back tightened up and I could not get it loosened up all day.  It made it difficult to get on/off the bike and walking was very painful.  It did not seriously impact my riding ability, just made it uncomfortable.  That problem was compounded when I had to take defensive measures to avoid an IDIOT in a car, ran into a curb and crashed.  Fortunately it only resulted in a little road rash on my knee and the bike was not hurt.  Right now I am feeling quite disabled.  Laying flat in bed helps and I am hopeful that when the alarm goes off I will spring out of bed to finish this challenge!

The climbing we did today was unlike any of the big climbs we did out West.  Out there the roads traversed back and forth up the side of the mountains and there were areas that were “relatively” flat.  Here they go up and over the mountains on winding roads with inclines in the 8 – 10 % range.  The big climb of the day went on for a good 10 miles to get us to the summit of Hog Back Mountain.  It was brutal.  After that there were several short but very steep climbs.  I think I would rather do the climbs out West than these.

We left NY and entered into Vermont and then New Hampshire.  The scenery was incredible.  We are in the Green Mountains in the north east portion of the Appalachians.  The area is lush green rolling hills.  At times it seemed as if it were saturated with fast moving, Whitewater Rivers and streams.  I concur with Russ, this is a very scenic area.  It will make the list for a return visit.

The only bad thing about today was the traffic, or I should say the rude, obnoxious New England drivers.  I have never encountered such aggressive, uncompromising and generally hell bent drivers.  One of our fellow riders, Manny (from Boston) has been trying to prepare us for this and today we were thoroughly introduced.  I do not know what was more tiring; all of the climbing we did or being constantly on guard to keep from being run over.

So, tomorrow is it, the end of this challenging adventure.  We plan to be in Amesbury by 2:00 p.m. where we will all rendezvous and regroup for the final ride to the beach.  When we get there we will dip out front wheels into the ocean and empty a bottle of Pacific Ocean water into the Atlantic.  We will then go to the motel, where we will prepare our bikes to be shipped home.  There is a banquet in the evening with a meal and a program.  On Friday we will be transported to the Boston airport.  It is so hard to believe it is coming to an end and that I have done this.

#12 of 14 States.

Pic from the summit of Hog Back Mountain.  The view was spectacular.

One more State to go.  Bring on Massachussetts!!!

Day 31, May 24, 2011, Liverpool, NY to Amsterdam, NY

118 miles and 1700 feet of climbing.  This may be redundant, but another day is done and it was a good one!  We traveled most of the day on Route 5E which paralleled the Mohawk River and Erie Canal.  We again passed through many small, historic towns and saw lots of old buildings and houses.  This part of NY is actually very beautiful.  After lunch we had a long 5 mile climb that culminated in an 8 mile descent that was fairly gradual with long swooping curves.  It was steep enough to easily keep a rate of 30 – 35 mph going without having to ride the brakes all of the time.  In the valley below was the Mohawk River and Erie Canal.  It was impressive!  The weather was very cooperative.  Winds of 10 mph were at our backs, it was in the upper 70’s, and slightly overcast.  The humidity was a bit of a challenge but at least it was not raining. 

At dinner tonight the conversation centered on our not believing the challenge is about to be over with.  There is a general sense that we really can’t believe we are this close to having done it.  Everybody is very tired but you no longer hear complaints about sore butts and other aches and “ouchies”.  It is interesting that in the last couple of days many of the gazelles have taken to riding by themselves (as opposed to in groups or pace lines).  They have been explaining that they find it to be a lot more relaxing and enjoyable.  I could have told them that weeks ago!  As a group, we are now a hardened bunch of road warriors who are beginning to savor the fact that we have accomplished something big!  The camaraderie within the group is really quite interesting and special.  Arriving in Amesbury will be bitter sweet.

Last night I reported about the mishap that one of our group had.  This morning we learned that it was discovered that he had a fractured vertebrae (C-5) and would not be returning to the ride.  That was not the news that we were all hoping for.  He expected to make a full recovery with no serious complication.  He was one of the most accomplished and experienced riders in the group, which reminded us that it could happen to any of us.  Needless to say there were a lot of “safety reminders” being offered up to one another all day.

Tomorrow we will leave NY behind and head to Keene, New Hampshire a trek of 123 mile and 7100 feet of climbing.  It has been a few days since we had to do any serious climbing.  The consensus seems to be that if we made it this far we can make it to the end, no matter how much climbing we have to do.

Pic looking back on long climb up from the Mohawk River Valley.  Spectacular scenery!!

Day 30, May 23, 2011, Batavia, NY to Liverpool, NY

121 miles and 3780 feet of climbing.  Day 30 is in the record book as we cruise on towards the Atlantic.  We followed Route 5/20 as we skirted the Finger Lake Region, Seneca Lake, segments of the Erie Canal and Syracuse.  It was a very picturesque ride with rolling hills and expansive vistas.  We cruised through numerous small towns that were founded in the late 1700’s/early 1800’s.  It was a very interesting area.  The Erie Canal is quite an intriguing engineering marvel.  I would like to come back here and learn more about it.  I talked to a guy who says that you can rent barges/house boats for extended trips.  I might have to put that on the list.  The weather was in the mid 70’s, clear skies and 15 – 20 mph out of the South.  The winds always seem to be a factor on this trip.  Though it was at our side it still takes its toll on you physically as you have to focus to keep from being blown into traffic.  Fortunately, most roads in NY have a good 8 foot paved shoulder.  I was on the bike at 7:00 a.m. and arrived in Liverpool at 3:30 p.m.  I tried to take it slow and easy as the next 3 days are going to be quite intense.  I am feeling healthy, but very tired.  The morning alarm clock is getting to be quite annoying. 

We had a near tragedy this a.m. when one of our riders was hit by a car.  A car entering the highway from the right did not see him as he was going by.  He was struck on the side, knocked off his bike, etc..  He was transported to the hospital and at our meeting tonight they reported that he had no serious injuries and plans to rejoin us tomorrow.  Of course that is contingent on his being able to find a new bike as his was  really busted up.  This was quite a sobering event for all of us.

The fund raising for Special Olympics, Region 9 has been going very well.  As of today we have raised $7789.  I  am quite confident that we will/can exceed $8500.  So if you know of someone who has not yet made a donation send this link to them:  http://www.firstgiving.com/fundraiser/jaycrane/jay-cranes-fundraising 

Tomorrow we press on to Amersterdam, NY.  Only 3 days left!!

Here is a pic of the Erie Canal.

           

Day 29, May 22, 2011, Dunkirk, NY to Batavia, NY

84 miles and 800 feet of climbing.  Another day bites the dust.  Four more and we are done!  It was another good day out here on the roads crossing this incredible country.  Weather was overcast, 70 degrees, high humidity and an occasional very brief drizzle.  Roads were good, with little traffic.  After leaving the shores of Lake Erie, we skirted south of Buffalo and went through numerous small towns and farming operations.  I spent some time thinking about the contrasts I have witnessed between this part of the country and out west.  Here, water is abundant, ponds are everywhere, the rivers/cricks are flowing swiftly and it rains.  Out West it was parched.  Here everything is a lush green, spring flowers are blooming, the green houses/plant farms are doing a brisk business and people are out working in their yards and gardens.  Out West it is brown and dusty.  Here, people are everywhere.  Out West you can travels for hours and see little evidence of any human habitation.  It is a diverse country we live in!

At one point today I stopped alongside the road to take a break.  I was near and downwind from, a large cluster of Lilac bushes.  Boy did they smell good.  I sure hope my Lilacs are still in bloom when I get home.  Nothing means spring time more than the smell of Lilacs.  I am truly getting anxious to be home again.  I talked with Jack this morning on the phone.  I was telling him I could not wait to get home and that I was really missing him and Leisa.  I even stretched the truth a tad and told him that I was even missing our dog, Gage.  Without missing a beat Jack says, “Well he missed you at first but he got over that real quick.”  I can tell I have my work cut out for me as it appears as if Leisa is being a bad influence on that boy!

The highlight of my day was Espresso.  I have not had any of my favorite brew since I left home nearly 5 weeks ago.  I try to drink that swill they call coffee in the motels but it is all I can do to choke down half a cup.  As I was passing through a small town I noticed a coffee shop saying they specialized in “distinctive coffees.”  I brought my bike to a screeching halt, dismounted and headed in.  To the young lady behind the counter I said, “You can get me a quadruple espresso.”  She looked confused and I asked if there was a problem.  She said, “Well, I have never met anyone who wanted a quadruple espresso.”  I stuck out my hand and said, “Hello, I am Jay Clydesdale Crane.  I am pedaling my bike across this great country of ours to eliminate evil.  Now will you please get me my espresso?”  She saw the desperation in my eyes and quickly complied.  It was without a doubt one of the best cups of coffee I have ever had and I savored every sip.  I was so fired up when I got back on the bike, that within 2 miles I had a flat tire from pedaling too fast.

Tomorrow we press on to Liverpool, NY.  The excitement level of the entire group is beginning to increase as we approach the end of this ordeal.

Ahhhh....Life is Good.  Very, Very Good!!

Day 28, May 21, 2011, Warren, OH to Dunkirk, NY

139 miles and 2500 feet of climbing.  The cross country express keeps chugging along.  Today we left Ohio, spent some time in Pennsylvania and ended the day in New York.  It was our longest day of the trip and one of my more enjoyable days.  We got an early start out of Ohio at 7 a.m. and arrived in Dunkirk at 4:30 p.m.  I spent 8 ½ hours on the bike and averaged 16 mph.  It was a gorgeous day, in the low 70’s and dropped slightly to the upper 60’s as we approached Lake Erie.  The sun was shining and there was a slight tail wind.  Shortly after entering Pennsylvania we got on Rte 5/5A and rode along the shore of Lake Erie for a good 80 miles.  It was a gently rolling road with excellent shoulders and little traffic.  We had some nice views of the lake and took a ride through the town of Erie, PA.  The entire length of road was lined with vineyards that seemed to go on forever.  Someone said that most of the grapes we Concord and find their way into Welch’s grape juice and jelly.  I rode well.  Felt strong and relaxed and had a very good day.  The motel desk clerk had to ask me my name!!  Tomorrow we press on to Batavia, NY only 84 miles down the road.  Because it is a “short” day we are not leaving until 8:30 a.m., so we get to sleep in.  I relish that thought as I am very tired.

In the north east corner of Ohio there are many covered bridges.  This one was moved and is no long used.

This one is still being used.  I took a mile, down hill, side trip to see this bridge.

Pennsylvania.  Our 10th state.  Only 4 to go!

Vineyards literally lined both side of Rte 5/5A,

New York.  Three states left!

Day 27, May 20, 2011, Wooster, OH to Warren, OH

98 miles and 2700 feet of climbing.  Today was the last Friday of the trip.  Next week at this time I will be home!!  It was a good day weather wise as it was the first time in too long that we did not have to get bundled up with winter/rain gear.  I had forgotten how good it feels to ride in shorts.  The temp was in the mid-60’s, partially sunny and we had a slight tail wind.  The route was not bad, but certainly did not live up to the expectations that yesterday had established.  The first half of the day we rode through an area made up primarily of old farms/homesteads and lots of new 10-20 acre “country estates”.  Nearly every other one had a 1 – 2 acre pond and the 5000 – 8000 sq. foot homes were surrounded by lush green lawns.  Due to the excessive rains they have had there were lots of people out mowing their lawns.   There were some very nice properties and I kept imagining myself sitting on the shore of a pond, contemplating the last 4 weeks.  I was riding with my Norwegian friend, Lasse, and he made an interesting point, “You Americans do like your lawns.  These people have bigger lawn mowers than the car I drive at home and they use more gas cutting their grass than I use driving to work.”  I agree and made the point that us Americans waste/over use a lot of oil, etc..  He responded, “Ya, you are bad, but not as bad as those Swedish people.  They real bad in many, many ways.”  Of course I objected and told him that I have some people in my family of Swedish origin.  He responded, “Oh, I sorry.  No one should have to have Swedish people in their family.”  J

We rode on some of the worst roads we have encountered on the entire trip.   Just imagine bad and multiply it times 10.  I have never seen so many pot holes, patches, broken black top, etc..   I was dodging hazards all day long. You would think that the Ohio State football coach would organize his players and have them do a fund raiser to repair the state’s roads.  Perhaps they could sell some memorabilia or something!  I mentioned yesterday that I had to do a “cobble repair job” on my wheel.  It held up fine to the punishment I put it through so I am quite confident it will get me to Amesbury.

Tomorrow is a 139 mile day.  We will leave Ohio, spend some time in Pennsylvania and end the day in Dunkirk, New York.  The route will take us along the shore of Lake Erie and it is billed as a long but easy ride.

Sorry, no pics today.

XOXOXOXOXOXOX

Day 26, May 19, 2011, Marysville, OH to Wooster, OH

104 miles and 4000 feet of climbing.  First off, let me apologize for ever thinking that Ohio was going to be an ugly state to ride in.  My perception was that we would ride on straight, flat country roads lined with decrepit towns and over worn out mobile homes.  Boy was I wrong!  Today we rode in some of the most appealing country I have ever had the privilege of riding in.  The roads were curving and rolling through the country side.  There were some very challenging climbs but they were interspersed between gently rolling hills.   Wherever you looked there were gorgeous “farm scapes” with old stately homes, barns, fields, horses and cattle.  It was very nice and was a ride I would like to do again.

The weather cooperated with us today.  There was no rain.  Occasionally the sun peaked thru overcast skies, it was in the upper 40’s to mid 50’s, and there was a gentle 5 mph wind that was at our back.  The only drawback was that we had to ride fairly bundled up and prepared for rain.  Overall it was a good weather day.  Certainly better than the past two.

I had a very comfortable day on the bike.  I was able to maintain an average of 16 mph.  Generally it was one of the more enjoyable days I have had in a long time.  My trusty bike gave me a little trouble.  About 10 miles out I broke a spoke.  Fortunately the SAG van was nearby so we were able to install a spare wheel and I was able to finish the ride.  Had some difficulty getting it repaired as the spokes I had brought with me were 2 mm too long, so our mechanic sent me to a local bike shop.  They did not have the spoke I needed but were able to cobble together a solution and I think my trusty mount is road worthy again.

Four weeks ago today I began this adventure when Leisa dropped me off at the airport in Flint.  That seems like “forever ago”.  In our 39 years together Leisa and I have never been apart this long.  I am really missing her!  I am starting to look forward to the end, but keep reminding myself that I have a lot of riding to do yet.  One week from tonight we will be in Amesbury, Massachusetts at our celebratory banquet.  I know I will be up early the next morning in anticipation of going home.

In addition to a good day of riding I also had the pleasure of spending some time with my sister, Janel and my outlaw Brother Trav.  They were kind enough to take me to the bike shop and then out to eat.  What a treat!  I get tired of grazing with gazelles all of the time.

Tomorrow we press on to Warren, Ohio.  It is “only” 94 miles down the road, so we get to sleep in an extra ½ tomorrow.  Yippee!

Pic of sunrise over a damp field.  It had been so long since I had seen the sun I just had to stop and snap a pic.

This is a good example of todays roads.  Mike, our ride leader, took a pic of me climbing this hill.  I know everyone is going to want an 8  x 10 glossy of that one!

Pic of me shortly after arriving at the motel.

Sister Janel and Brother Trav.  Thanks for coming to see me!!

Day 25, May 18, 2011, Richmond, IN to Marysville, OH

104 miles and 2500 feet of climbing.  As we were leaving Richmond this a.m. there was a sign on a church that said, “May is God’s Apology for February”.  Well that may be true but in my humble she needs to do a bit more repentance!  Perhaps we can get Brother Trav to take that one on.  I left the motel at 7:15 a.m. and it was a balmy 38 degrees, overcast with 5-8 mph winds out of the East.  Ten minutes down the road it started to rain, the same stinging type of rain that we had yesterday.  At times it was quite heavy.  It rained intermittently throughout the day and never got much above 45 degrees.  Towards the end of the day it began to clear up some.  Overall it was not as bad as yesterday, but anytime you have to ride all bundled up and damp is not good.  My legs felt heavy all day long.  I could never get into a good spinning routine.  Periodically I would hit a good cadence but before I knew it I was laboring again.  Perhaps it was due to the fact that our routine got all messed up when the alarm failed to go off and we got to breakfast ½ hour late.  I have mentioned before that I am living a very regimented routine.  It makes the whole experience just a little less challenging and it is not good when it gets disrupted.

We crossed into Ohio early in the day.  Our route took us on all back country roads and I was able to experience an Ohio I had never seen before.  The Ohio turnpike and I-75 do not do this state justice.  It was actually a very scenic kind of day with lots of small towns and farms.  I really enjoyed it.

Tomorrow we head on over to Wooster.  My sister Janel and my outlaw brother, Brother Trav are threatening to come see me.  They will give me something to look forward to.

Hello Ohio.  We are hoping that you are drier than your neighbor.

Here's a pic of me crossing over I-75

When I saw this sign I was immediately reminded of Leisa and the first time we met ;))

Day 24, May 17, 2011, Lebanon, IN to Richmond, IN

112 miles and 1200 feet of climbing.  When I was researching this ride their literature made the point that we would be riding in challenging weather conditions and that we would encounter days that if we were at home we would not ride.  They were not exaggerating!!  When I left the motel this a.m. it was 38 degrees and windy (out of the North).  A few blocks down the road I hooked up with a local who was just heading out on a training ride.  We chatted for a few minutes and then it began to rain.  He announced that he was going home, did a U turn and left.  Oh how I envied that boy!  It was another miserable day out on the road.  It rained all day and the rain was driven by 15 mph winds, the kind that just stings your cheeks and lips.   I doubt that it ever got above 45 degrees.  To make it worse there was one major detour due to construction and several roads that just did not match up with our maps/cue sheets.  This added 6 miles to what was supposed to be a short day.  Early in the day we were on back country roads and from what I could see there was some beautiful terrain.  The 2^nd half of the day was spent on Hwy 40.  I arrived at the motel about 5:00 p.m..  Spent 9 hours on the road, 8 hours on the bike and averaged about 14 mph..  The best part of the day was that I had to tell the desk clerk who I was!  Crane the Clydesdale just keeps chugging along!

Sorry, no pics today.  I should have brought an underwater camera!

Day 23, May 16, 2011, Tuscola, IL to Lebanon, IN

121 miles and 1200 feet of climbing.  Our coast to coast ride continues and boy are we knocking the miles down and making big progress.  Today we crossed into Indiana, our 9^th state.  We only have 5 states left to go.  We also crossed into the EST zone, our 4^th time zone of the trip.  My odometer indicates I have traveled 2393 miles.  We have 10 days left.

When we left at 7:15 a.m. it was 38 degrees with a wind chill factor of 32.  Winds were 15 mph out of the north.  The winds increased as the day went on and the temp topped out at 50 degrees.  The only good thing about the weather was that the sun was shining and there was no rain.  It was just a chilly, blustery kind of a day.   I keep telling my cohorts from more temperate climates to get used to it as we are now in the middle of the mid west.  I was on the road for 10 hours, on the bike for 9 hours and averaged just 13.5 mph.  We spent some time traveling north so the wind was right on our nose.  The rest of the day it was hitting us on the side and doing its best to put us in the ditch.  The one thing consistent about this entire trip has been the wind.  It has never stopped blowing and challenging us. 

I ate dinner at Steak & Shake again tonight.  When I ordered my 2^nd large chocolate milk shake the waitresses felt the need to clarify that there were no free refills.

I am surprised how well I am feeling.  When I go to bed at night I am exhausted and sore all over.  When I wake up I am surprised that I am not all that sore and can get out of bed without assistance.  I am sleeping so well that I am awaken by the alarm clock each morning.  It was been a long time since I was able to sleep that well.  Though the motel clerk did  not have to ask my name tonight, there were many gazelles waiting in line to check in when I got here.  The weather is taking the toll on the little guys!

Life is very, very good!

Another state bites the dust.  9 down and 5 to go!

Day 22, May 15, 2011, Springfield, IL to Tuscola, IL

78 miles and 900 feet of climbing.  The Midwest welcomed us to its month of May today.  The forecast was spot on.  It was a grey, dreary day with moderate drizzle, winds out of the north and a chilly 45 degrees.  Everyone was glad that it was a short day.  It was particularly tough on the gazelles.  Nothing worse than a bundled up gazelle, that is chilled and dripping wet.  My quick review of the forecast suggests that we can expect more of the same for the next several days.  Overall I had a good day.  Legs felt real heavy in the morning, from the day off but by lunch time I was spinning thru the wetness.  Because it was a short day we did not leave until 9:00 am.  I arrived in Tuscola around 3 after spending about 5 hours on the bike at 15 mph avg.. When I arrived at the motel I actually had to tell the clerk who I was!!  After moving my stuff into the room my next stop was the hot tub.  Nothing better than a 15 minute soak in 104 degree water to force the chill out of you.  Tomorrow we press on down the road 123 miles to Lebanon, Indiana.

If you look closely at my head you can see my tan stripes where the sun gets thru my helmet.  I kind of like it as I always wanted to braid my hair in corn rows!!

Day 21, May 14, 2011, Rest Day in Springfield, IL

It has been a relaxing and if I may say so, a well deserved rest day.  I had hoped to sleep in but by 5:30 am I was awake and it was clear I was not going to get back to sleep.  I gathered up my dirty laundry, did it and repacked my bags.  Ate breakfast in the motel with my comrades and then returned back to the room for a 2 hr morning nap.  Ate lunch at Steak & Shake and returned to the room for another 2 hour nap.  Went to the motel happy hour and then out to eat some pasta with a group of guys.  I could get used to off days.                        

I tried to do some reflecting on the trip but just could not do it as it is all too fresh and is a big blur.  It will take many days in the backyard hammock to get a handle on this trip!  What I did get to thinking about though was how this trip has changed me.   Now you might think this has to do with some new and significant insights into my being or my outlook on life, etc..  But, that is not the case.  What I found myself thinking about was how many of my old routines have been absolutely trashed and replaced with new ones that help me to survive this challenge.  Such as:

Old:     I loved to “ease” into my mornings, sometimes taking 1 ½ hours or more.  I would get up at 7’ish, start with a glass of orange juice, followed my 4-6 espressos, some granola, fruit, etc..  I would then “catch up” on the news on TV, check email, and begin to think about what I might choose to do.

New:   The alarm goes off at 5:30, and I am up, dressed and heading to breakfast by 5:50.  At breakfast I consume/inhale mass quantities of whatever is laid out on the buffet giving little thought to quality and only focusing on quantity.  By 6:20 I am out the door caring a cup of coffee that I only drink ½ of while I finish packing my bags and prepare to get my bags in the truck so I can begin riding.
I have not had an espresso since the day I left home and I miss it!  The other night I had a dream about it.  I entered a coffee bar.  The barista resembled the devil.  He welcomed me and said that he would give me unlimited shots of espresso in exchange for the soul of my first born son.  I quickly agreed to his terms.  At that point an angel (distinctly resembling Elizabeth) appeared and said, “Whoa big guy.  You already gave your first born son away and he is mine.  Get on the bike and start riding.”

Old:     I used to live to eat.  Quality ruled and I would savor every bite.

New:   Now I eat to live.  Quantity rules and I resemble a Hoover vacuum when eating.

Old:     The news, local, national and international, intrigued me and I obsessively tried to keep up with what is going on.

New:   The only time I have paid any attention to the news is when Bin Laden was taken.  I have no clue as to what is happening in the world.  I do have some fantasies though:  Congress has gotten its act together and balanced the budget so that Garrett and Ezra do not have to pay for our follies.  The schools in Michigan will see an increase in the per pupil foundation allowance and there has been a cessation of attacks on teachers/public employees.  Our troops will all be home from Iraq and Afghanistan by the time I return home.  Libyan lead Khadafi has resigned and the U.S. agreed to relocate him.  He now lives in Ann Arbor, smoking dope on the street corners during the day and working at Zingermans at night.  Sarah Palin and Donald Trump have joined forces to prove that the Tea Party was not born in this country and therefore all members recently elected to office are ineligible to serve.

Old:     I used to feel good about 150 – 200 miles a week of bike riding.  Riding a century/100 miles was a feat to beat my chest about.

New:   If I do not ride 700 – 800 miles a week I am a slacker.  And feeling good about conquering the 10 foot climb up the Munger hill is downright pathetic.  Any ride of 100 miles or less is a light day.

 Old:     If I was in bed by 11:00 pm it was an early to bed night.

New:   I am in bed by 8:30 pm and sleeping byt 8:35 pm.

Old:     You check the weather forecast before you make plans to go for a bike ride.  If it is raining, you stay in bed.

 New:  You ride no matter what.  Forecast for tomorrow is for mid-40’s, rain and 15 mph wind out of the NW, but it is only a 74 mile ride to Tuscola, IL.   I have to get to bed.

Dinner with Lasse-da Viking, Craig, Daryl, Manny-da Bawwwston Mad Man, Jay, and Ohio Bob

Day 20, May 13, 2011, Quincy, IL to Springfield, IL

109 miles and 1500 feet of climbing.  I have met another milestone!  Arrived in Springfield at 3:00 p.m. and pedaled all day with a big smile on my face knowing that tomorrow is a rest day.  It is hard to believe that our last day off was on Day 8, May 1^st, in Albuquerque, NM.  It seems like forever ago.  The time is flying by.  Only 12 more days of riding are left.  It was a perfect day for riding a bicycle, clear skies, mid 70’s, a slight tail wind AND fairly flat terrain.  I was on the bike for about 6 ½ hours and was able to average about 15 mph.  It was a good day.

Tomorrow I plan to do laundry, sleep and do nothing more.  Well, maybe I will make happy hour at the Steak & Shake.  They are right next to the hotel!! Did not make it there today as I had to have some minor adjustments made to my bike and by the time we were done, happy hour was over.  Went to dinner with 2 of my comrades, at a BBQ place and returned to the hotel in time to receive our complimentary cocktails.  I will sleep well tonight.

My roommate, Daryl and I are trying a trial separation for the next 2 nights.  We split the cost of a 2^nd room.  It was his idea.  I know, it’s hard to believe.  He continues to refer to Leisa as a saint.  The rest of the group is concerned about us so we issued a joint statement making it clear that we intend to be back together again on Sunday night. 

I hope everyone at home is doing well.

Instead of eating our ususual motel continental breakfast we rode 14 miles to "Mike's" for breakfast.  The locals had lots of questions for us.

Pic of huge steel girder bridge over the Illinois river on the route today.

Pic of Illinois state capital.  I would have stopped if Blago were still the Governor.

Day 19, May 12, 2011, Cameron, MO to Quincy, IL

(I apologize for this late posting.  The Blogspot site was having technical difficulties last nite and I could not update.)

96 miles and 4500 feet.  We are out of Misery and I am a happy rider!  The first 70 miles of the ride were in Misery.  The roads were a repeat of the past 2 days but just knowing that I was on the verge of escaping that god forsaken state was enough to keep me motoring on.  We took a ferry across the Mississippi River at Canton, MO and then headed south to Quincy.  It was a relatively cool day, perhaps a high of 80 degrees and it was overcast with very little wind.  We left at 7:00 a.m. and arrived here at 2:30 p.m.  I spent about 6 hours on the bike and averaged about 14 mph.. 

Each day we have a meeting to get our route sheet and directions for the day.  This morning they mentioned that there was a Steak & Shake restaurant near the motel.  All day I kept thinking about going there as soon as I arrived, so after checking in at the motel I headed on over.  I started with a large chocolate shake, large coke and an order of fries.  I then added a double cheese burger, more fries and a bowl of chili.  For dessert I topped it all off with a 2^nd large chocolate shake.  The bonus was that unbeknownst to me it was “happy hour” and all shakes and drinks were ½ off.   I took it as an omen of good things to come!

I have been having some bike troubles so tonight I had the mechanic take a look at it. He replaced the chain and shifting cables. It seems to have done the trick. I am hoping my trusty stallion is in shape to carry me to Amesbury. I cannot say enough about the staff. They are top notch. Always helpful, accommodating and committed to making sure we have a good trip.

Tomorrow we press on to Springfield,“only” 109 miles. Winds are forecast to be out of the SW/at our back. I have heard they have a Steak & Shake there as well. I plan to make it in time for happy hour.

We had our lunch break near the dock where we boarded the ferry to get out of Misery.  Apparently this entire area was flooded last week.

A bad pic of the ferry in the back ground coming to deliver us from purgatory/Misery.

Jay and roommate Daryl on the ferry.

Pic of road leaving the ferry.  Once we climbed up and over the levee the terrain was flat.  I think I am going to like Illinois!

Pic of bridge over Mississippi at Quincy, IL.

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