47 miles, flat and fast, beautiful weather
Well what you can you say to the completion of riding across the US? That will take several days to put onto the printed page as the emotions are so overwhelming. Yes we rode without a drop of rain for 8 weeks and no accidents to speak of.
This last ride was particularly scenic with the inland waterways and ocean surrounding us. St Augustine is a beautiful old Spanish city and with the police escort, we were able to enjoy the last 6 miles without having to look for traffic. The pounding Atlantic Ocean waves were a fitting end to our journey as we not only dipped our front wheels but went swimming to cap off an incredible two months.
For all of you who are saying " I always wanted to ride across country" my question is "What are you waiting for?" I was able to do every inch. It was a struggle on many days but if it can happen for me, it can happen to for you!
Will probably do one more posting on reflections but thanks to all of you who both read about the journey but often sent me encouraging notes.
Thursday, April 28, 2011
Wednesday, April 27, 2011
One More Day, High Springs to Palatka, Florida
74 miles, flat, 93 degrees and humid (again)
We are all so ready to have the last of these not so short rides over with. The day started great with a Linda breakfast of eggs and cut oatmeal with all the toppings. We are all getting so excited to be so close to the end of a long 8 weeks of bike riding. However, we all need to keep it safe and keep drinking volumes of water to get in OK.
The ride started easy enough at 7 am as it was still cool and we had plenty of shade and a slight tail wind. All that changed, however, at the first sag stop as it got hotter, more humid and a head wind. Rode on my own today to go my pace with short stops. Unfortunately, the second half of the ride had US 100 totally torn up from road construction and very often had no usable shoulder so we competed with the cars which is about the last thing any of us wanted to do. Lots of logging trucks on route 100 one of which did a spectacular roll over on a curve spilling all of the logs. It happened well ahead of us, so we were able to enjoy seeing the aftermath without being involved with the accident. Logging trucks aren't particularly polite to cyclists so I had not sympathy for the rolled truck.
I have my own room tonight so look forward to reading and relaxing and catching up on my sleep a little. We are having a PJ party in someone's room tonight to celebrate. Several of the group have significant others flying in today to greet them tomorrow at the official end of the tour wheel dipping ceremony so we thought tonight might be fun to do with just us.
We are all so ready to have the last of these not so short rides over with. The day started great with a Linda breakfast of eggs and cut oatmeal with all the toppings. We are all getting so excited to be so close to the end of a long 8 weeks of bike riding. However, we all need to keep it safe and keep drinking volumes of water to get in OK.
The ride started easy enough at 7 am as it was still cool and we had plenty of shade and a slight tail wind. All that changed, however, at the first sag stop as it got hotter, more humid and a head wind. Rode on my own today to go my pace with short stops. Unfortunately, the second half of the ride had US 100 totally torn up from road construction and very often had no usable shoulder so we competed with the cars which is about the last thing any of us wanted to do. Lots of logging trucks on route 100 one of which did a spectacular roll over on a curve spilling all of the logs. It happened well ahead of us, so we were able to enjoy seeing the aftermath without being involved with the accident. Logging trucks aren't particularly polite to cyclists so I had not sympathy for the rolled truck.
I have my own room tonight so look forward to reading and relaxing and catching up on my sleep a little. We are having a PJ party in someone's room tonight to celebrate. Several of the group have significant others flying in today to greet them tomorrow at the official end of the tour wheel dipping ceremony so we thought tonight might be fun to do with just us.
And Then There Was Two, Perry to High Springs
78 miles, flat, 97 hot humid degrees with a head wind.
Yes, 78 miles is now considered a relatively short day but it didn't seem like it for the second half of the ride. The terrain was flat and repetitive with farms and forests, but with a head wind all day and the hot humid weather, all of us were soaked with sweet and just trying to get the ride over with. We did go to Ichetucknee Springs for a change of pace. This area of Florida has countless springs which my husband and I use to cave dive and they are incredibly clear and blue reminding me of the Caribbean. Some of the group went skinny dipping in the furthest pool from the parking lot and cooled off while the rest just enjoyed having a picnic by the springs.
One last mom and pop hotel this evening with fully functioning AC. Thank goodness. Chef Linda did another wow meal. Makes the whole day worth it.
Yes, 78 miles is now considered a relatively short day but it didn't seem like it for the second half of the ride. The terrain was flat and repetitive with farms and forests, but with a head wind all day and the hot humid weather, all of us were soaked with sweet and just trying to get the ride over with. We did go to Ichetucknee Springs for a change of pace. This area of Florida has countless springs which my husband and I use to cave dive and they are incredibly clear and blue reminding me of the Caribbean. Some of the group went skinny dipping in the furthest pool from the parking lot and cooled off while the rest just enjoyed having a picnic by the springs.
One last mom and pop hotel this evening with fully functioning AC. Thank goodness. Chef Linda did another wow meal. Makes the whole day worth it.
Monday, April 25, 2011
And then there was three, Crawfordville to Perry, Fl
54 miles, flat, humid but no fog
We got a 7:30 am start this morning and fortunately, no fog to delay us. Another hot humid day was predicted so many of us rode straight through with just acquiring some water at one of the sag stops.
We arrived before 11:30 and were pleased to have our room ready so we could shower, before going out for lunch. Lets face it, the PB&J got old a month ago. The ride itself was flat with an excellent shoulder and we could all relax and enjoy the heavily wooded scenery. No dogs chasing us, not traffic on top of us, etc.
Only three more days of riding and we all intend to keep it safe while still drinking gallons of water.
And then there was only three days of riding left.
We got a 7:30 am start this morning and fortunately, no fog to delay us. Another hot humid day was predicted so many of us rode straight through with just acquiring some water at one of the sag stops.
We arrived before 11:30 and were pleased to have our room ready so we could shower, before going out for lunch. Lets face it, the PB&J got old a month ago. The ride itself was flat with an excellent shoulder and we could all relax and enjoy the heavily wooded scenery. No dogs chasing us, not traffic on top of us, etc.
Only three more days of riding and we all intend to keep it safe while still drinking gallons of water.
And then there was only three days of riding left.
Saturday, April 23, 2011
One Less Day to St Augustine, Quincy to Crawford, FL
47.5 miles, flat, heavy fog at 77 degrees
Yes, today we definitely had a short day into a golf resort for our day off tomorrow. Many of our group went to Wakulla Springs State Park with and extra 10 miles of cycling but alas any extra riding these days has little or no appeal. Unfortunately, with this being Easter Weekend the park was going to be crowded and busy which added to my not wanting to go. I really didn't sign up for this ride for the sightseeing aspect and felt any time I can get in by 12noon and have a real sit down lunch in AC is a good thing.
The fog was lifting in Quincy when we left before 8 am, but within a few miles it became heavy enough that the two of us riding together had decided to stop if we lost our good shoulder as we did not want to be riding the traffic lane with such limited visibility. You have got to stay on top of things and make good choices every day. Fortunately, we had a good shoulder the entire ride. The terrain had a few rollers in heavy wooded areas but did have significant traffic even early on.
We were able to meet the manager during lunch who offered us her golf clubs to use so tomorrow, Eva and I are going to the golf range to tune up our game. Who knows, we may even play 9 holes to brake up the biking. The Inn at Wildwood sits in the middle of a nature preserve and is an eco-friendly resort.
Life is good and I can smell the Atlantic Ocean a little stronger everyday. Only 4 more riding days left in our journey and want to enjoy every mile left.
Forward!
Yes, today we definitely had a short day into a golf resort for our day off tomorrow. Many of our group went to Wakulla Springs State Park with and extra 10 miles of cycling but alas any extra riding these days has little or no appeal. Unfortunately, with this being Easter Weekend the park was going to be crowded and busy which added to my not wanting to go. I really didn't sign up for this ride for the sightseeing aspect and felt any time I can get in by 12noon and have a real sit down lunch in AC is a good thing.
The fog was lifting in Quincy when we left before 8 am, but within a few miles it became heavy enough that the two of us riding together had decided to stop if we lost our good shoulder as we did not want to be riding the traffic lane with such limited visibility. You have got to stay on top of things and make good choices every day. Fortunately, we had a good shoulder the entire ride. The terrain had a few rollers in heavy wooded areas but did have significant traffic even early on.
We were able to meet the manager during lunch who offered us her golf clubs to use so tomorrow, Eva and I are going to the golf range to tune up our game. Who knows, we may even play 9 holes to brake up the biking. The Inn at Wildwood sits in the middle of a nature preserve and is an eco-friendly resort.
Life is good and I can smell the Atlantic Ocean a little stronger everyday. Only 4 more riding days left in our journey and want to enjoy every mile left.
Forward!
Friday, April 22, 2011
Time to Change, Marianna to Quincy, FL
54 miles, 1600' of elevation gain, 84 degrees
We crossed the Chattahoochee River and with it came our last time zone change into Eastern Time. We can smell the Atlantic Ocean! As we get a day closer, we try to remind each other to ride safe as we are all pretty hot and tired. Mistakes would be really easy to make and so we are reminding each other to drink and be aware of the traffic.
We are no longer in the middle of no where and so cars, trucks, school buses, are always present. It was a pleasant enough day with an early start and fog like conditions keep the sun at bay for half the morning. Little rollers, heavy treed roads were the order of the day. The person I was riding with and I make good partners as we often do most of the ride without talking with the occasional conversation when a good shoulder is present and not a lot of traffic.
There was a moment of confusion within 2 miles of the hotel and fortunately she was able to take out her smartypants phone and get a GPS location of us and the hotel so we took the right road. We all arrived at the hotel before the intense afternoon allowing us to seek the cool comfort of the hotel rooms or the pool.
We crossed the Chattahoochee River and with it came our last time zone change into Eastern Time. We can smell the Atlantic Ocean! As we get a day closer, we try to remind each other to ride safe as we are all pretty hot and tired. Mistakes would be really easy to make and so we are reminding each other to drink and be aware of the traffic.
We are no longer in the middle of no where and so cars, trucks, school buses, are always present. It was a pleasant enough day with an early start and fog like conditions keep the sun at bay for half the morning. Little rollers, heavy treed roads were the order of the day. The person I was riding with and I make good partners as we often do most of the ride without talking with the occasional conversation when a good shoulder is present and not a lot of traffic.
There was a moment of confusion within 2 miles of the hotel and fortunately she was able to take out her smartypants phone and get a GPS location of us and the hotel so we took the right road. We all arrived at the hotel before the intense afternoon allowing us to seek the cool comfort of the hotel rooms or the pool.
Thursday, April 21, 2011
90 on 90, Crestview to Marianna, FL
94 miles, some rolling hills for 1500' of elevation gain, 100 degrees with a slight head wind.
This was the last ride that we will be doing over 80 miles as the two rides in the 70's are now considered short days. I remember someone telling me last year that it snowed. Well that is not the case this year! The temp on my bike computer reached 101 degrees and someone who was already sagging says "That's the radiant heat off the highway." Well that didn't make it any cooler!
We started out at 6:30 with some cloud cover that stayed with us all morning. That helped considerably. The ride itself was more of a point A to B staying on US 90 almost the entire ride. Fortunately, there was a wide shoulder in excellent condition. With that said all you had to think about was drinking lots of water constantly and I went through 350 ounces of water during the ride and didn't feel water logged.
My tan will take 4 years to lose and looks like I went to a tatoo parlor. People actually pay money to go to a tannin salon to get what you can do while biking cross country. Probably costs about the same.
This was the last ride that we will be doing over 80 miles as the two rides in the 70's are now considered short days. I remember someone telling me last year that it snowed. Well that is not the case this year! The temp on my bike computer reached 101 degrees and someone who was already sagging says "That's the radiant heat off the highway." Well that didn't make it any cooler!
We started out at 6:30 with some cloud cover that stayed with us all morning. That helped considerably. The ride itself was more of a point A to B staying on US 90 almost the entire ride. Fortunately, there was a wide shoulder in excellent condition. With that said all you had to think about was drinking lots of water constantly and I went through 350 ounces of water during the ride and didn't feel water logged.
My tan will take 4 years to lose and looks like I went to a tatoo parlor. People actually pay money to go to a tannin salon to get what you can do while biking cross country. Probably costs about the same.
Wednesday, April 20, 2011
Are We Having Fun Yet, Pensacola to Crestview, FL
68 miles, rolling with 1700' of elevation gain, 84 degrees and 98% humidity
I remember this kind of weather. I lived in NYC and Long Island for 52 years when it was so sticky it was hard to get your cycling shorts on unless you were right in front of the air conditioner. Forget about worrying about a bad hair day as the sweat was pouring off us and our glasses fogged when we slowed let along stopped.
The beginning of the ride went along miles of beaches and spectacular homes not unlike the high end area of the Hamptons on Long Island. We headed a little north out of sight of the Gulf and population and were very much in the rural area of Florida. As a SCUBA diver who on occasion us to go cave diving , I was not surprised to see many dive shops and entry platforms to the clear water rivers which give you access to the caves. This is nothing like open water diving but if you like the challenge it does provide some incredible views of underwater caves.
I digress from the bike tour aspect. We popped onto a bike path which was wide and quiet and needed to get off at a certain point where the sag would be waiting to make sure we excited at the proper location. Funny thing, the sag was lost and not us. We called the sag and using a couple of smarty pants phones, we got Lisa squared away and eventually she found us and all was good.
I personally do not have a smart phone as no cell coverage in the Colorado Mts where I live make it more of a waste of money. On this trip, however, whenever there was a little route confusion, it was real handy to have someone in the group keep us on the straight and narrow. Absolutely, no one wants to do any bonus miles at this point in the ride.
The town of Crestview has a real old downtown area and since we were less than two miles from the hotel a number of the cyclists stopped for a late lunch. I came right in and put my head in a bucket of ice.
I remember this kind of weather. I lived in NYC and Long Island for 52 years when it was so sticky it was hard to get your cycling shorts on unless you were right in front of the air conditioner. Forget about worrying about a bad hair day as the sweat was pouring off us and our glasses fogged when we slowed let along stopped.
The beginning of the ride went along miles of beaches and spectacular homes not unlike the high end area of the Hamptons on Long Island. We headed a little north out of sight of the Gulf and population and were very much in the rural area of Florida. As a SCUBA diver who on occasion us to go cave diving , I was not surprised to see many dive shops and entry platforms to the clear water rivers which give you access to the caves. This is nothing like open water diving but if you like the challenge it does provide some incredible views of underwater caves.
I digress from the bike tour aspect. We popped onto a bike path which was wide and quiet and needed to get off at a certain point where the sag would be waiting to make sure we excited at the proper location. Funny thing, the sag was lost and not us. We called the sag and using a couple of smarty pants phones, we got Lisa squared away and eventually she found us and all was good.
I personally do not have a smart phone as no cell coverage in the Colorado Mts where I live make it more of a waste of money. On this trip, however, whenever there was a little route confusion, it was real handy to have someone in the group keep us on the straight and narrow. Absolutely, no one wants to do any bonus miles at this point in the ride.
The town of Crestview has a real old downtown area and since we were less than two miles from the hotel a number of the cyclists stopped for a late lunch. I came right in and put my head in a bucket of ice.
Tuesday, April 19, 2011
Last State, Dauphin Island to Pensacola, FL
59.4 miles, flat, 82 degrees
We have arrived in our last state- Florida! We left our rest day on Dauphin Island by taking a 45 minute ferry ride across Mobile Bay. What a delightful rest day it was as Woman Tours put us all in condos and I had the Master Bedroom with the jetted tub in my bath. Yeah! We slept in, read, enjoyed walks on the beach celebrated Carol's birthday, and jetted in the tub. How much better can it get? Kudos to Woman Tours for putting us in such splendid accommodations as we all needed to recharge prior to our last push.
The ride today was all along the beaches of Alabama and Florida. Quite a resort area with many college kids on spring break but not an issue for us. There was a bike lane for most of the ride and no dogs! We are all excited to be in our last state. I was lucky enough to find a wine bar in my sightseeing of Pensacola and indulged in a glass of champagne. Life is really looking up.
We have arrived in our last state- Florida! We left our rest day on Dauphin Island by taking a 45 minute ferry ride across Mobile Bay. What a delightful rest day it was as Woman Tours put us all in condos and I had the Master Bedroom with the jetted tub in my bath. Yeah! We slept in, read, enjoyed walks on the beach celebrated Carol's birthday, and jetted in the tub. How much better can it get? Kudos to Woman Tours for putting us in such splendid accommodations as we all needed to recharge prior to our last push.
The ride today was all along the beaches of Alabama and Florida. Quite a resort area with many college kids on spring break but not an issue for us. There was a bike lane for most of the ride and no dogs! We are all excited to be in our last state. I was lucky enough to find a wine bar in my sightseeing of Pensacola and indulged in a glass of champagne. Life is really looking up.
Sunday, April 17, 2011
A Day in Alabama, Pascagoula, MS to Dauphin Island, AL
42 miles, flat, absolutely gorgeous weather at 77 degrees
We rode into Alabama today and will spend tonight and tomorrow for our rest day on the resort island of Dauphin Island. Not a cloud in the sky! The visibility is over 10 miles and you can see a number of oil rigs in the distance. The ride itself was unremarkable but another day of no dogs is a good day for us. The group is housed in condos and many of us have private bedrooms and since I was assigned the master suite, I also have a jetted tub which I immediately enjoyed for a soak.
Woman Tours really knows how to take care of us! Linda is cooking, Carol has a birthday, and it is margarita night with a new state! Looking forward to a day of walking the beach and relaxing on our day off.
We rode into Alabama today and will spend tonight and tomorrow for our rest day on the resort island of Dauphin Island. Not a cloud in the sky! The visibility is over 10 miles and you can see a number of oil rigs in the distance. The ride itself was unremarkable but another day of no dogs is a good day for us. The group is housed in condos and many of us have private bedrooms and since I was assigned the master suite, I also have a jetted tub which I immediately enjoyed for a soak.
Woman Tours really knows how to take care of us! Linda is cooking, Carol has a birthday, and it is margarita night with a new state! Looking forward to a day of walking the beach and relaxing on our day off.
Saturday, April 16, 2011
Easy rolling from Wiggins to Pascagoula., MS
70 miles, flat, beautiful sunny 77 degrees with a slight following wind.
The thunderstorms came and went late yesterday afternoon and evening and we woke up to blue skies without a cloud in the sky. The beginning of the ride took us through a national forests which is good as NO DOGS on the prowl. This made for a relaxing ride and I decided to break off from my usual group and ride on my own enjoying the wonderful roads, scenery and weather. The terrain had these nice little rollers which is better than totally flat and with the following wind, you can usually bump up and over.
As we got near Pascagoula, suburbs started to develop with pretty high end housing. This is also good for us as these residents do not let their dogs loose. Going over the high bridge over the river in the city gave us quite a view of the shipping industry which seems to carry a good size economy. I had never been to Mississippi before this trip and so far have been pleasantly surprised.
I don't know when 70 miles became a short day but was in by 12:30 and looking forward to Linda cooking tonight.
The thunderstorms came and went late yesterday afternoon and evening and we woke up to blue skies without a cloud in the sky. The beginning of the ride took us through a national forests which is good as NO DOGS on the prowl. This made for a relaxing ride and I decided to break off from my usual group and ride on my own enjoying the wonderful roads, scenery and weather. The terrain had these nice little rollers which is better than totally flat and with the following wind, you can usually bump up and over.
As we got near Pascagoula, suburbs started to develop with pretty high end housing. This is also good for us as these residents do not let their dogs loose. Going over the high bridge over the river in the city gave us quite a view of the shipping industry which seems to carry a good size economy. I had never been to Mississippi before this trip and so far have been pleasantly surprised.
I don't know when 70 miles became a short day but was in by 12:30 and looking forward to Linda cooking tonight.
Friday, April 15, 2011
Woof all the way from Bogalusa, LA to Wiggins, MS
61 miles, 2200' of elevation gain, 80 degrees and a tornado watch.
There are days that you just get lucky with the weather. The original forecast was for us to wake up to rain, heavy at times with increasing winds, hail and a tornado watch. We woke up to mostly clear skies as the rain came and went during the night and the thunderstorms that never looked very far, never hit us and the tornado watch was lifted. So we did the entire ride dry with some increasing winds but they were manageable.
The ride itself was on mainly quiet country roads with rolling terrain. The dogs are another matter as Mississippi residents are no better about restricting their dogs than Louisiana so you develop strategies. I rode with just one other person in single file with at least a 5 bike length gap so that if a dog came for us we wouldn't crash into each other. Not conducive to conversation but the quieter we were, the less the dogs discovered our presence. This is good.
We did work around another hour delay working out an alternate route due to a bridge being out. I was ready to wade across but thought twice when I was reminded that there are snakes and alligators in the south.
There are days that you just get lucky with the weather. The original forecast was for us to wake up to rain, heavy at times with increasing winds, hail and a tornado watch. We woke up to mostly clear skies as the rain came and went during the night and the thunderstorms that never looked very far, never hit us and the tornado watch was lifted. So we did the entire ride dry with some increasing winds but they were manageable.
The ride itself was on mainly quiet country roads with rolling terrain. The dogs are another matter as Mississippi residents are no better about restricting their dogs than Louisiana so you develop strategies. I rode with just one other person in single file with at least a 5 bike length gap so that if a dog came for us we wouldn't crash into each other. Not conducive to conversation but the quieter we were, the less the dogs discovered our presence. This is good.
We did work around another hour delay working out an alternate route due to a bridge being out. I was ready to wade across but thought twice when I was reminded that there are snakes and alligators in the south.
Thursday, April 14, 2011
Intervals from Hammond to Bogalusa , LA
55 miles, flat, 77 degrees
The culture of Louisiana is to let dogs run loose which today provided opportunities to do intervals as you try to out run them. You can get really mad at the owners as this creates quite a hazard for cyclists. You don't really want to get bitten or have them get hit a wheel but you don't want to veer into traffic either. Personally, I go into the interval mode and basically go faster than they can run while holding a line to the right so I don't have traffic bearing down on me.
It's unfortunate because while all this is going on, you don't really get to enjoy some beautiful riding. I was riding with three others today and one was a recumbent and the dog was basically at eye level. Who knows, maybe he is a lap dog and saw an opportunity.
The four of us arrived safe and sound by noon and are happy to have the time to relax.
The culture of Louisiana is to let dogs run loose which today provided opportunities to do intervals as you try to out run them. You can get really mad at the owners as this creates quite a hazard for cyclists. You don't really want to get bitten or have them get hit a wheel but you don't want to veer into traffic either. Personally, I go into the interval mode and basically go faster than they can run while holding a line to the right so I don't have traffic bearing down on me.
It's unfortunate because while all this is going on, you don't really get to enjoy some beautiful riding. I was riding with three others today and one was a recumbent and the dog was basically at eye level. Who knows, maybe he is a lap dog and saw an opportunity.
The four of us arrived safe and sound by noon and are happy to have the time to relax.
Wednesday, April 13, 2011
St Francisville to Hammond
94 miles, flat, 85 degrees low humidity
Today's ride was as flat as you can get and the scenery was rather beautiful with lush everything. Wildflowers were in full display and we were rolling along quite well until the 42 mile mark where a bridge that had gone out was being repaired and unless you can leap large spans with bicycle in hand, we had a major detour to deal with. After a one hour delay, Linda and Carol came up with a plan that the youngest person in our group, 29 had to explain to 16 type A personalities but she did a stellar job and off we went and added 7 miles to our journey. So instead of another 80 something mile day, we had another 90 something mile day. Really helps to have the physical resources to pull this off. If you are on the rivet as they say, this tour may not be you best choice as detours happen.
I rode the entire ride with a member of our group that I had not ridden with before and we shared a splendid day.
I should back up a day as yesterday we had a day off and four of us were put in the St Francisville Inn which was in town while the rest of the group were out of town by three miles. In addition to the convenience, they had an extensive wine collection and my roommate and I are quite into wine. We started a tab and drank some fine wines and basically got happy for two days.
Pretty much not drinking on this tour as I am concerned about getting through the day and not dehydrating. This was a welcomed change with excellent wines that were well cared for. The Inn also allowed us to use their kitchen for making dinner so I made pizzas for the four of us staying there and drank more wine.
Today's ride was as flat as you can get and the scenery was rather beautiful with lush everything. Wildflowers were in full display and we were rolling along quite well until the 42 mile mark where a bridge that had gone out was being repaired and unless you can leap large spans with bicycle in hand, we had a major detour to deal with. After a one hour delay, Linda and Carol came up with a plan that the youngest person in our group, 29 had to explain to 16 type A personalities but she did a stellar job and off we went and added 7 miles to our journey. So instead of another 80 something mile day, we had another 90 something mile day. Really helps to have the physical resources to pull this off. If you are on the rivet as they say, this tour may not be you best choice as detours happen.
I rode the entire ride with a member of our group that I had not ridden with before and we shared a splendid day.
I should back up a day as yesterday we had a day off and four of us were put in the St Francisville Inn which was in town while the rest of the group were out of town by three miles. In addition to the convenience, they had an extensive wine collection and my roommate and I are quite into wine. We started a tab and drank some fine wines and basically got happy for two days.
Pretty much not drinking on this tour as I am concerned about getting through the day and not dehydrating. This was a welcomed change with excellent wines that were well cared for. The Inn also allowed us to use their kitchen for making dinner so I made pizzas for the four of us staying there and drank more wine.
Monday, April 11, 2011
The Bayou, Lafayette to St Francisville
88 miles, flat, calm winds and 85 humid degrees.
After yesterday's grueling ride, none of us were looking forward to today. We were all up at 5:00 am, however, and got ourselves ready, had the hotel breakfast and locked into our cleats. We didn't ride 50' when one of the funniest things happened on the entire trip. The first right was on a very busy road and we were waiting for a break in the traffic. When none developed, one of the group members suggested that the lead rider just use the sidewalk. We had only one block to go and that seemed to make good sense. Just as we were about to do so, a car slowed down in the right lane and the car behind him not paying any attention had to jump the curb onto the sidewalk to avoid a nasty fender bender. Well, the lead rider looked back at us with a look that said it all. These drivers in Lafayette are crazy aggressive and even the sidewalks aren't safe. We all had a good laugh all day long and the riding was quite safe after that initial incident.
The ride was everything yesterday's wasn't. The wind was quiet, you could enjoy the wildlife especially the birds and we could talk and laugh all day long. We were well past the halfway point by 10:30 am and home by 1:30. The houses are all new construction after Hurricane Katrina and enjoyable to look out. The beautiful Cypress Trees in the swamp areas attract a lot of birds.
We had to cross a 3 1/2 mile bridge called the spillway, which had no shoulder. Chef Linda and Carol had a plan, however, for keeping us safe. They escorted us all the way across. To add to the perfect crossing, a wide load overtook us and could not get past our rig, so we had not traffic passing us for almost the entire span.
Four of us are staying at the St Francisville Inn. Beautifully restored Southern Plantation house with antiques, parlors and wifi. Woman Tours is spoiling us and that is OK with us. They even have a fine wine collection and my roommate and I are going over to the wine room and having bottle of Ridge from California.
Life is definitely looking up.
After yesterday's grueling ride, none of us were looking forward to today. We were all up at 5:00 am, however, and got ourselves ready, had the hotel breakfast and locked into our cleats. We didn't ride 50' when one of the funniest things happened on the entire trip. The first right was on a very busy road and we were waiting for a break in the traffic. When none developed, one of the group members suggested that the lead rider just use the sidewalk. We had only one block to go and that seemed to make good sense. Just as we were about to do so, a car slowed down in the right lane and the car behind him not paying any attention had to jump the curb onto the sidewalk to avoid a nasty fender bender. Well, the lead rider looked back at us with a look that said it all. These drivers in Lafayette are crazy aggressive and even the sidewalks aren't safe. We all had a good laugh all day long and the riding was quite safe after that initial incident.
The ride was everything yesterday's wasn't. The wind was quiet, you could enjoy the wildlife especially the birds and we could talk and laugh all day long. We were well past the halfway point by 10:30 am and home by 1:30. The houses are all new construction after Hurricane Katrina and enjoyable to look out. The beautiful Cypress Trees in the swamp areas attract a lot of birds.
We had to cross a 3 1/2 mile bridge called the spillway, which had no shoulder. Chef Linda and Carol had a plan, however, for keeping us safe. They escorted us all the way across. To add to the perfect crossing, a wide load overtook us and could not get past our rig, so we had not traffic passing us for almost the entire span.
Four of us are staying at the St Francisville Inn. Beautifully restored Southern Plantation house with antiques, parlors and wifi. Woman Tours is spoiling us and that is OK with us. They even have a fine wine collection and my roommate and I are going over to the wine room and having bottle of Ridge from California.
Life is definitely looking up.
Sunday, April 10, 2011
Sunny Sunday in Louisiana, Lake Charles to Lafayette
90 miles, 93 degrees, strong head and cross winds, flat as a pancake.
Blue skies all day to increase our tans but the wind combined with the heat and humidity took a bit of stuffing out of us and we were happy to finally arrive at the hotel and air conditioning. Good day to be biking with people as the conversation kept you going through the bayou area. Lowlands with a lot of standing water, rice patties, lots of interesting birds, etc kept the interest level high for most of the ride.
The wind makes it difficult to actually ride with people as the pace fluctuates noticeably especially the cross winds. We arrived in Lafayette, a city of 250,000 but we will actually not get to see much of it.Actually, this is really not a sightseeing tour in the true sense. The only time you can do any sightseeing is when you have a rest day and then we all are doing chores and well, resting.
Blue skies all day to increase our tans but the wind combined with the heat and humidity took a bit of stuffing out of us and we were happy to finally arrive at the hotel and air conditioning. Good day to be biking with people as the conversation kept you going through the bayou area. Lowlands with a lot of standing water, rice patties, lots of interesting birds, etc kept the interest level high for most of the ride.
The wind makes it difficult to actually ride with people as the pace fluctuates noticeably especially the cross winds. We arrived in Lafayette, a city of 250,000 but we will actually not get to see much of it.Actually, this is really not a sightseeing tour in the true sense. The only time you can do any sightseeing is when you have a rest day and then we all are doing chores and well, resting.
Saturday, April 9, 2011
Good Bye Texas (Finally), Silsbee, TX to Lake Charles, LA
80 miles, Flat and hot, 85 degrees.
We celebrated leaving Texas and coming into a new state, Louisiana. The terrain has been transitioning for several days into a swampy, bayou look. Plenty of bridges going over the swamps.
We were four riding together and that helped considerably as the wind was usually in our face. The keep some consistent pace it was helpful to change which one of us was pace setting but not pushing any speed. Most of the roads were in excellent condition. We all helped each other keep a good attitude as the scenery got boring and the heat and humidity were taking its toll. I went through 4 camelbak fills which added up to about 350 ounces of water and I felt I was lucky to break even. Having a sag for just the water is huge.
Wish I had more to report but we all arrived hot, tired but safe.
We celebrated leaving Texas and coming into a new state, Louisiana. The terrain has been transitioning for several days into a swampy, bayou look. Plenty of bridges going over the swamps.
We were four riding together and that helped considerably as the wind was usually in our face. The keep some consistent pace it was helpful to change which one of us was pace setting but not pushing any speed. Most of the roads were in excellent condition. We all helped each other keep a good attitude as the scenery got boring and the heat and humidity were taking its toll. I went through 4 camelbak fills which added up to about 350 ounces of water and I felt I was lucky to break even. Having a sag for just the water is huge.
Wish I had more to report but we all arrived hot, tired but safe.
Friday, April 8, 2011
Almost out of Texas, Cleveland to Silsbee, TX
64 miles, 500' of elevation gain, 82 degrees
Flat ride along timber country was today's ride. Nothing remarkable about the ride. The road continues to be quite excellent and well maintained with a wide shoulder. With 5 of us riding as a team, it was a quick ride in and arrived by 12:30 and had lunch across from our hotel. Good to have a new state to look forward to tomorrow and will have our new state party.
There is a lot of logging in this part of Texas but the truck drivers were very respectful and gave a wide berth. Although you heard dogs barking, I did not have any chasing us. You can almost see the hint of a cultural change happening.
Flat ride along timber country was today's ride. Nothing remarkable about the ride. The road continues to be quite excellent and well maintained with a wide shoulder. With 5 of us riding as a team, it was a quick ride in and arrived by 12:30 and had lunch across from our hotel. Good to have a new state to look forward to tomorrow and will have our new state party.
There is a lot of logging in this part of Texas but the truck drivers were very respectful and gave a wide berth. Although you heard dogs barking, I did not have any chasing us. You can almost see the hint of a cultural change happening.
Thursday, April 7, 2011
Happy Day on Woman Tours, Navasota to Cleveland, TX
75 miles, 2200' of elevation gain, 78 degrees
Well, East Texas is growing on all of us for its forests, smooth roads and little rollers that are fun to fly down and pop up the other side. Horses, horses, horses for the first portion of the ride. Then we passed by Lake Conroy that is so large that I thought I had slept through three weeks like Rip Van Winkle and woke up in St Augustine. No such luck but the ride through the Sam Houston National Forest where Lake Conroy is located was just a delight. Great roads many with wide shoulders added to the enjoyment of the day. The roads were so clean, I thought the Woman Tours staff were ahead of us running a street sweeper.
The Woman Tours staff always know when I had a really great day when I'm not out cleaning my bike.When I have had a really tough day and need to go into my happy place, I am out cleaning and polishing my titanium Serotta. On really bad days, I wash and clean the tires and wheels as well as the rest of the bike. Was given the Martha Stewart award for bike maintenance.
Tomorrow is our last full day of riding in Texas. We are all ready to start a new state but have found East Texas a pleasant surprise.
Well, East Texas is growing on all of us for its forests, smooth roads and little rollers that are fun to fly down and pop up the other side. Horses, horses, horses for the first portion of the ride. Then we passed by Lake Conroy that is so large that I thought I had slept through three weeks like Rip Van Winkle and woke up in St Augustine. No such luck but the ride through the Sam Houston National Forest where Lake Conroy is located was just a delight. Great roads many with wide shoulders added to the enjoyment of the day. The roads were so clean, I thought the Woman Tours staff were ahead of us running a street sweeper.
The Woman Tours staff always know when I had a really great day when I'm not out cleaning my bike.When I have had a really tough day and need to go into my happy place, I am out cleaning and polishing my titanium Serotta. On really bad days, I wash and clean the tires and wheels as well as the rest of the bike. Was given the Martha Stewart award for bike maintenance.
Tomorrow is our last full day of riding in Texas. We are all ready to start a new state but have found East Texas a pleasant surprise.
Tuesday, April 5, 2011
Perfect Day In Texas, La Grange to Navasota, TX
72 miles, 2800' of elevation, 70 degrees
This was the kind of ride every cyclist dreams of. Picture perfect weather, along beautiful roads with an explosion of Blue Bonnet wildflowers. None of us rushed this ride as we didn't want it to really end and speed was of no concern.
The roads the last two days have been excellent and a far cry from the chip seal that threatens rider and bike. It was a day to look around and as I rode all of today on my own, I enjoyed the quiet and it brought me back to why I love to ride my bike. Locals start conversations with me and give me some of the local color and I in turn tell them a little about myself and where I am from and what I am doing. Walmarts all look the same but very little else does.
We helped one of our group celebrate her 50th birthday with chef Linda outdoing herself
Tomorrow is a much needed rest day in a quiet little town.
This was the kind of ride every cyclist dreams of. Picture perfect weather, along beautiful roads with an explosion of Blue Bonnet wildflowers. None of us rushed this ride as we didn't want it to really end and speed was of no concern.
The roads the last two days have been excellent and a far cry from the chip seal that threatens rider and bike. It was a day to look around and as I rode all of today on my own, I enjoyed the quiet and it brought me back to why I love to ride my bike. Locals start conversations with me and give me some of the local color and I in turn tell them a little about myself and where I am from and what I am doing. Walmarts all look the same but very little else does.
We helped one of our group celebrate her 50th birthday with chef Linda outdoing herself
Tomorrow is a much needed rest day in a quiet little town.
Monday, April 4, 2011
Yep, We are still in Texas, Bastrop to La Grange
41 miles,
41 miles, 1800' of elevation, 77 degrees and wild winds
We started the ride with the threat of thunderstorms and consequently we all had our rain gear for the first time since this ride started. Although, thunder and lightening were to our left, we never had them come over us but the resulting winds did become a problem. As wicked cross winds, they offered a challenge to bike handling skills. As a tail wind they were a welcomed push.
Just 3 miles into the ride, we entered Bastrop State Park with little if any traffic. Heavily treed, the park offered a total wind break and up and down rollers. Unfortunately, the ups reached 17% on two different occasions and it hardly felt like a recovery ride at times. We eventually came out of the park at which point we were greeted by those humbling winds.
The scenery was tall trees and lush ranches and we reached La Grange by lunch time just before the winds increased even more.
Three more days of riding in Texas.
41 miles, 1800' of elevation, 77 degrees and wild winds
We started the ride with the threat of thunderstorms and consequently we all had our rain gear for the first time since this ride started. Although, thunder and lightening were to our left, we never had them come over us but the resulting winds did become a problem. As wicked cross winds, they offered a challenge to bike handling skills. As a tail wind they were a welcomed push.
Just 3 miles into the ride, we entered Bastrop State Park with little if any traffic. Heavily treed, the park offered a total wind break and up and down rollers. Unfortunately, the ups reached 17% on two different occasions and it hardly felt like a recovery ride at times. We eventually came out of the park at which point we were greeted by those humbling winds.
The scenery was tall trees and lush ranches and we reached La Grange by lunch time just before the winds increased even more.
Three more days of riding in Texas.
Sunday, April 3, 2011
We are still in Texas, Blanco to Bastrop
93 miles, 3000' of elevation, 80 degrees
The first 60 miles were the Texas Hill Country up and downs with a head wind to keep us humble. Had plenty of time to ask myself why I just don't stick to golf and quilting. The ride went through Wimberley which is a quaint small town in the hill country with coffee shops, antique shops and the like not that I stopped to see anything. Fortunately, I had stayed in Wimberley several years ago on a BAC ride that just did two weeks of the hill country and was able to really appreciate the town. When you have 93 miles to ride one does not linger.
The toughest stretch of the ride was when we rode for 7 miles in open farmland and getting slammed by 15-20 mph winds. Though shall not give up the quest, however, it will just take a little longer. There were a number of lunch choices in Lockhart but I have never been able to sit long when there is a high mileage do so after eating a PB&J sandwich at the sag, I kept going and the last 30 miles we had a tail wind blowing us into Bastrop. You can never count on a tail wind but was happy for the help.Happy news, Chef Linda is once again cooking tonight.
The first 60 miles were the Texas Hill Country up and downs with a head wind to keep us humble. Had plenty of time to ask myself why I just don't stick to golf and quilting. The ride went through Wimberley which is a quaint small town in the hill country with coffee shops, antique shops and the like not that I stopped to see anything. Fortunately, I had stayed in Wimberley several years ago on a BAC ride that just did two weeks of the hill country and was able to really appreciate the town. When you have 93 miles to ride one does not linger.
The toughest stretch of the ride was when we rode for 7 miles in open farmland and getting slammed by 15-20 mph winds. Though shall not give up the quest, however, it will just take a little longer. There were a number of lunch choices in Lockhart but I have never been able to sit long when there is a high mileage do so after eating a PB&J sandwich at the sag, I kept going and the last 30 miles we had a tail wind blowing us into Bastrop. You can never count on a tail wind but was happy for the help.Happy news, Chef Linda is once again cooking tonight.
Saturday, April 2, 2011
Second Half, Kerrville to Blanco
65 miles, 2800' of elevation, 78 degrees
This marked the beginning of the second half of the tour with yet another beautiful day in the Texas Hill Country. The wildflowers are not out yet but the lush greenery added with the hills made for a beautiful ride. The heavy overcast skies kept the temps way down. Yesterday, the temps hit 95 degrees but since we had an off day, no one had to ride. As a matter of fact, many of the bikes went into the shop two days ago to have them cleaned, lubed and adjusted. Fortunately, I do all of that myself so I was not involved with the shop.
Started out of Kerrville on relatively good roads and soon we were out of the city environs and into country. The chip seal was there to greet us but their were only a few really bad places that you had to slow and be careful with. Nevertheless, the Hill Country draws a lot of cyclist including self contained cyclists who are always fun to talk to. I am finding it tough enough to do the cross country ride with my titanium Serotta that weighs only 15lbs. Can't imagine what it would be like to be fully loaded.
I see St Augustine in the distance.
This marked the beginning of the second half of the tour with yet another beautiful day in the Texas Hill Country. The wildflowers are not out yet but the lush greenery added with the hills made for a beautiful ride. The heavy overcast skies kept the temps way down. Yesterday, the temps hit 95 degrees but since we had an off day, no one had to ride. As a matter of fact, many of the bikes went into the shop two days ago to have them cleaned, lubed and adjusted. Fortunately, I do all of that myself so I was not involved with the shop.
Started out of Kerrville on relatively good roads and soon we were out of the city environs and into country. The chip seal was there to greet us but their were only a few really bad places that you had to slow and be careful with. Nevertheless, the Hill Country draws a lot of cyclist including self contained cyclists who are always fun to talk to. I am finding it tough enough to do the cross country ride with my titanium Serotta that weighs only 15lbs. Can't imagine what it would be like to be fully loaded.
I see St Augustine in the distance.
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