Day 45: The Erie Canal

Rochester, NY to Liverpool, NY

91 miles with 1,600' feet of climbing

We had all looked forward to today's ride as we were going to be riding beside the scenic Erie Canal. However, the breakfast talk was not about the upcoming ride. It was centered around our friend and riding companion Don. After a day of severe leg swelling, he was admitted to the hospital for a series of tests. With only 6 days of cycling remaining, we were all concerned as to whether he would be able to complete the ride. A dark cloud hung over our entire group for the duration of the day. Our thoughts were with Don.

The air was crisp, like a fall morning, as we departed at 7:00 a.m. Almost immediately, we entered the Canalway Trail that runs beside the Erie Canal. We stopped frequently to investigate the waterway locks that raise and lower boats to different levels of water in the canal. Here is a photo of us standing on top of one of the locks just before it was opened....

We passed small towns that have been built beside the Canalway. It was one of the few times that I thought to myself, "I could live here." That is, of course, until I remembered the harsh winters that typically occur here. We saw a variety of boats using the Canal. Here is one of my favorites....

After 91 miles, we were more than ready for a hearty lunch. Luckily, we found this terrific restaurant called Retreat. From left, the photo shows Yuval, Ann, Gail, Philippe, and Gary....

The day ended on a high note when we walked into RAP and saw Don. It looks as though he is going to ride some portions of the remaining miles. Of course, his wife will be acting as his personal escort, keeping a close eye on him. Even our ride leader Jeff was overcome with emotion when he welcomed Don back to the fold. Now that our group is complete, the cloud has been lifted!

Day 44: I Love New York!

Tuesday, July 30, 2013: Niagara Falls, NY to Rochester, NY, 87 miles with 1,550 feet of climbing

The title of today’s post is taken from the Frank Sinatra song of the same name. If you would ask any of the 35 cyclists who are completing this cross-country journey, they would all agree that, thus far, New York is near the top of the list of favorite states that we have visited. The weather has been ideal, the rolling hills have been manageable, and even the food has been first-rate.

Our team shoved off at 7:00 and finished the 87 miles by 12:40. Our average speed was 17.3 mph. At one point, two of the staff members from ABB cycled past us and the chase was on! Gary, now our close companion, (who by the way is 70 years old) actually caught and passed them. For this amazing feat, he was recognized during tonight’s RAP session. You should have seen him beaming with pride. Needless to say, that chase will be one of the highlights of his trip.

The setting was bucolic as we cycled through one small town after another. Seeing charming houses and picturesque farms was the norm. We are close to the Finger Lakes area where the land is fertile and crops grow easily. Everything is green and lush.  

Nine cyclists arrived at our hotel at the same time. Since our rooms weren’t ready, we all had lunch together at a nearby restaurant. Philippe, a cyclist from Israel, was in a festive mood because his daughter delivered his eleventh grandchild today. He bought lunch for everyone and ordered three cakes to be shared at RAP. 

The entire group has become our extended family. We have shared many joys and endured many hardships together. We have folded one another’s laundry, and we have learned all about children and grandchildren. There is talk of reunions and future trips together. As to whether that will happen is yet to be seen. If nothing else, we will have wonderful memories of how 35 strangers united on this incredible journey.  

Days 42 and 43

Sunday, July 28, 2013: Brantford, Ontario to Niagara Falls, NY, 74 miles with 1,400 feet of climbing

Monday, July 29, 2013 Niagara Falls (rest day)

When our ride leader asked the same question that he asks every day, “How was your ride?” the applause and cheers rocked the hotel. Today couldn’t have been a more pleasant day. 

Gary, Gail, Yuval, and I were thoroughly enjoying the tailwind and the 20 - 24 mph speed for the first 17 miles. Even when Gary had a flat tire, it was a positive experience since we had the opportunity to meet a Canadian farmer who wanted to help us with his giant air compressor. We met his wife, his grandchild, and his dog Harley who were all excited to meet these crazy cyclists who were traveling across America. 

The first SAG contained some extra special treats from some alumni of former ABB rides. It was great to meet Mark and his wife Susan who both advised us to cherish this last week as it will fly by. We arrived in Niagara Falls (Canadian side) and went directly to the Falls. While I have seen them before, it was fun to watch our international friends when they first gazed upon these magnificent falls. There are actually three falls: Horseshoe Falls, American Falls, and Bridal Veil Falls.  The Falls were created about 12,000 years ago. The glaciers retreated about 50,000 years ago, creating a large lake. When the surrounding land uplifted, the lake overflowed, resulting in the Falls.

After crossing Rainbow Bridge, we returned to the U.S.A. by entering the state of New York. While Canada was kind to us, there’s nothing like home. 

Pulling into the hotel, we were created by cyclist Rick’s wife who had sparking wine and fruit from the Finger Lakes area. It was a superb welcome! 

We ended the ride with lunch on the hotel patio, listening to a jazz band. After the trials and tribulations of previous rides, we savored a glorious day like today.

Rest Day: Gail and I took a delightful walk around Goat Island where we felt the incredible power of the falls from the American side. I took this photo from Luna Island. I certainly wouldn't have wanted to have been Annie Taylor who in 1901 went over the Falls in a barrel!

We then had a delicious lunch at the Culinary Arts Institute deli which is directly across the street from our hotel. We are now fortified and ready to tackle the last segment of the ride. The end is in sight!

Day 41: We Pushed Our Luck!

London, Ontario to Brantford, Ontario

69 miles with 1,250' of climbing

Today we passed the 3,000 miles mark with a grand total of 3,058 miles (not including detours). Wow - I am amazed by that number. Whereas I don't keep a cycling log as many cyclists do, I can safely say that I have never had a year when I have ridden that many miles. To think that it has been accomplished in 6 weeks is pretty incredible (if I say so myself). :-) 

The morning began with showers so rain jackets, booties, and helmet covers came out of storage. (If you have never seen a helmet cover, you have missed a good laugh. For some reason, the men not the women wear them. They look like bright yellow shower caps. I am sure that they serve a function other than fodder for jokes at dinner. Bottom line - I won't be buying Frank one for his birthday.) While there was a light drizzle as we pulled out of the hotel, the rain stopped shortly thereafter. Our group consisted of Gail, Gary, Yuval, Amy, sometimes Don, and me. Here we are at a SAG...

Note the 3 brand new Canadian jerseys worn by Gary, Yuval, and me. And here we are in action....

We arrived in Brantford by 1:00 and stopped at a restaurant 2 miles from our hotel. This is where we pushed our luck. We should have selected a location much closer to the hotel. As we finished our veggie burgers, we came outside to pouring rain. Thus, we were soaking wet when we arrived at our hotel only to discover that our rooms weren't ready. Looking like 5 drown rats, we sat in the lobby shivering for about 30 minutes. It seems that we learn new lessons every day. With only 8 cycling days left, I wonder if I'll have things figured out by the time that we finish - probably not!

Day 40: Canada, Here We Come!

Friday, July 26, 2013: Port Huron, MI to London, Ontario

82 miles with 1888 feet of climbing

Years from now, when I recall this 50-day journey, I will be sure to remember our crossing of the Blue Water Bridge from the USA into Canada. It was undoubtedly the most significant and symbolic ten minutes. 

We gathered in the parking lot of the hotel at 6:45. Promptly at 6:55, we received the call to begin our bicycle parade. The entire northern span of the bridge was closed to vehicular traffic so that we could cross safely. I could hear cheers, laughter, and comments of pride emanating from all who were beside me. Our two Canadian cyclists seemed to sit a bit taller in their saddles as we crossed into Ontario. 

Upon crossing, we went right into immigration where all went smoothly. It was there that Gail noticed some wires that were protruding from her shifter, and our mechanic promised to attend to the issue a few miles down the road. Upon a quick review, it was determined that Gail would only be able to use 3 gears for the 82 miles. The problem was to be solved when we got to a bike shop in London. Like a trooper, Gail somehow managed to stay in a pace line, pull the line, and average 16.3 mph, using just 3 gears!! For the most part, the ride was uneventful until we came to a little town called Delaware.  There we had a tasty lunch at a country store. 

At the bike shop, Gail’s bike was adjusted so that she will be able to ride the remaining 9 days. Once home, she will need to have her shifter rebuilt. 

Our afternoon was spent in a store resembling a REI, picking up a Canadian jersey and some cycling accessories. At RAP tonight, an ABB staff person mentioned that that tomorrow’s temperature would be 20 degrees. It took a second or two to comprehend that she was citing the temperature in degrees Celsius, and that I wouldn't need my thermals after all!

Day 39: Spectacular Day

Birch Run, MI to Port Huron, MI

87 miles with 1,329' of climbing

Today was one of my favorite days of the trip! The weather was perfect, starting in the low fifties and ending in the eighties. Winds were calm, and the sky was clear blue. Gail and I began the ride, but by the first SAG had teamed up with Yuval, Don, and Amy. We made a very efficient, yet social team. At mile 47, we stopped for chocolate milk at Mary Ann's Cafe in the town of Brown City. While there, we struck up a conversation with a fireman who proudly spoke of the town's memorial to the firefighters who died on 9-11. Apparently, the town applied for and received one of the beams from the World Trade Center. A memorial was erected, and the site is overseen by a local man who lives on the property. It was a very touching and poignant time for us as we recalled all of the lives that were lost that day.

We arrived in Port Huron by 1:30 and went directly to the Thomas Edison Park where we caught our first glimpse of the Blue Water Bridge. This bridge will be closed to traffic tomorrow as we cycle over it at 7:00 a.m. Won't that be an amazing sight - 36 cyclists dressed in red, white, and blue crossing this bridge into Canada?! I am sure that it will be one of the most memorable events of this 7-week journey.

This afternoon, my sister-in-law Mary Ellen came for a visit. She had driven one hour from her home in Detroit. She came bearing gifts for us and all of the cyclists (homemade zucchini bread), which will be devoured by the locusts at our first SAG! She then drove us to one of the finest restaurants in the city where we feasted on the best halibut that I have ever tasted. As the photo shows, we enjoyed an ice cream sundae as well. Yum! Yes, this day was truly spectacular!

Day 38: Another Windy and Flat Day in Michigan

Mount Pleasant, MI to Birch Run, MI

79 miles with 826' of climbing

Today's morning temperature was 48 degrees so it was a day for jackets and vests. We left the hotel by 8:00 and before we knew it, 4 cyclists had joined our group of 4. While a pace line of 8 is too large for my liking, it really does help on a windy day like today. Our first and only SAG today came at 23 miles. I was a bit surprised to pull into someone's front yard. As it turns out, Sandra has been offering her home as a rest stop to America by Bicycle for a number of years. She is a dear woman who recently lost her husband to Lou Gehrig's Disease. Here she is with one of the ABB staff members Karen.

Due to the windy conditions, the wind turbines were able to harness lots of energy today. Gary snapped this photo by dropping out of our line. I'm not willing to run the risk of getting dropped to face the wind alone.

At mile 53, we ran into a "road closed" sign. We waited for our ride leader Jeff to direct us. Here he is painting directions while I look on. The detour added another 5 miles to our daily mileage. We are all learning that you can't plan finishing times as unusual occurrences are becoming the norm.

A huge lunch at Applebee's saved the day. We seem to think about food all the time. That will have to change for me in 12 days!

Day 37: An Easy Century For A Change!

Ludington, MI to Mount Pleasant, MI

113 miles with 3,466' of climbing

Michigan is treating us well! We loaded our luggage at 6:30, and Gary, Terry, Gail and I were on the roads shortly thereafter. My bike is now working fine since Jim our mechanic put my old chain back on my bike at 9:30 last night. It was still somewhat dark as we began, conveying the message that the daylight hours are starting to wane. The sky looked spectacular as the sun peeked over the horizon. The winds were out of the southwest, which couldn't have been better for our direction. Midway through the ride, we picked up Jane and Katie who always ride at a fast clip. Averaging 17.7 mph, we were one of the first groups to arrive at the hotel. It was great to finally have some time to just relax. After yesterday's stressful day (bike issues) and only 5.5 hours of sleep, we needed some relaxation.

Before dinner, we finally had a chance to thank Gary and Terry for their heroic efforts of pulling us those 84 miles when we were both sick. We bought a bottle of wine and caught up on their personal lives. They are two really great guys and considering their ages of 69 and 70, they are in incredible shape.

Tomorrow "should" be a moderately easy day since we only ride 74 miles. Of course, I have been fooled before.

Day 36: Bike Issues and Crossing Lake Michigan

Manitowoc, WI to Ludington, MI (Ferry Ride)

7 miles with 0' of climbing

While today was officially a rest day, we did ride a few miles to and from the ferry. It's a good thing that I took this small test ride before embarking on the 113-mile trek tomorrow. Yesterday, I had some bike maintenance done: changing the brake pads and the chain on my bike. As I pedaled the first few strokes, my chain kept slipping and making a thump, thump, thump whenever I applied pressure on the chain. Something is seriously wrong. Until this point, my Merlin Fortius has been my tried and true companion. Because it is made from titanium, it takes the bumps well and offers a smooth ride. I purchased the bike in 2002, and it has never disappointed me, especially on this journey. Now, I'm panicked. Our head mechanic Jim thinks that I am in need of a new cassette. He spent the first hour of our ferry ride trying to find the specific Campy cassette required for my bike. While we found what we need online, the earliest that I can have it sent to a hotel is 5 days. Because the mechanic who replaced my chain saved it, Jim assures me that all will be fine when they put the old chain back on. Ugh!

The ferry ride across Lake Michigan took 4 hours. My time was spent, eating, reading, and eating some more. The ferry is powered by coal. It reminds me of the Cape May-Lewes Ferry with a few more amenities. Badger Bingo appears to be the big draw for everyone. As you can see, there are some hardcore Bingo players who traverse the Lake. 

Pulling into the harbor was a wonderful sight to behold. Not only was it beautiful - complete with a lighthouse, but it meant two exciting milestones: a new state and our home time zone!

Seven of us ate dinner at the Jamesport Brewery, a spot that was recommended by my Delaware friend Gary. It was delicious!

Day 35: It Should Have Been Easy!

Fond du Lac, WI to Manitowoc, WI

57 miles with 1,350' of climbing

We were all guilty of being a bit too smug about the distance. Only 57 miles we thought. We should arrive to our destination early and get so many things accomplished: bike mechanics, laundry, e-mail... We couldn't have been more wrong. 

After a fantastic breakfast of omelets, fresh fruit, and muffins, we turned right out of our city hotel and rode directly into the park. There, we saw Lake Winnebago and this lighthouse that has been beautifully maintained. I learned that ice fishing is hugely popular on this lake during 5 months of the year.

Just on the outskirts of town, we discovered that there was a significant headwind. It didn't take long for Gail and me to jump on board a pace line that was passing. That was a wise move! We stayed with this group all the way to Manitowoc, averaging 15.3 mph. It was 1:30 by the time that we stopped for lunch, and at 2:45, we reached the hotel. Realizing that we would never accomplish all of our tasks, We quickly divided them and assigned roles. By choosing the laundromat, I definitely got the better deal. The hotel shuttled 11 of us to the establishment, but first, we stopped at the wine store for vino and snacks. Let me put it this way - it was the best laundry experience of my life. :-)

Meanwhile, Gail attended to our bikes. We are now equipped with new chains and brake pads!

Tomorrow is considered a rest day even though we are riding 7 miles. We will be crossing Lake Michigan and enter into the Eastern time zone. My watch will finally be accurate!

Day 34: Great Day To Be On A Bike

Wisconsin Dells, WI to Fond du Lac, WI

84 miles with 2426' of climbing

Hooray! The heat broke today. We noticed it as soon as we walked outside. I wish that I had a dollar for the number of times that I heard, "It's a beautiful day!" Everyone was in an upbeat mood and happy to be reunited after yesterday's debacle and stressful day. The first 25 miles flew by. Our first SAG stop was at this picturesque quarry. The granite that came from this quarry was used in the construction of Grant's Tomb....

The second highlight was the stop for Bratwurst sandwiches. While I cannot attest to the accuracy of "Voted best in the state," I can tell you that I heard some great reviews!

We arrived in Fond du Lac, meaning "Foot of the Lake" by 1:30 and had a wonderful lunch at the charming restaurant (converted from a church) across the street from our hotel. 

Our after dinner entertainment was a t-shirt swap, which proved to be great fun! I landed a t-shirt from Israel from my friend Yuval. All in all, it was a terrific day. After the past week of 4 centuries in 4 days, we appreciated the lighter mileage of 84. I can't imagine making that statement just one short month ago!

Day 33: A Day of Tunnels and Bike Paths

La Crosse, WI to Wisconsin Dells, WI

98 miles with 1,200' of climbing

After a delay of a half-hour due to thunderstorms, we said our good-byes to Frank and CJ and shoved off near 8:00. This was a late start for our group, and it plays a significant role in the long, long day that awaited us.

Almost immediately, we were directed to our first bike path to avoid road construction. It lasted for about 10 miles and had a relatively good riding surface. Finding the macadam road surface again, we rode to our first SAG in Sparta, known as the Bicycling Capital of America.

At this point, we picked up our second bike path, which lasted for 34 miles! The path known as the Elroy-Sparta Trail is the first rails to trails in the country. Of special mention are the 3 tunnels that were built in 1873. The first tunnel was the longest at a distance of 3,810 feet. The tunnels are pitch black in that you cannot see your hand in front of you. We had been forewarned to carry flashlights and shoes for walking. Cycling through the tunnel is forbidden. While it was a fun experience, one tunnel would have been plenty for me as it meant taking off and putting back on your cycling shoes.  Here is a photo of what the entrance looks like...

At SAG #2, we were informed of a detour to our route, which would add another 6 miles. Gail an I grabbed a quick bite and were off again. We still had close to 40 miles to ride and the time was 1:30. Oh by the way, the temperature was approaching 100 degrees for the fourth consecutive day. Eventually, we reached our hotel or what should have been our hotel. Apparently, the former Days Inn was purchased by Econolodge and they lost our reservation. We were filthy, tired, dehydrated, and we yearned for air-conditioning and a shower. Instead, we spent the next couple of hours waiting to find where we would go. Gail and I finally got our room and luggage around 6:30. Talk about a long day! 

We have now completed 4 centuries in the past 4 days. Our bodies are telling us that they need an easy day very soon!

Day 32: Wisconsin - Another New State

Rochester, MN to La Crosse WI

88 miles with 2,850' of climbing

Some of you might wonder how we ride when the temperature nears and exceeds 100 degrees. Gail and I have learned not to question the conditions, the distance, or the terrain. We just do it! (I know it sounds like the Nike ad.) 

Today was a hot day with lots of climbs. Suffering from the after-effects of heat exhaustion, Frank knew better than to tackle the entire ride. He chose to keep his body cool while assisting with the SAG stops. Once Gail, CJ, and I left him, we were hit with some significant climbs. A welcome relief came when we ventured onto a shaded bike path that ran from mile 50 - 62. I later found out that the path extends over 100 miles! Can you imagine if we had one in Delaware? It would run the length of the state!

Crossing into Wisconsin was a highlight as it's our 6th state. Immediately afterwards, we saw the Mississippi River, one of the widest rivers that I have seen. Note the houseboats along the shore. What does the scene remind you of? (Portland, OR)

Tomorrow, Frank and CJ fly home. They will be missed!. :-(

Day 31: Heat Index - 110 Degrees

Mankato, MN to Rochester, MN

99 miles with 2,400' of climbing

The big news today was the heat. GPS systems were uniformly reading 104 degrees. With the humidity, we were told that the heat index would be 110. Obviously, there were heat advisories to limit outdoor activities and to drink plenty of fluids. What a day to ride a century!

We left our center city hotel, turned right and were hit with a 12% grade climb almost immediately. I love the triple crank and gear ratio on my bike, which allow me to make these steep climbs pretty easily when I'm in my smallest gear. Fortunately, it was a short hill, and Frank, Gail, CJ and I cruised out of Mankato by 7:30. There was more climbing today than the previous two days, but the wind continued to come from the west, which was ideal for us. This picture was taken early in our ride by one of our Portland, OR friends....

After our second SAG stop at mile 67, Frank became really hot. The soles of his feet, in particular, felt like they were on fire. Despite his attempts at hydration, he couldn't cool down. We had hoped to stop for lunch somewhere, but there was no civilization until our destination - Rochester. At mile 85, Frank made the wise decision to ride in the SAG van for the last 14 miles. Meanwhile, Gail, CJ and I endured the remaining miles to Rochester, passing both the famous Mayo Clinic and Soldier Field.

Frank wasn't himself for the rest of the day. He remained nauseous and tired. In fact, he was asleep by 7:30. Tomorrow is supposed to be his final day of riding with us before returning to DE on Friday. Unfortunately, the forecast of heat and humidity remains through the weekend. I'll be sure to watch him closely tomorrow!

Day 30: Heating Things Up!

Worthington, MN to Mankato, MN

111 miles with over 1,000' of climbing

There were two factors that kept today's ride from being thoroughly enjoyable: the distance and the heat. The ride started with a 5-mile detour, which placed the total mileage at 111. Frank has never ridden more than a century, so he was entering new territory. The good news was that the winds were with us! We kept a brisk pace, ranging from 17 - 22 mph for the first 100 miles. It was after lunch that we really began to feel the heat. According to Gail's GPS, the temperature was 100 degrees, and we began to receive, "You're crazy" comments from perfect strangers. Fortunately, the last 10 miles of the trip were on a beautifully constructed, shaded bike path that brought us directly to our hotel. Here is the Blue Earth River. We crossed this on the bike path...

This bridge was part of the Red Jacket Bike Path. Note how well constructed it is.... 

Dinner was served at "Old Country Buffet" - another new restaurant experience for us. We all ate way too much food. Tonight, Frank was honored to receive a certificate for his longest distance ride. He plans to frame it! Let's just hope that there are no additional detours tomorrow as the scheduled distance is 99 miles.

Day 29: Welcome to Minnesota!

Sioux Falls, SD to Worthington, MN

73 miles with 2,300' of climbing

Frank experienced the group's enthusiasm during our push-off this morning. Literally, within minutes, the parking lot was empty, and the Type-A cyclists were off! We left Sioux Falls on one of the most beautiful bike paths that I have ever been on. It lasted for ten miles and ended at these gorgeous falls, hence the origin of the town's name....

Gail, CJ, Frank, and I rode as a foursome. I must admit that Gail and I had to dish out some ride discipline, reminding the husbands to stay in line, watch their pace, and where to stand at traffic lights. Riding with the "newbies" made me realize how much that I had learned about riding in pace lines and my riding form. Before long, we were riding as a cohesive unit. At mile 24, we crossed the state line by entering Minnesota - our fifth state across the country. We've also ridden a total of 2,100 miles as of today. The sign says, Welcome to Minnesota...

The landscape is now fertile fields of corn and soybeans. We passed several grain elevators and wind turbines. Everyone on this tour seemed happy to leave South Dakota (and the punishing winds) behind. Minnesota was originally claimed by the Spanish government and the the French. Napoleon sold France's territory to the US in 1803. Much of our bike ride is in this area, commonly known as the Louisiana Purchase. We arrived by 12:30 and the routine began: lunch, clean bikes, shower, RAP, dinner, bed. As I write this entry, Frank is sound asleep by 9:00. He seems to have adjusted to our crazy schedule just fine!

Day 28: Rest Day with Frank

Sioux Falls, SD

Well, the long anticipated rest day has come and gone, and it was just what the doctor ordered. Besides sleeping and eating more today than I have during the past 3 days combined, I was able to shop for basic needs, catch up on laundry, etc. This afternoon, Frank and CJ attended their hour-long orientation from ABB (America by Bicycle). The organization is very well run with specific guidelines for keeping everyone safe. If asked, I would highly recommend this company to anyone who is contemplating a cross-country ride.

Besides Frank and CJ, there will be one additional cyclist who will be joining us through Niagara Falls. He is British but resides in Spain. I am always intrigued by these international participants. Why are they choosing certain portions of the country to see? Have they cycled extensively in their own country? I look forward to getting to know him better.

Here is a picture of Gail, CJ, Frank, and me before heading to Chili's and our last chance to eat dinner where we want....

Tomorrow, we ride with the husbands...just like home!

Day 27: Nirvana!

Mitchell, SD to Sioux Falls, SD

73 miles with over 1,000' of climbing 

It takes some trying times to really appreciate the good days. This thought ran through my head all day as I felt strong for the first time in several days. Perhaps, I was just excited to reach Sioux Falls where I would see Frank for the first time in one month!

Once again, Gail, Gary, Terry, and I formed a team and took one-mile pulls. The miles ticked off quickly and before long, we reached our first SAG at mile 41. It was a fun stop as directly across the street, the town of Canistota was holding a tractor pull contest for children. Obviously, I would not see one of these events at home....

Having picked up Jane and Katie in our line, we arrived in Sioux Falls by 12:30 and went straight to a pub for lunch. Terry was in rare form after his "two for one" Fat Tires beer. We were all in a celebratory mood as we had just completed the third and most challenging segment of our journey.

Needless to say, it was wonderful to see Frank again. We spent about an hour sharing stories and catching up. Then, it was time to assemble his bike. He and CJ had decided to treat us to a first-rate dinner in the city. It was strange to ride in a taxi - my first car ride in several weeks. On the way, we were blocked by a motorcycle parade that seemed to go on forever. Once again, I thought of the cultural differences compared to the East.

Our dinner was one of the best meals that I have ever had! Attempting to regain some of my weight loss, I had a three-course feast at Parker's Bistro. If you ever visit Sioux Falls, this restaurant is a must.

Rest day is tomorrow - do you hear my sigh of relief?

Day 26: To Hell and Back!

Chamberlain, SD to Mitchell, SD

71 miles with 2,215' of climbing

As you know, yesterday was one of the most physically demanding days of my life. I battled illness, wind, heat, and hills. The good news is I'm back!! I was able to get a great night's sleep and finally eat some food this morning. Our riding buddies Gary and Terry offered to pull us again, but we felt strong enough to share the load, pulling one mile each for 71 miles. Perhaps it's all relative to yesterday, but today actually went by quickly. We conversed with our new friends while riding in an echelon formation. We arrived in Mitchell by noon and had a wonderful lunch near The Corn Palace. Gary, Gail, and I then toured this unique tourist attraction. While it had its share of touristy merchandise, there were some murals surrounding the perimeter that were made from different colors of corn ears...pretty cool! Here are some "corny" photos from the Palace.....

Here we are with Gary and Terry in front of the Corn Palace...

We are very excited about our day tomorrow as Frank and CJ join us for 5 days. It will be wonderful to introduce them to everyone and to have them share this experience with us!