7.31.2006
We're OK, Moms
Dear Faithful Readers,
Sorry we haven't been able to update in a while - it's been due to the barrenness of the Utah desert, not our misfortune. We made it into Utah, across a 120 mile stretch with no services, and to Boulder, where we met up with Tony, Jon's dad (aka our second most frequent blogger), who will ride with us for the next three days. If you've been reading the comments, you'll know to donate to our causes by Thursday, because Tony is also planning on matching donations given during his ride.
Sorry we haven't been able to update in a while - it's been due to the barrenness of the Utah desert, not our misfortune. We made it into Utah, across a 120 mile stretch with no services, and to Boulder, where we met up with Tony, Jon's dad (aka our second most frequent blogger), who will ride with us for the next three days. If you've been reading the comments, you'll know to donate to our causes by Thursday, because Tony is also planning on matching donations given during his ride.
7.27.2006
NEW PICS
Check out the "PHOTOS" link to the left to see our latest roll of film. It's got pics as far back as Virginia. We've got another roll done and will be sending it back soon. And if Utah is anywhere as beautiful as Colorado, we should have a bunch more in a short while. Oh, and this time you shouldn't have to sign in!
Day 38 - 66.17 Miles
Southwestern Colorado Continues to Amaze
Dolores, CO
We tried to get up early to start our big climb out of Telluride and over the Lizard Head Pass, but we were still really "tired" from our night out, and didn't get started until about 7:30 (we know, we know, it's totally absurd that either of us would think of 7:30 as late, but we'll be back to normal soon enough - when sleeping in doesn't mean we're guaranteed heat exhaustion later in the day). After the climb, we had another enjoyable descent that we made even better with a couple of hours spent lazing along the riverside and trying to fish - this time Jon actually got a nibble.
Theme song of the day: Rollin' Rollin' Rollin' (City Slickers Version...not the Wal-Mart version).
Dolores, CO
We tried to get up early to start our big climb out of Telluride and over the Lizard Head Pass, but we were still really "tired" from our night out, and didn't get started until about 7:30 (we know, we know, it's totally absurd that either of us would think of 7:30 as late, but we'll be back to normal soon enough - when sleeping in doesn't mean we're guaranteed heat exhaustion later in the day). After the climb, we had another enjoyable descent that we made even better with a couple of hours spent lazing along the riverside and trying to fish - this time Jon actually got a nibble.
Theme song of the day: Rollin' Rollin' Rollin' (City Slickers Version...not the Wal-Mart version).
Day 37 - 64.36 Miles
The Fishing Line that Broke the Biker's Rack
Telluride ("to-hell-you-ride"), CO
Our morning started splendidly with headwinds and climbs. To add to the fun, Jon's rack broke (it's only the second most important piece of equipment after our bikes themselves). Luckily, he brokedown only one mile from a bikeshop in Ridgway that had a replacement. We cruised over the Dallas Divide at about 4 m.p.h. and then had a spectacular 12 mile downhill stretch with red rock, big mountains, and wildflowers to enjoy. To top it all off, we stopped for an hour to fish in the San Miguel River, though the fish were biting as much as the ducks the night before. With our legs refreshed from the cold mountain water, we charged up the valley to Telluride, and it immediately became apparent why it's such a popular vacation spot. They've got a great main street that still has an Old West feel, good restaurants (we found that expensive asian restaurant you mentioned, Ken. Thanks.), a free gondola that took us over the mountain to a town literally called "Mountain Village" where a concert was wrapping up, and fun bars with great beer (anything else about the craic might not be suitable for publication, Austin).
Theme song for the day: Let the Good Times Roll by the Cars.
Telluride ("to-hell-you-ride"), CO
Our morning started splendidly with headwinds and climbs. To add to the fun, Jon's rack broke (it's only the second most important piece of equipment after our bikes themselves). Luckily, he brokedown only one mile from a bikeshop in Ridgway that had a replacement. We cruised over the Dallas Divide at about 4 m.p.h. and then had a spectacular 12 mile downhill stretch with red rock, big mountains, and wildflowers to enjoy. To top it all off, we stopped for an hour to fish in the San Miguel River, though the fish were biting as much as the ducks the night before. With our legs refreshed from the cold mountain water, we charged up the valley to Telluride, and it immediately became apparent why it's such a popular vacation spot. They've got a great main street that still has an Old West feel, good restaurants (we found that expensive asian restaurant you mentioned, Ken. Thanks.), a free gondola that took us over the mountain to a town literally called "Mountain Village" where a concert was wrapping up, and fun bars with great beer (anything else about the craic might not be suitable for publication, Austin).
Theme song for the day: Let the Good Times Roll by the Cars.
Day 36 - 65.27 Miles
Recent Study Shows Beds More Comfortable than Sleeping Pads
Montrose, CO
Riding out of Gunnison along the Blue Mesa Reservoir was a spectacular way to start our morning. We were able to make great time to Montrose (where the McDonald's sign only has one arc) with tailwinds and long downhills (although they were well-earned after a couple climbs). With all our spare time we tuned up our bikes, shopped, checked email, and Jon even bought himself a collapsable fly-fishing rod. Luckily for us, there also happened to be a free fly fishing clinic at the town duck pond that evening, so we stuck around for a few hours (sadly, the ducks weren't biting...and our plum sauce went to waste). As we tried to ride out of down another big t-storm was brewing, so we built up some courage, psyched ourselves up, and checked into the closest hotel (that's four out of five nights, if you're scoring at home...if not, try flowers). Although the plum sauce went bad, we weren't going to let our food go to waste - it's OK to cook with a camping stove in a hotel room, right?
Song of the day: Shelter from the Storm by Bob Dylan
Montrose, CO
Riding out of Gunnison along the Blue Mesa Reservoir was a spectacular way to start our morning. We were able to make great time to Montrose (where the McDonald's sign only has one arc) with tailwinds and long downhills (although they were well-earned after a couple climbs). With all our spare time we tuned up our bikes, shopped, checked email, and Jon even bought himself a collapsable fly-fishing rod. Luckily for us, there also happened to be a free fly fishing clinic at the town duck pond that evening, so we stuck around for a few hours (sadly, the ducks weren't biting...and our plum sauce went to waste). As we tried to ride out of down another big t-storm was brewing, so we built up some courage, psyched ourselves up, and checked into the closest hotel (that's four out of five nights, if you're scoring at home...if not, try flowers). Although the plum sauce went bad, we weren't going to let our food go to waste - it's OK to cook with a camping stove in a hotel room, right?
Song of the day: Shelter from the Storm by Bob Dylan
7.25.2006
Route Chosen
Check out the link to the left to see our new route, then read below to see how the first two days of riding it went.
By The Numbers - Week 5
11,312 - Highest elevation reached on trip.
2400 - Total miles travelled on trip.
506.52 - Miles travelled this week.
120 - Highest thermometer reading seen.
25 - Lowest odd-numbered interstate crossed.
10 - Longest continuous climb on trip.
10 - Longest distance travelled without pedalling.
8 - Consecutive victories by an American in the Tour de France.
6 - States' sides of the road soiled by us.
3 - Time zones entered on trip.
3 - Mountain Ranges hit on trip.
2 - Kountry Kitchens eaten at on trip.
2400 - Total miles travelled on trip.
506.52 - Miles travelled this week.
120 - Highest thermometer reading seen.
25 - Lowest odd-numbered interstate crossed.
10 - Longest continuous climb on trip.
10 - Longest distance travelled without pedalling.
8 - Consecutive victories by an American in the Tour de France.
6 - States' sides of the road soiled by us.
3 - Time zones entered on trip.
3 - Mountain Ranges hit on trip.
2 - Kountry Kitchens eaten at on trip.
Day 35 - 76.59 Miles
Pedalists' Pee Pours to Pacific
Gunnison, CO
We got an early start this morning because we knew we'd be going over our highest pass on the trip, Monarch Pass, which, as Tony gave away, is over 11,000 feet and happens to mark the Continental Divide. A great breakfast at the West End in Salida (rhymes with saliva), some bike repair, and we were rolling. The ten mile climb felt endless (there was a slight headwind, to boot), but it certainly wasn't the steepest terrain we've seen, so that was nice. On our way up we could see an enormous black cloud rolling and rumbling towards us, so we shot down the hill before it hit the summit. On our way down we looked back to see some incredible lightning flashes and were told that a hail storm was pelting the top of the pass. We waited out the storm at a restaurant down below, thankful to have completed the descent on dry roads. When the storm finally stopped over us, we continued the downhill ride to Gunnison. Unfortunately another impressive storm was brewing down in the valley. At first, it was quite a show to watch, but then it started moving over us. Lightning and thunder seemed to come at the same time and from all directions, so we quickly sought shelter. Wet and tired, we treated ourselves to dinner at the Double Dragon Chinese food restaurant, where sadly, there were no references to the video game, and a night at the Days Inn.
Theme song for the day: Rocky Mountain High (cheesy, we know, but so appropriate) by John Denver (who may or may not be full of it).
Gunnison, CO
We got an early start this morning because we knew we'd be going over our highest pass on the trip, Monarch Pass, which, as Tony gave away, is over 11,000 feet and happens to mark the Continental Divide. A great breakfast at the West End in Salida (rhymes with saliva), some bike repair, and we were rolling. The ten mile climb felt endless (there was a slight headwind, to boot), but it certainly wasn't the steepest terrain we've seen, so that was nice. On our way up we could see an enormous black cloud rolling and rumbling towards us, so we shot down the hill before it hit the summit. On our way down we looked back to see some incredible lightning flashes and were told that a hail storm was pelting the top of the pass. We waited out the storm at a restaurant down below, thankful to have completed the descent on dry roads. When the storm finally stopped over us, we continued the downhill ride to Gunnison. Unfortunately another impressive storm was brewing down in the valley. At first, it was quite a show to watch, but then it started moving over us. Lightning and thunder seemed to come at the same time and from all directions, so we quickly sought shelter. Wet and tired, we treated ourselves to dinner at the Double Dragon Chinese food restaurant, where sadly, there were no references to the video game, and a night at the Days Inn.
Theme song for the day: Rocky Mountain High (cheesy, we know, but so appropriate) by John Denver (who may or may not be full of it).
Day 34 - 87.24 Miles
Our Eyes Love CO, But Our Legs Miss KS
Howard, CO
We started our long journey on Highway 50 out of Pueblo with thirty miles of tailwind assisted flats to Canon City (pronounced canyon because there should be a tilde on the "n"). After that, the hills started...and by hills, we mean the Rockies. We took an 8 mile detour to see the Royal Gorge Bridge, the world's highest suspension bridge, which is over the Royal Gorge and Arkansas River (1,053 ft). The bridge and gorge were spectacular, but the other attractions that our $21 ticket bought us were a little absurd - like the fake gun fight and the guy singing and "playing" the guitar, whose right hand was a good six inches from the strings. The rest of the day was spent rolling upstream along the Arkansas and waving to the countless whitewater rafters floating downstream and enjoying the incredible scenery around us. We finished in Howard, where a sign reads "Howard, Colorado: Home of 1201 nice people and a few old soreheads".
Theme song: On the Road Again by Willie Nelson
Howard, CO
We started our long journey on Highway 50 out of Pueblo with thirty miles of tailwind assisted flats to Canon City (pronounced canyon because there should be a tilde on the "n"). After that, the hills started...and by hills, we mean the Rockies. We took an 8 mile detour to see the Royal Gorge Bridge, the world's highest suspension bridge, which is over the Royal Gorge and Arkansas River (1,053 ft). The bridge and gorge were spectacular, but the other attractions that our $21 ticket bought us were a little absurd - like the fake gun fight and the guy singing and "playing" the guitar, whose right hand was a good six inches from the strings. The rest of the day was spent rolling upstream along the Arkansas and waving to the countless whitewater rafters floating downstream and enjoying the incredible scenery around us. We finished in Howard, where a sign reads "Howard, Colorado: Home of 1201 nice people and a few old soreheads".
Theme song: On the Road Again by Willie Nelson
7.22.2006
Day 33 - Day Off
Sleeping in at the Sleep Inn
Pueblo, CO
Our first day off was filled with a morning of sleeping in, a dip in the pool, some basic bike repair, stocking up on supplies, lunch at Sonic (again), and a matinee showing of Clerks II. Greg and Katie shuttled us around in Greg's about-to-explode (although just serviced) Jeep. Anyone with experience in insurance fraud should contact him with ideas.
Theme Song: Hanging Around by the Counting Crows.
Pueblo, CO
Our first day off was filled with a morning of sleeping in, a dip in the pool, some basic bike repair, stocking up on supplies, lunch at Sonic (again), and a matinee showing of Clerks II. Greg and Katie shuttled us around in Greg's about-to-explode (although just serviced) Jeep. Anyone with experience in insurance fraud should contact him with ideas.
Theme Song: Hanging Around by the Counting Crows.
Day 32 - 94.88 Miles
Mountains in Sight
Pueblo, CO
Great riding today. The storms from last night shifted the wind patterns greatly in our favor, as a stiff wind blew out of the east all day. We were able to coast pretty much all the way into Pueblo, one of the biggest cities we've seen since the start (pop. 100,000). We checked into the Sleep Inn, that Jon's friends Greg and Katie had booked for us, because they were driving down from Denver to take us out for the evening. We had a great meal at a Texas Roadhouse with them, where peanut shells covered the ground, real rodeo competitors were eating after the Colorado State Fair, the rib meat just fell off the bone, and the made-to-order margaritas were the best thing we'd had to drink in a long time.
Theme song: Hello City by the Bare Naked Ladies.
Pueblo, CO
Great riding today. The storms from last night shifted the wind patterns greatly in our favor, as a stiff wind blew out of the east all day. We were able to coast pretty much all the way into Pueblo, one of the biggest cities we've seen since the start (pop. 100,000). We checked into the Sleep Inn, that Jon's friends Greg and Katie had booked for us, because they were driving down from Denver to take us out for the evening. We had a great meal at a Texas Roadhouse with them, where peanut shells covered the ground, real rodeo competitors were eating after the Colorado State Fair, the rib meat just fell off the bone, and the made-to-order margaritas were the best thing we'd had to drink in a long time.
Theme song: Hello City by the Bare Naked Ladies.
Day 31 - 81.22 Miles
Cyclists Cross into Colorful Colorado
Haswell, COLORADO
We got up behind schedule and fought head winds all morning as a result. With some clever drafting techniques, however, we were able to up our average speed by several miles per hour. Although we had entered Colorado, there were no mountains in sight; eastern Colorado is just as flat - if not flatter - than most of Kansas. Still, we both found it more picturesque. When we saw another Kountry Kitchen Restaurant, which we assume is unaffiliated with the Kentucky kounter part "Kountry Kitchen Restaurant" that we had stopped in a while back (sight of the first "lunchtime conversation"), we were a little worried we were biking in kircles. We rolled into the city park of Haswell just in time to set up camp to watch several lightning storms surround us - definitely some of the most impressive lightning either of us had ever seen.
Theme song for the day: Magic Carpet Ride by Steppenwolf, for the three mile stretch of road we took into Ordway that was newly paved, a novel experience for the day. Skiers, think freshly groomed snow.
Haswell, COLORADO
We got up behind schedule and fought head winds all morning as a result. With some clever drafting techniques, however, we were able to up our average speed by several miles per hour. Although we had entered Colorado, there were no mountains in sight; eastern Colorado is just as flat - if not flatter - than most of Kansas. Still, we both found it more picturesque. When we saw another Kountry Kitchen Restaurant, which we assume is unaffiliated with the Kentucky kounter part "Kountry Kitchen Restaurant" that we had stopped in a while back (sight of the first "lunchtime conversation"), we were a little worried we were biking in kircles. We rolled into the city park of Haswell just in time to set up camp to watch several lightning storms surround us - definitely some of the most impressive lightning either of us had ever seen.
Theme song for the day: Magic Carpet Ride by Steppenwolf, for the three mile stretch of road we took into Ordway that was newly paved, a novel experience for the day. Skiers, think freshly groomed snow.
7.20.2006
Day 30 - 69.79 Miles
F&@$ing Hot and Windy
Tribune, KS
We crossed into the Mountain Time Zone today, so we had another 25 hour day - which we took full advantage of, riding into camp around 9:00pm just as the sun set, putting into silhouette anything that stood out over the plains. The winds were "like a blowtorch" according to one man and "God awful" according to a woman today. We spent most of the afternoon in the Leoti (pronounced "Lee-o-ta" for some reason, kinda like how the last state we were in is called Missura) waiting for the winds and the heat to die down. In the library Austin was working next to a young man working on his resume. He was able to read this from his "Experiences" section: "2003 Best DJ for Complete Music, 2001 Basketball Captain, a job in which he was required to do daily cattle checks and operate heavy equipment." Whatever he must have been applying for must only exist in Kansas. We left Leoti just after dinner at Charlie's Mexican Restaurant whose sign read "Charlie's Mexican Restaurant - American Food." We camped again in the town park, where they graciously let us camp under a pavilion and use the showers.
A special thanks the anonymous poster of a few days back who suggested the Winds of Change by the Scorpians as a theme song. Today's song of the day would be Dust in the Wind by Kansas, of course.
Tribune, KS
We crossed into the Mountain Time Zone today, so we had another 25 hour day - which we took full advantage of, riding into camp around 9:00pm just as the sun set, putting into silhouette anything that stood out over the plains. The winds were "like a blowtorch" according to one man and "God awful" according to a woman today. We spent most of the afternoon in the Leoti (pronounced "Lee-o-ta" for some reason, kinda like how the last state we were in is called Missura) waiting for the winds and the heat to die down. In the library Austin was working next to a young man working on his resume. He was able to read this from his "Experiences" section: "2003 Best DJ for Complete Music, 2001 Basketball Captain, a job in which he was required to do daily cattle checks and operate heavy equipment." Whatever he must have been applying for must only exist in Kansas. We left Leoti just after dinner at Charlie's Mexican Restaurant whose sign read "Charlie's Mexican Restaurant - American Food." We camped again in the town park, where they graciously let us camp under a pavilion and use the showers.
A special thanks the anonymous poster of a few days back who suggested the Winds of Change by the Scorpians as a theme song. Today's song of the day would be Dust in the Wind by Kansas, of course.
7.19.2006
Thanks Nana Conboy, Ivan, Austin, and John
We thought we'd post a quick Shout-Out to all our overseas readers (Ireland, France, and Spain). We love the international recognition you guys give us and are thinking of you too. If anyone else is following from another country, chime in - our comments page is always open.
Slainte, a bientot, ciao.
Slainte, a bientot, ciao.
Home Sweet Home on the Road
*At home, we say hi to Jon's dear old man; on the road, we wave hi to old men on their John Deere's.
*At home, we work nine to five and sometimes put in overtime; out here, we work out nine to five and sometimes put in overtime.
*At home, when we get saddled with a lot of work, it's a real pain in the ass; on the road, when we do a lot of work in the saddle, it's a real pain in the ass.
*In New York, the streets go from one to two hundred something; in the towns we go through, the streets go "First, Middle, Last"
*At home, we worry about the rising cost of gas; in the tent, we worry about the cost of rising gas.
*At home, we work nine to five and sometimes put in overtime; out here, we work out nine to five and sometimes put in overtime.
*At home, when we get saddled with a lot of work, it's a real pain in the ass; on the road, when we do a lot of work in the saddle, it's a real pain in the ass.
*In New York, the streets go from one to two hundred something; in the towns we go through, the streets go "First, Middle, Last"
*At home, we worry about the rising cost of gas; in the tent, we worry about the cost of rising gas.
Day 29 - 96.79 Miles
Meteorology Lessons
Dighton, KS
We woke up in Larned's city park, where a police officer had recommended we camp by a covered pavilion and duck pond. While the ducks were quiet at night and we actually slept pretty well, they were going at it in the morning...they didn't have epididymitis! Nothing new about the ride (straight, flat, hot - 120 by one thermometer, sunny, windy), but we did enjoy a new lunchtime conversation:
Guy (with tattoos, piercings, shaved head, and goatee): How you guys doin' out there?
Us (spandex, sweating): It's real hot, but not too windy.
Guy: This weather has been strange. Ain't no wind.
Us: Any chance this keeps up?
Guy (looks around, leans in, lowers voice): We got three seasons here in Kansas: F@*!ing hot and windy, F@*!ing cold and windy, and F@*!ing wet and windy.
We spent most of the afternoon avoiding the first season at the library, but then were forced to roll west when we saw a thunderstorm approaching. Dighton, another very hospitable town, let us camp near their pool and skate park. Although the sign clearly said no BMX biking, Jon read that as "tour bikes welcome," when it really meant, "You WILL fall if you ride your bike in the skate park, but at least you'll provide some entertainment for the locals."
Dighton, KS
We woke up in Larned's city park, where a police officer had recommended we camp by a covered pavilion and duck pond. While the ducks were quiet at night and we actually slept pretty well, they were going at it in the morning...they didn't have epididymitis! Nothing new about the ride (straight, flat, hot - 120 by one thermometer, sunny, windy), but we did enjoy a new lunchtime conversation:
Guy (with tattoos, piercings, shaved head, and goatee): How you guys doin' out there?
Us (spandex, sweating): It's real hot, but not too windy.
Guy: This weather has been strange. Ain't no wind.
Us: Any chance this keeps up?
Guy (looks around, leans in, lowers voice): We got three seasons here in Kansas: F@*!ing hot and windy, F@*!ing cold and windy, and F@*!ing wet and windy.
We spent most of the afternoon avoiding the first season at the library, but then were forced to roll west when we saw a thunderstorm approaching. Dighton, another very hospitable town, let us camp near their pool and skate park. Although the sign clearly said no BMX biking, Jon read that as "tour bikes welcome," when it really meant, "You WILL fall if you ride your bike in the skate park, but at least you'll provide some entertainment for the locals."
7.18.2006
By The Numbers - Week 4
1894 - Total miles travelled.
503 - Miles travelled Week 4.
201.12 - Most miles travelled in a two day span on trip.
103.73 - Longest day of riding (miles).
99 - Percent of non-cyclists that great us with "Where ya headed," "Hot enough for ya?" or "You're not from around here, are ya?"
5 - States entered on trip.
4 - Countries with readers posting to our blog.
2 - Donkeys seen behaving inappropriately - although it didn't last long...
1 - Donkey showing signs of epididymitis.
503 - Miles travelled Week 4.
201.12 - Most miles travelled in a two day span on trip.
103.73 - Longest day of riding (miles).
99 - Percent of non-cyclists that great us with "Where ya headed," "Hot enough for ya?" or "You're not from around here, are ya?"
5 - States entered on trip.
4 - Countries with readers posting to our blog.
2 - Donkeys seen behaving inappropriately - although it didn't last long...
1 - Donkey showing signs of epididymitis.
Day 28 - 97.39 Miles
Looks Like We're Not in the 21st Century Anymore, Toto
Larned, KS
Another early morning helped us beat some of the heat and wind that typically increase dramatically in the afternoon. After posting to the blog from Nickerson, however, we knew we were in for a 57 mile stretch of road with no services - no water, no food, no AC, and for the most part, not even any shade. Almost 50 of those miles were on a completely straight road - literally no turns at all, just one big landing strip in the middle of one big corn field. We filled our bottles with ice water and strapped on an extra half-gallon of Gatorade to our bikes to make the journey. When we finally reached Larned - a town that brought us back to the 1860's with it's unnecessarily wide red brick avenues, boxy stone bank, and ghostly empty shops - we were somewhat relieved. Some parts of town were much more up to date, though, like the concrete walled municipal swimming pool with unpainted, wooden lifeguards stand and the Beatles greatest hits blaring out of cone-shaped speakers.
Larned, KS
Another early morning helped us beat some of the heat and wind that typically increase dramatically in the afternoon. After posting to the blog from Nickerson, however, we knew we were in for a 57 mile stretch of road with no services - no water, no food, no AC, and for the most part, not even any shade. Almost 50 of those miles were on a completely straight road - literally no turns at all, just one big landing strip in the middle of one big corn field. We filled our bottles with ice water and strapped on an extra half-gallon of Gatorade to our bikes to make the journey. When we finally reached Larned - a town that brought us back to the 1860's with it's unnecessarily wide red brick avenues, boxy stone bank, and ghostly empty shops - we were somewhat relieved. Some parts of town were much more up to date, though, like the concrete walled municipal swimming pool with unpainted, wooden lifeguards stand and the Beatles greatest hits blaring out of cone-shaped speakers.
7.17.2006
Day 27 - 103.73 Miles
Longest Day Ever
Hesston, KS
Our fist big day on the Kansas flats started before the sunrise. We knew we needed to push hard early before it got too hot and made good time to Cassoday, "The Prairie Chicken Capitol of the World." The only chickens we saw were regular ones walking around outside the general store we stopped at. After that stop we knew we were in for 38 miles of straight road with no services. We both ran out of water just as we reached Newton, KS, where we stopped to annihilate the all-you-can-eat salad bar at Pizza Hut. For dessert, we took in a beautiful wind-at-our-back, 10 mile ride into the sunset to Hesston to top off our longest day yet. The tailwinds at the end of the day were a nice change from the strong blowing headwinds we had faced earlier. Hopefully the wind continues to come out of the East.
Hesston, KS
Our fist big day on the Kansas flats started before the sunrise. We knew we needed to push hard early before it got too hot and made good time to Cassoday, "The Prairie Chicken Capitol of the World." The only chickens we saw were regular ones walking around outside the general store we stopped at. After that stop we knew we were in for 38 miles of straight road with no services. We both ran out of water just as we reached Newton, KS, where we stopped to annihilate the all-you-can-eat salad bar at Pizza Hut. For dessert, we took in a beautiful wind-at-our-back, 10 mile ride into the sunset to Hesston to top off our longest day yet. The tailwinds at the end of the day were a nice change from the strong blowing headwinds we had faced earlier. Hopefully the wind continues to come out of the East.
Day 26 - 41.48 Miles
Cyclists Prefer Wal-Mart AC to Kansas Sun
Toronto, KS
Yet another 4:00pm start for us today - not because we were hungover, we were just tired from a night of drinking. We spent the morning eating Sonic in the park before we realized we needed to get inside. The rest of the morning was spent in a Wal-Mart playing video games and cards on their extremely comfortable bean-bag chairs. Actually, waiting to start riding turned out to be a good idea, because the mid-day heat in Kansas is virtually unbearable. We cruised into Toronto Point park for night of camping on "The First Lake in Kansas," according to a grandfather we talked to. Before the river was dammed in the 50's, there were no natural lakes.
Toronto, KS
Yet another 4:00pm start for us today - not because we were hungover, we were just tired from a night of drinking. We spent the morning eating Sonic in the park before we realized we needed to get inside. The rest of the morning was spent in a Wal-Mart playing video games and cards on their extremely comfortable bean-bag chairs. Actually, waiting to start riding turned out to be a good idea, because the mid-day heat in Kansas is virtually unbearable. We cruised into Toronto Point park for night of camping on "The First Lake in Kansas," according to a grandfather we talked to. Before the river was dammed in the 50's, there were no natural lakes.
Day 25 - 55.58 Miles
Chanute Shuffle
Chanute, KS
Although we had camped with the couples we rode with yesterday, they were long gone by the time we woke up - that was fine with us, because we knew we were only riding a short distance to be able to meet up with Leo - a friend from Williams that played baseball with Austin - and his brother, Toby. Although both born and raised in Kansas, they were in as much awe of the small town Kansas nightlife as we were. The bars didn't offer much in the way of intentional entertainment - some didn't even have music - but lets just say, we no longer know how many beers we've had on this trip. Austin and Leo lost two games of pool to Jon and Toby, but got their revenge in a killer match of shuffleboard. Many thanks to Leo and Toby for driving down from Kansas City, putting us up in the Super 8, and spending a crazy night with us - "We'll always have Chanute."
Chanute, KS
Although we had camped with the couples we rode with yesterday, they were long gone by the time we woke up - that was fine with us, because we knew we were only riding a short distance to be able to meet up with Leo - a friend from Williams that played baseball with Austin - and his brother, Toby. Although both born and raised in Kansas, they were in as much awe of the small town Kansas nightlife as we were. The bars didn't offer much in the way of intentional entertainment - some didn't even have music - but lets just say, we no longer know how many beers we've had on this trip. Austin and Leo lost two games of pool to Jon and Toby, but got their revenge in a killer match of shuffleboard. Many thanks to Leo and Toby for driving down from Kansas City, putting us up in the Super 8, and spending a crazy night with us - "We'll always have Chanute."
Day 24 - 68.59 Miles
Three's ("couples") Company
Pittsburg, KANSAS
We met two very nice, 25 year old married couples headed West today and joined them for much of the 68 miles. Jesse and Taisha are on a tandem - they must really love eachother - and really cruised the flats and downhills; we expect to see them again as we all continue. If you're curious what another duo's quest west blog looks like (as we are), check out their site: jessandtaish.blogspot.com. Mo and Katie were moving to Texas - literally, all their belongings are en route to Austin. Katie is enrolled in a UT Ph.D. program for implementing a sustainable water supply in developing countries. She was inspired to do this during her travels to Ghana, and hopes to return to Africa in the future. Mo was a messenger rider while living in Brooklyn earning his degree after some time in the Navy. We wish them the best.
Pittsburg has what's either the best public pool or the worst amusement park in the world. Either way, we certainly enjoyed our hour spent at the Pittsburg Aquatic Center.
Pittsburg, KANSAS
We met two very nice, 25 year old married couples headed West today and joined them for much of the 68 miles. Jesse and Taisha are on a tandem - they must really love eachother - and really cruised the flats and downhills; we expect to see them again as we all continue. If you're curious what another duo's quest west blog looks like (as we are), check out their site: jessandtaish.blogspot.com. Mo and Katie were moving to Texas - literally, all their belongings are en route to Austin. Katie is enrolled in a UT Ph.D. program for implementing a sustainable water supply in developing countries. She was inspired to do this during her travels to Ghana, and hopes to return to Africa in the future. Mo was a messenger rider while living in Brooklyn earning his degree after some time in the Navy. We wish them the best.
Pittsburg has what's either the best public pool or the worst amusement park in the world. Either way, we certainly enjoyed our hour spent at the Pittsburg Aquatic Center.
7.13.2006
Day 23 - 72.73 Miles
The Sun Does Shine in Missouri
Ash Grove, MO
For a while there, we were pretty sure a black cloud had mistaken one of us for Linus - maybe it's cause we smell so bad. Luckily, we had a dry day over the last of the rolling hills in the Ozarks. Oh, we forgot to mention that as we rolled into the church we stayed at the night before, the sign read, "God gave ten commandments, not ten suggestions." We thought that was pretty good, but found that a miracle had occured during the night, as we rolled out to read, "Prevent Truth Decay: Brush up on Your Bible." Easily one of the best. We ate at a fish house in Ash Grove - probably not the best idea since we're as far from an ocean as you could be on this planet. Needless to say, the catfish patties and fake crab meat didn't exactly satisfy our seafood craving. (Sorry, Koko, that's really the best "delicacy" they had).
Ash Grove, MO
For a while there, we were pretty sure a black cloud had mistaken one of us for Linus - maybe it's cause we smell so bad. Luckily, we had a dry day over the last of the rolling hills in the Ozarks. Oh, we forgot to mention that as we rolled into the church we stayed at the night before, the sign read, "God gave ten commandments, not ten suggestions." We thought that was pretty good, but found that a miracle had occured during the night, as we rolled out to read, "Prevent Truth Decay: Brush up on Your Bible." Easily one of the best. We ate at a fish house in Ash Grove - probably not the best idea since we're as far from an ocean as you could be on this planet. Needless to say, the catfish patties and fake crab meat didn't exactly satisfy our seafood craving. (Sorry, Koko, that's really the best "delicacy" they had).
7.12.2006
Day 22 - 62.50 Miles
MO Rain, MO Problems
Hartville, MO
Another potentially miserable rainy day was salvaged by a good dinner and a gracious church that put us up for the night - sparing us from camping on the courthouse lawn.
Hartville, MO
Another potentially miserable rainy day was salvaged by a good dinner and a gracious church that put us up for the night - sparing us from camping on the courthouse lawn.
7.11.2006
More Lunchtime Conversation
This actually happened in Kentucky, which you could probably figure out by the time you're finished reading anyway.
We made one of our regular stops for a snack at a gas station, and got talking to some locals. There were 2 women working at the store, and 2 male customers (about 45, 50, 55, and 60 years old, respectively). We bought a candy bar and a drink, got taxed on it, and chatted while snacking. Then we bought crackers, and didn't get taxed. At this point we'd become somewhat comfortable with the crowd, so inquired about the discrepency. One of the ladies started her answer about necessity vs. luxury items when the 55 yr old man interrupted and said, "it's 'cause they like ya. That's how we decide here." Then the 60 yr old, "Actually, we don't tax ya if you're from the South - we're getting ya back finally!" Everyone laughs (although we think that might be our exit cue), and the 60 yr old gets very chatty. He tells us how they used to brew alcohol in the shop, sell water as moonshine, and even about his father who trained a mule to lie downwhen he was drunk. The ambiguous pronoun left us wondering whether it was the mule or his father who was drunk - although we had a guess. He's rolling now and starts taling about a friend of his who had an encounter with someone biking through town:
Biker: You know the name of the bridge that goes over the Ohio River?
Friend: No
Biker: You know the road that leads to it?
Friend: No
Biker: You don't know much, huh?
Friend: I know I ain't lost! (keeps on widdling)
We definitely saw all four of his teeth and half of his bologna sandwich while he roared laughing.
We made one of our regular stops for a snack at a gas station, and got talking to some locals. There were 2 women working at the store, and 2 male customers (about 45, 50, 55, and 60 years old, respectively). We bought a candy bar and a drink, got taxed on it, and chatted while snacking. Then we bought crackers, and didn't get taxed. At this point we'd become somewhat comfortable with the crowd, so inquired about the discrepency. One of the ladies started her answer about necessity vs. luxury items when the 55 yr old man interrupted and said, "it's 'cause they like ya. That's how we decide here." Then the 60 yr old, "Actually, we don't tax ya if you're from the South - we're getting ya back finally!" Everyone laughs (although we think that might be our exit cue), and the 60 yr old gets very chatty. He tells us how they used to brew alcohol in the shop, sell water as moonshine, and even about his father who trained a mule to lie downwhen he was drunk. The ambiguous pronoun left us wondering whether it was the mule or his father who was drunk - although we had a guess. He's rolling now and starts taling about a friend of his who had an encounter with someone biking through town:
Biker: You know the name of the bridge that goes over the Ohio River?
Friend: No
Biker: You know the road that leads to it?
Friend: No
Biker: You don't know much, huh?
Friend: I know I ain't lost! (keeps on widdling)
We definitely saw all four of his teeth and half of his bologna sandwich while he roared laughing.
Day 21 - 64.59 Miles
Misery in Missouri
Summersville, MO
60 miles in the pouring rain through the Ozarks. 'Nough said.
Summersville, MO
60 miles in the pouring rain through the Ozarks. 'Nough said.
By the Numbers - Week Three
1391 - Total miles ridden.
503 - Miles in week 3.
97.49 - Longest day of riding in miles.
46.5/46.0 - New top speed in m.p.h. (Jon/Austin).
16 - Holes of golf played.
4 - States entered on trip.
3 - Maps completed on trip.
2 - Mountain ranges crossed (Appalachians and Ozarks).
2 - KFC's seen in all states but Kentucky.
1 - KFC's seen in Kentucky.
1 - Rest days the Tour de France riders have taken since July 1.
0 - Rest days we've taken since June 20.
503 - Miles in week 3.
97.49 - Longest day of riding in miles.
46.5/46.0 - New top speed in m.p.h. (Jon/Austin).
16 - Holes of golf played.
4 - States entered on trip.
3 - Maps completed on trip.
2 - Mountain ranges crossed (Appalachians and Ozarks).
2 - KFC's seen in all states but Kentucky.
1 - KFC's seen in Kentucky.
1 - Rest days the Tour de France riders have taken since July 1.
0 - Rest days we've taken since June 20.
Day 20 - 43.64 Miles
Not a Head Start, Just a Head-Butt.
Centerville, MO
Our schedule today was more like a summer vacation. We knew we were gonna stay at our hotel until the World Cup final was over, so we slept in, swam, showered and shaved, ate a free continental breakfast, and checked email. While the pool and internet were a huge plus, nothing could top the entertainment we got from watching Zidane head-butt Materazzi. The rest of the game was exciting as well, but it unfortunately went to penalty kicks, so we didn't start rolling until 4:00pm. We were still able to put on some good miles, though, and we spent the night in a decent campground along the route that also had a pool and free smoothies!
Centerville, MO
Our schedule today was more like a summer vacation. We knew we were gonna stay at our hotel until the World Cup final was over, so we slept in, swam, showered and shaved, ate a free continental breakfast, and checked email. While the pool and internet were a huge plus, nothing could top the entertainment we got from watching Zidane head-butt Materazzi. The rest of the game was exciting as well, but it unfortunately went to penalty kicks, so we didn't start rolling until 4:00pm. We were still able to put on some good miles, though, and we spent the night in a decent campground along the route that also had a pool and free smoothies!
7.09.2006
Photos
Thanks to Drew, we've got some photos up online for your viewing pleasure. To see them, hit the link below. Unfortunately, you'll have to create a login name. Sorry about that. We'll try to work on a better way to share the photos in the future.
Photos
Photos
Praise the Lord!!!
Some might drive you to atheism, some might actually inspire you, but here are the most interesting church signs we've seen - and we've seen a lot - ranked from least favorite to most favorite.
*God, show us our stops as well as our steps.
*When you can't cope, Jesus gives hope.
*The most you can spend on your children is your "time."
*No God, No Peace; Know God, Know Peace.
*Feed your faith and your fears will starve to death.
*It is never too late to repent, for you do not know how soon it will be too late.
*If your salvation won't bring you to church, it won't bring you to heaven.
*When praying, don't give God instructions. Just report for duty.
*The key is not finding the right person, it's being the right person.
*God's line is never too busy.
*Coming Soon...JESUS
*Church is a hospital for sinners, not a museum for saints.
*God did not go on vacation and leave you in charge.
*God, show us our stops as well as our steps.
*When you can't cope, Jesus gives hope.
*The most you can spend on your children is your "time."
*No God, No Peace; Know God, Know Peace.
*Feed your faith and your fears will starve to death.
*It is never too late to repent, for you do not know how soon it will be too late.
*If your salvation won't bring you to church, it won't bring you to heaven.
*When praying, don't give God instructions. Just report for duty.
*The key is not finding the right person, it's being the right person.
*God's line is never too busy.
*Coming Soon...JESUS
*Church is a hospital for sinners, not a museum for saints.
*God did not go on vacation and leave you in charge.
Day 19 - 97.49 Miles
A Milestone Day
Farmington, MISSOURI
We don't know what to be most excited about: our longest ride, entering our fourth state, starting our fourth map, or earning our third weekly indulgence! We started the day by taking an alternate route along some of the Mississippi levees. It was super-flat, good riding, and fun to see the mix of farming and industry that take advantage of the river. After 40 miles we rolled into Chester, IL, the birthplace of Popeye. There are statues, murals, museums, shops, put-your-head-in-a-body pictures, and even pizzas named after him (that taste good) - apparently, he's kind of a big deal around there. We actually got kinda creeped out, so we rolled down the hill out of town and over the Mississippi River into Missouri. That's right, we're now the baddest tourers WEST of the Mississippi. We were really shooting for an 87 mile day, but thought we could cut that even shorter by taking a "shortcut." That didn't pan out so well, when the road we wanted to take didn't exist. Going off route was quite a risk considering that when we asked for directions, the locals referred to roads not by name or number, but by the consistency of their surface (ie "take the blacktop road, not the gravel road"). But we made it with some daylight to spare and still got a good swim in the pool, updated the blog just for you, and hopefully will get a good night's sleep.
Farmington, MISSOURI
We don't know what to be most excited about: our longest ride, entering our fourth state, starting our fourth map, or earning our third weekly indulgence! We started the day by taking an alternate route along some of the Mississippi levees. It was super-flat, good riding, and fun to see the mix of farming and industry that take advantage of the river. After 40 miles we rolled into Chester, IL, the birthplace of Popeye. There are statues, murals, museums, shops, put-your-head-in-a-body pictures, and even pizzas named after him (that taste good) - apparently, he's kind of a big deal around there. We actually got kinda creeped out, so we rolled down the hill out of town and over the Mississippi River into Missouri. That's right, we're now the baddest tourers WEST of the Mississippi. We were really shooting for an 87 mile day, but thought we could cut that even shorter by taking a "shortcut." That didn't pan out so well, when the road we wanted to take didn't exist. Going off route was quite a risk considering that when we asked for directions, the locals referred to roads not by name or number, but by the consistency of their surface (ie "take the blacktop road, not the gravel road"). But we made it with some daylight to spare and still got a good swim in the pool, updated the blog just for you, and hopefully will get a good night's sleep.
More about abounding eastbounders
Just a quick note on some of the other riders we've met going East. On the fifth, we ran into three solo riders. One guy, Brett, was a mountain biker from BC who was riding across the country to give his "old legs a rest." We asked how he was able to fit all his stuff in just one panier, and he replied (in heavy Canadian), "Oooh, Mama's up ahead. That's my panier!" Like the Californian dudes, he's got it all worked out. The next guy was an Aussie with full front and back paniers - a lot of stuff for such an oldie (at least 70) with skinny legs. And the last kid we met was a college kid named Dane who was using the ride to train for a race and test gear for EMS - it all broke. The next day, we met another elderly Aussie solo-ist, named Ken. Austin may have broken his hand with a firm, knuckle-cracking shake as he left. We also chatted with a good-looking couple from the orange nation of Holland. She had been so disliked by the dogs in Illinois that she actually wrecked and had big bandages on her legs.
7.08.2006
Day 18 - 78.93 Miles
Like a Phoenix, Jon's Bike Rises Again
Murphysboro, IL
Another big day for both mileage and events. After a relaxing morning and excellent lunch at Delaney's in Goreville, Jon had to sprint ahead to Carbondale before the bike shops closed because he had some play in his crank arms and needed his bottom bracket cartridge replaced (ie his pedals wobbled and only the bike store could fix it). Pheonix Cycles were really helpful, taking him in right before closing, but unfortunately he left his cell phone charging in their display window. He probably won't have it back for a few weeks, so don't get mad if he doesn't call you back - but leave your number if you leave a message on his voicemail, or just call Austin. Once we met up in Carbondale, we pushed on to Murphysboro Sate Park, where we spent another cool night on a lake with a bunch of bull frogs, crickets, and several heron, but still no showers or laundry!
Murphysboro, IL
Another big day for both mileage and events. After a relaxing morning and excellent lunch at Delaney's in Goreville, Jon had to sprint ahead to Carbondale before the bike shops closed because he had some play in his crank arms and needed his bottom bracket cartridge replaced (ie his pedals wobbled and only the bike store could fix it). Pheonix Cycles were really helpful, taking him in right before closing, but unfortunately he left his cell phone charging in their display window. He probably won't have it back for a few weeks, so don't get mad if he doesn't call you back - but leave your number if you leave a message on his voicemail, or just call Austin. Once we met up in Carbondale, we pushed on to Murphysboro Sate Park, where we spent another cool night on a lake with a bunch of bull frogs, crickets, and several heron, but still no showers or laundry!
Day 17 - 80.20 Miles
Kentucky Fried Thighs
Golconda, ILLINOIS!!!
We started our day with some magical tailwinds. These were the type of tail winds that make you stop thinking in tenths-of-a-mile, and start thinking in tens of miles; the type of tail winds that make you think Kentucky wants you out as much as you want out of Kentucky; the type of tail winds that make you think, "uh oh, if I fart, I'm gonna smell if for the next five minutes"; the type of tail winds that...ok, you get it. They carried us basically to the Ohio River, where we took a ferry across to Illinois. We spotted several deer - "get outta here, deer" - on the way to our awesome campground. It wasn't awesome because it had showers or laundry - it didn't - it was awesome because we were the only ones there and camped on a bluff overlooking the River. There was also ample firewood, so we didn't need each others bodies for warmth.
Golconda, ILLINOIS!!!
We started our day with some magical tailwinds. These were the type of tail winds that make you stop thinking in tenths-of-a-mile, and start thinking in tens of miles; the type of tail winds that make you think Kentucky wants you out as much as you want out of Kentucky; the type of tail winds that make you think, "uh oh, if I fart, I'm gonna smell if for the next five minutes"; the type of tail winds that...ok, you get it. They carried us basically to the Ohio River, where we took a ferry across to Illinois. We spotted several deer - "get outta here, deer" - on the way to our awesome campground. It wasn't awesome because it had showers or laundry - it didn't - it was awesome because we were the only ones there and camped on a bluff overlooking the River. There was also ample firewood, so we didn't need each others bodies for warmth.
7.06.2006
Day 16 - 77.43 Miles
Sebree, KY
Jon's birthday started with a rainy morning that was only made slightly better by the best hot breadsticks and nacho cheese dip we had ever had. Luckily the rain clouds lifted by the afternoon and we made great time with our miles. We were even able to stop for 2 hours to watch France advance to the World Cup finals by beating Portugal. (A very special thanks to the Utica Volunteer Fire Department for letting us use their facilities!). We spent the night at the First Baptist Church in Sebree who put us up in their great facilities.
Jon's birthday started with a rainy morning that was only made slightly better by the best hot breadsticks and nacho cheese dip we had ever had. Luckily the rain clouds lifted by the afternoon and we made great time with our miles. We were even able to stop for 2 hours to watch France advance to the World Cup finals by beating Portugal. (A very special thanks to the Utica Volunteer Fire Department for letting us use their facilities!). We spent the night at the First Baptist Church in Sebree who put us up in their great facilities.
Day 15 - 60.32 Miles
Rough River Dam State Park, KY
We rolled trough some of Amish Kentucky early in the morning and for the first time saw a famer working the fields without a John Deere. We got to the beautiful Rough River State Park early and were able to enjoy some of the attractions there: we played 9 holes of par-3 golf and took a swim in the lake at the public beach. We got back to camp and chatted with the first WB rider we've seen. He was riding on a recumbant from North Carolina up to Virginia, across on our trail, and then down the Natchez Trace Parkway back home. Part of the reason we were able to do so much today is because we actually had 25 hours to do it all. Central Time Zone, BABY!!!
We rolled trough some of Amish Kentucky early in the morning and for the first time saw a famer working the fields without a John Deere. We got to the beautiful Rough River State Park early and were able to enjoy some of the attractions there: we played 9 holes of par-3 golf and took a swim in the lake at the public beach. We got back to camp and chatted with the first WB rider we've seen. He was riding on a recumbant from North Carolina up to Virginia, across on our trail, and then down the Natchez Trace Parkway back home. Part of the reason we were able to do so much today is because we actually had 25 hours to do it all. Central Time Zone, BABY!!!
By The Numbers - Week 2
Countless - Above ground pools, firework explosions, "where ya headed/where ya'll from" questions.
888 - Total miles travelled.
888 - Approximate number of road-kill passed.
450 - Miles travelled week 2.
45.7 - Top speed in m.p.h. (Jon).
11 - Kids we beat up in the pool.
10 - Confederate flags spotted.
9 - McDonald's passed.
5.04 - Longest miles without pedalling (Austin).
4 - Wal-Marts passed.
3 - Turtles moved off the road.
2 - Maps finished.
1 - Flat tire (Jon)
0 - Deoderant applications (Austin).
888 - Total miles travelled.
888 - Approximate number of road-kill passed.
450 - Miles travelled week 2.
45.7 - Top speed in m.p.h. (Jon).
11 - Kids we beat up in the pool.
10 - Confederate flags spotted.
9 - McDonald's passed.
5.04 - Longest miles without pedalling (Austin).
4 - Wal-Marts passed.
3 - Turtles moved off the road.
2 - Maps finished.
1 - Flat tire (Jon)
0 - Deoderant applications (Austin).
Top "Five" Signs It's Hot in Kentucky
7. We're sweating right now in the air conditioned library.
6. The pavement "sweats" and pops under your tires.
5. The cows are huddled under a tree.
4. The cows are swimming.
3. The horses are lying on their sides.
2. Someone tells you, "Izza a hoht one!"
1. The road kill comes in original and "extra crispy."
6. The pavement "sweats" and pops under your tires.
5. The cows are huddled under a tree.
4. The cows are swimming.
3. The horses are lying on their sides.
2. Someone tells you, "Izza a hoht one!"
1. The road kill comes in original and "extra crispy."
Day 14 - 40.25 Miles
Hodgenville, KY
We started our day out of Springfield to find our road was closed because of bridge construction. While cars couldn't pass, we were able to walk our bikes through the surrounding fields to get by and then had a great couple miles of car-free riding. Later in the day, we saw a funeral procession of someone who must have been a trucker. We were climbing a small country road and saw eight fronts of 18-wheelers climbing slowly over a hill with all their lights on. The last one had a flat-bed with a coffin strapped to it. The body was followed by another 40 or so cars. Quite a sight. We also stopped to check out Lincoln's boyhood home - a recreated log cabin. wow. (it was on route). Just before finding our campsite behind a local high school, we stopped at a fudge shop to pick up some great sugary treats (www.sweetshoppefudge.com) and learned about the region - everything from farming to how the Amish settled the area. We'd love to fully and accurately describe the confederate hankerchief using, wife in jail having, midget girl wrestling fan of a groundskeeper at the high school, but his intricacies defy description.
We started our day out of Springfield to find our road was closed because of bridge construction. While cars couldn't pass, we were able to walk our bikes through the surrounding fields to get by and then had a great couple miles of car-free riding. Later in the day, we saw a funeral procession of someone who must have been a trucker. We were climbing a small country road and saw eight fronts of 18-wheelers climbing slowly over a hill with all their lights on. The last one had a flat-bed with a coffin strapped to it. The body was followed by another 40 or so cars. Quite a sight. We also stopped to check out Lincoln's boyhood home - a recreated log cabin. wow. (it was on route). Just before finding our campsite behind a local high school, we stopped at a fudge shop to pick up some great sugary treats (www.sweetshoppefudge.com) and learned about the region - everything from farming to how the Amish settled the area. We'd love to fully and accurately describe the confederate hankerchief using, wife in jail having, midget girl wrestling fan of a groundskeeper at the high school, but his intricacies defy description.
7.03.2006
Day 13 - 76.34 Miles
Springfield, KY.
We left Berea on some very flat roads, but our excitement that we had reached "the flatlands" came a little too soon, as our day turned into a grueling 75 mile up and down scorcher on the "hottest day of the year" as the quickee-mart lady promised us it would be. We arrived at our campsite which turned out to be a public park that was hosting a multi-county, holiday weekend, little-league tournament. While our tent might have caught a fly ball, and it was a great snap-shot of America, we were content to move down the road to the Day's Inn, which happened to have a pool (this doesn't count as our week three indulgence!). Unfortunately, the pool was the 9-10 year old Bardstown baseball team's territory - they spit at us, squirted us with squirt guns, cannonballed on our heads, and generally caused us to not be able to stretch and relax. Austin claims he will retire from the classroom after that experience.
We left Berea on some very flat roads, but our excitement that we had reached "the flatlands" came a little too soon, as our day turned into a grueling 75 mile up and down scorcher on the "hottest day of the year" as the quickee-mart lady promised us it would be. We arrived at our campsite which turned out to be a public park that was hosting a multi-county, holiday weekend, little-league tournament. While our tent might have caught a fly ball, and it was a great snap-shot of America, we were content to move down the road to the Day's Inn, which happened to have a pool (this doesn't count as our week three indulgence!). Unfortunately, the pool was the 9-10 year old Bardstown baseball team's territory - they spit at us, squirted us with squirt guns, cannonballed on our heads, and generally caused us to not be able to stretch and relax. Austin claims he will retire from the classroom after that experience.
Ride America Scandal
Fan Favorite Hatoun Joins the Club
The professional cycling community's reputation took another hit today when Jon Hatoun (Wellesley, MA) joined other top cyclists such as Ulrich and Bossa who have recently tested positive for performance enhancing drugs--i.e. blood doping. Hatoun mysteriously decided not to compete in this year's Tour de France, but instead to train in America with friend Austin Lehn. Lehn was asked to comment: "Honestly, I'm not surprised. I tell you, he can go forever; it doesn't really matter how hard I push, I just can't keep up. I've definitely thought the stuff would help me get to the West Coast and even considered taking it, but luckily for me and my family there's none to be found in Kentucky. Oh yeah, and he stole a t-shirt from Cracker Barrell." As the sport tries to clean itself up, Ulrich, Bossa, and Hatoun will surely go down in history with the likes of McGuire, Sosa, and Bonds for the embarrassment they have brought to their respective sports.
The professional cycling community's reputation took another hit today when Jon Hatoun (Wellesley, MA) joined other top cyclists such as Ulrich and Bossa who have recently tested positive for performance enhancing drugs--i.e. blood doping. Hatoun mysteriously decided not to compete in this year's Tour de France, but instead to train in America with friend Austin Lehn. Lehn was asked to comment: "Honestly, I'm not surprised. I tell you, he can go forever; it doesn't really matter how hard I push, I just can't keep up. I've definitely thought the stuff would help me get to the West Coast and even considered taking it, but luckily for me and my family there's none to be found in Kentucky. Oh yeah, and he stole a t-shirt from Cracker Barrell." As the sport tries to clean itself up, Ulrich, Bossa, and Hatoun will surely go down in history with the likes of McGuire, Sosa, and Bonds for the embarrassment they have brought to their respective sports.
7.01.2006
Eastbounders Abound
We went the entire first week without seeing another bike tourer, but since then we've run into several eastbound riders (we've yet to see another WB rider, but we're pretty sure we've passed a couple!). The first guy we saw was a Brit named Lee who was going solo. Then we saw another solo rider followed by three retired Californian dudes whose wives would drive their camper ahead each day and have food and camp ready for them when they arrived so they didn't have to carry anything! We also passed a couple and a group of four that we didn't stop to talk to, but we did chat a bunch with Tim and Kyle. Tim was finishing the cross country ride that he had started years ago with his son. Although his son has passed away since then, he has continued to do the trail a little bit at a time. Tim will finally be finishing the route soon, and he's doing it with his nephew Kyle, who just graduated from high school and who will be riding the same bike Tim's son started on. It's a really great story, they're really great guys, and we wish them the best of luck in making their miles and finding a good cold beer!
Day 12 - 58.74 Miles
Berea, KY
We woke up early with our hearts set on finishing our second map by 3:00pm so that we could watch France beat Brazil. The ride started with some hills, but really flattened out towards the end of the day - hopefully a sign of things to come. We made it to Berea just before the match and checked into the Boone Tavern for our second weekley indulgence - beds, TV, and internet, but unfortunately no pool this time. We just got back from an all you can eat Chinese Buffet, where we had a LOT of Chinese food. We need to go sleep it off.
We woke up early with our hearts set on finishing our second map by 3:00pm so that we could watch France beat Brazil. The ride started with some hills, but really flattened out towards the end of the day - hopefully a sign of things to come. We made it to Berea just before the match and checked into the Boone Tavern for our second weekley indulgence - beds, TV, and internet, but unfortunately no pool this time. We just got back from an all you can eat Chinese Buffet, where we had a LOT of Chinese food. We need to go sleep it off.
Toad's Turnpike
Austin timed things just right this morning and got off to a powerful start. Jon hung back to pick up some good treats and caught back up in a flash of lightning. Unfortunately, Austin slipped on a banana peel and Jon's front tire was taken out by an errant green turtle shell. The pair was further slowed down avoiding moles that were popping out of their holes and chocolatey colored falling rocks. Austin pulled off several key power slides while Jon took a mushroom boost over the grass to vault into first place. They're looking forward to Kooopa Troopa Beach, especially if there's really a shortcut through the Rockies.
Day 11 - 65.77 Miles
Booneville, KY
We got a real taste of Kentucky with a 4th of July Jamboree on the 30th of June. Though we got to the home town of Daniel Boone a little after the party had started, we had plenty of time to soak up the Kentuckian good times: live bands playing Southern Rock, BBQ, kids wearing "Warning I'm Not Listening" t-shirts throwing fireworks at each other, and lots and lots of gnats. After grabbing some dinner we retreated to our campsite behind a church and had a great time watching the fireworks explode overhead.
We got a real taste of Kentucky with a 4th of July Jamboree on the 30th of June. Though we got to the home town of Daniel Boone a little after the party had started, we had plenty of time to soak up the Kentuckian good times: live bands playing Southern Rock, BBQ, kids wearing "Warning I'm Not Listening" t-shirts throwing fireworks at each other, and lots and lots of gnats. After grabbing some dinner we retreated to our campsite behind a church and had a great time watching the fireworks explode overhead.
Faster Than a Bike
Now that we've entered our second state, we can report the most popular vehicles in Virginia:
10) Toyota Prius (hey, it's 2006)
9) Chevy Camaro
8) 18 Wheeler
7) Gray Pickup Truck
6) Red 70's Sports Car
5) ATV
4) Red Pickup Truck
3) Motorcycle
2) White Pickup Truck
1) Black Pickup Truck
10) Toyota Prius (hey, it's 2006)
9) Chevy Camaro
8) 18 Wheeler
7) Gray Pickup Truck
6) Red 70's Sports Car
5) ATV
4) Red Pickup Truck
3) Motorcycle
2) White Pickup Truck
1) Black Pickup Truck
Day 10 - 71.98 miles
Hindman, KENTUCKY
Although we camped in an interstate park last night, we technically entered Kentucky about two miles into our ride this morning. We were welcomed by rampant, rabid, barking dogs and countless, crumbling mobile homes. Other than that, the scenery was great! After making good time, we spent the night at the Hindman Historical Society, which is an ancestral home run by a man named David and his polydactyl cats. He was very hospitable: he gave us sweet tea, did laundry, provided towels for showers, and he even gave Austin a newly donated camping cot to test out. It lasted ten minutes before the big guy split the seams like a banana.
Although we camped in an interstate park last night, we technically entered Kentucky about two miles into our ride this morning. We were welcomed by rampant, rabid, barking dogs and countless, crumbling mobile homes. Other than that, the scenery was great! After making good time, we spent the night at the Hindman Historical Society, which is an ancestral home run by a man named David and his polydactyl cats. He was very hospitable: he gave us sweet tea, did laundry, provided towels for showers, and he even gave Austin a newly donated camping cot to test out. It lasted ten minutes before the big guy split the seams like a banana.
Day 10 - 71.82 miles
The Breaks Interstate Park, VA/KY
Not a very exciting day. Lots of up and down, but some nice riding along a river as well. We had some steep climbs to get up to our campsite, but one might argue that it was worth the effort, as we camped deep in the words with great overlooks nearby.
Not a very exciting day. Lots of up and down, but some nice riding along a river as well. We had some steep climbs to get up to our campsite, but one might argue that it was worth the effort, as we camped deep in the words with great overlooks nearby.
