Saturday, December 31, 2011
Dec. 31, 2011 Cross Country Ride
This is my last blog, promise. This is the first time I have done anything like this, cross country ride and blogging, both have been fun. The biggest remark I get from people, other than about the ride itself, is you did this by yourself, no one rode with you or no sag (support and gear) wagon coming up from behind. I did try to get someone to go with me. I had contacted a few other riders on the internet about their plans, but we either did not have the same dates or routes in mind. Andy, a local friend was going to go, but he got a nasty gash on his arm two weeks before the start that knocked him out of contention.
Other than six nights of staying at friends houses, I stayed at motels along the way. Most of these older motels were on the main routes before the interstates were built, they were cheap, but all had wifi and cable tv. Some of them were not pretty and I spent around $45.00 on average per night for the trip.
The money we raised for The American Cancer Society stands at $9585.77.
What's next? I plan on doing a lot of local riding with an occasional multiple day or week ride thrown in. I've been asked to give a talk to the local Rotary Club, I'm not a public speaker, but it sounds like fun. Apparently, this ride is of interest to some people. In the fund raising letter that Kay and I sent out, I stated that this ride inspires the imagination. Well, this ride certaintly has inspired me and the memories will be with me for the rest of my life. How about a 20th anniversary ride when I reach 82! Now that inspires my imagination. Thanks and God Bless. Bob and Kay
Other than six nights of staying at friends houses, I stayed at motels along the way. Most of these older motels were on the main routes before the interstates were built, they were cheap, but all had wifi and cable tv. Some of them were not pretty and I spent around $45.00 on average per night for the trip.
The money we raised for The American Cancer Society stands at $9585.77.
What's next? I plan on doing a lot of local riding with an occasional multiple day or week ride thrown in. I've been asked to give a talk to the local Rotary Club, I'm not a public speaker, but it sounds like fun. Apparently, this ride is of interest to some people. In the fund raising letter that Kay and I sent out, I stated that this ride inspires the imagination. Well, this ride certaintly has inspired me and the memories will be with me for the rest of my life. How about a 20th anniversary ride when I reach 82! Now that inspires my imagination. Thanks and God Bless. Bob and Kay
Wednesday, November 23, 2011
Thank You, Thank You, Thank You!
$9280.77 is the total raised so far for the American Cancer Society, simply amazing! I am still accepting donations and will foreword them to the ACS if there's someone who has not made a donation and still wishes too. $10,000 sounds like a sweet number to me.
Alright, time for True Confessions. My second day on the ride was to the small town of Jacumba, Ca. As I came into town on a downhill run from a tiring ride, I met up again with Tim and Faye from Kansas at a small convenience store. They told me they had made arrangements to sleep in the Methodist Church in their sleeping bags. An interesting older local man advised them it would be safer than the old park where they had planned to camp, since it was so close to the Mexican border. When I asked the old man about the only motel in town, he told me that it was closed for an extended remodeling.
Now what? I got out my Iphone and found out that there was a resort a couple of miles out of town on a dirt road. It sounded pretty good and reasonably priced when I called, except for one thing. The receptionist answered the phone as "DeAnza Springs Resort and Nudist Camp". She assured me that clothing was optional. Since I'm Lutheran, did not have a sleeping bag, and this was the only place in town, I made a reservation. I did not put it in my blog at the time, better to explain to Kay in person first, she will understand? My stay was uneventful. DeAnza was pretty deserted, but gets busy in the winter when its not so hot.
The other thing I did not mention in my blog, I thought my ride was over in Deming, Nm. I did say that I had a sore calf muscle, but I thought it could be a blood clot and so did the doctor I saw at the hospital. I rode about 30 miles into Deming, basically one leg and went straight to the hospital. The pain was not in the whole calf muscle but seemed to be localized. After a sonagram and other tests the doctor said I may have a small tear or at least a bad strain. If it was a tear the ride was over. He advised 4-5 days of rest for a strain. I told Kay on the phone that I was at a restaurant so she would not worry.
That night I talked to my son, Blake. He had the same symptons himself before and a doctor told him to take more salt, after all it was hot and this is a dry climate with lots of sweating. I had so much salt that night that my face and hands were swollen the next morning. I also ate a couple of bananas, since I had not had one for two days, not all small towns out there sell them. I took an unplanned day off the next day. Tim and Faye caught up to me that night and we planned on biking together the following day if I was able. My problem must have been a severe cramp, I was still sore but much improved two days later, and I made sure to get more salt and I would buy two bananas at a time after that so I would have one as a spare. We biked together for half a day until our routes diverged, they went south to El Paso and I went north to Alamogordo. Tim and Faye have since finished their cross country and are now at home in Pratt, Ks.
A few words about my bike, I rode a Trek 7.6 FX, what a great machine. I've had no mechanical problems since I bought it, it's light (when not loaded down with baggage) and a joy to ride. I also cannot say enough about the Bontrager Hardcase tires. They are Kevlar (bullet proof) lined and held up to some pretty nasty road debris. The flats I did have were caused by the tiny steel belted wires from tire pieces that seemed to work there way through the Kevlar fibers, but the tires held up against glass, screws, and other sharp objects that I ran over. I may do one more blog on Dec. 31, to give an update on donations received.
The whole experience of riding across this great country has been a truly unique experience for me and cannot be summed up in one word, but I will try. AWESOME! Like I said in the letter that I sent out to many people before the ride, it inspires the imagination, and it has mine.
Alright, time for True Confessions. My second day on the ride was to the small town of Jacumba, Ca. As I came into town on a downhill run from a tiring ride, I met up again with Tim and Faye from Kansas at a small convenience store. They told me they had made arrangements to sleep in the Methodist Church in their sleeping bags. An interesting older local man advised them it would be safer than the old park where they had planned to camp, since it was so close to the Mexican border. When I asked the old man about the only motel in town, he told me that it was closed for an extended remodeling.
Now what? I got out my Iphone and found out that there was a resort a couple of miles out of town on a dirt road. It sounded pretty good and reasonably priced when I called, except for one thing. The receptionist answered the phone as "DeAnza Springs Resort and Nudist Camp". She assured me that clothing was optional. Since I'm Lutheran, did not have a sleeping bag, and this was the only place in town, I made a reservation. I did not put it in my blog at the time, better to explain to Kay in person first, she will understand? My stay was uneventful. DeAnza was pretty deserted, but gets busy in the winter when its not so hot.
The other thing I did not mention in my blog, I thought my ride was over in Deming, Nm. I did say that I had a sore calf muscle, but I thought it could be a blood clot and so did the doctor I saw at the hospital. I rode about 30 miles into Deming, basically one leg and went straight to the hospital. The pain was not in the whole calf muscle but seemed to be localized. After a sonagram and other tests the doctor said I may have a small tear or at least a bad strain. If it was a tear the ride was over. He advised 4-5 days of rest for a strain. I told Kay on the phone that I was at a restaurant so she would not worry.
That night I talked to my son, Blake. He had the same symptons himself before and a doctor told him to take more salt, after all it was hot and this is a dry climate with lots of sweating. I had so much salt that night that my face and hands were swollen the next morning. I also ate a couple of bananas, since I had not had one for two days, not all small towns out there sell them. I took an unplanned day off the next day. Tim and Faye caught up to me that night and we planned on biking together the following day if I was able. My problem must have been a severe cramp, I was still sore but much improved two days later, and I made sure to get more salt and I would buy two bananas at a time after that so I would have one as a spare. We biked together for half a day until our routes diverged, they went south to El Paso and I went north to Alamogordo. Tim and Faye have since finished their cross country and are now at home in Pratt, Ks.
A few words about my bike, I rode a Trek 7.6 FX, what a great machine. I've had no mechanical problems since I bought it, it's light (when not loaded down with baggage) and a joy to ride. I also cannot say enough about the Bontrager Hardcase tires. They are Kevlar (bullet proof) lined and held up to some pretty nasty road debris. The flats I did have were caused by the tiny steel belted wires from tire pieces that seemed to work there way through the Kevlar fibers, but the tires held up against glass, screws, and other sharp objects that I ran over. I may do one more blog on Dec. 31, to give an update on donations received.
The whole experience of riding across this great country has been a truly unique experience for me and cannot be summed up in one word, but I will try. AWESOME! Like I said in the letter that I sent out to many people before the ride, it inspires the imagination, and it has mine.
Wednesday, November 2, 2011
Nov 2, 2011
I forgot to mention my last day day of riding. I left early as usual, it had been raining but it stopped for the first hour of riding. When it started raining again, it was just light rain and it actually felt refreshing since I was already hot from pedaling. That feeling soon disappeared when it started raining hard. This was my first and only day of riding in the rain, thank goodness. It was dark and raining with traffic, not a good combination. It rained most of the morning and when I got my eleventh flat near downtown Jacksonville, I changed it in the rain in a bad neighborhood very quickly. I had already changed a flat in the dark. Now I still have to change one in the dark while it's raining and I'll have all the boxes checked off.
When Kay and I drove out west a few years ago in the spring we would see bike riders out in the middle of nowhere and I would wonder what in the world are they doing out here. Now I know what they are doing and I am that rider. During my research for this ride, I read an article entitled "You don't have to be Lance Armstrong to bike across the USA". The article was right, but you better be prepared physically and mentally, it is a long hard ride. I hope Kay removes all those books from our bookshelf about sailing around the world. If you want to try this ride someday, I'm proof that it can be done, just follow the solid white line.
I will make one last blog on Nov. 23 to give everyone an update on the fund raising total which is now over $7500.00. We are still accepting donations, thanks again for all the support! Bob
" Life is a daring adventure or nothing ar all". Helen Keller
When Kay and I drove out west a few years ago in the spring we would see bike riders out in the middle of nowhere and I would wonder what in the world are they doing out here. Now I know what they are doing and I am that rider. During my research for this ride, I read an article entitled "You don't have to be Lance Armstrong to bike across the USA". The article was right, but you better be prepared physically and mentally, it is a long hard ride. I hope Kay removes all those books from our bookshelf about sailing around the world. If you want to try this ride someday, I'm proof that it can be done, just follow the solid white line.
I will make one last blog on Nov. 23 to give everyone an update on the fund raising total which is now over $7500.00. We are still accepting donations, thanks again for all the support! Bob
" Life is a daring adventure or nothing ar all". Helen Keller
Tuesday, November 1, 2011
Nov 1, 2011
I'll have to finish my closing thoughts tomorrow, this homecoming business is more tiring than the riding. Kay picked me up at the airport this morning. When we got to Oglesby she had arranged a police car and fire truck escort thru town with sirens blaring and lights flashing. In true Kay fashion, well wishers were at the house to welcome me home and people were coming and going all afternoon. Thank you everyone! I'm too tired to write anything else tonight. Good night.
Monday, October 31, 2011
Day 41 Macclenny Fl to Jacksonville Beach 51.3 miles 5.5 hr rain
I did it! I crossed the USA on a bicycle. It took 41 days, that's less than 6 weeks. I did the work, but still find it amazing. The total miles for the trip is 2670.9. The average was over 72 miles per biking day, of which there were 37. I had four rest days. I had only biked up to 70 miles 4 times before in my life, but I had never gone more than what my average was for this trip. I did bike many shorter trip this summer, over 2700 miles usually at a fast pace. I guess I'm in pretty good shape. I repeated a prayer many times for the strength and stamina to complete this ride and the wisdom to know when to stop. When my front tire hit the salty water I knew that time had come.
I want to thank everyone for their support in this trip and especially for the donations to the American Cancer Society. I know some were waiting for the end of the ride or donating by the mile. You can still send Kay and I those pledges made out to the American Cancer Society. I will make a few more blogs, so don't go away yet. God Bless. Bob and Kay
I want to thank everyone for their support in this trip and especially for the donations to the American Cancer Society. I know some were waiting for the end of the ride or donating by the mile. You can still send Kay and I those pledges made out to the American Cancer Society. I will make a few more blogs, so don't go away yet. God Bless. Bob and Kay
Sunday, October 30, 2011
Day 40 Madison Fl to Macclenny Fl 86.8 mi 9 hr 77 deg
My front tire was a little low again for the second day, another steel belt wire was in the tire. I think this was number ten flat. I decided not to count the flats, somehow thinking this would lessen the number, wrong again. The temp was 40 to start with and it did not warn up above 50 for two hours. I started in the dark again knowing that the winds were not projected to be strong until later in the day. I finished the first 50 miles in the same time as the last 35. I'm glad I started early, I was slugging it out all afternoon with the wind, sometimes showing less than 10mph on the speedometer on level ground. The last two heavy days of mid 80's have paid off, I'm only about 50 miles from the beach, that's what get-home-itis will do for you. Tomorrow will be a mad dash of city riding which takes longer because of all the stop and go. See you on the beach!
Saturday, October 29, 2011
Day 39 Quincy Fl to Madison Fl 88.1 mi 9.5 hr 72 deg
When I left it was still dark. I wanted to beat the crowd for the Florida State home football game in Tallahassee. I was making good progress until I got a flat in my rear tire, which I fixed by a guard rail. The second picture for today shows a locking nut for a presta tube which holds the tube to the wheel and a valve cover. This was left by someone before me when they changed their flat. Well, I got caught in traffic, so I did a little partying with some FSU fans in the preceding picture. If you can't beat em you might as well join em. I could not stay for the game, had to go. Tomorrow will be a long 80 plus mile day again with a strong headwind. I forgot to mention yesterday, that I'm in my last time zone.
Friday, October 28, 2011
Day 38 Bonifay Fl to Quincy Fl 75.1 mi 6.5 hr
The restaurant by the motel was not open so I biked to Chipley about 10 miles and had breakfast at Billy's, a small local cafe with a very friendly owner. A pall of smoke hung in the air for many miles, this forested area is really dry and is under an advisory for potential forest fires. I was slightly worried, but the smoke eventually dissipated.
Sometimes when your on the road you start thinking way too much. Today was one of those days. I know I'm getting close and I started thinking about how and why I got here. I thought about my cousin John and brother Jan who both died of cancer and all the cancer survivors I know. I couldn't help it, but I started to cry, big crocodile tears. Pedal and cry, I was in a real funk for about half an hour. I finally snapped out of it when reality sunk in, knowing I still have a lot off hard work before me before I hit the beach. Thank goodness. At a Cottondale gas station stop an architect from Tallahassee approached me. He was a biker who had biked from Boston to Texas twice, apparently he did't get it right the first time, a mistake I will not make. A real nice guy, I was glad he came up to me, we had a nice conversation.
Sometimes when your on the road you start thinking way too much. Today was one of those days. I know I'm getting close and I started thinking about how and why I got here. I thought about my cousin John and brother Jan who both died of cancer and all the cancer survivors I know. I couldn't help it, but I started to cry, big crocodile tears. Pedal and cry, I was in a real funk for about half an hour. I finally snapped out of it when reality sunk in, knowing I still have a lot off hard work before me before I hit the beach. Thank goodness. At a Cottondale gas station stop an architect from Tallahassee approached me. He was a biker who had biked from Boston to Texas twice, apparently he did't get it right the first time, a mistake I will not make. A real nice guy, I was glad he came up to me, we had a nice conversation.
Thursday, October 27, 2011
Day 37 Pace Fl to Bonifay Fl 102.1 mi 8.5 hr 90 deg
What a monster day I had today. It must have been the oysters on the half shell from yesterday. I felt good today, but I was looking for maybe 70 miles. When I got to DeFuniak Springs before 2:00p and already had over 70 miles I looked at the map to see what town I could possibly reach and it was Bonifay which would put me over 100. The temp. which had been 90 had fallen to 78 as the clouds rolled in and I checked the winds and they were forecast to be a light cross wind, so I decided to go for it. I didn't think I would get a century under my belt with so few days remaining. I'm looking at possible being on Jacksonville Beach on Monday baring mechanical, weather, or injury problems. That would be over a week before I thought I would finish. Four more biking days to go!
Wednesday, October 26, 2011
Day 36 Rest Day in Pace Fl
What a nice day! We saw the Blue Angels practice for over an hour at Pensacola NAS, great show. Then Jim gave me a tour of town with appetizers at Peg Leg Pete's, the main course at McGuire's, and desert at Mug's and Jug's. Sorry Liz, we went by the Wine Bar, but we had no room. The day was topped off with a great meal by Barb, with Dennis and Pam Jenka attending, and Pam making a delicious dessert!
Tuesday, October 25, 2011
Day 35 Mobile Al to Pace Fl 75.1 mi 8.5 hr
It took me about 30 minutes to reach downtown Mobile with lights on in the dark, more traffic than I thought there would be at 6:30a. I missed a turn and had to use my iPhone for directions and forgot that one foot was locked into my pedal and fell down into a curb as I stopped, the first mishap for the trip. Decisions, decisions. The tunnel from downtown to Battleship Pkwy did not look very big with a very small walkway going down to the tunnel opening. I walked my bike down, but at the tunnel opening the walkway ended. As I was trying to figure out how to turn around and get out of here, I didn't see any cars and I knew the alternate bridge was a long way out of my way, so I decided to go for it. I peddled as fast as I could for 3/4 of a mile, only two cars came up from behind. I took the preceding photo of the Bankhead Tunnel after exiting. If you can read the small white sign it says no pedestrians or bicycles allowed. Either that sign was missing on the other side or I missed it, oh well. The battleship was very neat along with a B52 and numerous other planes, etc. on display. The ride along the bay was refreshingly different from any of my days thus far. I'm staying with Jim and Barb Grey for a days rest in Pace in their very lovely home on a golf course.
Monday, October 24, 2011
Day 34 Hattiesburg Ms to Mobile Al 91.1 mi 7.5 hr 84 deg
I left Hattiesburg early, I knew it would be a long haul to Mobile. The air was very heavy this morning, which for some reason made the pedals seem like lead weights for the first half hour. By noon I had 55 miles under my belt, a good thing, since the wind shifted out of my favor in the afternoon. I had to pump up my rear tire too much this morning, that means a slow leak. When I arrived in Mobile, I pulled a couple of those darn steel belted wires out of the inside of the my tire and put in a new tube. I'm getting way too good at fixing flats. Alabama is only about 60 miles wide down here, so I'll be in Fl. tomorrow. I hope to get a photo of the battleship Alabama tomorrow in downtown Mobile.
According to my calculations, I've come 2192.4 miles with about 450 to go. An early start in the morning will help me beat some of the traffic to downtown Mobile.
According to my calculations, I've come 2192.4 miles with about 450 to go. An early start in the morning will help me beat some of the traffic to downtown Mobile.
Sunday, October 23, 2011
Day 33 McComb Ms to to Hattiesburg Ms 87 miles 8.5 hr 75 deg
Hint, In case you cannot see the letter on the gate it's a F. Today's ride consisted of long rolling hills, not too high, but a lot of them. Wherever I go I'm ask where I'm going to or coming from, maybe it's the outfit. People are simply amazed when I tell them.
I must have gotten a little carried away with myself, I ended on the south side of Hattiesburg with no motels in sight. A gas station clerk did not know of any motels on Route 98 to the southeast. I had to bike about 4 miles back into the main part of town for a room. The total miles for today reflects this detour, since I do not know for sure the miles involved, but peddled the total and since I'm making up the rules the 87 miles stands. Answer for picture: Brett Favre.
I must have gotten a little carried away with myself, I ended on the south side of Hattiesburg with no motels in sight. A gas station clerk did not know of any motels on Route 98 to the southeast. I had to bike about 4 miles back into the main part of town for a room. The total miles for today reflects this detour, since I do not know for sure the miles involved, but peddled the total and since I'm making up the rules the 87 miles stands. Answer for picture: Brett Favre.
Saturday, October 22, 2011
Day 32 Natchez Ms to McComb Ms 74.3 mi 8 hr
Rode thru Homochitto National Forest and other forested areas. Good thing it was Saturday, no logging trucks were on the road today. The roads in Ms. do not have the shoulders like all the states since California, most of the roads have had paved shoulders. I had to get use to riding on two lane roads again with no shoulders, like Illinois.
I met a couple from Maine at lunch on motorcycles going to Florida thru the Midwest. They leave the bikes in Florida at friends and take a flight to the US Virgin Islands where they live on a sailboat for seven months, nice. I may call them when we go sailing in December.
I met a couple from Maine at lunch on motorcycles going to Florida thru the Midwest. They leave the bikes in Florida at friends and take a flight to the US Virgin Islands where they live on a sailboat for seven months, nice. I may call them when we go sailing in December.
Friday, October 21, 2011
Day 31 Pineville La to Natchez Ms 73 mi 7.5 hr
I only spent two nights in La., I must be getting good. Had an "easy" day of only 70 miles after four straight days of 80 plus. The temp was in the mid 30's again to start the day and ended up at 82. The Jonesville sign in today's blog reminded me of home. I stopped in Jonesville for lunch at Jackie's Riverside restaurant after a local who was crossing the street gave it a good recommendation. I had a shrimp Po-boy, Geno, you were right they are very good. After I had eaten lunch, the man who gave me the recommendation came out of the kitchen with an apron on and a big smile on his face, he works here.
I will not miss all the Bobbie Jindal for governor signs that seem to be everywhere in La. I am staying in storied Natchez, the ending of the Natchez Trace Trail and the river port for the big paddle boats that plied the mighty Mississippi.
I will not miss all the Bobbie Jindal for governor signs that seem to be everywhere in La. I am staying in storied Natchez, the ending of the Natchez Trace Trail and the river port for the big paddle boats that plied the mighty Mississippi.
Thursday, October 20, 2011
Day 30 Coushatta La to Pineville La 83.5 mi 8 hr. 71 deg
Two big surprises this morning, the temperature was 33 deg and my rear tire was flat when I checked it. I fixed the flat and bundled up. The scenery has changed, lots of pine trees and logging trucks going to the mills. Gone are the natural gas fields of Shreveport/Bossier. Twice I saw A10 Warthogs flying low overhead in formation, a man in Pineville said they come out of Barksdale Air Force Base near Shreveport. Pineville is a north east suburb of Alexandria. I had some wonderful Gumbo for lunch at a roadside cafe about half way here. Natchez Ms is next.
Wednesday, October 19, 2011
Day 29 Marshall Tx to Coushatta La 84.1 mi 8 hr 75 deg
I stopped at the La. border to take a picture with my iPhone, and I had a message on the phone from my son, Blake, Happy Birthday. I had forgotten all about it until I saw the message, just another day on the road. And they said a 61 year, I mean 62 year old should not attempt this.
Texas was long, over 700 miles out of a total of 1700. I did not see one armadillo in Tx, but I saw one today in La. I also saw a large dead feral pig along side the road today, even dead it looked mean. Louisiana has a lot of natural gas wells, I mean a lot, a surprise to me. My ride was wind aided for a while. About time. I crossed the Red River by walking my bike one half of a mile across the bridge because of the crosswind. The wind was gusting to 40 mph and the bridge railing was only three feet tall and it felt as if the wind could push me right over the edge. I did get a birthday present today, a flat tire, my first since New Mexico. Thanks for all the birthday greetings.
Texas was long, over 700 miles out of a total of 1700. I did not see one armadillo in Tx, but I saw one today in La. I also saw a large dead feral pig along side the road today, even dead it looked mean. Louisiana has a lot of natural gas wells, I mean a lot, a surprise to me. My ride was wind aided for a while. About time. I crossed the Red River by walking my bike one half of a mile across the bridge because of the crosswind. The wind was gusting to 40 mph and the bridge railing was only three feet tall and it felt as if the wind could push me right over the edge. I did get a birthday present today, a flat tire, my first since New Mexico. Thanks for all the birthday greetings.
Tuesday, October 18, 2011
Day 28 Grand Saline to Marshall Tx 85.3 mi 8.5 hr / high 70 deg
Kind of a boring ride, up and down over and over. Top speed down, lowest gear up. Some very nice homes on route 80, many set back from the road with gated entrances. No pictures worth taking again. One big surprise upon entering Marshall Tx, traffic was light and I was in the right side of the right lane of a four lane highway. All of a sudden, I heard a loud speaker say "get on the sidewalk". What, is this a joke? No it was one of Marshall's finest. As he drove by I put my arm out, palm out and shrugged. First of all, I am perfectly legal being on the road, and secondly when Marshall puts in sidewalks in this non-sidewalk area I might give it a thought at my option. Was this guy a rookie or was he trying to pull my chain. I continued to ride thru town on the road with no further hinderance. Cool all day, first about 50 deg. then a high of 70 deg. Tomorrow I'll be in La.
Monday, October 17, 2011
Day 27 Carrollton Tx to Grand Saline Tx 87.4 mi 9 hr
Some of my plans worked out. I beat the traffic in the morning by leaving at 5:30a, which necessitated riding in the dark for close to two hours. I was planning on staying in Wills Point, but they did not have a motel. I went another 17 miles to Grand Saline which has a very nice Salt City Inn, I called ahead this time. I've been staying in relatively larger towns hoping for motels, but it did not pay off today. Some times the smaller motels are not even listed on the internet, but my luck ran out today. That's ok, I'm closer to JAX. This part of Texas has a lot more and larger trees more reminiscent of Illinois than the almost desert like western part of the state.
Sunday, October 16, 2011
Day 26 Rest day in Carrollton
1526.7 miles down, about 1000 to go. I was going to weigh my bike before I left, but forgot too. My bike weighs 27 pounds with a few attachments, and 72 pounds fully loaded with my gear and water. That's 45 pounds I've been hauling over hill and dale. I knew it was heavy, but I did not think it would be that high, oh well. Starting out early tomorrow, trying to beat the suburban traffic.
My thanks to Bruce and Phyllis for being gracious hosts the last two days, great food too.
My thanks to Bruce and Phyllis for being gracious hosts the last two days, great food too.
Saturday, October 15, 2011
Day 25 Decatur Tx to Carrollton Tx 59.4 mi 5.5 hr
Left Decatur early and arrived in Carrollton before 1:00p. Bruce and Phyllis had already picked up Kay and she was waiting when I pulled up. After a couple of beers, Phyllis prepared a delicious meal. Typical suburban riding, lots of traffic with curbs and not much in the way of shoulders. I may leave early Monday to beat some of the traffic.
After lunch, we took my bike to a huge bike shop in Richardson for some adjustments to my shifters. No charge for the service after the service manager asked about my trip. Unbelievable the generosity of people. Tomorrow is a day of rest.
After lunch, we took my bike to a huge bike shop in Richardson for some adjustments to my shifters. No charge for the service after the service manager asked about my trip. Unbelievable the generosity of people. Tomorrow is a day of rest.
Friday, October 14, 2011
Day 24 Graham Tx to Decatur Tx 69.1 mi 7 hr 93 deg
I left Graham at 8:30a, thinking it would be a somewhat easy day. I left too late, more hills than I thought, more wind than forecast. Going up one of the last hills I saw Buzzard Billies Bail Bondsman on a sign, I thought about taking a picture but that would mean starting again going up a hill. Not today.
A local at Jonesboro suggested Herd's for lunch, he said they make the best burgers, sounds good to me. They were good and were in business 22 years before the Igloo in Peru. I ate lunch with two Harley guys from Fort Worth, they ride up every month just for the burgers, 100 miles one way. I've been in three county seats since coming into Tx. They all had courthouses in the middle of town with a large inner circle road with ample parking, then the main street on the outside of that, very neat.
A local at Jonesboro suggested Herd's for lunch, he said they make the best burgers, sounds good to me. They were good and were in business 22 years before the Igloo in Peru. I ate lunch with two Harley guys from Fort Worth, they ride up every month just for the burgers, 100 miles one way. I've been in three county seats since coming into Tx. They all had courthouses in the middle of town with a large inner circle road with ample parking, then the main street on the outside of that, very neat.
Thursday, October 13, 2011
Day 23 Snyder Tx to Graham Tx 75.3 mi 6 hr 82 deg
I stopped and talked to a cattle rancher as he was closing his gate. He told me they got 5 plus inches of rain two days ago, the first rain they have had in 7 months. A waitress told me yesterday the whole cotton crop was wiped out, they don't irrigate in this "Big Country" area. To double the trouble, they also had forest fires the evidence which I can see from the road. The forest consists mostly of mesquite trees that grow everywhere out here, but only reach about 15 feet high.
The twenty foot tall iron bull picture says it all about what is "king" in this county. I had chicken fried chicken (not a misprint) for supper, I'll have to explain it in person for those not familiar with this dish. Two more days till a much needed rest.
The twenty foot tall iron bull picture says it all about what is "king" in this county. I had chicken fried chicken (not a misprint) for supper, I'll have to explain it in person for those not familiar with this dish. Two more days till a much needed rest.
Milestone
I forgot to mention it, but yesterday I passed the halfway point of SAN to JAX around Roby Tx, yippee! I want to thank everyone for their support, messages, emails, and prayers. I'm sorry I cannot answer everyone personally. On Saturday I will be in Carrollton Tx a close northern suburb of Dallas. Kay is flying down and we will be staying with Bruce and Phyllis Doty for a couple of nights for some R and R. Also thanks for your donations to the American Cancer Society, if you have not donated yet, you do not have to wait until I reach Jacksonville. God Bless you all. Bob
Wednesday, October 12, 2011
Day 22 Snyder Tx to Haskell Tx 94.2 mi 9.5 hr 82 deg
No matter how you slice it, 80 to 90 miles on a bike is not an easy ride, unless you have some wind to help, no such luck today. I had a decision to make, do I ride 60 miles or can I make it 90. Why the decision? I need to stop at a town with a motel. If I go 60 miles, then the next day would be 30 miles then 72 miles the day after. I didn't like the idea of only going 30 miles. If I could make Anson Tx, which is 60 miles by 1:00, I would continue onto Haskell which was another 30.
The 60 miles to Anson took 5 hours, arriving at noon, so Haskell was next. The crosswind would be a headwind of 15 knots as I turned north, but I figured 3 hours for the 30 miles to Haskell at a slower pace. It actually took me 3.5 hours for the 30 miles. A lot of numbers, but it all boils down to one hard day.
All this biking business has improved my appetite. I've been eating like a horse and everything tastes good, I'm eating four meals a day plus snacks. I 'll sleep good tonight!
The 60 miles to Anson took 5 hours, arriving at noon, so Haskell was next. The crosswind would be a headwind of 15 knots as I turned north, but I figured 3 hours for the 30 miles to Haskell at a slower pace. It actually took me 3.5 hours for the 30 miles. A lot of numbers, but it all boils down to one hard day.
All this biking business has improved my appetite. I've been eating like a horse and everything tastes good, I'm eating four meals a day plus snacks. I 'll sleep good tonight!
Tuesday, October 11, 2011
Day 21 Lamesa Tx to Snyder Tx 66 miles 6 hr high of 71 deg
There was a heavy mist going to breakfast, which I thought would burn off soon, wrong again. The official weather was indefinite ceiling 500 visibility 10 miles. As I started biking, the mist seemed more like light rain with steady drips falling from my helmet visor. This continued for two hours then started to lighten up, but the indefinite ceiling remained until afternoon. The only place open during today's ride was in Gail Tx. called the Coyote Cafe, a regular oasis. I wasn't sure this town of only 500 population would have anything. I had a great burrito, a coke and conversation. No exciting photos in this part of the country.
The flat as Illinois farm scenery changed back to something more like New Mexico for a while, only with a little more vegetation. As I neared Snyder the landscaped changed back to agricultural again.
The flat as Illinois farm scenery changed back to something more like New Mexico for a while, only with a little more vegetation. As I neared Snyder the landscaped changed back to agricultural again.
Monday, October 10, 2011
Day 20 Hobbs Nm to Lamesa Tx 72.5 mi 7 hr 78 deg
What a difference a day makes. West of Hobbs everything was oil. Crossing into Tx just east of Hobbs there were still oil pumps, but much more agriculture. The irrigation is done with huge circular wheeled systems as opposed to Az with open canals. The fields not irrigated look very different due to the drought, see attached picture. In places the red dirt from the fields has blown onto the road. The main crop appears to be cotton, but I saw a couple of peanut companies also.
I did not have very much breakfast, so when I got to Seminole and saw the golden arches I consumed a big lunch just after 10:30a. The trip from Seminole to Lamesa was 42 miles long with no towns or services. I'm looking foreword to the next two sixty mile days after consecutive days of 90, 80, and 70 miles. I just wish I could get some help from the wind. Basically every day has been a head or cross wind, a 20 mph west Texas tail wind would be great. I have a dream of clicking off 120 miles in 6 hours, but would settle for a century at this point.
I did not have very much breakfast, so when I got to Seminole and saw the golden arches I consumed a big lunch just after 10:30a. The trip from Seminole to Lamesa was 42 miles long with no towns or services. I'm looking foreword to the next two sixty mile days after consecutive days of 90, 80, and 70 miles. I just wish I could get some help from the wind. Basically every day has been a head or cross wind, a 20 mph west Texas tail wind would be great. I have a dream of clicking off 120 miles in 6 hours, but would settle for a century at this point.
Sunday, October 9, 2011
Day 19 Artesia Nm to Hobbs Nm 80.2 mi 8 hr 70 deg
Left Artesia at 8:45a, later than usual because the forecast was calling for thunderstorms to be ending then. As I was leaving town there was a refinery, then numerous oil supply companies, then finally the miles and miles of oil and natural gas wells, the first I've seen on this trip. This will probably be the landscape for many days to come.
Fifteen miles into the day I got a flat. After yesterday's flat I was feeling vunerable since I had only two tubes left. I stopped at Walmart and thank goodness they had tubes with presta valves that would fit my road tires. I bought the only three they had. Unlike yesterday, I did not feel as lonely because of the all the tanker truck and oil field workers on the road even on this Sunday. There was not one gas station, convenience store, restaurant, or anything open between Artesia and Hobbs, a full 80 miles. I had enough food and water, could have used an ice cold Coke about half way.
The picture for today was from the Roswell Ranch. They had wrought iron signs made up for all their Rodeo Team wins. In back of the signs, you can see a oil drilling rig which was being worked as I changed my tire. Once it warmed up, the temp. hovered around 70 deg all day.
Fifteen miles into the day I got a flat. After yesterday's flat I was feeling vunerable since I had only two tubes left. I stopped at Walmart and thank goodness they had tubes with presta valves that would fit my road tires. I bought the only three they had. Unlike yesterday, I did not feel as lonely because of the all the tanker truck and oil field workers on the road even on this Sunday. There was not one gas station, convenience store, restaurant, or anything open between Artesia and Hobbs, a full 80 miles. I had enough food and water, could have used an ice cold Coke about half way.
The picture for today was from the Roswell Ranch. They had wrought iron signs made up for all their Rodeo Team wins. In back of the signs, you can see a oil drilling rig which was being worked as I changed my tire. Once it warmed up, the temp. hovered around 70 deg all day.
Saturday, October 8, 2011
Day 18 Cloudcroft Nm to Artesia Nm 95.3 mi 8.5 hr 82 deg
Left Cloudcroft at 7:30a temp. 38 deg. I piled on most of my clothes, the only thing that got cold were my hands with gloves on. As I descended it finally started to warn up with the sun getting higher and elevation lower. The anticipation of a 5000 descent was mostly accomplished in the first 40 miles, the balance of the ride was boring and typical New Mexico. At the Runyan Apple Orchard as I departed the mountain valley for the high plains, I stopped for an apple. A nice man and his wife who knew the orchard owners gave me one of his apples to eat and one to go, boy were they delicious. I took off, but 5 miles down the road I got another flat. As I was changing the the tire, the same man stopped his pickup and asked if I wanted a ride to Artesia. I looked at the pickup and momentarily thought about it. I thanked the man, but told him that would be cheating. As he left, he reminded me that there is no cel coverage out here. Thanks! I biked the remaining 45 miles as usual. A long and tiring ride today, but my personal best.
Friday, October 7, 2011
Day 17 Alamogordo Nm to Cloudcroft Nm 22.3 mi 5 hr 62 deg
I must be getting the knack of this ascent riding, it wasn't easy , but not as bad as I thought it would be. Even though it was "only" five hours and all up hill for about 4400 feet I still had some riding in me, but no close towns to go to. I put my lights on for the tunnel and peddled fast, I'm glad I only met one car. I am looking foreword to the ride tomorrow, Artesia Nm is 90 miles away but it's a gradual descent of about 5000 feet and I should have a ten knot tale wind, yipee. I rode my bike to a Texas barbecue place for supper without all my bags and water and I almost could not believe how light it felt. The temp got up to about 75 today, but in Cloudcroft it was only 62.
Thursday, October 6, 2011
Day 16 Las Crusis Nm to Alamogordo Nm 68.3 mi 6.5 hr mild temp
A very interesting day. At McDonalds I talked to two older gentlemen and inquired about the road ahead. They confirmed what I already knew, once you leave the Las Crusis area there are no services until Alamogordo about 60 miles. I also stopped at a Subway and picked up a sandwich for lunch.
The morning started with a 2000 foot 12 mile climb then it got easier. At the St. Augustin Pass the winds were a mixture of strong, gusty, swirling, and crosswinded. I put on my jacket and gloves and got ready for the 12 mile white knuckle downhill. At first I rode on the shoulder, but that got too dangerous as the winds wanted to push me into the guard rail so I moved to the outside lane, I didn't think anyone would mind sine I was doing 40 mph the whole way down. I would rate the ride down as somewhere between an 8 to 9 out of 10 on the Pucker Scale. At the bottom of the hill signs said that I was now in the White Sands Missile Range which lasted for about 25 miles.
I got my third flat about midway to Alamogordo, another steel belt wire in the tire which I probably picked up on Int. 10. I stopped at the third border patrol checkpoint since I left San Diego and ate my lunch there. I was asked if I was a US citizen. What self respecting illegal would be caught in spandex biking in the desert? For about 90 minutes I had a quartering tail wind and finally saw my speed in the low 20's.
At Holloman AFB I got a real surprise, the Thunderbirds were practicing for an upcoming airshow, the came right over my head before I saw them. I had to watch for about an hour before going into Alamogordo.
The morning started with a 2000 foot 12 mile climb then it got easier. At the St. Augustin Pass the winds were a mixture of strong, gusty, swirling, and crosswinded. I put on my jacket and gloves and got ready for the 12 mile white knuckle downhill. At first I rode on the shoulder, but that got too dangerous as the winds wanted to push me into the guard rail so I moved to the outside lane, I didn't think anyone would mind sine I was doing 40 mph the whole way down. I would rate the ride down as somewhere between an 8 to 9 out of 10 on the Pucker Scale. At the bottom of the hill signs said that I was now in the White Sands Missile Range which lasted for about 25 miles.
I got my third flat about midway to Alamogordo, another steel belt wire in the tire which I probably picked up on Int. 10. I stopped at the third border patrol checkpoint since I left San Diego and ate my lunch there. I was asked if I was a US citizen. What self respecting illegal would be caught in spandex biking in the desert? For about 90 minutes I had a quartering tail wind and finally saw my speed in the low 20's.
At Holloman AFB I got a real surprise, the Thunderbirds were practicing for an upcoming airshow, the came right over my head before I saw them. I had to watch for about an hour before going into Alamogordo.
Wednesday, October 5, 2011
Day 15 Deming Nm to Las Crusis Nm 63.4 mi 7 hrs 91 deg
Tim and Faye, I'm sorry for the picture, but its the only one I have of both of you and it looks like like Tim has his hand down Faye's pants, no wonder they both have smiles. Sorry! Relatively easy day with westerly winds late. We pulled tire wire out of three tires before Tim got a flat right before Las Crusis with tire wire in his bike tire. Out of the last two biking days, 105 miles on Int. 10 and 15 miles on a frontage road. The biking was mostly flat but you had to dodge numerous tire pieces with metal steel belts protruding from them, a tedious process. Glad this interstate run is over. I said goodby to Tim and Faye, they almost seem like old friends, but just met them two weeks ago. They are following the Adventure Cycling route southeast while I'm going almost due east thru Dallas then southeast to Biloxi. We may meet again near there. I was worried about my left calf muscle, but it felt good today.
Tuesday, October 4, 2011
Day 14 rest day in Deming Nm
Tim and Fay came into town this afternoon and they are staying at the same motel as I am. We will be biking again tomorrow on the way to Las Cruses. Didn't do anything but rest especially my left calf muscle, should be ready to go in the morning.
Monday, October 3, 2011
Day 13 Lordsburg Nm to Deming Nm 66.1 mi 7 hr 91 deg
Left Denny's at 6:30a, there was just a glimpse of light in the sky at 49 deg. I think I can at least leave after the sun rises, I've been trying to beat the heat since the desert. It doesn't seem to be a problem now. I got my second flat right after my picture was taken. This stretch of the trip is well known for flats. I think I know why. The shoulder of Interstate 10 is loaded with pieces of tires, large and small, with the steel belts protruding from them. One of these small steel belt wire pieces was in my tire. Crossed the Continental Divide, does that mean I'm half way there......Not. I will be staying in Deming for a days rest tomorrow, sooner than I planned, but needed.
Sunday, October 2, 2011
Day 12 Safford Az to Lordsburg Nm 79.4 mi 8 hr 96 deg
Two 80 mile days in a row, thank goodness the next two are "only" 60's. Still a headwind but only 5-10 mph as advertised. I sprinted the last 15 miles into Lordsburg, the last thing I wanted to do after riding 65 miles, I could see the convective activity from a thunderstorm to the west moving my way with rain falling below. There was only one town in the middle of todays ride at the halfway point on either side, it was 20 miles to civilation or water, you have to be prepared. Yesterday I met up with some Adventure Cycling people again probably for the last time, they are following the map and I'm freelancing until Biloxi when I get back on the Adventure route again.
I took a picture of a dead rattler today, yesterday I almost ran over the same type while riding. A small lizard came running into the road closely followed by a 3 foot snake, I yelled and the snake stopped or I would have run him over. He lifted his head up, but I was going pretty fast and by him in a flash, thank goodness. While I was taking the dead snake picture today, a crow on a telephone pole was cawing, he probably thought I was going to take his breakfast.
I took a picture of a dead rattler today, yesterday I almost ran over the same type while riding. A small lizard came running into the road closely followed by a 3 foot snake, I yelled and the snake stopped or I would have run him over. He lifted his head up, but I was going pretty fast and by him in a flash, thank goodness. While I was taking the dead snake picture today, a crow on a telephone pole was cawing, he probably thought I was going to take his breakfast.
Saturday, October 1, 2011
Day 11 Globe Az to Safford Az 79.3 mi 9 hr 102 deg
BY THE WAY, DID I MENTION I'M DOING THIS RIDE FOR THE AMERICAN CANCER SOCIETY! I'll give you one million reasons to donate, thats how many pedal revolutions it will take me to go from SAN to JAX. If you are able, please donate to this great cause. This trip is being self financed and all donations go to the ACS and are tax deductable.
What a great place to film a western, the panoramic views held my attention all morning. I took a picture with my iPhone 4, but it just didn't work out. The next X USA trip I do, I'll take better pictures with my iPhone 9. For a good part of the day I was in the San Carlos Apache Reservation. The flag in Geronimo Az was standing straight out, so much for the projected winds of 5-10 mph. It was more like 15-20, less than yesterday but still strong when riding head first into it. I have not had one day with a tail wind since starting in San Diego. My son Derek contacted a reporter with The Daily Herald in the suburbs of Chicago and supposedly my ride was front page news today, wow. Thank you everyone for your support.
What a great place to film a western, the panoramic views held my attention all morning. I took a picture with my iPhone 4, but it just didn't work out. The next X USA trip I do, I'll take better pictures with my iPhone 9. For a good part of the day I was in the San Carlos Apache Reservation. The flag in Geronimo Az was standing straight out, so much for the projected winds of 5-10 mph. It was more like 15-20, less than yesterday but still strong when riding head first into it. I have not had one day with a tail wind since starting in San Diego. My son Derek contacted a reporter with The Daily Herald in the suburbs of Chicago and supposedly my ride was front page news today, wow. Thank you everyone for your support.
Friday, September 30, 2011
Day 10 Apache Junction Az to Globe Az 57.6 mi 9 hrs 97 deg 20 mph headwind
Nobody said this was going to be easy. Met Tim and Fay at 5:30 in the dark to start. Route 60 as we found out, is a very busy route to NM, traffic at all hours. 20 mph winds lasted all day long, making even downhills hard. I had to look more than once thinking I may have a flat tire because of the slow speed. By the time we got to Superior Az after about 30 miles everyone was whipped. We decided to stay the night, but after some breakfast I felt better and decided to go to Globe our original destination. Fay was exploring and I did not get to say goodby. The 9 mile ascent east of Superior was steep, narrow at times, and in your face winds.
Thursday, September 29, 2011
Day 9 North side of Phoenix to Apache Junction 53.1 mi 7 hr 99 deg
Biked in the dark again for about an hour. Went from Phoenix thru Scottsdale, Tempe, Mesa, and finally Apache Junction. Rode past Camelback Golf Club and McCormack Ranch Golf Course which Kay and I have played in the past, it sure has changed a lot around here in 20 plus years since we were here. ASU stadium is still here, but it looks like they have damned up the normally dry riverbed into an attractive lake. I was surprised to come upon Fitch Park winter home for the Cubs. Being a Sox fan I thought the Cubs were still at Ho Ho Cam. All city and suburban riding today which goes slow with all the stops. Thanks to Roger and Aline for all your hospitality on my day off from riding.
I can see the Superstition Mountains which is hiding the famed Lost Dutchman's gold mine. Tim, Fay, and I will be riding out that way tomorrow.
I can see the Superstition Mountains which is hiding the famed Lost Dutchman's gold mine. Tim, Fay, and I will be riding out that way tomorrow.
Wednesday, September 28, 2011
Day 8 Day of rest in Phoenix
Talked to Tim Kuhn this afternoon and he will be in Apache Junction tomorrow and we are planning on riding together again.
Tuesday, September 27, 2011
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