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We are definitely back to the hills and climbing, though today was a shorter day at only 64 miles from Newbury to Meadville, Pennsylvania – making this our eleventh state of riding and allowing us to cross off the tenth. Because of the shorter ride, we did start a little later this morning at 9 am which was a little different for us. Tomorrow and the next day are 101 miles each, so the lighter day was welcome.
We’ve learned how to manage and pace ourselves day by day to prepare for the next day. Yesterday, I rode the climbs and hills a little harder than today knowing that today would be a shorter day. I opted to take it a bit easier today to ensure that I had legs ready for tomorrow and the next day. We are most definitely getting stronger each day and continue to work together effectively to ensure that we can help each other along the way. While we may split up somewhat when it comes to the beefier hills or the climbs, we do our best to slow-roll it to allow everyone to catch up or make a point of regrouping at some point along the way at a rest stop or otherwise. It’s become a manageable process for our group.
Some time ago, one of the guides purchased a sasquatch keychain along the way and handed it out to someone to be recognized for something on a daily basis. The idea is that everyone passes the sasquatch around and shares the reason for giving the award. The key chain has a carabiner on it and hangs from the back of your seat for the day and then you award it to the next person. Last night at dinner I was awarded the sasquatch for ‘being late’ on a regular basis, which is the joke because I’m not. Bob and Myrna are my fellow breakfast companions because we are all up early. They also show up 15-30 minutes before we ride every day and have their helmets on ready to go. I’m usually still getting organized but am always ready by the time the route talk begins. In any event, I was given the award because they always say I’m late. I also arranged for a bulk order of RideLens sunglasses for those who wanted them and Bill had noted this as well. It was very kind and thoughtful and I enjoyed having the funny little keychain hanging from my bike today. It will be my turn to pass it along to another rider for tomorrow.
Even with our late departure, we arrived at the hotel early, and our rooms weren’t yet ready. We spent time outside enjoying our post-ride drinks and snacks. When my room was ready, I went up to take a shower and fell asleep for about an hour. it was a deep nap that was apparently much needed. I’m hoping it doesn’t interfere with my sleep tonight.
Tomorrow brings 101 hilly miles with a few more climbs. The weather has been beautiful with chilly mornings and low afternoon temperatures the last few days. It looks to be the same tomorrow which will make for a nice ride through this beautiful part of the country.