The day started extremely foggy, so I took off about 10:00 in hopes that it would burn off before I left. It was still pretty foggy, but it wasn't as cold as it had been. The roads were only a little wet and that was manageable. It's a beautiful ride out of Abindgon and I enjoyed the trip. By noon the sun was peeking through the fog and I could actually see some blue skies! AND it was beginning to warm up. I was able to ditch my 2nd coat, shoe covers and winter gloves! It was magnificent! :)
The terrain was rolling hills and really quite enjoyable! I was making excellent time and it felt so good to be on the bike! After the last two days, I was a little worried I wouldn't enjoy it again. About 15 miles outside of Kingsport, TN was the best. I was able to average about 25 mph! I was FLYING! I was able to race down the hills and then I hardly had to pedal going up the next one. I was having a blast!
About two miles from the hotel my friend rode by in her sons car and cheered me on. I've been so blessed and fortunate to have people with me at the end of both of my trips. There is something amazing about having someone there to give you that last little push. :)
One more big hill up to the hotel and I was done! It's an incredible feeling to finish a ride. Even though I didn't get to finish the whole thing (I still need to go back and do that 42 miles from Rural Retreat to Abingdon) I'm proud of the 130 miles I did. I know that there are lots of people who could have done that trip in half the time and 3 times the speed...but there are also lots of people that haven't done any of it. I'm still relatively new at this whole thing. I'm learning...and that takes time. :)
I took my friend and her husband out for dinner as a thank you for everything they have done to help me get ready for this trip and everything they did to get me there. It was an adventure and have made for some fantastic memories. I can't wait to leave in May for the trip to Fl with my dad! I'm so excited to not need winter gear for that one!
I even got to meet up with a friend I went to high school with and haven't seen in 25 years! What a wonderful trip! :)
Thanks again everyone for all that you do and have done. You really are the best and you each have a small part in making this girls dreams come true....one day...one mile...one crank of the pedal at a time. :)
Surly Long Haul Trucker
My ride to the beach! :)
Monday, April 8, 2013
TN Trip - Day 2 - 16.81 miles
I slept in a little in hopes that the day would warm up before I got started. I had checked the weather before I left and things looked good. Turns out they can get the weather wrong occasionally. :) I left at 11:00 and was feeling pretty good. I had layered up more and doubled up on my socks. I was almost warm. Remember the miles I had to climb to get to the hotel? Well, I got to start the day going downhill! That's the good stuff! :)
About the time I got to the other side of Wytheville, it had started to rain. At least I thought it was rain...turns out it was sleet. About 10 minutes after that the snow started. I texted a friend saying that it had just started to sleet and snow and she asked if I need her to come get me. I told her I was ok right then and would let her know. Had I know that it was going to get as bad as it did, I would have asked her to come right then. I was on a back road about 10 miles outside of Rural Retreat and I realized that the snow was beginning to stick so I called for backup. I STILL didn't imagine that it would be as bad as it was, and I almost didn't call. About 3 miles from Rural Retreat the roads started getting bad. A truck passed me on an old country road and as soon as he got around me he slid and almost went in a ditch. I'm glad I wasn't a few feet further along...he would have gotten me for sure.
I called my friend back to set up a meeting place and she was on her way. I only had three miles to go to get to the meeting spot, but it took forever! I kept stopping and pulling off the road every time a car came so they wouldn't have to move over. I did this because I was hopeful that the cars would just drive by instead of moving over. I know that they were trying to be helpful and safe by moving over, but they were actually only moving out of the clear tracks on the road into the slush. So every time a car, truck or school bus went by, they splashed a ton of ice, slush and snow on me. I must say that being drenched in icy water is not my favorite. :) By the time I got to the McDonald's where we met, I couldn't feel my hands or feet and it was hard to walk because my legs were so cold. I hadn't been that cold since...well...since yesterday. lol :)
My rescuer was 3 miles away and stuck in a wreck. I got some dry socks and my shoes from my bike bag and was so very happy to get them on! It was fantastic to get on dry clothes and I was thrilled when she got there and I was able to get in the heated vehicle! :)
She took me on to Abingdon where I was able to check into the hotel and get a hot meal. The worst was that once she got about 20 miles from her home her car broke down! I felt awful! I was so grateful that it didn't break down while she was in that traffic for the wreck, or while she was on that icy interstate. But after all that she had done, I hated that it happened. Anyone wishing to donate a vehicle to the cause...please see me. :)
I crashed early and was feeling hopeful that the last day of the trip was going to be great!
About the time I got to the other side of Wytheville, it had started to rain. At least I thought it was rain...turns out it was sleet. About 10 minutes after that the snow started. I texted a friend saying that it had just started to sleet and snow and she asked if I need her to come get me. I told her I was ok right then and would let her know. Had I know that it was going to get as bad as it did, I would have asked her to come right then. I was on a back road about 10 miles outside of Rural Retreat and I realized that the snow was beginning to stick so I called for backup. I STILL didn't imagine that it would be as bad as it was, and I almost didn't call. About 3 miles from Rural Retreat the roads started getting bad. A truck passed me on an old country road and as soon as he got around me he slid and almost went in a ditch. I'm glad I wasn't a few feet further along...he would have gotten me for sure.
I called my friend back to set up a meeting place and she was on her way. I only had three miles to go to get to the meeting spot, but it took forever! I kept stopping and pulling off the road every time a car came so they wouldn't have to move over. I did this because I was hopeful that the cars would just drive by instead of moving over. I know that they were trying to be helpful and safe by moving over, but they were actually only moving out of the clear tracks on the road into the slush. So every time a car, truck or school bus went by, they splashed a ton of ice, slush and snow on me. I must say that being drenched in icy water is not my favorite. :) By the time I got to the McDonald's where we met, I couldn't feel my hands or feet and it was hard to walk because my legs were so cold. I hadn't been that cold since...well...since yesterday. lol :)
My rescuer was 3 miles away and stuck in a wreck. I got some dry socks and my shoes from my bike bag and was so very happy to get them on! It was fantastic to get on dry clothes and I was thrilled when she got there and I was able to get in the heated vehicle! :)
She took me on to Abingdon where I was able to check into the hotel and get a hot meal. The worst was that once she got about 20 miles from her home her car broke down! I felt awful! I was so grateful that it didn't break down while she was in that traffic for the wreck, or while she was on that icy interstate. But after all that she had done, I hated that it happened. Anyone wishing to donate a vehicle to the cause...please see me. :)
I crashed early and was feeling hopeful that the last day of the trip was going to be great!
TN Trip - Day 1 - Salem to Wytheville - 76.2 miles
The sun was just peeking over the horizon when I started down the road. It was cold, 33 degrees, but there is something about starting out on a long trip that helps mask the weather...initially. I knew when I couldn't feel my feet at 4 miles in, it was going to be a long day. I stopped at a little country store a few miles further down the road until I could feel my toes again and headed back out.
I had put my Camelbak in the freezer on Thursday night so it would freeze. I figured it would thaw as I biked and I could just drink it as I went. Well, at the top of Christiansburg mountain (about 18 miles into the trip) I had to stop for water because it was still frozen solid! I got the water and swiped my card to pay. The woman behind the counter said something about calling the police and I was thoroughly confused! I said, "Well, I was just assaulted by Christiansburg mountain and I would like to press charges...so go ahead and call them." She gave me an odd look and said, "Enter your pin number puleeze." Oh, please! Well, that makes more sense. I thought you said something about calling the police. :)
Typically on these trips I spend a lot of time just thinking and relaxing. I feel like I have this hole in my heart shaped like a bicycle, and when I have the opportunity to take a long ride, I feel like I'm complete again. I take in all the sights, sounds and smells of the journey and there is something magical about it. This time though...it was difficult to focus on much of anything but the cold! I was grateful for the sunshine, but it didn't hold much warmth. I'm always amazed at the people I meet along the way. There really is a lot of good still out there. People often tell me that they would never take a trip like this because people are crazy and scary. Well...some people are, and I'm probably one of them. :) But I have had the best conversations with people who are truly good.
It took me 13 hours to get the 76 miles to Wytheville. I stopped so many times to warm up and take breaks from the cold. At about 15 miles from the hotel I really felt a little panicked...like I wasn't sure I could make it. I had to break it down in to increments of a mile or two to get through. Most of the last 8 miles were up hill. Not steep crazy climbing hills, but hills none the less. At about 2 miles out I crossed a bridge and considered tossing the bike over.
I had never been so happy to see a hotel in my entire life! I was only sad that my room was on the second floor and there was no elevator. I was cold...and hungry...and tired. And would you believe that the water in the Camelbak was still frozen! lol I showered, called some friends to help undo what the day had done and crashed. Thank God for my friends! You are all so incredible! After a day like this, I really wasn't sure if I could, or even wanted to go on. But with the encouragement and support that I get from you all, how could I not keep going. :)
Thank you all. Much love.
I had put my Camelbak in the freezer on Thursday night so it would freeze. I figured it would thaw as I biked and I could just drink it as I went. Well, at the top of Christiansburg mountain (about 18 miles into the trip) I had to stop for water because it was still frozen solid! I got the water and swiped my card to pay. The woman behind the counter said something about calling the police and I was thoroughly confused! I said, "Well, I was just assaulted by Christiansburg mountain and I would like to press charges...so go ahead and call them." She gave me an odd look and said, "Enter your pin number puleeze." Oh, please! Well, that makes more sense. I thought you said something about calling the police. :)
Typically on these trips I spend a lot of time just thinking and relaxing. I feel like I have this hole in my heart shaped like a bicycle, and when I have the opportunity to take a long ride, I feel like I'm complete again. I take in all the sights, sounds and smells of the journey and there is something magical about it. This time though...it was difficult to focus on much of anything but the cold! I was grateful for the sunshine, but it didn't hold much warmth. I'm always amazed at the people I meet along the way. There really is a lot of good still out there. People often tell me that they would never take a trip like this because people are crazy and scary. Well...some people are, and I'm probably one of them. :) But I have had the best conversations with people who are truly good.
It took me 13 hours to get the 76 miles to Wytheville. I stopped so many times to warm up and take breaks from the cold. At about 15 miles from the hotel I really felt a little panicked...like I wasn't sure I could make it. I had to break it down in to increments of a mile or two to get through. Most of the last 8 miles were up hill. Not steep crazy climbing hills, but hills none the less. At about 2 miles out I crossed a bridge and considered tossing the bike over.
I had never been so happy to see a hotel in my entire life! I was only sad that my room was on the second floor and there was no elevator. I was cold...and hungry...and tired. And would you believe that the water in the Camelbak was still frozen! lol I showered, called some friends to help undo what the day had done and crashed. Thank God for my friends! You are all so incredible! After a day like this, I really wasn't sure if I could, or even wanted to go on. But with the encouragement and support that I get from you all, how could I not keep going. :)
Thank you all. Much love.
Monday, June 13, 2011
Day 6 – Richmond to Yorktown – 101.7 miles - Success!
I always set two alarms. One for the time I need to get up, and one for 30 minutes before that. I hate the snooze button. The 5 or 10 more minutes that comes with a snooze is just a tease, but I love thinking I have 30 more minutes! I set the alarms for 6:00 and 6:30 on day 6, but when the first alarm went off I jumped up and couldn’t pack things quick enough. I was so excited about the day ahead. It was all I could do to wait until daylight to leave.
I hit the road about 6:00 and headed to the McDonald’s across the street for breakfast. I also wanted to see if there was anyone there I could verify my route with. Sure enough there was. I ate breakfast and was on my way.
Sue had told me the night before to “stay present and focus on the moment”. Good point. It’s so easy to cross the finish line before the race begins. I don’t know about anyone else, but I often have a day scripted out before it begins. I was thinking about rolling into Yorktown when her words came back to me. Focus. Stay present. Enjoy the ride. My sister texted saying encouraging me to enjoy every moment of this last day. Good stuff.
Now…I’m not excited about telling you all this next part. In fact, it’s just plain embarrassing. When I checked the map the night before, I thought I had 2 sections left and that the 3rd section was a detail map of Williamsburg. Each of those sections are approximately 30 miles. Based on that, I had it figured that I was less than 50 miles from Yorktown. Those of you that have access to a map and the ability to read it (unlike myself) can probably tell just by looking at it, that it is more than 50 miles from Richmond to Yorktown. I still don’t know what I was thinking. Ugh.
I got to Glendale and hit Route 5. I was 40 miles into the day and it was noon. It was then that I flipped to the 2nd section of the map and also checked the 3rd section. My heart sank. The 3rd section wasn’t a detail at all, but instead another full section. My first thought was of Sue. She was an hour into the trip to get me and under the impression that I would be finished between 3 and 3:00. I was looking at another 50 miles and 5 hours at a minimum. I called her immediately and left her a voicemail telling her that I was sorry and I would bust my butt to get there. I got back on the bike and off I went. It wasn’t long before I got a text from Sue saying not to worry and just be careful.
At noon it was already almost 100 degrees. I headed into Charles City and that’s when my feet started to burn. There really isn’t anything you can do when that happens, but I did find that dousing them with water was a temporary fix. However, what you then have is wet shoes and socks. At that point it’s a pick your poison kind of situation. I saw a sign that said 34 miles to Williamsburg. The traffic was heavy on Route 5 and I was glad to see an 8 mile bike path that paralleled the road. It was a welcome sight as it was a bit flatter and shaded. After being on Route 5 headed to Williamsburg for what seemed like 20 miles, I saw another sign that had the miles to Williamsburg, but I couldn’t make out the number. As I approached the sign I had a multitude of thoughts.
Please be less than 20 miles.
It would be great if it was single digits.
No…it can’t be single digits.
Is that a 3 or and 8?
18 miles?!?! I can’t do this.
It was about 3:00. I stopped the bike and called Sue again. I asked her if she would start to head toward me from Yorktown at 5:00 and take my gear. That would lighten the load and maybe speed up my last few miles. She was happy to do so and this did a couple of things. First, just talking to her renewed my attitude, gave me a bit of a second wind, and reminded me that I was almost there. Second, it gave me something to look forward to. I can do this for a while longer and then I will be free of the bags. Ok…push on. Pedal, pedal, pedal… I can do this.
I had to cross the Chickahominy River which is a long and tall bridge. At the top I considered just chucking the bike over the edge. Who could blame me? I would just tell people it jumped. Who wouldn’t? :)
I came across another bike path and was thrilled to see a sign saying there was a place to refill my water bottles. They even had free Popsicles. I took the time to stop and refill, but didn’t rest too long. By this time I was about 10 miles from Williamsburg. My feet were still burning, my hands were numb and the sun was insanely hot.
I was back on the bike in no time and it wasn’t long until I hit the Colonial Parkway, which begins 8 miles outside of Williamsburg. This road is not a bikers best friend. It isn’t exactly cobblestone, but it is very bumpy and difficult to make good time on. Five miles from Williamsburg Sue found me. I can’t even begin to express how good it was to see her. She had the biggest ‘Big Gulp’ cup full of ice that you have ever seen! I have never tasted anything so good. I dumped my gear off and talked to her for about 5 minutes. I gave her everything. My bags, map, phone…everything. She said, “You’re almost there!” We talked and she said that she would stay with me. We talked about it and when she asked if I wanted her to go 5 or 10 miles ahead, I said 5. When I pulled back out onto the road, I felt like I was on a new bike. That gear weighed every bit of 20 pounds and what a difference the ride was without it. It also helped tremendously that I knew she would be there in 5 miles. Quite frankly, it kept me going.
What I didn’t realize is that I had to go through Colonial Williamsburg to get to Yorktown and there was a small detailed section on the map for how to get through it. Did I mention that was in 2 miles and I had just sent Sue 5 miles ahead…with my map…and my phone? Ugh… I knew it was Colonial Parkway all the way to Yorktown and just didn’t think about having to make any turns. As I took the first turn to get through and I saw a woman crossing the street. I stopped her and asked for directions. She said that sometimes she carried a map in her purse and sure enough she had one. She was able to point to where I needed to go and I was off again. I didn’t see any street signs and had a little trouble, but I saw two people running and they also helped. I must not have looked so good because they offered to run with me and just show me where to go. This whole thing only took about 10 minutes, but it felt much longer. Once I was back on track, I found Sue again. We had a laugh about me giving her everything and she gave me more water. I sent her another 5 miles ahead.
At this point I was at 90 miles for the day. The pain was becoming worse with every passing mile. There were also biting flies to contend with. They kept finding the slots in my helmet and biting me on the head. At 95 miles I saw Sue and pulled over for more water and a dose of encouragement. She told me that I had done the last 5.5 miles in 20 minutes. My only reply was, “That means I only have 20 minutes left.” She asked if I wanted to rest, but I knew better. Later she told me that it was all she could do not to physically stand in front of me and tell me to get off the bike. She said that I was looked worse each time she saw me. With about 5 miles left in the trip I hit the road one more time. I remember watching the odometer and counting off each tenth of a mile. 4.9…4.8…4.7…4.6… At 4.5 I thought, ok…I ride 4 and a half miles to work. I can do this. It’s almost over. At 1.7 Sue had started back for me and when she saw me she yelled, “You are there! Go girl! Go! Go! Go!” Each crank of the pedal brought excruciating pain. Back when I had first seen Sue, I dumped the rest of the water in the Camelback on my head and it drenched my shirt. It was still so hot that my shirt had now dried. I just pedaled. I kept thinking, as bad as you hurt right now, as soon as you get there the pain will stop. I didn’t dare let myself think about how good it would feel to take off my shoes or the joy of the a/c in the car. I just pedaled. Don’t stop…no matter what…pedal.
With three tenths of a mile left, I came to an intersection with 4 options and no signs. I unclipped and stood there. I saw Sue coming up the hill where she had asked for directions. The man had told her to take a hard left. There were two of those. She handed me the map and left me to check one out. When she returned in a minute she said there was a sign and pointed me in the right direction. I rode to her, handed her the map and took off. She got in the car and pulled around me. When she got a little ahead of me I saw her hand go out the window and her fist pump the air. I knew then that she had seen the monument. In a few more cranks of the wheel, I too saw it…and I wept. I wish I had the writing skills and vocabulary to really express what that moment was like. The pain stopped. It a split second I realized that I had made it and what an accomplishment it really was. All the miles and doubts and fears and hope…it all came down to this one moment. This finish line. It was the most amazing moment of my life.
I started to go ride to the car when Sue said, “Get your ass up to that monument!” I gladly did so. I picked that bike up and held it over my head while she took the picture. It was a phenomenal moment and one that I will never forget. And what a gift to share that moment with one of my dearest friends. It was more amazing than I ever imagined.
We walked to the car and she helped me get my shoes off, and we put the bike on the car. My feet were so swollen I didn’t think I would get my sandals on. My hands were also swollen and almost completely numb, and I had never felt better.
We headed back to Roanoke and what took me 6 days to do on a bike, we did in 4 and a half hours. Afton Mountain was a breeze. We talked and laughed and each time we passed a sign with the number of miles to a town, I would tell her about what it was like there. I probably said, “I can’t believe I did it.” 100 times. But she was gracious, and kind, and just let me say it.
I want to thank you all. I could not have done this without the support of each and every one of you. What an adventure and experience this was! Thank you ALL for sharing in it with me! I look forward to our next adventure. Much love.
I hit the road about 6:00 and headed to the McDonald’s across the street for breakfast. I also wanted to see if there was anyone there I could verify my route with. Sure enough there was. I ate breakfast and was on my way.
Sue had told me the night before to “stay present and focus on the moment”. Good point. It’s so easy to cross the finish line before the race begins. I don’t know about anyone else, but I often have a day scripted out before it begins. I was thinking about rolling into Yorktown when her words came back to me. Focus. Stay present. Enjoy the ride. My sister texted saying encouraging me to enjoy every moment of this last day. Good stuff.
Now…I’m not excited about telling you all this next part. In fact, it’s just plain embarrassing. When I checked the map the night before, I thought I had 2 sections left and that the 3rd section was a detail map of Williamsburg. Each of those sections are approximately 30 miles. Based on that, I had it figured that I was less than 50 miles from Yorktown. Those of you that have access to a map and the ability to read it (unlike myself) can probably tell just by looking at it, that it is more than 50 miles from Richmond to Yorktown. I still don’t know what I was thinking. Ugh.
I got to Glendale and hit Route 5. I was 40 miles into the day and it was noon. It was then that I flipped to the 2nd section of the map and also checked the 3rd section. My heart sank. The 3rd section wasn’t a detail at all, but instead another full section. My first thought was of Sue. She was an hour into the trip to get me and under the impression that I would be finished between 3 and 3:00. I was looking at another 50 miles and 5 hours at a minimum. I called her immediately and left her a voicemail telling her that I was sorry and I would bust my butt to get there. I got back on the bike and off I went. It wasn’t long before I got a text from Sue saying not to worry and just be careful.
At noon it was already almost 100 degrees. I headed into Charles City and that’s when my feet started to burn. There really isn’t anything you can do when that happens, but I did find that dousing them with water was a temporary fix. However, what you then have is wet shoes and socks. At that point it’s a pick your poison kind of situation. I saw a sign that said 34 miles to Williamsburg. The traffic was heavy on Route 5 and I was glad to see an 8 mile bike path that paralleled the road. It was a welcome sight as it was a bit flatter and shaded. After being on Route 5 headed to Williamsburg for what seemed like 20 miles, I saw another sign that had the miles to Williamsburg, but I couldn’t make out the number. As I approached the sign I had a multitude of thoughts.
Please be less than 20 miles.
It would be great if it was single digits.
No…it can’t be single digits.
Is that a 3 or and 8?
18 miles?!?! I can’t do this.
It was about 3:00. I stopped the bike and called Sue again. I asked her if she would start to head toward me from Yorktown at 5:00 and take my gear. That would lighten the load and maybe speed up my last few miles. She was happy to do so and this did a couple of things. First, just talking to her renewed my attitude, gave me a bit of a second wind, and reminded me that I was almost there. Second, it gave me something to look forward to. I can do this for a while longer and then I will be free of the bags. Ok…push on. Pedal, pedal, pedal… I can do this.
I had to cross the Chickahominy River which is a long and tall bridge. At the top I considered just chucking the bike over the edge. Who could blame me? I would just tell people it jumped. Who wouldn’t? :)
I came across another bike path and was thrilled to see a sign saying there was a place to refill my water bottles. They even had free Popsicles. I took the time to stop and refill, but didn’t rest too long. By this time I was about 10 miles from Williamsburg. My feet were still burning, my hands were numb and the sun was insanely hot.
I was back on the bike in no time and it wasn’t long until I hit the Colonial Parkway, which begins 8 miles outside of Williamsburg. This road is not a bikers best friend. It isn’t exactly cobblestone, but it is very bumpy and difficult to make good time on. Five miles from Williamsburg Sue found me. I can’t even begin to express how good it was to see her. She had the biggest ‘Big Gulp’ cup full of ice that you have ever seen! I have never tasted anything so good. I dumped my gear off and talked to her for about 5 minutes. I gave her everything. My bags, map, phone…everything. She said, “You’re almost there!” We talked and she said that she would stay with me. We talked about it and when she asked if I wanted her to go 5 or 10 miles ahead, I said 5. When I pulled back out onto the road, I felt like I was on a new bike. That gear weighed every bit of 20 pounds and what a difference the ride was without it. It also helped tremendously that I knew she would be there in 5 miles. Quite frankly, it kept me going.
What I didn’t realize is that I had to go through Colonial Williamsburg to get to Yorktown and there was a small detailed section on the map for how to get through it. Did I mention that was in 2 miles and I had just sent Sue 5 miles ahead…with my map…and my phone? Ugh… I knew it was Colonial Parkway all the way to Yorktown and just didn’t think about having to make any turns. As I took the first turn to get through and I saw a woman crossing the street. I stopped her and asked for directions. She said that sometimes she carried a map in her purse and sure enough she had one. She was able to point to where I needed to go and I was off again. I didn’t see any street signs and had a little trouble, but I saw two people running and they also helped. I must not have looked so good because they offered to run with me and just show me where to go. This whole thing only took about 10 minutes, but it felt much longer. Once I was back on track, I found Sue again. We had a laugh about me giving her everything and she gave me more water. I sent her another 5 miles ahead.
At this point I was at 90 miles for the day. The pain was becoming worse with every passing mile. There were also biting flies to contend with. They kept finding the slots in my helmet and biting me on the head. At 95 miles I saw Sue and pulled over for more water and a dose of encouragement. She told me that I had done the last 5.5 miles in 20 minutes. My only reply was, “That means I only have 20 minutes left.” She asked if I wanted to rest, but I knew better. Later she told me that it was all she could do not to physically stand in front of me and tell me to get off the bike. She said that I was looked worse each time she saw me. With about 5 miles left in the trip I hit the road one more time. I remember watching the odometer and counting off each tenth of a mile. 4.9…4.8…4.7…4.6… At 4.5 I thought, ok…I ride 4 and a half miles to work. I can do this. It’s almost over. At 1.7 Sue had started back for me and when she saw me she yelled, “You are there! Go girl! Go! Go! Go!” Each crank of the pedal brought excruciating pain. Back when I had first seen Sue, I dumped the rest of the water in the Camelback on my head and it drenched my shirt. It was still so hot that my shirt had now dried. I just pedaled. I kept thinking, as bad as you hurt right now, as soon as you get there the pain will stop. I didn’t dare let myself think about how good it would feel to take off my shoes or the joy of the a/c in the car. I just pedaled. Don’t stop…no matter what…pedal.
With three tenths of a mile left, I came to an intersection with 4 options and no signs. I unclipped and stood there. I saw Sue coming up the hill where she had asked for directions. The man had told her to take a hard left. There were two of those. She handed me the map and left me to check one out. When she returned in a minute she said there was a sign and pointed me in the right direction. I rode to her, handed her the map and took off. She got in the car and pulled around me. When she got a little ahead of me I saw her hand go out the window and her fist pump the air. I knew then that she had seen the monument. In a few more cranks of the wheel, I too saw it…and I wept. I wish I had the writing skills and vocabulary to really express what that moment was like. The pain stopped. It a split second I realized that I had made it and what an accomplishment it really was. All the miles and doubts and fears and hope…it all came down to this one moment. This finish line. It was the most amazing moment of my life.
I started to go ride to the car when Sue said, “Get your ass up to that monument!” I gladly did so. I picked that bike up and held it over my head while she took the picture. It was a phenomenal moment and one that I will never forget. And what a gift to share that moment with one of my dearest friends. It was more amazing than I ever imagined.
We walked to the car and she helped me get my shoes off, and we put the bike on the car. My feet were so swollen I didn’t think I would get my sandals on. My hands were also swollen and almost completely numb, and I had never felt better.
We headed back to Roanoke and what took me 6 days to do on a bike, we did in 4 and a half hours. Afton Mountain was a breeze. We talked and laughed and each time we passed a sign with the number of miles to a town, I would tell her about what it was like there. I probably said, “I can’t believe I did it.” 100 times. But she was gracious, and kind, and just let me say it.
I want to thank you all. I could not have done this without the support of each and every one of you. What an adventure and experience this was! Thank you ALL for sharing in it with me! I look forward to our next adventure. Much love.
Thursday, June 9, 2011
Day 5 – Lake Anna to Richmond – 61 miles
There was another beautiful sunrise this morning. I had passed a Subway about a mile up the road so I didn’t eat before I left the Inn. The pain in my legs was pretty intense as I pulled out of the driveway. I wasn’t sure how many miles I would be able to string together for the day. I stopped at a Subway where I ran into three men who helped with directions on how to get back onto my route. They saved me about 8 miles by knowing a shortcut. I was eternally grateful for that!
There was a good deal more civilization and places to stop throughout the day and that was a welcome site! I certainly learned a lesson from yesterday and stopped every time I had the opportunity. I stopped in a town called Pottiesville and took a nice break. They were kind enough to refill my water bottles and I sat on their porch for awhile. It was feeling pretty good in the shade and my sprits were high. I also stopped at a post office in Bumpass and shipped some unnecessary supplies home. Two pounds may not seem like a lot, but in this heat, every little bit helps.
I had just finished all of my water right outside of Ashland. There was a man getting his mail and I stopped to rest in the shade. We chit chatted a bit and talked about how hot it was. Only 102 today compared to yesterdays 105. I asked him how far to Ashland and he said about 4 miles. He asked if I had enough water and I told him that I had just run out, but 4 miles wasn’t far and I would get something there. He offered to refill my bottles and I didn’t argue. His name was Ben Hutchinson and he was a retired vet. He shared some of his experience from the war and told me that his wife had died a few years ago. He was so kind and I was eternally grateful for the water. That’s how this trip was…people just put in my path along the way right when I needed them. It was amazing really.
I was so glad that I had the water as the next 4 miles into Ashland was hilly and hot. Ashland was beautiful. I passed by the Randolph Macon College and it was a stunning campus. I stopped someone to ask where a good place to eat would be and he gave me the name of two but wasn’t sure if either would be open. It was 2:30 and apparently all the restaurants close at 2:00 and reopen at 5:00. I finally found a place called ‘Trackside Grill’. It was so perfect! My server was Brie and she not only brought me a giant glass of water, but a pitcher! I ordered a bacon cheeseburger and fries and they were amazing! Brie was super nice and it was a great experience. Brie…if you are reading this…Thank you!
I called Meredith from the restaurant and she hooked me up with hotel Reservations in Richmond. I still don’t know what I would have done without her. Thank you Meredith.
The hotel was about 12 miles away and the battery on my phone was super low. As I was packing up my gear to begin the trek to the hotel I spotted an office and decided to see if they could help me out. I walked in and met Vicky. I filled her in on the situation and told her the whole story. She was kind enough to print out the directions for the hotel and told me that the man they just hired there a couple of weeks ago was from Salem. Small world! Thank you Vicky! You were kind and helpful and I truly appreciate it!
I took off for the hotel. Ashland has a set of train tracks that run right through the town. I love to see train tracks because that means its going to be flat! The heat was still pretty intense and the tar in the road was sticky causing my tires to stick a bit. I was chased by a dog, but it wasn’t a scary dog. I was more afraid of the dog getting hit by a car than it hurting me. The directions were easy to follow and I was at the hotel in about an hour. I felt like I was on top of the world knowing that tomorrow was the last day! Looks like I’m going to make it after all!
I talked to my mom and she was glad to hear I was sounding better than yesterday. I also talked to Sue and we firmed up plans for pick up the next day. I don’t know who was more excited! It looked to me like I was less than 50 miles from Yorktown and I could hardly sleep I was so excited about the big day!
There was a good deal more civilization and places to stop throughout the day and that was a welcome site! I certainly learned a lesson from yesterday and stopped every time I had the opportunity. I stopped in a town called Pottiesville and took a nice break. They were kind enough to refill my water bottles and I sat on their porch for awhile. It was feeling pretty good in the shade and my sprits were high. I also stopped at a post office in Bumpass and shipped some unnecessary supplies home. Two pounds may not seem like a lot, but in this heat, every little bit helps.
I had just finished all of my water right outside of Ashland. There was a man getting his mail and I stopped to rest in the shade. We chit chatted a bit and talked about how hot it was. Only 102 today compared to yesterdays 105. I asked him how far to Ashland and he said about 4 miles. He asked if I had enough water and I told him that I had just run out, but 4 miles wasn’t far and I would get something there. He offered to refill my bottles and I didn’t argue. His name was Ben Hutchinson and he was a retired vet. He shared some of his experience from the war and told me that his wife had died a few years ago. He was so kind and I was eternally grateful for the water. That’s how this trip was…people just put in my path along the way right when I needed them. It was amazing really.
I was so glad that I had the water as the next 4 miles into Ashland was hilly and hot. Ashland was beautiful. I passed by the Randolph Macon College and it was a stunning campus. I stopped someone to ask where a good place to eat would be and he gave me the name of two but wasn’t sure if either would be open. It was 2:30 and apparently all the restaurants close at 2:00 and reopen at 5:00. I finally found a place called ‘Trackside Grill’. It was so perfect! My server was Brie and she not only brought me a giant glass of water, but a pitcher! I ordered a bacon cheeseburger and fries and they were amazing! Brie was super nice and it was a great experience. Brie…if you are reading this…Thank you!
I called Meredith from the restaurant and she hooked me up with hotel Reservations in Richmond. I still don’t know what I would have done without her. Thank you Meredith.
The hotel was about 12 miles away and the battery on my phone was super low. As I was packing up my gear to begin the trek to the hotel I spotted an office and decided to see if they could help me out. I walked in and met Vicky. I filled her in on the situation and told her the whole story. She was kind enough to print out the directions for the hotel and told me that the man they just hired there a couple of weeks ago was from Salem. Small world! Thank you Vicky! You were kind and helpful and I truly appreciate it!
I took off for the hotel. Ashland has a set of train tracks that run right through the town. I love to see train tracks because that means its going to be flat! The heat was still pretty intense and the tar in the road was sticky causing my tires to stick a bit. I was chased by a dog, but it wasn’t a scary dog. I was more afraid of the dog getting hit by a car than it hurting me. The directions were easy to follow and I was at the hotel in about an hour. I felt like I was on top of the world knowing that tomorrow was the last day! Looks like I’m going to make it after all!
I talked to my mom and she was glad to hear I was sounding better than yesterday. I also talked to Sue and we firmed up plans for pick up the next day. I don’t know who was more excited! It looked to me like I was less than 50 miles from Yorktown and I could hardly sleep I was so excited about the big day!
Wednesday, June 8, 2011
Day 4 – Charlottesville to Lake Anna – 72.33
This was my first solo day. I was excited about hitting the road and started out about 7:00 am. The sunrise was beautiful and I enjoyed a good breakfast at the Cavalier Inn. They even had scrambled eggs! It’s the little things…
I took a wrong turn right away down a big hill and said a couple of choice words before climbing back up and getting back on track. As I was heading out of town and going through the Interstate 64 exchange I hit a giant pothole and lost my taillight. I was thankful that my taillight was all I lost and I didn’t blow a tire, or worse.
I took the left onto 53 East and was on my way! Palmyra 18 miles…nothing to it.
I pedaled along on some shady roads and went through Monticello. It really is beautiful through there and I even passed a gorgeous vineyard. The hills weren’t too bad at all and things were moving pretty smooth. I eventually got to a little store and, while they didn’t have any ice, they were nice enough to let me fill by bottles up with some cold water. I talked to some old men outside who asked about my trip and then I was off again. I had no idea what was ahead…
The heat was intense. Even going downhill and getting a little wind felt more like a hairdryer than a breeze. It was so hot it was hard to breath. 105 was the heat index. I had heard about bikers getting ‘hot feet’, but never had the pleasure. About 20 miles into the day it felt like my toes and half of my feet were on fire. I had had never felt anything like that before. As I kept riding the roads became more and more rural. No more lines on the road, only the occasional house, and there was just one hill after another, after another. I continued checking the map thinking that I must surely come across a store or something soon. The further I went, the more worried I became. I was hungry and not making good time at all in the heat. I did not prepare for a day of biking without the opportunity of food or water. That was my mistake. I kept going and going. I started to feel a little panicked. Then I started to feel a LOT panicked. I was worried that I was going to pass out from the heat and no food. It had already been 6 hours since I had eaten and that’s a long time when you are on a bike.
It was 1:00 or so when I flagged down a car. I was hot, and tired and afraid. I asked the woman how close it was to Mineral. She said, “Oh honey…it’s every bit of 30 miles.” I was devastated. She asked if she could bring me something and I said I would be fine. She asked if I was sure because she would be happy to and I finally agreed. Determined is a great quality…stubborn, not so much. She brought me back water, a can of peaches, a mason jar of ice, and a loaf of homemade banana bread. It was the best banana bread I had ever eaten. She was so very kind. I will forever be grateful for her. Kitty was her name. After eating, I was able to get back on the bike and begin to face the next 30 miles.
The heat does funny things to you after you spend that much time in it. I was in my 9th hour on the bike and in the heat and I just didn’t know if I could make it. I wanted so bad to quit and just lay down in the shade, but I was afraid I wouldn’t be able to keep going if I did. I began doubting whether I was even going the right way. Thankfully right before I began to completely panic there was a sign showing me I was headed the right direction. Finally, after 10 hours on the road, I came to a convenience store. I was sunburned, exhausted, beaten, and absolutely done. Everything on me hurt. I called my friend Meredith and between her, Stacy & Steve, they were able to book a room for me at the Lighthouse Inn at Lake Anna. That was the good news, the bad news was it was 11 miles away. My mom called and when I called her back I was crying and said, “I’m calling you back because I know you are worried, but talking to me isn’t going to alleviate your fears.” I told her about the day and where I was and that I would call her soon. The heat had completely wiped me out. After I ate a few chicken fingers I got back on the bike and headed to the Inn. I thought to myself, I can’t make it. I just can’t do it. And then I thought…I can’t go 12 miles, but I can go 1.2 miles until the next turn. I would make the turn and think, I can go the 1.2 miles to the next turn. I kept breaking it down until I got there. I actually passed it by almost a mile, but I have never been so relieved to find a place in my whole life.
I spent 11 and a half hours on the bike and traveled 72.33 miles. My fingers and toes were starting to feel numb. I took a cold shower and went through the normal routine of packing up the bike and getting ready for the next day. I talked to several of my friends a family and was feeling tons better by the time I went to bed.
I took a wrong turn right away down a big hill and said a couple of choice words before climbing back up and getting back on track. As I was heading out of town and going through the Interstate 64 exchange I hit a giant pothole and lost my taillight. I was thankful that my taillight was all I lost and I didn’t blow a tire, or worse.
I took the left onto 53 East and was on my way! Palmyra 18 miles…nothing to it.
I pedaled along on some shady roads and went through Monticello. It really is beautiful through there and I even passed a gorgeous vineyard. The hills weren’t too bad at all and things were moving pretty smooth. I eventually got to a little store and, while they didn’t have any ice, they were nice enough to let me fill by bottles up with some cold water. I talked to some old men outside who asked about my trip and then I was off again. I had no idea what was ahead…
The heat was intense. Even going downhill and getting a little wind felt more like a hairdryer than a breeze. It was so hot it was hard to breath. 105 was the heat index. I had heard about bikers getting ‘hot feet’, but never had the pleasure. About 20 miles into the day it felt like my toes and half of my feet were on fire. I had had never felt anything like that before. As I kept riding the roads became more and more rural. No more lines on the road, only the occasional house, and there was just one hill after another, after another. I continued checking the map thinking that I must surely come across a store or something soon. The further I went, the more worried I became. I was hungry and not making good time at all in the heat. I did not prepare for a day of biking without the opportunity of food or water. That was my mistake. I kept going and going. I started to feel a little panicked. Then I started to feel a LOT panicked. I was worried that I was going to pass out from the heat and no food. It had already been 6 hours since I had eaten and that’s a long time when you are on a bike.
It was 1:00 or so when I flagged down a car. I was hot, and tired and afraid. I asked the woman how close it was to Mineral. She said, “Oh honey…it’s every bit of 30 miles.” I was devastated. She asked if she could bring me something and I said I would be fine. She asked if I was sure because she would be happy to and I finally agreed. Determined is a great quality…stubborn, not so much. She brought me back water, a can of peaches, a mason jar of ice, and a loaf of homemade banana bread. It was the best banana bread I had ever eaten. She was so very kind. I will forever be grateful for her. Kitty was her name. After eating, I was able to get back on the bike and begin to face the next 30 miles.
The heat does funny things to you after you spend that much time in it. I was in my 9th hour on the bike and in the heat and I just didn’t know if I could make it. I wanted so bad to quit and just lay down in the shade, but I was afraid I wouldn’t be able to keep going if I did. I began doubting whether I was even going the right way. Thankfully right before I began to completely panic there was a sign showing me I was headed the right direction. Finally, after 10 hours on the road, I came to a convenience store. I was sunburned, exhausted, beaten, and absolutely done. Everything on me hurt. I called my friend Meredith and between her, Stacy & Steve, they were able to book a room for me at the Lighthouse Inn at Lake Anna. That was the good news, the bad news was it was 11 miles away. My mom called and when I called her back I was crying and said, “I’m calling you back because I know you are worried, but talking to me isn’t going to alleviate your fears.” I told her about the day and where I was and that I would call her soon. The heat had completely wiped me out. After I ate a few chicken fingers I got back on the bike and headed to the Inn. I thought to myself, I can’t make it. I just can’t do it. And then I thought…I can’t go 12 miles, but I can go 1.2 miles until the next turn. I would make the turn and think, I can go the 1.2 miles to the next turn. I kept breaking it down until I got there. I actually passed it by almost a mile, but I have never been so relieved to find a place in my whole life.
I spent 11 and a half hours on the bike and traveled 72.33 miles. My fingers and toes were starting to feel numb. I took a cold shower and went through the normal routine of packing up the bike and getting ready for the next day. I talked to several of my friends a family and was feeling tons better by the time I went to bed.
Sunday, May 29, 2011
Day 3 - Waynesboro to Charlottesville - 39 miles
I woke up feeling great this morning! I was worried because I had felt so bad yesterday morning and I wasn't sure how Imy legs would be today. I couldn't believe how great I felt, even better than on day one! We left the hotel at 6:07 and today it was just Billie and I. I love a day that starts out a little cool. Then to top it off there were 4 miles of downhills and flats to get to the bottom of Afton. That's the good stuff!
Then the climb began. I kept telling myself that it was only 2 and half miles. I ride almost 5 miles to work...this is half that. Up we went. Billie was way ahead of me, but I just focused on my ride and took my time. I think I like it more when people are ahead of me because it forces me to not focus on them and just concentrate on my ride. We climed that mountain in 30 minutes. It was unbelieveable! It hurt, it was a long climb, and my muscles were screaming, but it was amazing! I kept thinking about all the people who were thinking about the climb this morning and who were rooting for me. I swear I could feel you all pushing me up the mountain. As I got to the top and looked back at the magnificent view I thought...well now, would you look at that...just look at what we did...and how far we've come. Yep...my sister was right. The road I am on has very little to do with geography. Then I cried, ate homemade chocolate and started down the mountain.
Three miles down...talk about getting the blood going! That wind felt like it passed right through me filling me up and renewing my strength as I went. I have never felt more alive than I did while we were flying down that mountain "hoopin' and hollerin'" as we went! The biggest smile you have ever seen spread from ear to ear! When we hit the bottom, it was 8:40.
The next 10 miles or so were very nice rolling hills and flat stretches. So relaxing and beautiful. The smells of morning were fantastic.
Coming into Charlottesville, there was a bit of climbing to do, but the heat was the real kicker. The heat index was 97 here and no shade to be found. We stopped at a grocery store where we met JD and I said goodbye. They wished me luck and JD gave me directions for heading out of town.
The first thing I did when I left them was get off of the route. I just took a wrong turn, but of course that turn was a half mile downhill which means I just had to turn around and pedal uphill again. I asked a 928 year old woman if she knew how to get to the Cavalier Inn and I have included our conversation below:
Me: Hi. I'm sorry to bother you, but do you know where the Cavalier Hotel is?
Precious lady: I believe that is right by where the Red Lobster used to be.
Me: ........sigh.......blink...Thank you. :)
I have found that people do not know distance. People also do not know what flat is. I have heard countless times..."Oh yeah, it's pretty much flat when you get to that intersection".
No...it isn't...ever. This is going to be great comedy someday.
I was planning on heading to Zion Crossroads, but it worked out that I just stayed in Charlottesville. The pieces of that fell right into place and this is exactly where I needed to be tonight.
I ate a most excellent burger, fabulous fries and a salad for dinner. I'm sunburned and sleepy, but very happy.
Tomorrow, I will be riding to almost Richmond. If I'm feeling really good I'd like to make the ride all the way in. It's 71 miles, but there aren't any mountains left from here to the coast and I have all day. That's the plan at least.
Much love...and thank you!
Then the climb began. I kept telling myself that it was only 2 and half miles. I ride almost 5 miles to work...this is half that. Up we went. Billie was way ahead of me, but I just focused on my ride and took my time. I think I like it more when people are ahead of me because it forces me to not focus on them and just concentrate on my ride. We climed that mountain in 30 minutes. It was unbelieveable! It hurt, it was a long climb, and my muscles were screaming, but it was amazing! I kept thinking about all the people who were thinking about the climb this morning and who were rooting for me. I swear I could feel you all pushing me up the mountain. As I got to the top and looked back at the magnificent view I thought...well now, would you look at that...just look at what we did...and how far we've come. Yep...my sister was right. The road I am on has very little to do with geography. Then I cried, ate homemade chocolate and started down the mountain.
Three miles down...talk about getting the blood going! That wind felt like it passed right through me filling me up and renewing my strength as I went. I have never felt more alive than I did while we were flying down that mountain "hoopin' and hollerin'" as we went! The biggest smile you have ever seen spread from ear to ear! When we hit the bottom, it was 8:40.
The next 10 miles or so were very nice rolling hills and flat stretches. So relaxing and beautiful. The smells of morning were fantastic.
Coming into Charlottesville, there was a bit of climbing to do, but the heat was the real kicker. The heat index was 97 here and no shade to be found. We stopped at a grocery store where we met JD and I said goodbye. They wished me luck and JD gave me directions for heading out of town.
The first thing I did when I left them was get off of the route. I just took a wrong turn, but of course that turn was a half mile downhill which means I just had to turn around and pedal uphill again. I asked a 928 year old woman if she knew how to get to the Cavalier Inn and I have included our conversation below:
Me: Hi. I'm sorry to bother you, but do you know where the Cavalier Hotel is?
Precious lady: I believe that is right by where the Red Lobster used to be.
Me: ........sigh.......blink...Thank you. :)
I have found that people do not know distance. People also do not know what flat is. I have heard countless times..."Oh yeah, it's pretty much flat when you get to that intersection".
No...it isn't...ever. This is going to be great comedy someday.
I was planning on heading to Zion Crossroads, but it worked out that I just stayed in Charlottesville. The pieces of that fell right into place and this is exactly where I needed to be tonight.
I ate a most excellent burger, fabulous fries and a salad for dinner. I'm sunburned and sleepy, but very happy.
Tomorrow, I will be riding to almost Richmond. If I'm feeling really good I'd like to make the ride all the way in. It's 71 miles, but there aren't any mountains left from here to the coast and I have all day. That's the plan at least.
Much love...and thank you!
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