almost home

No, not the cookies from the 80's. (Majestic interlude) Day 5 is behind us! But first, day 4.

Thursday-Cumberland to Hanover, PA.

This was a "recovery day." We only rode 73 miles, and it wasn't all hills. We actually had long flat stretches. And finally having figured out how to eat properly, I felt great. It was wonderfully overcast so riding was a joy. But we did see "Mount Misery Road." Thankfully our route did not include that particular street.

What else can I say? My cycling buddy, Kelly was not having as much fun as I was. She prefers smoking me on the long climbs. Without those, she couldn't make me look like a fool.

Speaking of looking like a fool, I took care of that on my own. I am following Kelly when I hear "on your left." I drift right a bit, and somehow end up with my wheel right next to Kelly's back wheel. I tense up and try to stay straight. But I bump into her wheel, and almost crash! As I am going down and am thinking about how much this is going to hurt, I miraculously get my left foot unclipped. I get my foot to the ground and slide it along the pavement while braking to a stop. Kelly felt the hit, but fortunately was not put in danger. My guardian angel was on the ball!

I got to eat ice cream!

Friday-Hanover to Annville,PA

Back to a normal day-85 miles with 6000 ft of climbing. And welcome back heat! But I made it without incident. Unfortunately for me, Kelly was back to smokin me on the climbs. It was tough, but I felt pretty good.

We pulled into Lebannon Valley College arround 3.I had a beer in the truck. Then we had a great dinner provided and donated by the school. After dinner, lots of thanks from the american cancer society and great stories from the road. Then a nice chat with old friends who had exciting news, now the posting.

When I get some time to digest all of this, I will reflect on the whole experience and expound.