ST Backup

         San Francisco to St Augustine                      3/1/23 to 5/3/23  I completed my bicycle journey that began March 1st in San Francisco. A journey that was planned in 2017 by David and me, but because of life’s circumstances, never moved past the planning stages. After David passed away in Sept 2021, I began to “finish the dreams” we had in our bucket list. One by one, with help from his lifelong friend, Cliff Goodlet, teaching me the many aspects of touring, the Natchez Trace and now the Southern Tier has completed what together David and I were planning. I could never have made it without Cliff being my eyes and ears, routing me from Austin when I went solo and keeping Hendrika and I from being turned around so many times. He “rode “this journey with me from his chair and computer, always having “eyes "on me for my safety. It seemed perfect having him ride the last 50 miles with me. It all began with an Amtrak ride from Atlanta to Emeryville, accompanied by my friend

  The Last 55

 

​It is hard to believe that today I will finish. Alot of different things are going thru my mind this morning as I prepare to ride. I am trying to sort through them, but there are just so many thoughts and emotions tangled together that I wasn’t expecting.  For now, I am going to just enjoy the ride and figure out the rest as the day goes.  Finished my ride today around 3:30. I am still trying to process is all, but for now, we are celebrating. Full pictures and blog will be posted soon. 

​From Perry to Gainsville, 70 miles, great tailwind, some sidewinds in places, but overall, a good ride. I passed a couple of riders heading west, and 3 that are finishing this week too. Cliff and Poddy left Rock Spring Georgia this morning early to be here for my last day of riding tomorrow. After a wonderful dinner with them, I am settled in my room, thinking about how surreal it seems. Hoping to be able to process it all tomorrow as I ride my last 50 miles.  Carb loaded breakfast for a 70-mile day Ruby and I stopping to enjoy the flowers Ruby wanted a shot without me in it Arrived at the motel

 Tailwind = Fast Ride!

​Today was a short day of riding with 50 miles, but a long day getting started. Special thanks to The Great Bicycle Shop in Tallahasee for making a house call to fix Rubys tire. I tried all thru the night and early this morning to get the tube off with no success. He comes and within  a few minutes had it off. He said its all in the thumbs.. Mine apparently are not strong enough! Finally, around 1:00,  I left the motel.  Nothing grande about the scenery or road today, other than a terrible smell all the way. Besides that, it was just a straight shot to Perry. Nice tailwinds, some headwinds, good side to ride on made for an enjoyable day. Topped it off with Chicken Alfredo and a salad for dinner, a warm shower and soft bed. Life is good on the road.  A nice comfortable hotel from a dear friend for our anniversary today.

Winds were out of the WNW today at 10-25 mph. My first 25 miles were mostly easterly, so I enjoyed the extra push. My last 25 miles I turned southward, and the winds were not as helpful. As a side wind, they kept trying to push me into the roadway. But it was a good day as you can tell by my average speed and moving pace. I'm enjoying a great Italian Meal at Mama's Italian Restaurant tonight. I'll upload a more complete blog for the day later. Mama Mia itza good food!