As I joined this ride I observed bodies of all kinds of sizes and shapes. I have observed bikes of all sizes, shapes and costs. I have observed riding speeds and strengths too. Last week Saturday we road down a steep hill which is part of a glacial ridge called the escartment. The signs at the top warned that the grade was 12%. I used my brakes the entire downhill distance and was at times fearful that I was going to tip over forward because the grade was so steep.
As I was going down I met some of my fellow riders who got to the bottom and turned around and decided to bike back up the hill. I cheered them on and when I reached the bottom there was that momentary thought "maybe I too could conquer this "hill". Thankful common sense took over and I said to myself " I could pull a muscle or even fall and it could be the end of the ride for me."
The things that I was most concerned about at the beginning of the ride were: heat, humity, and hills. Thankfully the heat and humidity have not been a real issue. I think it started out in the 40's this morning. But most of the hill climbing lies ahead in the next three days. Please pray for the wisdom, courage and strength to persevere on the difficult climbs. I know that my muscles have been getting stronger as the days progressed but I found soreness in new muscles today.
Two different people that I have ridden with in the last several days have looked at my bike, studied the sprockets and looked at the arrow bars and said "You have the perfect kind of bike for this kind of ride." You have a good climbing gear range, you have arrow bars for an efficient riding style and you have shocks on the front wheel for all the rough roads. That was encouraging to me to hear their analysis. I remember their words when I see the sleek racing bikes and bodies fly by and seem to climb the hills with ease.
I was very pleased to get some mail when I got to St. Catherines, some cards of encouragement and of course that wonderful box of "monster cookies which Ruth baked and mailed to me." And for all you boys and girls who are worried about me eating too many cookies, I am sharing them with other riders and they are very happen to have them.
I hope to keep you further informed in the next few days. Thanks for your thoughts and prayers.
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2 comments:
Stan, isn't google a wonderful world?
As I was covering for you today, and at one of our nursing homes, some of the staff seemed confused when I introduced myself; I explained your bike trip, and they were all amazed. You may have a few people who want to hear about it when you return.
And I am no longer having a pity party for myself after driving out to Allentown in one day last week!
Hang tough and watch out for others who might stalk you on google!
Teri
"See Grandpa on Saturday on his Bicycle!" -love, Zoe
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