4 consecutive centuries -- check! Candidly, I am glad that the stretch of 100+ mile days are over. My body is feeling tired, and a rest day is exactly what I want and need. I was psyched to check into our Erie, PA, hotel knowing that I don't even have to look at my bike tomorrow if I so choose.
Regarding today's ride: except for a series nasty hills (13% grade) that we had to conquer at the very end of the ride, it was a reasonably challenging day. I spent most of the day riding in a paceline, and it helped a great deal. I did my fair share of pulling, and I also benefitted from the drafting I recieved when people in front of me were pulling -- It made the ride a lot more bearable.The highlight of the ride was stopping at White Turkey Drive-In -- a place that served shakes, root beer floats, hot dogs, hamburgers, etc. Something about it reminded me of Sully's, and, for a fleeting moment, I felt home.
Pennsylvania -- as I have said in the past about other states, it just sounds closer to home. I am sure that my father (pictured above, right) felt the same way when he arrived there on his bike 20 years ago!
I remember Erie well, John. We, too, had a rest day there and we took a nice boat tour out on the lake. It's funny, I remember Erie vividly for another reason I've told you about before.
ReplyDeleteErie was the city where I pulled up to a red light stopped, went to put my foot down and it got lodged in the pedal.
Over I went, inches from a car tire (the car was running and stopped at the red light too). I remember thinking, "I hope they saw me fall!"
Quite embarassing. Had a few cold ones that night (NOTE: Not that that separated Erie from any other town we entered!). But, with a day off pending, I probably got over-served by some friendly barkeep. Make sure there are no Wanted posters for some slug from Southie who beat the tab in 1990!
Enjoy your day off. Travel safe. I love ya, D
Pennsylvania does sound a lot closer to home!! Keep going, you are almost there. I'm still amazed everyday when I read your posts. You are awesome!
ReplyDeleteX0X0
Cathy
Hey Johnnie
ReplyDeleteYou never cease to amaze me! Stay Safe! Almost Home.
XOXO
Maureen C.