Monday, August 1, 2016

Reflections


After almost 3,000 miles of riding, 114,000 feet of climbing and countless hours alone on my bike through some of the most awesome parts of this great country, I end my adventure with some reflections both simple and sublime.

-          The human body is an incredible machine.

-          Maybe 70 is the new 50.

-          From the point of view of efficiency and flexibility, a bicycle is as close to being a perfect transportation machine as we have today.

-          Going six weeks without news from the internet, TV, radio or a newspaper (other than the NYT Sunday edition 4X) was cathartic and surprisingly easy.

-          I do not regret missing both political conventions or the ongoing political brouhaha.

-          People who are serious cyclists are some of the most interesting, articulate and nice people in the world.

-          Take the time to slow down and look around and you will see some marvelous things.

-          The United States has an extraordinary divers landscape and populous.

-          Minnesota “Nice “is a fact”

-          I should have done this 25 years ago and should do another soon.

-          I have great gratitude for all who helped make this extended hiatus possible.  I owe you big time.

-          I am a very fortunate and blessed to have been able to do this and truly sorry that others may not be able to.

-          Life is very short and I want to make sure I wear out this body enjoying every second.

Terry and Me at the Mississippi River
Saturday, July 30 about 11:00 AM CDT

This is the last post.  Hope you enjoyed reading the blog and I hope you can someday experience such a wonderful adventure.

jack


Saturday, July 30, 2016

50 more miles

Slept at the YMCA in Washington, IA, last night. The Fitness Center was air conditioned.

Leaving for the last leg of the tour in a few minutes.  If the phone holds out I will post more later.  

Thursday, July 28, 2016

RAGBRAI. DAY 5

In Ottumwa today. Short day, low humidity and good roads.  Had a turkey brat for lunch.


A few bikes parked at the lunch stop. It is  amazing that I can find my bike among the thousands of others.

Ottumwa is the hometown of Radar O'Riely from the iconic TV show, M*A*S *H



Just two more days and the adventure will be over.  Looking forward to sleeping in a real bed and resting a tired body. 

Wednesday, July 27, 2016

Short and Sweet

Limited internet so not going to have a long post.


Had a great camp site last night and slept like a log and continue to eat like a horse.

Sunday, July 24, 2016

First Day of RAGBRAI hot and short

No pictures today since my iPhone battery still has a flakey battery

Today's ride was just about 50 miles with many rolling hills and hot temps. A bit of rain cooled the evening and thanks to Dr. Bryant, we are sleeping inside dry and cool. 

Longer (75 mile) day tomorrow.  Hope it is dry and cooler.  Still having a blast. Will be hard to return to work 

Did weigh myself.  Now about 169 lbs.

New phase. Old Friends

Ready for the last phase of an awesome trip. Our first overnight accommodations.
M. 

Saturday, July 23, 2016

Phase One Complete. On to Iowa

On my way to Iowa.


Hard to leave the Cycle America friends last night.


The adventure continues. Stay tuned for six more days of riding through Iowa