Day 21 Ft. Davis

Today is an "off" day and I'm at the library in Ft. Davis trying to get caught up. Since the computer is slow about uploading pictures, I'm going to lunch at Murphy's and then back to the lodge. Today is my birthday! and I'm having a great day. I've talked to Catherine, Gray and Margaret and have a message from Carol. The girls strung a HB banner outside my room and hung balloons from it this AM after breakfast.

More later.

After I returned to the lodge, there was a map meeting just outside my room where the van was parked. As the ladies enjoyed an afternoon wine or cold drink, they began pulling out little gifts for me! Everyone had been into town and done a little shopping. I received bar end tassels for my bike and green sparkly clips for my sandals, a tin of tasty pecans, cowboy kleenex packs, Ft. Davis souvenirs and other funny, cute or nifty gifts. Linda had purchased a Red Velvet cake and had BD Clark written on the top which everyone enjoyed. My BD turned out to be a wonderful celebration of my special day and I appreciated so much all that everyone did for me.

Day 20 Van Horn to Ft. Davis, TX

Linda had eggs and oats ready today at 7 am. By the time I had breakfast, I had loaded my bags and pumped my tires. By 7:30 at first light and with flashers blinking I was leaving the parking lot. It was to be a LONG day and more difficult than anyone suspected it would be. The first 20 miles were on I-10 frontage road; the 2nd 20 on I-10. Then, we turned south on SR 118 and followed that the remaining 50 miles to Davis Mountain State Park/Indian Lodge where we're spending two nights. This is a lovely lodge nestled in the foothills of The Davis Mountains. We had some really tough climbing for about 36 miles to the McDonald Observatory - I mean REALLY tough climbing - some grades as much as 10%. Only half of the ladies completed the day; the others sagged from 40 miles and beyond. I really thought today was much more difficult than Emery Pass, and tonight my knees are most uncomfortable. I wish I'd made two ice packs, but didn't think about that soon enough. Michelle admits that this is the hardest day of the trip. I know I still have to face Eagle's Nest in the hill country, but will think about that when the time comes. (Myra, if you're reading this, I'm sure you remember Eagle's Nest on our Texas Hill Country Ride some years ago. . .). Katie and I have a room on the back side and lower level of the lodge and the trailer is parked just outside. So, our front walk with rocking chairs was the gathering place this afternoon for relaxing and discussing the day. The sag drivers, who double as dishwashers for the cook, used our tub tonight to give all the pots and pans a good scrubbing and sanitizing. Actually, we all wash our own plates and utensils each night, but tonight we ate in the lodge. The sag drivers wash the cooking pans every night. Our dinner in the lodge was a delicious Mexican buffet that included a great Tortilla Soup. There's no cell phone service except for Verizon and even that only works in a certain spot. . . . As I was pulling in this afternoon, a small Javelina wondered across the road in front of me. Couldn't get my camera out quickly enough to get his picture. .
Observations:
Vegetation today thru the canyons was Yucca plants. The hills were covered with them making the hills look as tho they had the measles. . . As we got higher (we climbed 2000 ft), the cedar trees took over reminding me of Gila National Forest.
The McDonald Observatory was lovely to look at from afar. When I reached the visitor's center, I declined to continue the climb to the actual observatory! No way!! I was content to purchase postcards. . . Those who've done this trip before me understand, I'm sure.
Several of the ladies are sick or recovering from bad colds, upset stomachs, etc. We're doing all we can to keep it from spreading further. ..

Day 19 Ft. Hancock to Van Horn, TX

It was warmer this AM but still cool enough for a 2nd layer - arm warmers, wind vest, socks (with my sandals). By 10, though, I shed all of the above. Today we were to ride on I-10 and also for much of the day on the less traveled frontage road. Yours truly pulled out ahead of a lot of riders and soon found herself entering the freeway prematurely. Well, I was singing America the Beautiful, praying, and just enjoying the purple mountain majesty (PMM) and was not paying attention to the cue sheet. I only went 1/2 mile out of my way before I made a correction. Riders behind me saw my mistake and called the sag driver to chase me down. By the time Micki passed me, I was well along the correct road. It's good to have support. . . All day today I enjoyed the PMM on the right and mesas on my left with mountains right beyond the mesas. We stopped in Sierra Blanca @ Curly's Barbeque for lunch. About 4 state trooper cars were outside so we figured it must be a good place to eat. The brisket sandwich was outstanding but lunch took nearly 2 hours. Between all the law officers (another group of immigration officers also arrived), the 8-10 of us and another large group, the poor woman and her daughter were totally overwhelmed. After lunch on the flat road and with a wonderful tailwind, I covered the next 20 miles in one hour. Back on I-10 w/continuing tailwind, we just flew into Van Horn. About 5 miles east of the lunch stop, I glanced up and to the left and saw a cross on top of a high peak. (By the way, there was another cross on a high peak that we rode toward as we entered El Paso on Easter Sunday. That really was neat.) This was confirmation to me that I'm where I'm supposed to be. It's still amazing to me that I am so privileged as to be crossing this beautiful country on my bike - me, of all people (traditional Southern woman, etc.), and at my age. According to the AC map, the Quitman Mtns were on our right (south side). A lot of ladies complained about the chip seal road today. It really was fine, though - much better to me than dodging the interstate trash on I-10 shoulder that includes screws, bolts, wrenches, windshield washers, glass, tire wire - you name it! Linda cooked a good Chinese dinner tonight and had Sam's apple pie for dessert. I covered almost 75 miles at 15 mph. I've covered 1033 miles todate!! We're moving on. . . Also, we're now on CST.

Day 18 El Paso to Ft. Hancock, TX

Today dawned a beautiful clear sky and slight wind 5-10 mph gusting to 15-20 at times - nothing like yesterday. With only a 45 mile ride we were encouraged to sleep in and leave later than usual. Most got up about 7 am which was a luxury. The continental breakfast was good and included Texas shaped waffles, hard cooked eggs, Danish, Toast and excellent coffee. By the time I had put together some snacks, pumped my tires and loaded my bags in the trailer, it was close to 9. Mary and I stopped at Walgreen's for new chapsitck and lotion. We followed the Mission Trail Rd. Stopped in Socorro at a beautiful church dating back to 1700's and again at the church in San Elizario. Stopped in Tornilla at La Calesa Restaurant - sort of a Mexican mom and pop place. Enjoyed Flautas - crispy meatfilled tortillas served with spoonful of rice, spoonful of beans, bit of lettuce and small cups of guacamole and sour cream - $6. Not too good really but OK. The final 19 miles to Ft. Hancock reminded me of the MS 150 road to Tunica - straight, windy and boring. The good thing was there was virtually no traffic. We passed plowed field after plowed field, could see mountains way off in the distance, occasional cows and several horse farms. (Emma Grace, you would have loved seeing the horses) Mary and I stopped to visit with a lady who was out watering her iris plants. Her trees (mulberry we think) were filled with bird nests. The birds had pretty calls and were black. Mary thinks they were cuckoos. . . . Ft. Hancock reminds me of the village in Ukraine where I volunteered once on a dental trip - very poor. The main street is paved but every single side street is dirt. We're about 1 mile off Hwy 258 that we were on all day and about 2 blocks from I-20 exit. The the way to the Ft. Hancock Motel which is run by mideast Indians, I stopped in at the Ft. H Merchandise store. Turns out it's a Texas Historic Site and filled with antiques and antique curios. It seemed to be like an old western general store - hardware, groceries and saloon. I bought an ice cream sandwich - perfect for the hot afternoon. . . . Arriving at the motel I discovered that the water system in the entire town of 1713 folks was down. It's supposed to be restored sometime this afternoon. The road today was really good with a clean, wide shoulder until we crossed a county line. The shoulder ran out and the terrain became more desert life. Ft. H is very close to the Mexican border. In fact close by is a large border patrol station. Another thing I've seen today are the roadside canals and irrigation system for the fields and pecan orchards. I wonder if the canal water is coming from the Rio Grande River which is close by....We ate tonight on paper plates, but the water was, finally, restored. My shower was a trickle, BUT it was hot.

Day 17 Las Cruces to El Paso, TX

Happy Easter to all! Five or six responded to our invitation for a short sunrise service this morning at 6 AM. Because of the cold and wind we met in the exercise room. . . We enjoyed two Easter hymns, the tradition Easter greeting, scripture from Matthew and John read by Debbie. We recited the Lord's Prayer and Debbie spoke briefly about the significance of Jesus' resurrection. It was just a great start to what turned out to be our most difficult day to date. . . On our way out of Las Cruces several of us took time to wind around the historic section which was charming. Then it on thru San Miguel, Chamberino on Hwy 28. Turned onto McNutt Rd. where Phyllis and I stopped a little Episcopal Church to use the facilities. They were just beginning the 11 service and we were privileged to hear "Christ the Lord Is Risen Again" again!. I just love it. . . The wind today was horrific - 25 mph all day and gusting to 40 mph every few minutes. A bunch bailed at 20 and 36 sag stops. I couldn't blame them. I was slogging along when Micki and Ann, our mother/daughter team caught up to me. Remember that Micki is the champion racer. I caught onto Ann's back wheel and never left! Micki pulled us the remaining 30 miles thru moderate to busy highway traffic, lots of glass, over hills, around a mountain, over the 273 Loop Rd. that actually was an interstate (exits and entrances to negotiate), etc., etc. What a day - I've never been so tired or ached so badly. We got in about 2:15 with 11.7 avg. speed. After a hot shower, many stretches, Endurox and a cold Corona beer, I began to relax and recover. Also, tonight was Margarita Night. Can you believe that we've crossed three states - CA, AZ, NM! Of course, we'll be in Texas about 3 weeks. . . . Highlights today were seeing many more pecan orchards, wineries and many horse farms and one polo field. At least half the day was in city traffic - not much to see, except we did enjoy downtown El Paso and the beautiful courthouse building - a new looking glass structure.

Day 16 Kingston to Las Cruces, NM

Slow start today after fantastic home cooked breakfast at Black Range Lodge. I was asleep by 8:10 last night and slept really well. Decided to wear regular glasses today because my contact lens irritated my eye yesterday. It's only a few days old. I wonder if I had it in properly or if it was just the wind. The ride out of Kingston continued the downhill of yesterday but was much lower and easier. Rode along Percha River thru Hillsboro, another quirky community. Followed Hwy 152 until we turned east on Hwy 187. Stopped in Hatch but rather than chili, I had a safe ham and cheese sandwich. After leaving the mountains we went thru fertile looking agricultural country. Saw lots of chili processing plants and miles and miles of pecan orchards. All of the orchards had clean ground - no weeds or grass. Also saw fields of what looked like onions and plowed fields with the remains of cotton from last year. On the way into Las Cruses most of us stopped at Caliches Frozen Custard. I enjoyed a strawberry milkshake. Rode in at about 3:30. My average speed today was 16.3 with max speed of 36.4 (on a long downhill where I could see the end and there was NO traffic. I took the lane!) The Hampton Inn is really nice - the best lodging so far and most efficient check-in. After our dinner at the trailer, the HI provided a delicious strawberry cake and ice cream for our dessert. The cake had a picture of a bike and the pink cancer symbol on top. .. . . Debbie and I invited everyone to attend a short sunrise Easter service in the morning. Providentially, we were roommates and spent time after dinner planning the service. . . . . . . . Pam, I'll get your email address from Genie. Many thanks to you and everyone else who has sent comments.

Day 15 Silver City to Kingston, NM

Welcome to Black Range Lodge! "It's massive stone walls and logbeamed ceilings - built from the tumbled down ruins of Pretty Sam's Casino and the Monarch Saloon - were completed in 1940. The original construction of multi-layered bricks dates back to the 1880's, when it housed miners and calvary." (brochure) This place is charming - rustic and funky. Everyone seems delighted. The rooms are like a rabbit warren - in every nook and cranny.. . . This was our toughest day of riding to date. We climbed about 4800 ft. to a high of 8828 ft. at Emery Pass. The climb wound round and round. There were times when my stomach was queasy as I looked out and saw how high up I was. Other times I was between sheer cliffs of rocks. We were in the Gila National Forest which I understand is the largest national forest in the U.S. at about 5 million miles. (that sounds outrageously large, doesn't it?) It's beautiful, too. Specifically, we were going thru Railroad Canyon along Iron Creek. The mountains were the Black Range which is part of the Rocky Mtns. I stopped several times for short breaks - always on a flat. It's funny but every time it seemed I couldn't go on, there would be a brief flat that allowed some recovery time. I, of course waltzed all day or would have never made it. Finally at mile 39 we saw a sign to Emery Pass Vista off to the left. What a treat. That was the most exquisite site I have every seen. After staying at the vista site for several pictures, I started down hill which turned out to be 8 miles of switchbacks! Since I don't like downhills, I was miserable the entire time going down. My average speed was 9.5 for the day. I've decided that I'd rather go up than down - a real departure from my earlier days of cycling. Vegetation today was mostly cedar and pine trees making the mountains look very dark. For those interested in the route we were on Hwy 152 beginning 7 miles out of Silver City. . . . At the lodge the innkeeper had a massage table which Michelle put outside. I was first in line for a 15 min. massage which helped my shoulders tremendously. . . . This morning shortly after leaving Silver City we saw the Kneeling Nun which is a rock formation. Indian legends have it that the nun fell in love and forever repented for her "sin".. . . . Soon after the nun we passed by a working copper mine that was awesome in an ugly sort of way. Kingston pop is 15 which must be why I never found it on the map. I wish I could have stayed there at the lodge for at least another day. I really enjoyed it.

Day 14 Silver City, NM. . .Southern Tier 2008

I actually slept until 7 am today and loved it! The Comfort Inn provided a good breakfast of waffles, whole wheat bread for toast, hard cooked eggs, coffee, etc. As sag driver yesterday, Phyllis was able to spend phone time lining up a driver to take some of us on a day trip to the Gila National Forest and cave dwellings. Bryan showed up in his Pathfinder at 9:45 for Phyllis, Judy, Mary and me. Our first stop was Albertson's for a picnic lunch which we enjoyed much later in the day. Then, it was off on a windy mountain road for an almost 2 hour drive to the cave dwellings. These are cave homes built into the face of the mountain about 1200 AD. We were fortunate to have the personal attention of a national park service volunteer who took us from room to room explaining what archeologist believe the various caves and rooms within the caves were used for. They date the dwellings by the pine timbers which were used to make different levels and shelves. In various places one can still see the original pine timbers. As you can imagine the caves are up quite high. Since I have a real fear of heights I didn't know what part of this excursion I would be able to enjoy. At one point we were to walk along a rather narrow passage and I just couldn't do it. I sat down, though, and surveyed the situation for a few minutes while my friends went on. I could still hear the guide. I decided that the path was wide enough and not too long and as long as I didn't look out (to see how high we were) and touched the wall on my left, I could make it. So, this is what I did. I was so pleased to conquer that terrifying moment because the remainder of the cave tour was really interesting. The walk down was along an even more narrow passage, so the guide suggested that I walk back with her along the route that we took to get there. I considered that God's grace for allowing me to be part of the tour but not having to continue down the narrow return route. . . We found Bryan napping but he'd also been able to take care of some personal business. We then found a picnic table for our sandwiches, chips and water. Then we were off to find the warm springs to bask in for a short time. Jean had told me about this bonus and we found someone who told how to get there. (My friend Jean did the Southern Tier last year). Bryan didn't even know about this particular location. There was a changing trailer for switching to bathing suits and then it was into the hot springs. There really were hot, too. Each one of us eased ourselves in very slowly. For one thing, my right leg was a litle sunburned and that hurt. Since Bryan used to be an athletic trainer, we each took advantage of his ability to give a shoulder massage. He really hit the spot where each of us had a little shoulder pain. It was difficult to leave but by now it was about four oclock and we really needed to face the long drive back to town. You can imagine how glad we were to have a driver, especially one who was accustomed to the roads. I think we're ordering a pizza for dinner tonight and will hit the sack early. The day trip, though, will remain a highlight of this journey.

Day 13 Lordsburg to Silver City, NM

Wow! What a fantastic ride we had today - up and over the Continental Divide!! Another beautiful and cool start. A slow 1% grade for the first 20 miles or so caused most of us to feel as though we were slogging thru mud. But, watching gorgeous mountains made it OK. Then, we did a serious climb up at least a 6% grade only to have a very long and fast downhill. At the top of this climb we found out we were at the top of the Continental Divide at 6355 Ft. What an awesome feeling! I found the climbs to be difficult but oh so doable. Ellen taught me the waltz method of climbing: I count one, two, three in waltz time and on the one count pushing each time with the opposite foot. The push provides a boost and the two-three count provides a rest. This method makes a great rhythm and keeps the cadence smooth. Also keeps my mind off how far the top may be. The day's miles were short, but we had one more serious climb that seemed to go round and round before it started back down into Silver City. I waltzed up and enjoyed the challenge. The first 20 miles appeared flat with fields as far as the eye could see dotted with yucca plants but always with the mountains on the horizon. Took pictures at the Continental Divide. . . I've also learned another technique about drinking from my water bottle. How long have I been cycling and I've never sucked from my bottle. I always squeeze the bottle. However, these last few mornings have been so cold that the bottle is stiff and besides I wear thick gloves for the first 2 hours. So, I realized that I could suck it! Duh! It's really important to stay hydrated even if one doesn't feel thirsty and we go through a LOT of water and Gatoraid. . . . On the way into Silver City, Mary and detoured through the historic part of town before locating the motel on the opposite side of town. We stopped at the home of Billy the Kid's mother where he also lived for a couple of years. Then, we found the Twin Sisters Bike Shop where Annie tweaked my gears and lubed something to make shifting easier. She also pointed out a problem with my shifters that Shimano might ought to correct. . . I'll talk to BP about that when I return. :)) . . . The funniest that happened to me today was standing in the post office next and striking up a conversation with someone that most unusual. She was dressed in a pink or fuchia skirt and sweater with pink beret, silver jewelry and painted nails. But when my eyes reached the face, she was at least a 6 ft. man! We had a most interesting conversation about cycling and he told me about annual bike race that's held in Silver City. Cycling can be very interesting! Today we climbed 2655 ft. We're all looking forward to sleeping a little later in the morning because it's our first day off in eight days. But if I know this group, there will be a gang of us downstairs at breakfast between six and seven. Pics to follow when I can catch someone to show me how to load them.

Day 12 - Safford to Lordsburg, NM

Could the cycling days get any better? I feel like a broken record but today was another one of those glorious days - started off really cool at 37 degrees but warmed up. Never saw a single cloud and we had tailwinds all day (well, except for some serious cross winds going through a cutter). We continued to travel Hwy 70 all day (off the AC map and with less climbs). We had climbs in the AM and at least one fantastic downhill. Because there was no traffic and I could see the bottom, I let it go. Normally, I'm feathering my brakes all the way down. After that we had flats for the next 40-50 miles and tailwinds. I believe we were in the Gila Valley most of the day with vegetation consisting of prickly pear cactus. It was exhillerating to cruise along between 20 and 26 mph. I still only finished witih 14.8 but because 2 of the fast riders had flats, I was the first one in! It was a fun day of riding. All day today we were surrounded by gorgeous mountains. Can life be any better? The big event of the day was in Duncan at mile 40. One of the women has a friend who teaches at the high school. When we passed the high school, all 140 students and all the faculty were waiting at the fence for us with a sign regarding the Cancer Society and welcoming us to Duncan. The cyclist is raising money for Cancer Soc. It was so heartwarming that I got a little choked up. We stopped and took pictures of their sign and talked to the teachers and students. They were all so fascinated by what we're doing. Then, about 2 blocks down the road we all stopped at Ole Joe's and had an early lunch. Michelle had told about this quaint restaurant. The guy students told us that the burritoes were awesome so lots of the ladies indulged. Then it was on to Lordsburg, NM another 35 miles of flat road and tailwinds. I'm told that we climbed about 2200 ft. today. Pictures to be posted later.

Day 11 - Globe to Safford, AZ

After yesterday's disappointment in doing half the ride, we awoke today to light rain and 37 degrees. Dressed in several layers and added a rain jacket and struck out for Safford, AZ. The clouds cleared away after about 2 hours and the remainder of the day was gorgeous. For the longest time I felt like I was riding through the Red Sea. I could see a heavy rain way off on the north and another storm way off to the south. But, we were riding down the highway under soft white clouds and brilliant blue sky! Tailwinds most of way made us feel like we were flying. I finished the 78 miles with 14.5 avg. which for me was great. We started the day with climbs but spent most of the day riding through the San Carlos Apache Reservation with barren flatlands but exquisite mountains in the background. The only site to see in the reservation besides the land was the casino! It was huge and seemed quite busy at 8:30 AM or so. The end of the day took us through Pima (as in cotton), Thatcher and then Safford. This was agricultural country where cotton is the big crop. Reminded me of Silver City, MS on last year's trip. Taylor Freeze in Thatcher was the big stop for the day. My chocolate milkshake really hit the spot. . . . Being St. Patrick's Day, Linda cooked "green". She had homemade split pea soup and green salad, good bread and several desserts. . . . Approaching Safford we were privileged to watch the most gorgeous mountain to date. Mt. Graham is huge and was covered with snow. We must have seen it for 30 miles. We were routed away from the Adventure Cycling (AC) maps today and followed Hwy. 70 instead. I think this may have been less mountainous! I didn't hear any complaints. The road is very good and has a good shoulder despite the rumble strips which we all hate. Somewhere close to Safford, we passed a young man who turned out to be from New Zealand. He is going cross country on a skateboard and trying to set a record for Guiness Book of World Records. He started in FL and is headed for San Diego. I had a flat today, but it was a "room" flat. Actually, it was soft on the road but when I pumped it up it held the entire day. I put in a new tube tonight so I should be just fine. It's gone soft on me several times. Probably a leak aound the valve stem. Overall, this was a really good day. If I can't add pictures tonight, I'll post them later. Many thanks to all for your comments and emails. Forgive me if I don't answer the emails for I really do appreciate hearing from everyone. It's just that I'm on borrowed pcs.

Day 10 - Apache Junction to Globe,AZ

For the first time I can't begin by saying this was another clear, sunny day. It was cool and overcast but we were all so grateful that it wasn't raining as had been predicted. After all the warnings about weather for today, I think we all slept remarkably well. My roomie and I could hardly visit last night because we spent our time muttering to ourselves over just what to wear today in the way of warm clothes and raingear. I seemed perfectly outfitted for the temp this morning and was prepared for possibility of rain. Mary and I were the 1st to leave and that was about 7:30. We had all our flashers on including the one on top of my helmet. The first 18+ miles were an easy warmup for the climb that began just as the divided highway turned to 2 lanes. The climb into Superior was about 10 miles with a 1.5 mile descent. Unfortunately the mountains were so shrouded in fog that there were no photo opportunities. We arranged last night that everyone stop at the Buckboard restautant in order to reassess the weather conditions. Since we still had no precipitation, Mary and I proceeded on but about 10 minutes apart. It really seemed as though we could complete the ride on to Globe. After climbing very slowly for 3 miles out of Superior and reaching the infamous tunnel and having gone over an awesome bridge, the Sag driver for the day came by on the other side of the highway. She had gone ahead and discovered snow and very poor visibility. The local police had been following us up the mountain. He called over to us and told us we were crazy to proceed. So on that note the decision was made that all should be sagged to Globe. It was disappointing for most of us, but it's best to safe. . . I did take a few photos from the tunnel looking back at the road thru the mountains and at the bridge I mentioned. I'll post them tonight or later. I should have gotten a pic of all the bikes on top of the trailer. I think it hold 14. Obviously we were shuttled in two groups. The temperature here is a chilly 40 degrees which means tomorrow's start will be cold. I'm planning to add my Goretex jacket to the mix of clothes. Still having fun but for some reason I'm a little tired tonight. Could it be climbing at 6.5 mph - slogging along up and up? I'm enjoying each day's challenge .

Day 9 - Phoenix to Apache Junction, AZ

No pictures today although it was another perfectly beautiful day of cycling. It was different, though, as we traveled 50+ miles through city traffic, suburbs, travel parks, 55 retirement communities, etc., etc. The traffic was moderately heavy and loud. Most of the trip was covered in designated bike lanes which was wonderful. Memphis can sure take lessons from AZ on bike lanes. . . Bo Peep was parked at 20 miles out in a beautiful community park where lots of athletic games were taking place. No place along the way to eat lunch. Some took a break at Starbucks. I, unfortunately, never saw it. Mary and I finally pulled in at Fry's supermarket and had a picnic in their deli. Girl Scouts were selling cookies out front and promised to watch our bikes. We bought 2 boxes (they were out of Trefoils so we got the lemon and Thin Mints) on our way out. I had to bungee them in my handlebar bag but that worked just fine. We only had about 10 more miles at that point. Since we arrived so early at the Super 8 most of us had to wait for room service. I've used the time to relax, do my devotional reading, answer your emails and do what I'm doing now. :)) My roommate is gracious to let me borrow her laptop. . . . Tomorrow we're off to Globe and over mountains. The weather report is not good but if it's snow or ice, Bo-Peep and the van will haul us over. So, we'll be fine. I'll get to wear those winter cycling shoes I've been hauling around and the one long sleeve jersey that I brought. To the MS Divas: I learned so much last summer from so many of you. I now wear cycling sandals and I have arm warmers, leg warmers and a wind vest - all essential equipment for a trip like this. And, thanks to Judi and Holly for schlepping my luggage, but I can now actually hoist my bag over my head and pump it a few times. How 'bout that? I give my YMCA instructors all the credit for this latest achievement! So long for now. Don't know when I'll again post but I will be back!
Keep those cards and letters (email/comments) coming, but you may not receive replies. For some reasons when I've tried to reply to your comments from my email, they're being returned. I'll try to figure that out soon.

Day 8 - Salome to Phoenix, AZ

First of all - Happy 3rd Birthday to my sweet Sarah Catherine!!!

We've been on the road for a week and I've never in my life had so much fun. Today was another great cycling day - started off cool but warmed up. At 8.6 miles we got off the Adventure Cycling maps and took Hwy. 74 until we reached the Phoenix area. With only a couple of long climbs, good shoulders and tailwinds for most of the day, I had my best average ever at 15 mph. I'm riding with Mary but out in front so I can go my speed. Near Phoenix we turned into a terrific headwind, but with bike lanes I didn't encounter any problems. Stopped at the nearby bike shop for more Chamois Butter. I'm still using what Jean gave me last year and it's about gone. . . Today's scenery was terrific - I'll try to load a picture later. We passed along miles and miles of the Saguaro cactus which are so funny to me. They're really tall and have multiple arms and some have ears at the top or a cute little hat shape. Emma and Eliza - look Saguaro cactus up on the Internet and you'll see what I mean. These fields continue to be surrounded by far away mountain ranges. The maps don't tell me the name of these. This was just a fantastic day of cycling - about 66 miles. I think we've finished about 422 miles so far. The Best Western has fresh popcorn and cookies which we're enjoying instead of lunch. I'm sure Linda will have her usual terrific dinner. In fact, I saw sacks of charcoal behind the trailer. . . . Please keep the emails coming. I love mail from home! Love to all and many, many thanks for all the prayers. For the next day or two, please concentrate on weather. We're been told that rain and snow are predicted soon!

Day 7 - Salome to Wickenburg, AZ

What a fabulous journey! Today began quite cool but soon warmed up. Arm warmers still feel good. Flat, smooth road for the first 40 miles or so. We stopped at mile 4 so as not to miss coffee at Ingredients Coffee House. What an experience. It's a fasinating and charming little place. I continue to be awed by God's handiwork. The plains go forever but always there's the backdrop of magnificent mountains. The vegetation looks like large forsythia. Can anyone tell me what it is? Maybe Mesquite. It's barely leafing out. Also, there a lot of Prickly Pear Cactus and Saguaro cactus that look like stick figures. I understand that Tuna Soup is made from Prickly Pear cactus. We tried unsuccessfully to fine this at lunch today. . . . . In Aquilla we tried to stop at Big Mama's but apparently business hasn't been too good and she's closed. Went back about a block to the Aquilla Library to use the facilities and their computer. I finally got into my email. Yea!!! There were 83 hits and not too many were Performance or Amazon. . . . As we began a long climb I wondered why I'd been struggling a little. Looked down and lo and behold I'd been in my big chain ring all morning. Boy did I need to move it down at this point in the ride. The downhill into Wickenburg was another great view and great ride. Mary, Sue and I went straight into town to find a local color restaurant. Found Chaparrel Homemade Ice Cream restaurant where we enjoyed homemade chicken vegetable soup but no ice cream. We were holding out for Sweet Darlene pie that Linda bought yesterday. Chaparrel is on the National Historical Register. Later, Sue found a jewelry store and bought herself a beautiful birthday bracelet and earring set. Mary and I found the public library and spent 2 hours reading, responding to and cleaning off email. I was SO glad to get that done. Tonight Jane has been quite gracious to allow me to use her email. She's even downloading my pictures. I've also put them on my new flashdrive and cleaned off the camera card. I'm getting to be quite the techie, don't you think? . . . . Michelle is warning us of approaching foul weather so good times may be put on hold as we just do our best to get through it! On to Phoenix tomorrow. The picture is of Mary outside Ingredients. The sign reads: Good Food, Great Coffee. Unforgetable Women!

Day 6 - Blythe to Salome, AZ

Today was absolutely beautiful. However, going out of the parking lot I discovered a soft tire and had to stop for a quick tube change. Thank you, Michelle.. . . Then, being by myself and without the lookout help of friends, I missed the dirt path up to the frontage road to I10. The sag driver noticed my mistake and came after me and turned me around. Lo and behold if I didn't miss it again! By then Mary had caught up to me and we walked the path carrying our bikes, found the interstate and enjoyed riding together. She's the other southerner and from Gainesville, FL. We caught up with other buddies in Quartzite at Sweet Darlene's where we enjoyed strawberry rhubarb pie. I stayed behind here and finally got thru to ATT and got a temporary password for my email. Now I can't wait for an opp to try it. After a hot, flat stretch our next food stop was Hope where the ice cream bars were mighty good. Yep! I'm sure I'll gain weight but I'll worry about that later. Leaving Hope there's a sign that reads "Your (sic) Beyond Hope"! Tonight we're in Salome, AZ at a little motel that is right out of the 40's or 50's. Reminds me of places where we stopped for the night on vacations when I was a little girl. Salome is just a wide spot in the road but it had a post office. Since we crossed a state line today, tonight was margarita night. After a hot day in the saddle, they sure tasted good, too, with Michelle's guacamole dip. Linda's dinners are beyond good - they're fabulous. Tonight we had peanut chicken over brown rice, great slaw with Raman noodles and fresh pineapple. The picture is one of the four geezers. We're the oldest but among the strongest!

Day 5 - Blythe, CA off day

Today, I am in Blythe, CA and it's our first day off. Mary from Gainesville and I walked to the library after cleaning our bikes. The attached picture is Sue our birthday girl of the day. We celebrate 4 birthdays on the trip. Mary taught me how to REALLY clean the chain and derailleur and Michelle made an adjustment on my gearing. Yesterday, something happened to make shifting difficult. Cleaning chain probably helped a lot. I still can't seem to get email so will look for an ATT 800 number and see if I can just change my password. Frustration! Blythe is a lovely town, flat like the MS delta. The library has 5 public pcs. I signed up for an hour but haven't been run off yet. Had to sign my life away but that's ok. There's no one here but a few WT folks, so it's VERY quiet. They have the same cell phone signs that we have in Memphis, but I have the feeling the warnings are enforced here.

On to Arizona tomorrow!

Day 4 - Brawley to Blythe, CA

Brawley Inn was our plushiest motel so far - huge 4 poster beds with pillow top mattresses and huge pillows - at least 4! I slept really good. In fact I forgot to remove one ear plug and didn't even hear the alarm. I'm sleeping better than I ever have on bike trips. I know Catherine is praying specifically about that, but I think it's also because I really trained for this ride and haven't been as tired or sore as on some other rides. . . . It was so hot when we got in yesterday that I started out in sockless shoes and shorts. Fortunately I remembered to pack arm warmers and wore my wind vest and light jacket. My hands were numb for the first 1 1/2 hours, but the sky was clear and I knew it would warm up. Our first 40 miles were quite windy - that 40mph thing again, but our slow paceline kept us trudging along. Linda had a wonderful picnic lunch somewhere in the desert at 40 miles. After that we had 9 miles are rather steep rollers. Michelle cautioned us to get really spread out so that trucks, etc. could get around, esp with oncoming traffic. The shoulder was narrow but sufficient. I stopped once to let a truck pass, but never felt threatened or afraid. (another answer to prayer because semis can terrify me) Today's ride to Blythe was 90 miles of heat and wind (after the initial cold), but a good ride altogether. My plantar fasciitis kicked in but stopping every 4-5 miles to get off the bike kept me going. Today we went through the Chocolate Mountains and through the Imperial Valley. Sometimes the mountains looked like cocoa piled up. I rode up a steep hill to observe the desert and the view was spectacular. Because of the late day, WT treated us to dinner at The Sizzler. We were told to choose from the Senior Menu and that proved to be more than sufficient. My small steak was fabulous! Then, of course, there was the salad bar, baked potato and soft serve ice cream!



Today

Day 3 - Jacumba to Brawley, CA

Leaving Jacuma we had a 5 1/2 mile climb. Penny, Hanna, Judy and I continue to make a good riding group. From time to time the group gets larger. The winds were extremely gusty this morning - probably 40 mph at times. After the long climb we had a glorious 10 miles descent through the In Kah Pah Pass. (not sure I spelled that correctly). We were actually on the interstate so we had great shoulder. The mountains were so beautiful. I just can't describe the purple mountain majesty and the boulder mountains. I had chill bumps as I sang America the Beautiful over and over! The descent was so exhillarating. After that, though, the road was bumpy, windy, hot and long. Micky, our youngest who happens to be a champion cyclist, taught me some of the finer points of riding in a pace line, and I really enjoyed doing that. A large group of us stopped at a good Mexican family restaurant in El Centro for Sunday lunch. Drank my Endurox and cleaned my bike when I got in to Brawley.

Day 2 - Alpine to Jacumba, CA

I'm actually in Blythe today on our day off but will try to write as though I were in Jacumba. . . The day started off beautifully - clear, sunny and cool. Wind vest, sandals and arm warmers were perfect. The latter went up and down my arms depending on windchill factor. My one contact and wrap around sunglasses are working out just fine and I'm completely adjusted now to my new saddle. I've found a compatible group to ride with (same speed) which has been fun. The funny thing is that I seem to be the one who gets up all the hills the easiest!! I tell you, the spinning classes are paying off royally. I just have had no trouble and on this day we climbed about 4,000 feet (5100 to date). I can't believe I'm writing this, but I actually have enjoyed the hills. The scenery today was beautiful. After our 1st long climb I pulled in at a vista lay-by, then the rest of the group stopped. Whenever I'm able to load pictures again, I'll add one of the group on this posting. . . . A particular diner was recommended for piiiiiiiiiiie, so you can imagine that 30 of us stopped. I don't think it was as good as the dessert shop in ILL north of St. Louis, but it was good. (Patty, please send my blog address to the MS Divas. Thanks.) . . . Somewhere close to Jacumba we passed a Mexican border patrol fence. When you see this barren topography I really admire anyone who goes to the effort to get into the US. . . . About the group of ladies: I'm in the upper age group. It seems to be in thirds: 50's, 60-65, 66-68. One turned 48 today and Ann's daughter is 23. It's a VERY congenial group, but aren't all bikers fun and congenial? :)) Some are cancer survivors and one is a stroke survivor. She's really amazing, too, as her right side is still affected, although she's learned to walk again and now rides a low bike with two wheels in front and 1 in back. Before the stroke, she did RAGBRAI 7 times. What an inspiration she is to all of us. She's climbed every hill! Jacumba was a charming Spanish inn with lots of character - starless but charming nonetheless.

I still haven't been able to read email because of a password problem, so I really appreciate your comments!

Day 1 San Diego to Alpine, CA

What a fabulous start on the marvelous journey! The temperature today was perfect. Thirty women from all over the country started out at 8 AM for a short ride over to Dog Beach where we literally dipped our back wheels in the Pacific Ocean and had the group photos taken. Then, it was off to Alpine, CA for our first night's stop. There were several long climbs, but no problem for the legs that have been spinning for several months! In fact I want to thank the instructors at Nuber YMCA (you know who you are) for getting me so well prepared for this trip. The temp today reached at least 80 and our three climbs went from 2% - 8%. Linda, our chef, prepared a fabulous dinner. It's early, but after doing some reading, I think I'll be glad to hit the sack.

I do want to mention how wonderful it was to meet Judy from NC at the airport. We've been talking back and forth for several months. I feel as though I've known her all my life. Then, it was equally great to see Vicki and David who picked us up and treated us to a great lunch at Tom Ham's Lighthouse restaurant on the bay. I also want to thank Lou Ellyn and Gerry for driving down from Oceanside to have dinner with me and the whole group last night. So, I really had a great send-off from San Diego. . . Until next time. . .