Day 12- Lambertville, NJ
Today was a good day. In fact it was a very good day. We got to sleep in a little bit and woke up to fog everywhere so it looked like it wasn’t going to be fun. But by the time I got started it was sunny and warming up. Unfortunately my legs didn’t have a chance to warm up before I ran (or rode I guess) into a nice long 2-3 mile climb. My legs were tight and sore from yesterday so it was not pretty. After nearly 10 miles I was averaging about 15.0 mph. As soon as I got over that hill though, I “threw it down.” I dunno why but my legs felt GREAT on the flats and real gradual climbs, but AWFUL on the bigger climbs. So I was either going 25 mph or 10 mph.
By the time I finished the 34 miles in the morning I was averaging 18.0 mph. It was sweet. I felt a little sore and tired but overall felt strong. We stopped for lunch near Valley Forge where we met up with my parents for the rest of the day. I doubled up on lunch and was fueled for the afternoon.
The afternoon was looking to be just as good as the morning with near 60 degree temps and sunny. But it turned out to be even better. The slight side/head wind I was battling all morning (not really battling because it was slight, but it sounds cooler when I say battle) became a tail wind. The final 37 miles went by extremely quickly. For the first half of the afternoon I was averaging 19.3 mph before falling to 19 mph by the end of the day. That was only for the afternoon though, I had an 18.5 mph average for the day. I “threw it down.” Though I did have a tail wind, and I did only a little more than half as much climbing as I did yesterday, and I only did 71 miles, and it as perfect weather, and yes i enjoy writing in incomplete sentences and run on sentences, it’s more exciting that way. But I am sure that I will pay for today’s effort tomorrow as I have my final 90+ mile day.
I’m assuming tomorrow will be more of the same with lots of hills. But the weather is suppose to be bad too. Luckily it looks like it will be the last day of bad weather until the finish. Only 4 more days of riding. I’m excited. And tired. And sore. And sort of bummed.
Tonight’s home stay will help me recover though. We (Aislinn, My parents, and I) are staying with some of our best friends from when we use to live in Paris. It’s been a long time since we saw them and their neighbors (who were also some of our best friends in Paris). We had an awesome dinner and are having lots of fun. Tomorrow night we are back in a hotel though.
Until then here are today’s pictures. They’re not exciting. But I did get into New Jersey where we ended today! Woo
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| Day 12 |
Thanks for reading.
Stephen
March 18th, 2009 at 8:39 pm
Stephen- You energy and enthusiasm are so contagious! I feel like heading out on my bike right now…that is if I had a bike! So glad the day was great! Enjoy your last few days…I know you will miss them when they’re gone.
March 18th, 2009 at 8:49 pm
Hi Steve-
I’ve been reading your blogs every day and am so proud of you. I’ve tried to send comments before but couldn’t figure it out - you know how technologically savvy I am.
Matt’s away so he couldn’t help me.
I can’t believe that you are almost home. Enjoy your last few days.
March 18th, 2009 at 10:35 pm
Stephen,
Hello and thank you for being strong for your mother and the entire Amyloidosis community. My Identical twin Paul lost his fight in December and it devastated us all, as it was thought that he was getting better just days before his passing. This disease is unlike any other because there is little known about cause and treatment and why some respond favorably more so than others and what is the crucial time-lines involved to receive the much needed treatment to prolong a quality of life.
I commend you for taking up the fight to help raise much needed support that will someday (I pray) put this disease in the category of the common cold. I pray for your continued strength to accomplish you goal and that you will be able to join your family soon to share your incredible journey face to face.
You are an inspiration to us all.
God’s Speed,
Philip Hawthorne
P.S. Thank you for mentioning Paul in your earlier post.
March 19th, 2009 at 7:35 am
Well, I am glad you have had some good weather! The pictures are gorgeous. When we drive to Boston, it’s interstate and I don’t get to see all this beautiful countryside, so I am enjoying it though you. Suzi called to remind me to pick up copies of the article and said she is mailing yours.
Have a good safe trip and once again THANKYOU.
Judi
March 19th, 2009 at 7:35 pm
You are doing an amazing thing! I read your posts daily and am in awe of your strength and perseverance. God be with you as your finish up your journey!
March 21st, 2009 at 10:28 am
I’ve been reading daily, impressive! Keep up the great work!!