post-pedal depression

With our fantastic journey across the US now complete, our bags sorted out, Pearl loaded down for the morning journey home,  it becomes rapidly apparent that our daily routine will now abruptly change and real life will again resume. It may take several weeks before we stop getting up and putting on our biking gear as the dress of the day.
We were blessed with wonderful weather, not missing a day of riding. We were able to stay on schedule with mileage. Not one time during the journey did any of us wake up and not want to head out on our bikes for the new day's adventure. This is the type of experience from which memories and riding tales will resurface many times in the years to come. We are all very much aware of our fortunate ability to have the health, the time and the team leader/coordinator (Julie) to make this type of adventure possible. Thanks to all of you who followed along either on the blog, on the phone, or riding with us for several days.
Dick

What fun we've had!  For me it was a century ride plus a few extra miles nearly every day for 32 days.  Each day was different scenery and quite often the afternoon was much different than the morning.  The visiting riders in the midwest brought another dimension to the ride.  The weather was better than we could have imagined and Julie's enthusiasm and energy was unbelievable.  We were so spoiled!  The guys were easy to get along with and I will miss our rides together.  We've enjoyed the company of Julie's mom, Mary Lou the last couple weeks.  Our biggest regret is that Dave did not finish the ride with us.  We wish him a speedy recovery.
Roe


Well I really want to say THANKS to all of the people who have been amazingly supportive of this adventure right from the get go.  The food, wine, financial, jersey design, daily prayer, special meals prepared and the many other things to numerous to mention. 

I also want to let everyone know that Dan Ulwelling was in our thoughts today as we finished the day and we can feel his prescence and I can still see his smile.

I also want to let everyone know what a classy bunch of men I have been traveling with.  They have treated my mom to much great humor and kindness.  It was a pleasure to be with these fine men with such great character!  I truly thank them!!!  They always made sure that Pearl was well oiled.

A BIG Thanks to Ed at South Main Auto for getting Pearl in tip top shape for the big trek. As you can see Pearl made it thru with flying colors! So thank you Ed!!

The day has been especially bitter sweet for me as I was so excited for the guys to hit the Atlantic Ocean.  But my heartaches for my husband Dave who is home healing from his mishap along the way.  I so wanted this to be an accomplishment for him too as it was his birthday that spurred on the idea to begin with.  So to that note Honey I will be home soon.  I Love you!

I need to give kudos to my great friends and neighbors who helped Dave get to his Doctors appt's and fill the house with food and helping with taking care of Lilly while Dave was in the hospital. It has eased my mind knowing that he has been taking care of by such caring and devoted friends.  They really had my back.

I can't wait to get back home and get back to my spinning class!   I miss you all and have not exercised for 5 weeks.  This is NOT a good thing!

Time to turn in as we will be leaving early in the morning for the long trek home.

See Ya Soon!

Julie

What a fabulous journey we have had for the last month. I can't put into words the feelings I've had biking across this great country! Being able to come together as a team was important and necessary to make this work.
I will remember this experience for the rest of my life. Thank you all for your great support.
Jerry

I went on this trip to see the Eastern states. I did that and more. I really enjoyed the beautiful scenery all the way out here; and the Atlantic Ocean was awesome!
I am amazed that four individuals can live in such close quarters and still survive. After their long daily ride they took care of their bikers and tents and showered. Then we fed them. They even took a turn at the dishes. I was treated like a queen. They helped me up and down the steps and across the streets. Who else has 4 younger men to wait on her!!
Not much relaxation time. At night they made phone calls home and the blog and pictures on the computer. Up again at 5 am. Said their prayer, and on the road again! No easy task.
It was also interesting to see how Julie managed to schedule the day and the bikers. It was stressful for her to drive Pearl and keep everyone on the right route.  We had our tense moments and our times to giggle!
All in all it was a great adventure.
Thanks for allowing me to be onboard.
"GRAMMA LOU"