Week One Summary Post: Sunday 11/23 - Saturday 11/29

Note, I lumped my initial Saturday warm-up ride of 20 miles from the beach to Santee into my Sunday statistics. In other words - I am cheating already!

Area covered: San Diego CA to Apache Junction AZ - just East of Phoenix

Total miles ridden: 516

Average miles per day: 74

Ahead/Behind schedule: 42 miles BEHIND schedule - I am not concerned yet as I am still sitting on 2 spare days and there are several short cuts in the route if I choose to cut some corners based on weather or schedule.

Best ride section: Coming off the San Diego mountains through the Chocolate mountains and dropping into the desert. As a special bonus this was a 7 mile section at a 6 % downhill grade.

Worst ride section: "Flat Country" between Salome AZ and Aguila where the Goat Heads had their way with me for 7 flats within a 5 mile section.

Best restaurant: Chalos Casa De Reynoso in Globe AZ - the best bean and steak burrito I have ever had. The whole meal with a draft only cost $6 (not pesos).

Best hotel: Holiday Inn Express in Surprise AZ - brand new. I may have gotten chain grease on the fine linens - please don't tell.

Worst hotel: Shefflers in Salome - this place was a dump and I had to ride my bike through 6 inches of water to get to the front door of my room. Then was warned of homeless people who might take my wet gear that was airing out on the front porch.

New career options considered: #1 - Going out of business sign holder as I have seen tons along the way #2 - Tie Down sales - you know, those rubber or bungy cord straps that hold things on trucks and trailers. I"ll bet I have seen more than 100 of various sizes and colors. You could make a living by picking these up and opening up a retail store to sell them. #3 - Weigh loss clinic - I have discovered a new way to lose weight that just might put Curves out of business. Simply ride a bike 74 miles per day and you can eat all you want while still losing weight. This might be the most promising opportunity yet!