Description: Finished the 64 mile ride in Coldspring TX at around 3 pm. I plan to ride to Silsbee TX tomorrow which will be around 90 miles or so. The forecast is ugly for tomorrow with the high predicted to be less than 40, winds in my face, and a good chance of rain. BTW, there was freezing rain coming down when I returned from dinner tonight - yikes. We will see......
I woke up at 6 this morning to pack up and get ready for a 6:30 breakfast. I was disappointed with the Best Western breakfast which is typically very good. I had a microwaved egg biscuit, bowl of cereal, 2 bananas, OJ, and weak coffee. I started riding at 7:30 with cold (42), overcast, and windy conditions. Well, the wind gods changed their game plan last night and switched their winds from the south to the north in an attempt to fake me out. My first 10 miles were a steady climb straight into the wind and I could only manage a 9 mph pace. I stopped at Anderson for some fresh water and to warm up my feet. By the time I got to Anderson, the temp had dropped to 38 as a front was moving through. From Anderson, my route turned more NE and I picked up a cross wind (which I rode for the rest of the day) that was somewhat manageable. I stopped again after 10 miles in Richards at a small gas station for some coffee and a pack of Nekot Peanut Butter cookies (zero trans fat!) which I love. Just after starting up again, rain started coming down which lasted for the next hour as I headed into the Sam Houston National Forest. The Mean Green Machine got a bath and Wilson scampered for cover in a dry bag on the back of the bike. The tall trees of the forrest provided good protection from the wind all the way past Lake Conroe and into New Waver which was 15 miles away. It was lunch time and I was hungry. I grabbed a big Subway sandwich in an attempt to hit the spot. Then as I started rolling out of town, I saw a local donut shop and felt compelled to stop. The owner lived in Durham for 4 years! I wolfed down a quarter dozen donuts with a coffee and was almost too full to mount the bike. Off I went into the chilly afternoon with another 25 miles to Coldspring. The whole day was full of rolling hills which was a surprise as I thought that I had exited the hills of Texas. There were mostly cattle farms in the countryside and a fair amount of traffic going to somewhere that I could not figure out. I rode through the small town of Pumpkin and could only think of Mike Daniels who loves everything pumpkin including ales, lattes, pie, etc. I figured he might retire to this place one day so I took a picture of the sign and sent it to him. At this point, Wilson and I had a serious discussion as we were nearing Coldspring. Even though the wind chill temp was near freezing, the pistons were warmed up and full of energy from all the donuts and caffeine that entered the fuel tank back in New Waverly. The pistons wanted to run and were asking for a Century (100 miler) just for bragging rights. Wilson was very cold and complaining of major shrinkage. He wanted to call it a day and reminded me that there might not be lodging at the next town of Shepherd and beyond that is nothing. It looked like more rain ahead so I reluctantly turned into the tiny (and only) motel in Coldspring. After checking in, I found out there is in fact a new motel (not on my maps) in Shepherd. I will not let Wilson forget this mistake for a long time as I wanted to go more miles. After a long hot shower and a pint, I was ready for carbo loading. Sam, the manager of the San Jacinto Inn offered to drive me to the local food establishments - think small town. The choices were Mexican (tempting), greasy burger joint (nahh), or Elaine's Restaurant (YES). This was an easy choice as my Niece's name is Elaine and I figured this would be good. Tonight marks my transition from Mexican and bean burritos to cajun food. I had the house special of spicy fried catfish, mashed potatoes with white gravy, salad bar, and an awesome hot apple crisp with vanilla ice cream (yes more dessert F). Of course, I had to have some fresh coffee with my dessert. This place was great and has broken my Mexican habit. Beans and rice, here I come as I am close to exiting (day after tomorrow) Texas. Sam came back to pick me up and now I am struggling to stay awake as my body converts all this food into stored nitro power for tomorrow's anticipated cold ride.
Even though it was cold and wet, I had a great ride today as all of my gear kept me warm and dry while the Zune MP3 player kept the tunes going through some new ear buds that my Sherpa Mom bought me a few days ago. .
Good night!
Weather: Started cold, overcast, and windy and got worse as the day went on. Temps dropped throughout the day and I got a solid hour of rain in the late morning. Was too cold to fish but not bike:-)
Performance Metrics:
Miles: 64 Trip: 1,835
Total travel time: 7:30 Trip: 183:30
Bike Riding time: 5:36 Trip: 117:20
Avg speed: 11.44 Trip: 12.73 - wind killed my pace today
Max speed: 24.39 Trip: 41.87
Total ascent (ft): 2,064 Trip: 49,766
Avg pedal RPMs: 87 Trip: 87
Avg heart rate: 105 Trip: 114
Max heart rate: 145 Trip: 195
Calories burned: 3,759 Trip: 107,349
Weather Statistics:
High temp 42 Trip: 75
Low temp: 38 Trip: 28
Hours of rain: 1 Trip: 9
Hours of snow: 0 Trip: 0
Total days of rain/snow: 2
Wind factor: Against mostly
Total good wind days: 9
Total bad wind days: 15
Misc. Stats:
Flat tires: 0 Trip: 8
Mechanical failures: 0
Hotel or camping today: hotel - San Jacinto Inn
Total hotel nights: 22
Total camping nights: 2
Cups of coffee: 5 Trip: 81
Pints: 1 Trip: 35
Mood rating (1-10): 9 - could have been a real bad day but it worked out well. Not sure about tomorrow.
Monday, December 15, 2008
OK ESN:0-7458562
This is Steve and I am checking in to let everyone know that I have finished my ride for the day safe and sound.
ESN:0-7458562
Latitude:30.5762
Longitude:-95.1407
Nearest Location: Anthony Ln, Coldspring, TX, US
Distance: 0 km(s)
Time:12/15/2008 12:55:38 (US/Pacific)
http://maps.google.com/maps?f=q&hl=en&geocode=&q=30.5762,-95.1407&ie=UTF8&z=12&om=1
ESN:0-7458562
Latitude:30.5762
Longitude:-95.1407
Nearest Location: Anthony Ln, Coldspring, TX, US
Distance: 0 km(s)
Time:12/15/2008 12:55:38 (US/Pacific)
http://maps.google.com/maps?f=q&hl=en&geocode=&q=30.5762,-95.1407&ie=UTF8&z=12&om=1
Lake Conroe. Nobody fishing cause it is COLD
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Sunday, December 14, 2008
Day 23 - Sunday, December 14
Description: Finished the ride in Navisota TX after a 98 mile ride. I plan to ride to Coldspring or Sheperd (if lodging available) tomorrow.
Today was an incredible ride. Last night, Wilson and I hatched a plan to bolt early and change my route slightly to catch the wind gods off guard. We woke up at 6:00 and packed up everything. I was at the lobby door ready to eat at 6:30. But, the doors were locked as the manager overslept and then argued with me that they open for breakfast at 7:00. I told him the info in the room and the sign on the lobby door says 6:30 - this guy must have been on drugs. Anyway, I ate a quick cold breakfast of cereal, bananas, and a honey bun washed down with OJ and coffee. I launched off at about 7:20 on a warm morning with misty fog and light winds. I rode for an hour and then stopped in Smithville for a quick Snickers break and fresh water. The road crossed over the Colorado river several times and I was amazed at how small it was compared to what I was expecting. I faced increasing head winds through the town of Plum before arriving at LaGrange. At LaGrange, my route turned NE onto Rt 159 and I picked up an awesome 3/4 tail wind. It felt as if my Sherpa Mom was pushing me along and up the hills! Just after getting on Rt 159, I took a break at the Texas One Stop which was the most impressive service station I have ever seen. They had an on-site bakery and I grabbed a pair of Pigs in the Blanket and a coffee. The Pigs were in "hot out of the oven" pastries and had pepper jack cheese melted inside. Man were they were delicious and I am sure low fat. With the wind at my back, I shoved off but then quickly stopped to take a picture of a ranch sign (Sabra Ranch) that had an old tandem bicycle on top of it which caught my eye. Then I ran into the owners (Arza and Ari Funk) who are avid cyclists and ride a Santana tandem. We chatted for a while, they signed Wilson, I gave them my blog site, I took their picture and posted it, and then we said our goodbyes. They were a great couple and a lot of fun to talk with. Then I rode through Rutersville and Oldenbrg which is host to the Hammer Fest every year. Just before Warrenton, I stopped to take a picture of the world's smallest Catholic church. It was not much bigger than my daughter's play house! Back on the rode again and through some very challenging and rolling hills. Eventually, I reached Round Top which has a population of only 77. There was a very cool small village with a number of rustic looking stores. It reminded me of something you might see on a lake in Myrtle Beach. I saw the craziest car parked in front of one store and took several pictures (posted). One store in particular caught my eye - Royer's Round Top Cafe which is famous for it's pies (www.royersroundtopcafe.com). The owner is "Bud the Pie Man" and he was on the porch surfing the net and smoking a cigar next to a blow-up Sponge Bob. I did not ask! I did ask if he would take a picture with Wilson and me which he eagerly did. I went inside and was still full from the Pigs in the Blanket but felt obliged to eat something. I ordered a bowl of corn chowder and a coke. That corn chowder was the best (by far) that I have ever tasted with big chunks of chicken, potatoes, corn, and a cream sauce that I soaked up with some fresh bread. They would not let me leave without fresh pie so they handed me a mini cherry pie to go. I said goodbye to Bud and waddled down the road. It is a good thing that I am on a new exercise program. I rolled on with the wind still at my back and the miles quickly clicked away despite the challenging hills. I was planning to stay in a B&B in Burton but Wilson insisted that I go for a Century ride and said I had plenty of calories in my system to support it. Wilson is usually right but I was concerned about the route turning into the 15-25 mph winds which would turn the joy ride into a nightmare. I decided to go for Navasota which would give me just under 100 miles for the day. From Round Top, the roads remained hilly and there were lots of big horse and dairy farms along the way. I rode through the towns of Burton, Longpoint, and Gay Hill. Everything was great until I hit the town of Independence (about 80 mile marker) when the route turned SE which gave the wind gods a chance to slap me hard and laugh at me once again. It was brutal for about 10 miles and then I finally turned more north to finish the ride in Navisota. I crashed at a Best Western. After checking in, I hit the Pizza Hut next door for their Tater Tot appetizer, a baked pasta dinner, and a few pints. Then I went to a gas station and bought some vanilla ice cream to put on top of my fresh cherry pie from Bud The Pie Man for dessert. Stuffed once again, I am retiring for the evening. I hope to post some great pictures to go along with this write-up. I must say, it was more fun the prior 2 days when my meals were catered to me on the road and everything else was taken care of by my Sherpas.
Good night!
Weather: A great day for riding. Very warm early but foggy. The fog was burned off by the sun and it stayed very warm and extremely windy all day.
Performance Metrics:
Miles: 98 Trip: 1,771
Total travel time: 9:00 Trip: 176:00
Bike Riding time: 7:10 Trip: 141:44
Avg speed: 13.68 Trip: 12.79
Max speed: 33.78 Trip: 41.87
Total ascent (ft): 2,925 Trip: 47,702
Avg pedal RPMs: 81 Trip: 87
Avg heart rate: 109 Trip: 115
Max heart rate: 142 Trip: 195
Calories burned: 5,801 Trip: 103,590
Weather Statistics:
High temp 74 Trip: 75
Low temp: 63 Trip: 28
Hours of rain: 0 Trip: 8
Hours of snow: 0 Trip: 0
Total days of rain/snow: 1
Wind factor: mostly favorable
Total good wind days: 9
Total bad wind days: 14
Misc. Stats:
Flat tires: 0 Trip: 8
Mechanical failures: 0
Hotel or camping today: hotel - Best Western
Total hotel nights: 21
Total camping nights: 2
Cups of coffee: 3 Trip: 76
Pints: 2 Trip: 34
Mood rating (1-10): 10 - awesome day with big miles and great sites.
Today was an incredible ride. Last night, Wilson and I hatched a plan to bolt early and change my route slightly to catch the wind gods off guard. We woke up at 6:00 and packed up everything. I was at the lobby door ready to eat at 6:30. But, the doors were locked as the manager overslept and then argued with me that they open for breakfast at 7:00. I told him the info in the room and the sign on the lobby door says 6:30 - this guy must have been on drugs. Anyway, I ate a quick cold breakfast of cereal, bananas, and a honey bun washed down with OJ and coffee. I launched off at about 7:20 on a warm morning with misty fog and light winds. I rode for an hour and then stopped in Smithville for a quick Snickers break and fresh water. The road crossed over the Colorado river several times and I was amazed at how small it was compared to what I was expecting. I faced increasing head winds through the town of Plum before arriving at LaGrange. At LaGrange, my route turned NE onto Rt 159 and I picked up an awesome 3/4 tail wind. It felt as if my Sherpa Mom was pushing me along and up the hills! Just after getting on Rt 159, I took a break at the Texas One Stop which was the most impressive service station I have ever seen. They had an on-site bakery and I grabbed a pair of Pigs in the Blanket and a coffee. The Pigs were in "hot out of the oven" pastries and had pepper jack cheese melted inside. Man were they were delicious and I am sure low fat. With the wind at my back, I shoved off but then quickly stopped to take a picture of a ranch sign (Sabra Ranch) that had an old tandem bicycle on top of it which caught my eye. Then I ran into the owners (Arza and Ari Funk) who are avid cyclists and ride a Santana tandem. We chatted for a while, they signed Wilson, I gave them my blog site, I took their picture and posted it, and then we said our goodbyes. They were a great couple and a lot of fun to talk with. Then I rode through Rutersville and Oldenbrg which is host to the Hammer Fest every year. Just before Warrenton, I stopped to take a picture of the world's smallest Catholic church. It was not much bigger than my daughter's play house! Back on the rode again and through some very challenging and rolling hills. Eventually, I reached Round Top which has a population of only 77. There was a very cool small village with a number of rustic looking stores. It reminded me of something you might see on a lake in Myrtle Beach. I saw the craziest car parked in front of one store and took several pictures (posted). One store in particular caught my eye - Royer's Round Top Cafe which is famous for it's pies (www.royersroundtopcafe.com). The owner is "Bud the Pie Man" and he was on the porch surfing the net and smoking a cigar next to a blow-up Sponge Bob. I did not ask! I did ask if he would take a picture with Wilson and me which he eagerly did. I went inside and was still full from the Pigs in the Blanket but felt obliged to eat something. I ordered a bowl of corn chowder and a coke. That corn chowder was the best (by far) that I have ever tasted with big chunks of chicken, potatoes, corn, and a cream sauce that I soaked up with some fresh bread. They would not let me leave without fresh pie so they handed me a mini cherry pie to go. I said goodbye to Bud and waddled down the road. It is a good thing that I am on a new exercise program. I rolled on with the wind still at my back and the miles quickly clicked away despite the challenging hills. I was planning to stay in a B&B in Burton but Wilson insisted that I go for a Century ride and said I had plenty of calories in my system to support it. Wilson is usually right but I was concerned about the route turning into the 15-25 mph winds which would turn the joy ride into a nightmare. I decided to go for Navasota which would give me just under 100 miles for the day. From Round Top, the roads remained hilly and there were lots of big horse and dairy farms along the way. I rode through the towns of Burton, Longpoint, and Gay Hill. Everything was great until I hit the town of Independence (about 80 mile marker) when the route turned SE which gave the wind gods a chance to slap me hard and laugh at me once again. It was brutal for about 10 miles and then I finally turned more north to finish the ride in Navisota. I crashed at a Best Western. After checking in, I hit the Pizza Hut next door for their Tater Tot appetizer, a baked pasta dinner, and a few pints. Then I went to a gas station and bought some vanilla ice cream to put on top of my fresh cherry pie from Bud The Pie Man for dessert. Stuffed once again, I am retiring for the evening. I hope to post some great pictures to go along with this write-up. I must say, it was more fun the prior 2 days when my meals were catered to me on the road and everything else was taken care of by my Sherpas.
Good night!
Weather: A great day for riding. Very warm early but foggy. The fog was burned off by the sun and it stayed very warm and extremely windy all day.
Performance Metrics:
Miles: 98 Trip: 1,771
Total travel time: 9:00 Trip: 176:00
Bike Riding time: 7:10 Trip: 141:44
Avg speed: 13.68 Trip: 12.79
Max speed: 33.78 Trip: 41.87
Total ascent (ft): 2,925 Trip: 47,702
Avg pedal RPMs: 81 Trip: 87
Avg heart rate: 109 Trip: 115
Max heart rate: 142 Trip: 195
Calories burned: 5,801 Trip: 103,590
Weather Statistics:
High temp 74 Trip: 75
Low temp: 63 Trip: 28
Hours of rain: 0 Trip: 8
Hours of snow: 0 Trip: 0
Total days of rain/snow: 1
Wind factor: mostly favorable
Total good wind days: 9
Total bad wind days: 14
Misc. Stats:
Flat tires: 0 Trip: 8
Mechanical failures: 0
Hotel or camping today: hotel - Best Western
Total hotel nights: 21
Total camping nights: 2
Cups of coffee: 3 Trip: 76
Pints: 2 Trip: 34
Mood rating (1-10): 10 - awesome day with big miles and great sites.
OK ESN:0-7458562
This is Steve and I am checking in to let everyone know that I have finished my ride for the day safe and sound.
ESN:0-7458562
Latitude:30.3957
Longitude:-96.0692
Nearest Location: State Hwy 105, Navasota, TX, US
Distance: 0 km(s)
Time:12/14/2008 14:52:43 (US/Pacific)
http://maps.google.com/maps?f=q&hl=en&geocode=&q=30.3957,-96.0692&ie=UTF8&z=12&om=1
ESN:0-7458562
Latitude:30.3957
Longitude:-96.0692
Nearest Location: State Hwy 105, Navasota, TX, US
Distance: 0 km(s)
Time:12/14/2008 14:52:43 (US/Pacific)
http://maps.google.com/maps?f=q&hl=en&geocode=&q=30.3957,-96.0692&ie=UTF8&z=12&om=1
Tyler.... I found your first car in Round Top TX
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Ari and Arzi in LaGrange
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Saturday, December 13, 2008
Day 22 - Saturday, December 13
Description: Finished the 57 mile ride in Bastrop TX around 3 pm. I considered this a rest day due to the low miles. Tomorrow, I hope to ride to Burton - wind permitting as they will be high again.
I was real lazy today and slept in until almost 7:30 as the down pillows, soft comforter, and warm fireplace made it hard to get up. Breakfast at the Inn was at 8:30 and I was hungry. They served a nice spinach and brie quiche with baked pears, fresh fruit, homemade granola cereal, pumpkin/nut bread, hand squeezed OJ, and fresh coffee. It was a little better than the 3 Pop Tarts I had a few days ago while camping. Have I told everyone that this Inn (http://www.innaboveonioncreek.com/) was awesome yet? Knowing this would be my last day with my Sherpa parents, I took my time loading up and did not get on my bike until 9:40. In fact, I got a call during breakfast from my father-in-law in Staunton VA who was concerned that I was not on the road yet. My in-laws (Joe and Maria) have been religiously tracking me and frequently calling me for personal updates. They are having as much fun on this trip as me. Well, I hit the road on a warm sunny morning (shorts and no jacket) but was quickly greeted with guess what? The angry wind gods. There was a major wind advisory in effect all day with 15-25 mph sustained winds with gusts over 35. I rode through the town Kyle, then flat lands with lots of cotton farms. The winds for the first 25 miles were unbelievable and at times, I could hardly move forward. My parents were looking at their watches and wondering why I was taking soo long. My parents flight was heading out of San Antonio in the late afternoon and they were hoping we would all make it to Bastrop to say our goodbyes. Then my Mom had a great idea. She suggested them driving 25 miles ahead to grab a room for me and drop my bags so that I could travel light and go after those Dam winds. Just before they took off, we pulled through Lockhart which has the coolest (see photo album) city hall with a Santa out front taking pictures on an old red fire truck. Of course, Mom snapped a picture of me with Santa. After feeding me some peanut butter cookies, the Sherpas blasted off to secure my lodging. Then great news as my route turned to more of a NW direction and I finally picked up some tail winds. The route also became very hilly again but I did not care as I was riding the wind now. An hour later, my parents came back and had grabbed a room for me in Bastrop. We exchanged our final hugs and goodbyes and then the Sherpas were off to the races to catch their flight. I chugged on knowing I was on my own again with only Wilson to chat with. Then the road turned SE for the last 5 miles and that Dam wind fought me all the way in. Once in town, I stopped at Quiznos for a Meatball Sub to recover some calories. I checked into my motel, grabbed some local Shiner Bock, and then relaxed in the hotel room. Finally, I ordered and ate a medium pizza from Dominos to top off my fuel tank. However, I did find a way for some dessert - Mom's homemade peanut butter cookies!
Good night
Weather: Warm, sunny, and extremely windy. Some clouds moved in after lunch. A great day for riding.
Performance Metrics:
Miles: 57 Trip: 1,673
Total travel time: 5:30 Trip: 167:00
Bike Riding time: 4:20 Trip: 134:34
Avg speed: 13.21 Trip: 12.74
Max speed: 28.53 Trip: 41.87
Total ascent (ft): 1,576 Trip: 44,777
Avg pedal RPMs: 82 Trip: 87
Avg heart rate: 104 Trip: 115
Max heart rate: 135 Trip: 195
Calories burned: 3,320 Trip: 97,789
Weather Statistics:
High temp 72 Trip: 75
Low temp: 55 Trip: 28
Hours of rain: 0 Trip: 8
Hours of snow: 0 Trip: 0
Total days of rain/snow: 1
Wind factor: mostly against - brutal at times!
Total good wind days: 8
Total bad wind days: 14
Misc. Stats:
Flat tires: 0 Trip: 8
Mechanical failures: 0
Hotel or camping today: hotel - Motel-8
Total hotel nights: 20
Total camping nights: 2
Cups of coffee: 3 Trip: 73
Pints: 2 Trip: 32
Mood rating (1-10): 9.25 - a little let down as my Sherpas are gone but I am now well rested!
I was real lazy today and slept in until almost 7:30 as the down pillows, soft comforter, and warm fireplace made it hard to get up. Breakfast at the Inn was at 8:30 and I was hungry. They served a nice spinach and brie quiche with baked pears, fresh fruit, homemade granola cereal, pumpkin/nut bread, hand squeezed OJ, and fresh coffee. It was a little better than the 3 Pop Tarts I had a few days ago while camping. Have I told everyone that this Inn (http://www.innaboveonioncreek.com/) was awesome yet? Knowing this would be my last day with my Sherpa parents, I took my time loading up and did not get on my bike until 9:40. In fact, I got a call during breakfast from my father-in-law in Staunton VA who was concerned that I was not on the road yet. My in-laws (Joe and Maria) have been religiously tracking me and frequently calling me for personal updates. They are having as much fun on this trip as me. Well, I hit the road on a warm sunny morning (shorts and no jacket) but was quickly greeted with guess what? The angry wind gods. There was a major wind advisory in effect all day with 15-25 mph sustained winds with gusts over 35. I rode through the town Kyle, then flat lands with lots of cotton farms. The winds for the first 25 miles were unbelievable and at times, I could hardly move forward. My parents were looking at their watches and wondering why I was taking soo long. My parents flight was heading out of San Antonio in the late afternoon and they were hoping we would all make it to Bastrop to say our goodbyes. Then my Mom had a great idea. She suggested them driving 25 miles ahead to grab a room for me and drop my bags so that I could travel light and go after those Dam winds. Just before they took off, we pulled through Lockhart which has the coolest (see photo album) city hall with a Santa out front taking pictures on an old red fire truck. Of course, Mom snapped a picture of me with Santa. After feeding me some peanut butter cookies, the Sherpas blasted off to secure my lodging. Then great news as my route turned to more of a NW direction and I finally picked up some tail winds. The route also became very hilly again but I did not care as I was riding the wind now. An hour later, my parents came back and had grabbed a room for me in Bastrop. We exchanged our final hugs and goodbyes and then the Sherpas were off to the races to catch their flight. I chugged on knowing I was on my own again with only Wilson to chat with. Then the road turned SE for the last 5 miles and that Dam wind fought me all the way in. Once in town, I stopped at Quiznos for a Meatball Sub to recover some calories. I checked into my motel, grabbed some local Shiner Bock, and then relaxed in the hotel room. Finally, I ordered and ate a medium pizza from Dominos to top off my fuel tank. However, I did find a way for some dessert - Mom's homemade peanut butter cookies!
Good night
Weather: Warm, sunny, and extremely windy. Some clouds moved in after lunch. A great day for riding.
Performance Metrics:
Miles: 57 Trip: 1,673
Total travel time: 5:30 Trip: 167:00
Bike Riding time: 4:20 Trip: 134:34
Avg speed: 13.21 Trip: 12.74
Max speed: 28.53 Trip: 41.87
Total ascent (ft): 1,576 Trip: 44,777
Avg pedal RPMs: 82 Trip: 87
Avg heart rate: 104 Trip: 115
Max heart rate: 135 Trip: 195
Calories burned: 3,320 Trip: 97,789
Weather Statistics:
High temp 72 Trip: 75
Low temp: 55 Trip: 28
Hours of rain: 0 Trip: 8
Hours of snow: 0 Trip: 0
Total days of rain/snow: 1
Wind factor: mostly against - brutal at times!
Total good wind days: 8
Total bad wind days: 14
Misc. Stats:
Flat tires: 0 Trip: 8
Mechanical failures: 0
Hotel or camping today: hotel - Motel-8
Total hotel nights: 20
Total camping nights: 2
Cups of coffee: 3 Trip: 73
Pints: 2 Trip: 32
Mood rating (1-10): 9.25 - a little let down as my Sherpas are gone but I am now well rested!
OK ESN:0-7458562
This is Steve and I am checking in to let everyone know that I have finished my ride for the day safe and sound.
ESN:0-7458562
Latitude:30.1047
Longitude:-97.2909
Nearest Location: Industrial Blvd, Bastrop, TX, US
Distance: 0 km(s)
Time:12/13/2008 13:05:41 (US/Pacific)
http://maps.google.com/maps?f=q&hl=en&geocode=&q=30.1047,-97.2909&ie=UTF8&z=12&om=1
ESN:0-7458562
Latitude:30.1047
Longitude:-97.2909
Nearest Location: Industrial Blvd, Bastrop, TX, US
Distance: 0 km(s)
Time:12/13/2008 13:05:41 (US/Pacific)
http://maps.google.com/maps?f=q&hl=en&geocode=&q=30.1047,-97.2909&ie=UTF8&z=12&om=1
Day 21 - Friday, December 12
Description: Finished the challenging 105 mile ride just West of Kyle TX at an awesome B&B called The Inn Above Onion Creek. Tomorrow, I am planning to sleep in late and then take a light recovery 50 mile ride to Bastrop TX where I will say goodbye to my Sherpas (parents).
First, I need to set the record straight on a couple of things being debated with recent posts. I have not drafted the rental car but the rental car has drafted off of me. I have ridden the whole way and not been towed. I have not been in a golf cart in months. Aliens have not abducted me for any period of time during my trek. I must admit that Texas is a little bigger than Wake County. I see nothing wrong with being pampered while hammering on my bike with hot meals, homemade cookies, and Starbucks coffee.
Now for today's write-up. My parents and I started stirring around 6:30 this morning and then hit the buffet breakfast at 7 sharp. I pounded it with a big Spanish omelet, hash browns, sausage, biscuits with gravy, yogurt, OJ, coffee and a big piece of carrot and walnut cake for dessert (eat your heart out F). I then loaded the Mean Green Machine up and started rolling at 8:30 for the planned 88 mile ride. It was chilly but the winds were calm. My parents stayed to check out and then stock up on lunch items as we were heading into the deep country. I made great time and flew the first 20 miles through the towns of Center Point and Comfort. From there I crossed under I-10 and hit the back woods towns of Waring and Sisterdale which is where the serious rolling hills began. My parents caught up with me (they got lost trying to find me) in Sisterdale at the Sister Creek Vineyard for a huge fiest. We dined on roast chicken, macaroni salad, a Subway sub, homemade peanut butter criss-cross cookies, and a Starbucks Double-Shot to wash it down. I could hardly move. I rolled on as my parents stayed to sample the local wine. From there, my mom kept a close eye on me (like a mother hen) as she would go to the top of each hill or around corners and then wait to ensure I made it safely. Then my Sherpas rolled forward to Blanco which was 65 miles into the ride to find some bottled water and a good place to rest and eat more cookies. At this point, we discussed the possibility of extending the ride beyond Wimberley and onto Kyle which was another 20 miles. I could hear the muffled voice of Wilson in the car trunk yelling to go for Kyle and seize the miles and the glory. Against my mother's wishes, I decided to race the sun (which I love to do) to our new targeted lodging in Kyle. As my Sherpas raced forward to check out Wimberley (fallback lodging) and to our new target resting point of Kyle, I put the hammer down as I had another 40 miles to cover in a little over 2 hours. The traffic picked up big time, there were no road shoulders, the hills were brutal, the sun was setting, and the wind was killing me. I knew Wilson was counting on me to beat the sun so I pressed on at break-neck pace (as if Dayn were chasing me). As I was nearing Kyle at a 20 mph pace, I saw my parents on the side of the road flagging me down. To our surprise, they found no lodging in Kyle but they did find an awesome Inn right here 4 miles short of town. We took the last room and boy is this place deluxe and plush! My dad talked then down to a great rate and we quickly checked in before they changed their mind. A quick shower and then some homemade coconut cranberry and chocolate cookies (desserts all day F ha!) from the Inn's kitchen kept my hunger at bay until my dad arrived back with a Mexican fiest from a local cantina. This might have moved into my number 1 slot for Mexican meals as the chicken burrito, enchaladas, chips, and red hot salsa was simply outstanding. We then settled down next to the fire and enjoyed the pictures taken over the last few days. I will tell you that if I could train on these rolling hills with 100 mile days (like today) for a few weeks, I would be ready for Lance who also trains in these parts.
Weather: Awesome day with cool temps early and then warm sunshine and Carolina blue skies. The wind picked up as the day went on and was a factor.
Performance Metrics:
Miles: 105 Trip: 1616
Total travel time: 9:00 Trip: 161:30
Bike Riding time: 6:59 Trip: 130:14
Avg speed: 15.01 Trip: 12.72
Max speed: 38.22 Trip: 41.87
Total ascent (ft): 3,837 Trip: 43,201 - now that was a lot of little cutting hills today.
Avg pedal RPMs: 90 Trip: 87
Avg heart rate: 116 Trip: 116
Max heart rate: 164 Trip: 195
Calories burned: 6,558 Trip: 94,469
Weather Statistics:
High temp: 64 Trip: 75
Low temp: 48 Trip: 28
Hours of rain: 0 Trip: 8
Hours of snow: 0 Trip: 0
Total days of rain/snow: 1
Wind factor: Mostly against - strong side winds and some straight on
Total good wind days: 8
Total bad wind days: 13
Misc. Stats:
Flat tires: 0 Trip: 8
Mechanical failures: 0
Hotel or camping today: hotel - The Inn Above Onion Creek
Total hotel nights: 19
Total camping nights: 2
Cups of coffee: 4 Trip: 70
Pints: 0 Trip: 31 - the Inn is "dry" - grrrr
Mood rating (1-10): 10 - Momma was happy today and when Momma is happy, everyone is happy. A perfect day!
First, I need to set the record straight on a couple of things being debated with recent posts. I have not drafted the rental car but the rental car has drafted off of me. I have ridden the whole way and not been towed. I have not been in a golf cart in months. Aliens have not abducted me for any period of time during my trek. I must admit that Texas is a little bigger than Wake County. I see nothing wrong with being pampered while hammering on my bike with hot meals, homemade cookies, and Starbucks coffee.
Now for today's write-up. My parents and I started stirring around 6:30 this morning and then hit the buffet breakfast at 7 sharp. I pounded it with a big Spanish omelet, hash browns, sausage, biscuits with gravy, yogurt, OJ, coffee and a big piece of carrot and walnut cake for dessert (eat your heart out F). I then loaded the Mean Green Machine up and started rolling at 8:30 for the planned 88 mile ride. It was chilly but the winds were calm. My parents stayed to check out and then stock up on lunch items as we were heading into the deep country. I made great time and flew the first 20 miles through the towns of Center Point and Comfort. From there I crossed under I-10 and hit the back woods towns of Waring and Sisterdale which is where the serious rolling hills began. My parents caught up with me (they got lost trying to find me) in Sisterdale at the Sister Creek Vineyard for a huge fiest. We dined on roast chicken, macaroni salad, a Subway sub, homemade peanut butter criss-cross cookies, and a Starbucks Double-Shot to wash it down. I could hardly move. I rolled on as my parents stayed to sample the local wine. From there, my mom kept a close eye on me (like a mother hen) as she would go to the top of each hill or around corners and then wait to ensure I made it safely. Then my Sherpas rolled forward to Blanco which was 65 miles into the ride to find some bottled water and a good place to rest and eat more cookies. At this point, we discussed the possibility of extending the ride beyond Wimberley and onto Kyle which was another 20 miles. I could hear the muffled voice of Wilson in the car trunk yelling to go for Kyle and seize the miles and the glory. Against my mother's wishes, I decided to race the sun (which I love to do) to our new targeted lodging in Kyle. As my Sherpas raced forward to check out Wimberley (fallback lodging) and to our new target resting point of Kyle, I put the hammer down as I had another 40 miles to cover in a little over 2 hours. The traffic picked up big time, there were no road shoulders, the hills were brutal, the sun was setting, and the wind was killing me. I knew Wilson was counting on me to beat the sun so I pressed on at break-neck pace (as if Dayn were chasing me). As I was nearing Kyle at a 20 mph pace, I saw my parents on the side of the road flagging me down. To our surprise, they found no lodging in Kyle but they did find an awesome Inn right here 4 miles short of town. We took the last room and boy is this place deluxe and plush! My dad talked then down to a great rate and we quickly checked in before they changed their mind. A quick shower and then some homemade coconut cranberry and chocolate cookies (desserts all day F ha!) from the Inn's kitchen kept my hunger at bay until my dad arrived back with a Mexican fiest from a local cantina. This might have moved into my number 1 slot for Mexican meals as the chicken burrito, enchaladas, chips, and red hot salsa was simply outstanding. We then settled down next to the fire and enjoyed the pictures taken over the last few days. I will tell you that if I could train on these rolling hills with 100 mile days (like today) for a few weeks, I would be ready for Lance who also trains in these parts.
Weather: Awesome day with cool temps early and then warm sunshine and Carolina blue skies. The wind picked up as the day went on and was a factor.
Performance Metrics:
Miles: 105 Trip: 1616
Total travel time: 9:00 Trip: 161:30
Bike Riding time: 6:59 Trip: 130:14
Avg speed: 15.01 Trip: 12.72
Max speed: 38.22 Trip: 41.87
Total ascent (ft): 3,837 Trip: 43,201 - now that was a lot of little cutting hills today.
Avg pedal RPMs: 90 Trip: 87
Avg heart rate: 116 Trip: 116
Max heart rate: 164 Trip: 195
Calories burned: 6,558 Trip: 94,469
Weather Statistics:
High temp: 64 Trip: 75
Low temp: 48 Trip: 28
Hours of rain: 0 Trip: 8
Hours of snow: 0 Trip: 0
Total days of rain/snow: 1
Wind factor: Mostly against - strong side winds and some straight on
Total good wind days: 8
Total bad wind days: 13
Misc. Stats:
Flat tires: 0 Trip: 8
Mechanical failures: 0
Hotel or camping today: hotel - The Inn Above Onion Creek
Total hotel nights: 19
Total camping nights: 2
Cups of coffee: 4 Trip: 70
Pints: 0 Trip: 31 - the Inn is "dry" - grrrr
Mood rating (1-10): 10 - Momma was happy today and when Momma is happy, everyone is happy. A perfect day!
Friday, December 12, 2008
OK ESN:0-7458562
This is Steve and I am checking in to let everyone know that I have finished my ride for the day safe and sound.
ESN:0-7458562
Latitude:30.0497
Longitude:-97.9357
Nearest Location: , , TX, US
Distance: 0 km(s)
Time:12/12/2008 15:19:33 (US/Pacific)
http://maps.google.com/maps?f=q&hl=en&geocode=&q=30.0497,-97.9357&ie=UTF8&z=12&om=1
ESN:0-7458562
Latitude:30.0497
Longitude:-97.9357
Nearest Location: , , TX, US
Distance: 0 km(s)
Time:12/12/2008 15:19:33 (US/Pacific)
http://maps.google.com/maps?f=q&hl=en&geocode=&q=30.0497,-97.9357&ie=UTF8&z=12&om=1
Huge Feast for Lunch.....
Big roast chicken and mac salad feast plus a grande Double-shot with my parents in Sisterdale TX. They are awesome Sherpas!
Gotta Roll....
Steve....
Gotta Roll....
Steve....
Problem with Spot Solved...
Several of you noticed no end of day OK Spot posting 2 days ago and my route yesterday was cut short. I replaced the batteries and all is good now - I hope!
Steve
Steve
GoSteveGo Yelled From Jeep....
Thanks Bob and Beth for clarifying a mystery for me with your post yesterday. When I was crossing the Amistad Reservoir bridge a few days ago, someone yelled from their car at me and I THOUGHT they said GoSteveGo but figured how in the heck would anyone out here know me???? Well it was Bob and Beth who were my hosts the previous night at an RV park. Mystery solved!
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