Reflection

Got to Lawrence Ks. on Wednesday after 2 days of biking some 200 plus miles (8hrs on Tuesday and 5 hrs on Wednesday). I had a good push from Mother Nature on both days which was a factor in the good speed I was able to maintain. There were long stretches that held 20 miles per hour without feeling like I was putting much effort into it. The bike handled beautifully.  I ate (constantly it seems) oranges, bananas, trail mix, strawberries, blueberries and baked potatoes. I drank gator ade and water (froze several bottles over night to keep them cold longer) while riding then stopped every 20-25 miles for coffee. I dumped water on my head to stay cool.
Traffic was very cooperative. Most drivers made extra room and/or slowed as they approached from behind. Most of the ride was on the highway but I did jump over on the Prairie Spirit Trail (a 51 mile bike trail built on an old railroad bed from Iola Kansas to Garnett, Kansas. Travel on the trail was much slower so I got back on the highway when the shoulder was wide. I hope to do a family ride on the Prairie Spirit someday. The trail was well shaded, safe and offered some awesome scenery and wild-life.
The biggest thrill on the bike was going down the big hill south of Lawrence. I was already pumped to be getting so close (5 miles out) but to get up to 40-45 mph for nearly a minute was sooo exciting!
The visit with Cara and the boys made this trip very special. Great food as always.Watching the boys, reading to them, drawing,talking and playing in the sand box and splashing in the pool.
Brenda came on Saturday and we loaded up the bike on Sunday and went home. On the way back by car, the road looked so familiar, as if riding it by bike had somehow made it mine.