One Week to Go

On the 4th of July, Dan and I rode to a nearby coffee shop where we got caffeinated and met Dave. The three of us rode north along the west bank of the river, past the U of M, and through downtown, the warehouse district, an industrial zone, a nice park, and a residential area to the very flowing Coon Rapids Dam. From there we took a cool trail to Elm Creek Park Reserve. There and back was about a 58-mile ride.

It was a ridiculously long ride to the park due to our flat tire situation. I got one near the Camden Bridge. A piece of glass was stuck in my tire. I'm not sure what the heck I did, but I twisted the new tube and ended up with another flat tire - before I even put the wheel back on the bike. The second tube went on more smoothly, although all three of us were cursing my newish tires, which were nearly impossible to get back on.

Once we got really close to Elm Creek, we were checking the route (I took a wrong turn). Standing there, in the sun, Dan's tire hissed and deflated. Just like that. We had no more spare tubes and incorrectly patched his tube (although it nearly lasted to the park). Once we were at the park with Dave's family, we patched it up the right way and took advantage of the nice pump that was in the car.

We had lunch, swam, and rode home in the hot sun against a decent head wind that had sprung up. We rode cautiously, but had no tire mishaps.

It was a tough day, and yet 30 miles shorter than the first day of the tram.

I was busy today, and it was really hot, so I went to a pretty big hill in Mendota and went up and down it 10 times. It was tough. My gears are still slipping, despite three adjustments after my new chain and cassette were installed. I think they'll get it right when I take it back in.

After riding, I saw a cute little muskrat at the lake by my house. That, in addition to seeing a work friend who just got out of the hospital after a serious illness and getting to celebrate the retirement and 40th wedding anniversary of great people, really made my day. Even more than riding my bike up hills! Shocking.

One week from tonight, I will be settling in for the night before the first day of the TRAM. That last month flew by. I'm feeling pretty proud about raising $4,970.40 thus far (between the two rides), but couldn't have done it without the help of family and friends. Thanks!!

http://main.nationalmssociety.org/goto/MaggieMahoneyTRAM