150 miles outside this week.  Rest of the time, again, trainer in the basement.  The crops seem to be behind but with all the rain they will catch up.  Rode to Bloomington last Tuesday and encountered construction between Goodfield and Carlock.  Good news, bad news.  The good news is the road work involves installing 15 inch paved shoulder.  Great for bikers avoiding having to ride on the road.  Yet, most likely, they will put rumble strips down the middle of the shoulder which will put the riders back on the road.  Let hope not but it seems it is being done on a regular basis.  On another note, a former student and two of his buddies are doing a 5 day 250 mile trek across Missouri.  The route they will be taking is flat and smooth.  Now, let it be known that Missouri is quite hilly but the path they are taking is transformed railroad path.  That will be really helpful to rookie distance bikers. I met with him for breakfast Tuesday.  He wanted some advice on what he should do for a successful ride.  Best advice to new distance bikers is to train enough so the saddle will be comfortable to complete the ride.  Chamois buttr of come kind is a must.  I wear two pair of biking shorts to ensure comfort.  My second point is to be sure to eat foods that provide lasting energy.  High carbs the night before and energy bars along the way.   As for the bike, chain should be oiled after each day, check for debris prior to the days ride and have confidence that changing a tire is relatively easy.  He stated he was going to use a pump in case of repairing a puncture.  My advice was to purchase  CO2 cylinders as they are fast and easy.  Ultimately is boils down to taking care of Body and Bike.  I wish him and his buddies the best and look forward to he sharing the adventure when he returns.  More on that later.