Labor Day ride today was a 55 miler to LeRoy along rte 150. Yes it was breezy, 15-20 mph from the WNW so half the ride was a severe cross wind. Having made this trek many times, this was the first in over a year. After reaching my destination I figured I has enough gas for another 45 miles to Champaign.  But I will save that for later.  Four observations that some of my friends may help explain. First, Bloomington constructed a great project known as the Constitution Trial for bikers and hikers. Why not maintain it so it can be useful? There are all sorts of debris including, but not limited to, acorns, tree branches, dead animals and large cracks in the in the path that are truly a danger to cyclists. Second, what is with all the tents under the viaducts and along the right of way near one of the cemeteries? My assumption they are homeless but on my previous rides, they were not there. Third, with all the excess money the state of Illinois supposedly has, why is the road from Bloomington to LeRoy in such horrible shape? It's like riding on 15 miles of railroad track. And finally, riding through the huge wind farm NW of Bloomington, with the wind as brisk as it was, none of the windmills were turning. My assumption is they are in the IWW union. (International Windmills of the World) Since Labor Day is a federal holiday, contractually, they don't work on holidays. Hummm, just sayin! All those matters aside, it was a great day for riding a bicycle across the hills, valleys and grain fields of Central Illinois and looking forward to my first century in nearly two years.

 

Got my mojo back.  150 miles in the last five days.  Today's trek was 35 to Magnolia.  Yes, I have ridden that route before.  High today was 85 degrees, wind was from the SSW 15 to 20 mph. Rain was predicted but I only encountered a few sprinkles which were quite a pleasant refresher for the ride.  Back to the usual passage of semi's.  It was back to 11 and each passed with respect and no drama.  Horrah!! A construction zone was set up just outside Washburn.  It reduced traffic to one lane but the stop sign holder allowed me to pass on the inside of the cones.  He did warn me to stay clear of the equipment trucks.  The heads up wasn't necessary as I was bound to steer clear of anything that might impede my ride.  So, another great day of biking in central Illinois. Still looking forward to my first century in two years and I'm bound to do it this summer.   Stay tuned.

 

 Road 35 miles to Magnolia.  Great day for a ride.  Weather in the low 60's, wind from the SW at 15 mph.  Usually an average of 12-15 semi's pass me.  With little to no shoulder it sometimes becomes precarious.  However, today, only 5 semi's passed and all gave me the entire lane.  To say that is unprecedented is an understatement.  Another great day to ride a bicycle some distance.  Still looking for that perfect day to ride my first century of the year.

As of a few days ago, the current CrossRoads group has begun it's journey across America.  I enjoy reading and seeing their posts on Facebook.  It so reminds me of my journey and brings back many awesome memories.  As such, for some odd reason good friend Hank "butt dialed" me last week.  We always have great conversations about how we are doing and how our families are doing.  It's always an enormous pleasure to hear from him.  

Now for an update from my "people" who live across the pond in England.  Received a call from old friend Brian who has lived near London about 10-12 years.  He calls once about every 3-4 weeks and our conversation covers a range of topics from Health to Sports teams.  Always good to hear from him.  And, the best news yet.  Wait for it......wait for it....Good friend and bicycling buddy for many distance rides in and across America, Harry is finally getting MARRIED.   Yep, you heard it here first.  Time and location have not been disclosed but I'm looking forward to the details.   More to come later.