Why are two crazy ladies riding across the United States?

Seven years ago while I was huffing and puffing to keep up with Ruth's running pace, she asked me if I would run across the USA with her.



You are crazy!" I gasped. "but I will cycle across the states with you."



We started planning the trip that day. We ordered the transcontinental maps from Adventure Cycling Association. Then Ruth's husband got a job in Evian, France, and we put our plans on hold.



Throughout the last seven years, we continued to discuss our trip. Then this last Fall, Bill and Ruth returned to Cincinnati. We looked at our maps again,checked into various cycling groups that are crossing the states this year, and kept pedaling on the back roads of southwestern Ohio.



As we learned the prices and the dates of the organized trips, we realized those trips would not work for us. We finally decided that a spring trip would work, and we decided on the Southern Tier Route. The maps route us through southern California, Arizona, New Mexico, Texas, Louisiana, Alabama, and then to our final designation - St. Augustine, Florida.

Throughout the trip we will stay in motels and bed&breakfasts and travel as lightly as possible. We plan to average eighty miles per day, take three rest days, and reach our destination on May 1st.



Our husbands are traveling with us the first two weeks. They will carry our gear for us and will be playing golf or attending spring training baseball games while we are cycling. Hurray for our very supportive husbands!



We will try to update the blog every day. Some nights we may be so tired that the only words we will be able to type are: "We made it!" We may be in a motel without a computer or cell coverage.



We will miss our family and friends along the trip. As St. Patrick's Day is approaching we think of this Irish Blessing:



May the road rise to meet you,



May the wind be always at your back,



May the sun shine warm upon your face,



The rains fall soft upon your fields and



Until we meet again,



May God hold you in the palm of his hand.



To All: Please Take Care! Love, Mary Jo and Ruth



Monday, March 22, 2010

Day Two; Pine Valley to Brawley 97 miles

This morning we put on many layers to combat the 38 F. low temperature in the morning. We went from over 4000 feet in elevation to twenty-five feet below sea level. Upon arriving in Brawley the temperature was 84 degrees.
Today's ride included some great long down hill runs.
The increasing heat inspired Ruth to seek a refreshing beverage.
It was fascinating to see the fence stretching across the border with Mexico.
We have one of the best looking SAG (Support and Gear) teams in the country.

Among the beautiful scenery we found a lovely spot for lunch.


Another perfect end to a long day with dessert at McDonald's.
On the road again......... Going places that I have never been...... Seeing things that I may never see again! - Willie Nelson
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8 comments:

  1. John B.March 22, 2010 at 10:08 PM

    Are you sure those two guys didn't just sneak through the fence? Did you check their papers?

    We're the best of friends.
    Insisting that the world keep turning our way
    And our way
    is on the road again.
    -- Willie Nelson

    ReplyDelete
  2. EvieMarch 23, 2010 at 4:49 AM

    A Massachusetts Republican....what can I say? What will those pundits say now?

    You will be in the desert soon, and a little warmer. Can't wait to see you both...and the SAG drivers too!

    ReplyDelete
  3. julia kMarch 23, 2010 at 5:25 AM

    Looks like you are really enjoying life!!! What am I doing in the office??? Thanks for letting me live vicariously. Julia

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  4. MaxannaMarch 23, 2010 at 9:56 AM

    If you keep stopping for McDonald's cookies along the way- you might get hired for an ad campaign.
    The pictures are glorious. Can't wait for the next installment of my "serial adventure" story!

    ReplyDelete
  5. The Davis FamilyMarch 23, 2010 at 10:22 AM

    LOVE this, you women ROCK! makes me want to train for something and set a goal.

    So inspirational.

    Keep on keeping on :)
    Anna

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  6. CSMarch 23, 2010 at 12:25 PM

    I am marking your progress on my atlas. How are you feeling after first two days in saddle?

    ReplyDelete
  7. BrandyMarch 23, 2010 at 7:37 PM

    What a great adventure! I look forward to following along on the blog. Good luck!

    ReplyDelete
  8. katherineMarch 27, 2010 at 10:53 AM

    Just connected to your blog and will look forward to seeing your fantastic trip.
    Happy trails to you...

    ReplyDelete

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