Day 50 (6/25/22): 100 Miles to Go!
Start: Warwick, PA
End: Valley Forge, PA
Miles: 26
Elevation: 1,180 feet
My “comeback” continues.
I went a little longer in much warmer weather today. I didn’t feel great when I started, but as the ride went on, I began to feel better and stronger. I still went at a snail’s pace so that I don’t overdo it, but I felt and feel pretty darned good. In the car afterward, Tish added that it was good to hear me speak again. (Mostly whispers this past week.)
The ride again was lovely. There were some nice back roads with some amazing houses, an interesting juxtaposition of some rolling hills with two nuclear cooling towers in the background (see gallery), a beautiful ride through Valley Forge National Historic Park, and a nice path along the Schuylkill River . Prior to last week, I had intended to spend some time in Valley Forge having never been there (didn’t you grow up less than 2 hours from here?), but all energy now is on the pedal. I don’t want to tour, shop, visit, or do anything else that syphons energy. I’m sure I’ll miss a few good snapshots, but I have only one thing on my mind: FINISH.
We’re in Furlong, PA, so I have to backtrack to Valley Forge tomorrow and ride back up here. And then, it’s the beeline across NJ. Assuming all goes well with this next ride, I’ll decide when the arrival date will be Sunday evening.
Today was also somewhat momentous, as I’ve now pedaled through all of 8 my Adventure Cycling Maps. I’ve traveled on 4 different routes across the country. The course for the last 100 miles is of my own doing.
What am I Grateful for Today?
My brother Joel and his wife Jen went on vacation earlier today and generously opened their house to us. After a week in the same room, I can’t tell you how unbelievable it is to be here. Their house is beautiful, and it’s such a luxury to just be able to spread out a little. Sitting in a wonderfully shaded backyard and enjoying the day isn’t so bad either. Thank you. Thank you. Thank you.