300 miles in 3 days

After a productive build day in Kinston, NC we headed south early on Thursday (6/14) morning. Tom took the early lead and we all followed like ducks in a row. The group rode together the first 25 miles. After a short rest stop and a race to the bathroom, the group was a little spread out. Alyssa and I chased the lead pack for a good 10 miles and eventually caught Tom. At the second rest stop we re-grouped and the girls rode together again. We spent the rest of the ride singing songs, playing silly games and driving the boys crazy. It was a fast 94 miles to Wilmington, NC.

In the afternoon, I went to the post office, walked around the little city with friends and took pictures of the river nearby. That night we had lasagna and rested for the coming bike days. Kelsey even made friends with a cockroach! Who knew they were so friendly, joke!

Friday (6/15) morning we took off headed for Garden City, SC. This day had lots of turns, confusing intersections, busy roads and a very hot beating sun! Alyssa and I missed a turn and did and extra 5 miles or so. Within 15 miles of our destination my headache really got to me and I started to wonder if I was dehydrated. I was with about 5 other riders who felt the same so we stopped at a gas station to replenish our water and get some shade. Because of my large water intake, 20 minutes later I felt like my eyeballs were floating. When we got to the church I threw my bike down and scrambled for the bathroom. My bike computer read 101.01 that evening. My first unexpected century ride!!

Saturday (6/16) we rode to Charleston, SC. It was a great day of riding and also Kelsey's last day of riding:( During the ride we silently organized pace lines, which got us done quick! We rode on one particularly bumpy forest road and also over a large suspension bridge!! Another wonderful 95 miles!

For dinner we went to a local southern style restaurant. I tried fried green tomatoes and fried okra. I liked both. After dinner we went in search of ice cream and settled on Ben and Jerry's. Usually we try to find local ice cream places, but could only find froyo and gelato.

Today (6/18) we went to church, made food for the week, did chores, and relaxed. Kelsey heads back to Michigan tomorrow. It will be very sad to see her go, I can't imagine this trip without her. I am very thankful for the past 3 weeks we have spent together and know that they will always hold a special place in each of our hearts. In the next 2 or 3 months we won't see each other very often, due to jobs and camp.

Hope everyone is having a great Fathers Day! I love you Dad! Thanks for being a great Dad, role model, and supporter of my adventurous spirit!