This morning, I woke feeling a little groggy from the meds and less rested than I had hoped but ready to tackle the ride again. But first, there was that little business of 6kms I had to deal with. I got on my bike and started back tracking yesterday's route. 3kms out and back. I completed my kms. I reset my bike computer and started on today's route. It should be no surprise that it was HOT, DRY and SUNNY and it's amazing to realize that we are currently cycling at the same elevation that we climbed to during the first mountain pass on day 2.
We had a small gradual incline at the start and 15miles on the Interstate that was under construction. Fresh tar stuck to several tires and was a mess to clean off. I was stopping to help Doug and Lawrence when I tried to step off with the foot I hadn't unclipped. So there was my first "Crap! I'm falling over and there is nothing I can do". Doug and Lawrence came over to help me up as the road workers chuckled. Just a small scrape on the elbow and a bruised ego. We passed by the AKT Aerospace compound where they assemble and test rockets and missiles for NASA.
About there though, again I felt a migraine. I think that the combination of rough roads, extended direct sunlight and altitude might be the problem. I decide not to get to the same state as yesterday and called the SAG even though I had only completed 50kms and it was before noon. Nurse Betsy got me back to camp where after some meds and a shower I was feeling refreshed. I set up my tent and thought maybe I could do some more. I decided to bike into town and see a movie-The Dark Knight. So that is what I did getting in another 30kms and a great movie. Sadly,again I had a better ride in my jeans than I do in my bike shorts! Hoping I can make up the 20kms over the weekend but probably not tomorrow as the route is very long and intense. We are headed through Salt Lake City then at the end another mountain pass that will double our current altitude. It will be a hard day for all of us. Please pray for strength and patience for our crew.
9 comments:
Hi Gayle,
When I was in New Mexico and Colorado, I found that I really needed to hydrate more than I felt I needed to. I suspect that part of your migraine problem is the altitude. I always got a headache at first, and I wasn't riding a bike. I also had nose bleeds. So I guess what I'm trying to say is hydrate, hydrate, hydrate. Don't forget that not only is is hot out there, you are closer to the sun, thus in more danger from the sun.
Take care, and I'll see you in Grand Rapids. You're doing an awesome job.
Jan
Hey Gayle --
I haven't been able to get to any writing for a few days -- it's been busy (kids, soccer, wedding (Angela Heersink), duck-101-food-finding tutorials, not to mention that I have to compete for keyboard time with the sermon writer. . .
I'm really sorry to hear that you're having a tough time with the recurring migraines. I admire your determination to make up for the kilometres, but the thing I'm really glad about is that you are being wise about knowing when to hang up the bike/route for the day or for a time. It's important that you get the recovery you need and stay healthy.
Of course we are concerned about Saturday's (today's) ride -- for you, but, frankly, for everyone, given the temperatures and sun exposure, length, elevation and final long, steep, climb. A gruelling end to a challenging week.
May your rest tonight and tomorrow be oh so sweet and refreshing. May God be your comfort, your shelter, your tower of refuge and strength; may God restore you and give you His peace.
love, margaret
HI Gayle! I'm just getting caught up on your blog today. I'm sorry to hear the migraines are holding you back. I read Jan's comments, and agree...any of those stresses...sun, light, heat, dehydration, altitude could help to trigger them. You're doing awesome, and as many have said, this is a journey...and you have a good approach to it. Stopping and knowing your limits are part of it. We're following you each day and wow - yesterday was the toughest yet, I'm sure. Rest well, and we wish you strength and endurance for the week ahead.
Denise
Hi Gayle: I appreciate your openess and your honesty. Don't let days like this discourage you. Take it one day at a time! You are doing great and I am looking forward to seeing you in Denver this coming Saturday. It sounds to me like you are putting 100% effort and determination in this trip but as Margaret says, take care of yourself. You need to stay healthy and not overdo it. Once you get to Denver, it's downhill from there!! Why do you think I am starting in Denver?? Rita
Hi Gayle!
Heard your Monday morning movie review (taped it again for Art who is out on the bike). Great to hear your chipper voice! Hope you had a restful weekend -- looks like you have several long days ahead. Praying for you and all the bikers.
Hi Gayle
Just want to say..You go girl! You are an absolute inspiration to me! My friend and I biked up a hill near my home called Sydenham Hill in 30+ weather and thought that was tough. I cannot even imagine what you are encountering every day. I am so looking forward to meeting you in Grand Rapids. To me you are what the tour represents ...enjoying God's creation and meeting people along the way telling them about the tour and it's purpose! Take it one day at a time.
Remember, those who wait upon the Lord shall renew their strength. They will soar on wings like eagles, they will run(peddle) and not grow weary they will walk and not faint. OK, it is my running mentra but it works!
Sharon
Hi Gayle,
Just wanted to let you know to expect a package in Denver that I had sent from REI
Jan Ortiz
Hey Gayle -- We miss hearing from you. (Not that we want to put any pressure on you. I'm sure you are doing what you need to be doing. . .and maybe taking a break from the blog is one of those things.)
Just want you to know that you are not ever far from our minds, and that we are praying and rooting for you daily. We hope that Sunday was a good restorative day.
Jonathan and friends washed the birdie signatures and kitty prints off your car and Pieter took it for a spin the other day. The kitties are back to their graffiti prints and the duck would like to be up there with them, but, thankfully, he can't jump that high -- or he'd provide signatures and graffiti! (The term "silly duck" has taken on new meaning around here and is slowly degrading to "stupid duck" as he takes on more and more cat behaviour. The only thing he has not tried doing is climbing trees and "milking" the mommy cats.)
Oh -- I almost forgot! Pieter will be joining you in Madison on August 10. Woo hoo! So I'll see you there!
May you carry the blessing of Sunday's double rainbow with you through this week. Take care. Lots of love from us all.
Uhhh Gayle....why would any christian want to see the movie "the Dark Knight"? Doesn't this seem odd to you?
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