Feed from this site
The Best Roads, With All The Comforts Of Home
By Bob Lee Ride date: April 9
Conroy, SC to Sun Set Beach, NORTH Carolina! 40 miles
They say, “You can never go back.” But who are “they?” And why not? Since I am writing the blog, it is my prerogative. And at my age I should have the right to forget things occasionally, so…
…I have received a number of emotional e-mails about Jon Blais who we discussed in the 4/7 blog. I failed to give you Jon’s website which is www.alswarriorpoet.com. You will be impressed with what this young man has done with “the rest of his life” to help find a cure for ALS. In addition, I would like to share what Jon and I were discussing when the picture was taken of us in San Diego. I was telling him about the “gift on loan” locket I wear which represents Rich Crane and all PALS (People with ALS).
…I would like for you to go back and read the comments on the April 8th blog post. I had asked the question, "Why do we celebrate Easter with Easter Eggs?" Look at Chris Kaufman’s response. Thanks, Chris, for such wonderful answer.
One of the goals of this blog is to encourage participation with your answers, questions, and/or comments. We are riding together, so join in and make some comments. Recently we made it easier to add your comments, so try it.
…I wanted to back up just one step further to my stay in Andrews, SC. Up to this point, Chris has had ALL the right answer to any questions raised. So I am challenging all of you with two questions.
1. Who was the first American officer officially killed in World War II?
2. What is the connection with an Andrews, SC?
(These are tough.)
Speaking of tough, it was another cold morning to start the ride. I thought for a while we might go a virtual ride together to the beach.
On a day like this, your hands and feet can get cold. Some people find it unusual that I only have one pair of shoes with me for 5 months. In fact, they are not really shoes, but Shimano biking sandals. To me they are the answer. They are comfortable to ride in and walk in, they are cool in the summer, and on a winter day, like today, all you need to is pull on a pair of wool socks. Thanks Shimano for being a donor of the sandals, clip less pedals, and a flight deck, which we will talk about another time.
People ask about dogs. Well this morning when I first started riding I was trying to think, “What good will I be without my right leg?”
Though Anne always says, “Some good comes from everything.” I didn't stop to figure it what it might be. (Chris, maybe you want to take a trip to Conway to find the answer to this question). Well honey, there was some good in this encounter. I am coming home. No, not really. The good of this encounter was I warmed up —quickly.
It is nice that the bikers share some roads...
...This is the share of pavement the bikers get. It is hard to take a nap when you hit pavement like this.
Adventure Cycling does their best to map out routes with the best roads with all the comforts of home.
As I rode along the oceanfront I saw shrimp boats and ???? Elephants? In South Carolina? No, they are in South Africa. My friends, Dave and Caryn Blanke just sent an e-mail to me tonight with this picture they took 2 weeks ago while on spring break. What a great shot!
When did it happen? Sometimes on a bike, it is not so obvious. When did we go from rural America to vacation and retirement America? I am not sure when the transition was made but now there are new County Clubs and retirement communities springing up everywhere.
After riding about 40 miles, I decided to stop in Sun Set Beach. I am not sure why, since it was cloudy and cold and why would the sun set on the beach on the East coast? Another good question.
How was this guy so smart to bring his arctic clothes to the beach in April? If you love the beach, but not the crowds, the best time to go is when it is in the 40’s.
I was on the beach for less than five minutes, but long enough to meet Nelson and Nancy. They invited me to stay at their condo in Sea Trails. At dinner, I learned that Nancy lost both her parents and her grandmother to cancer and Nelson just had a bout with prostate cancer and skin cancer. Why are we on this journey together?
This morning I took this last picture along the side of the road. We just completed two special religious holidays. I hope the meaning of them can stay with us instead of being thrown to the side.
FROM THE BEGINNING | PREVIOUS | NEXT
...
Bob-
I am enjoying your blog. We vacationed for years at Sunset beach when we lived in Greensboro, N.C. It is much nicer May- October. Did you take time to learn the shag dance? I am inspired by your faith and determination. May you be safe and continue to inspire and be inspired by those you meet on your journey. Cheryl Laurence
Posted by: Cheryl Laurence | Apr 19, 2007 10:29:04 PM
Bob,
Was thinking of you this am. when I saw all the snow. Hope you have better weather to ride in out there. Thank you for all you are doing for ALS research. As far as the "Sunset Beach" goes, the sun still sets there you just have to turn your back on the water to see it. Better yet stick around til morning and watch it rise!! Thanks again!
Dan & Nicole Moore
(Tom & Paula's son)
Posted by: Dan Moore | Apr 11, 2007 5:19:54 PM
Hi Bob! Just checking in. We have a light covering of snow in Kildeer this morning. I hope your weather is better.
The kids are still sleeping and husband too. Best of luck to you.
Tonya Drexler
Posted by: Tonya Drexler | Apr 11, 2007 9:08:51 AM
Man celebrates 75th birthday with long distance bike ride.
Here's a URL which I hope the readers can open.
It's about a man who celebrated his 75th birthdy with...what else?...a long distance bike ride! Ten years ago, he did a cross-country ride to celebrate his 65th birthday! Hope you all enjoy the story of anohter inspiring man.
Posted by: Barb Raymond | Apr 11, 2007 12:20:13 AM
Bob
Glad the ride is going well for you. Hope it warms up a bit before you get further up North. Still real cold up here. Hope to talk to you soon.
Jim
Posted by: Jim | Apr 10, 2007 9:18:08 PM
hi Bob'lee
it was raining heavy duty here today and it's going to hit you tomorrow, so lie low for the day.
Read your blog every whenever we have a chance.
Mette
Posted by: mette & frank | Apr 10, 2007 8:16:02 PM
Bob, I read up on your Uncle Bob--fascinating stuff. I saw that there is now an atmospheric sciences award that is named in his honor...you've got me stumped with the connection to Andrews, SC.
Posted by: Chris Kaufman | Apr 10, 2007 2:36:55 PM
Bob,
I met you at The San Diego event (we were sitting next to each other) and it was my absolute pleasure. I LOVE reading your blog everyday and thank you for everything you do, on behalf of myself and he Blazeman Foundation, which I represent. Your piece yesterday on Jon was great. And since we are plugging Jon's site, can we make mention of The Blazeman Foundation website at: www.waronals.com. Please visit and join Team Blazeman as a Blazeman Warrior to find a cure for ALS!
Thanks again, Bob and safe journey!!
Kevin Long
Posted by: Kevin Long | Apr 10, 2007 12:53:26 PM
First Bob, Rich and I were so touched by your phone call last week. It was good to her your voice and hear about your progress. I do also so enjoy you daily journal.. Once you told me that your mother's brother, Uncle Bob, was killed in Norway while protecting her Queen. It was before we had entered the war and that he was the first American killed in WWII. To this day, your uncle is a hero to the Norwegians. Did I get it right?. I always listen when you talk.
Posted by: bonnie hulina | Apr 10, 2007 12:14:24 PM