Sorry followers of the blog, but tent city (the camping grounds on Ragbrai) has not been kind to our phones.
Brief Recap:
Day Zero- bus breaks down twice. People quit before it starts and we get in at 4:15am.
Day One- three hours of sleep but a great ride.
Major happenings since then:
I got heatstroke and dehydration. Tried to ride it off but ended up having to sag a day to get back to square.
Met a guy riding across the country to raise money for pancreatic cancer. He lost his best friend after taking care of him for a long time. His website is Mona rides or something like that. Google him, support his cause.
Have met people that have read the blog, they have all been really cool.
It has been hot. Like 120 with heat index hot.
It has been windy. Like 20 miles per hour headwind.
Big storm last night. We were betting on which tent would blow over. We watched the madness from a pavilion in tent city.
We rode 98 miles and just got in. I'll be sure to report more info tomorrow as we'll have a late start and we have a host house with our friends Nolan and Melissa Determan.
Tomorrow is supposedly adding 5,000 to 10,000 more riders due to the short day and star at a big city. We'll see.
More tomorrow, hopefully!
Until then,
KRS
Thursday, July 26, 2012
Saturday, July 21, 2012
The Prologue
The day before Ragbrai is usually one of the most interesting days of the tour. We typically meet in DM at noon in a Walmart parking lot. Team members from all over congregate in the lot and hangout until it's go time. This year was supposed to be better (more promptness and faster departure), but in true Strangebrew fashion it was the same old song and dance.
Background- our bus has never left on time. Last year we got to the end town at like midnight, a few years before that, 3am. Something always goes wrong. We've had no breaks, an engine overheat, various engine line issues, someone doesn't show up in time, we forget something, or a random act of God. Today, the bus blew a tire.
Ian, Andrew Strom, and myself are still waiting in Lawton, IA. The bus is supposed to be here in an hour and a half, but we'll see. I also wonder what kind of shape they'll be in when they get here.
With a long drive from DM, several coolers full of drinks, rum punch, and a variety of other beverages the ride can be very entertaining. For instance, Andrew "Stank" Holland text me and said they have already broken out two a capella renditions of "Bohemian Rhapsody" so I'm assuming things are back on track.
Tonight should be a good celebration of getting the team back together again and joining up with Team Medium Pace. I'm interested to see what happens over the next few days and what we see along the ride tomorrow.
Tonight's Threat Level: Midnight.
Get Vertical.
Strangebrew Rides.
Until tomorrow,
KRS
Background- our bus has never left on time. Last year we got to the end town at like midnight, a few years before that, 3am. Something always goes wrong. We've had no breaks, an engine overheat, various engine line issues, someone doesn't show up in time, we forget something, or a random act of God. Today, the bus blew a tire.
Ian, Andrew Strom, and myself are still waiting in Lawton, IA. The bus is supposed to be here in an hour and a half, but we'll see. I also wonder what kind of shape they'll be in when they get here.
With a long drive from DM, several coolers full of drinks, rum punch, and a variety of other beverages the ride can be very entertaining. For instance, Andrew "Stank" Holland text me and said they have already broken out two a capella renditions of "Bohemian Rhapsody" so I'm assuming things are back on track.
Tonight should be a good celebration of getting the team back together again and joining up with Team Medium Pace. I'm interested to see what happens over the next few days and what we see along the ride tomorrow.
Tonight's Threat Level: Midnight.
Get Vertical.
Strangebrew Rides.
Until tomorrow,
KRS
Friday
Sorry about the lateness of the post.
Yesterday was our last recovery day before getting ready for 'Brai. We did something's around the house for Ian's mom and more or less just kind of hung out.
In the early evening, we went to the Omaha Storm Chasers (AAA baseball team) game. It was a great game, four home runs, 17 runs scored, and held at a beautiful stadium. We went tot he game with Jared, his wife, and her friend. A great group of fun people. After the game we went to a local establishment to kill time before TE big movie.
Ian and I went to see "The Dark Knight Rises" in Omaha at the midnight showing. I felt the movie was great, but I had also been waiting eagerly since "The Dark Knight" for it to be released. As an aspiring writer the movie was a treasure.
The Nolan brothers writing tied all of the loose ends up from not only within this movie's storyline, but the previous two. Not only are you introduced to several new characters, but you are introduced to a situation that could be very real in today's world.
Throughout the movie you are introduced to the symbolism of not only the characters, but the plot of the film. It is tied very tightly to the emotion of the viewer and keeps you engaged throughout the screening.
I felt the acting was strong throughout. While it was a lot of story to be brought into the time frame of a film, I feel that it was done well.
I refuse to comment on the action involved in the movie, but want to express to you that the emotional toes you'll feel throughout the motion picture are there because of the superb writing and action. There are several major plot twists and ending that to me was a blind side.
If you are a fan of comic movies, movies of the human experience, and character development, I strongly encourage you to see the film.
I'm sure all of you by now have hear I the tragedy that occurred in Colorado, but an individual. I just want I reiterate what I said on Facebook and twitter because I feel strongly about it.
I am not a saint, I am not a moral compass, or passing judgement at this time. I just feel that in light of the current event, that we all need to look inward and be the shinning light that we have to potential to be. It doesn't matter your race, ethnicity, creed, or orientation, we all have to power to be the positive change we want to see (and need to see) in the world.
I refuse to believe the world is in inherently bad and that we are fighting a losing battle. Think of all the instances in your day you can do positive, great things. Concentrate on those and not the things the media forces upon us. Work within yourself to make the world better. This is the only place we have right now, and together I wholeheartedly feel we can make it better.
Tomorrow is the ride out to Ragbrai. I'll be sure to make a post in the morning explaining how the dynamic with the blog will change, and the events of this evening. Stay with us as there will be more stories to tell from the road.
Have a great night.
Until next time,
KRS
Yesterday was our last recovery day before getting ready for 'Brai. We did something's around the house for Ian's mom and more or less just kind of hung out.
In the early evening, we went to the Omaha Storm Chasers (AAA baseball team) game. It was a great game, four home runs, 17 runs scored, and held at a beautiful stadium. We went tot he game with Jared, his wife, and her friend. A great group of fun people. After the game we went to a local establishment to kill time before TE big movie.
Ian and I went to see "The Dark Knight Rises" in Omaha at the midnight showing. I felt the movie was great, but I had also been waiting eagerly since "The Dark Knight" for it to be released. As an aspiring writer the movie was a treasure.
The Nolan brothers writing tied all of the loose ends up from not only within this movie's storyline, but the previous two. Not only are you introduced to several new characters, but you are introduced to a situation that could be very real in today's world.
Throughout the movie you are introduced to the symbolism of not only the characters, but the plot of the film. It is tied very tightly to the emotion of the viewer and keeps you engaged throughout the screening.
I felt the acting was strong throughout. While it was a lot of story to be brought into the time frame of a film, I feel that it was done well.
I refuse to comment on the action involved in the movie, but want to express to you that the emotional toes you'll feel throughout the motion picture are there because of the superb writing and action. There are several major plot twists and ending that to me was a blind side.
If you are a fan of comic movies, movies of the human experience, and character development, I strongly encourage you to see the film.
I'm sure all of you by now have hear I the tragedy that occurred in Colorado, but an individual. I just want I reiterate what I said on Facebook and twitter because I feel strongly about it.
I am not a saint, I am not a moral compass, or passing judgement at this time. I just feel that in light of the current event, that we all need to look inward and be the shinning light that we have to potential to be. It doesn't matter your race, ethnicity, creed, or orientation, we all have to power to be the positive change we want to see (and need to see) in the world.
I refuse to believe the world is in inherently bad and that we are fighting a losing battle. Think of all the instances in your day you can do positive, great things. Concentrate on those and not the things the media forces upon us. Work within yourself to make the world better. This is the only place we have right now, and together I wholeheartedly feel we can make it better.
Tomorrow is the ride out to Ragbrai. I'll be sure to make a post in the morning explaining how the dynamic with the blog will change, and the events of this evening. Stay with us as there will be more stories to tell from the road.
Have a great night.
Until next time,
KRS
Friday, July 20, 2012
Dark Knight
We just got back from the midnight showing in Omaha, so today's blog post will be postponed until tomorrow. Sorry for the inconvenience. 
Wednesday, July 18, 2012
Inaugural JIK Cavalcade Endeavor Awards
Good evening ladies and gentle-men (Joker voice). We are gathered here this evening to present our Inaugural J.I.K Cavalcade Endeavor Awards and issue our thank yous. Don't worry the blog isn't over, we still have Ragbrai to document (which will be an entirely different beast to write about, but entertaining nonetheless).
Recap.
Today Ian and I didn't really do anything (well anything productive for society). Ian spent most of his day playing Samurai vs. Zombies (or something) on his phone. I read a bunch of different stuff (magazines, newspapers, music sites, twitter, etc) and researched climbing Mt. Kilimanjaro. I guess I also semi-planned a trip with my friend/cousin-in-law (is that real) Brandon to climb a 14K footer in October.
After that, we also got some groceries for Ian's mom and hung out with her. It was good to see her and talk. We had some good discussions about education, testing, and stuff that most of you would find very uninteresting. Good times!
We're going to break the trip down into about five (or so) major best categories.
Best Over Night Stay
Tie between Minco, OK and Sidney, IA.
Great hospitality from both hosts. Minco-was the first real chance we had to sit and talk to people at length about what we were doing and they made us feel right at home. Sidney- nothing feels more at home then BLTs with fresh garden picked tomatoes, and a freshly baked blueberry pie to welcome you back to Iowa.
Best Pass Through Town
Bowie, TX
Stopped at a nice little Italian eatery, with very fair, authentic Italian food. I know it was authentic because all three workers spoke fluent Italian and had some very expensive cars out front. I would never assume there were extra-curricular activities taking place in this small town restaurant, but I would be naive to not wonder.
The Nate Herrig Award for Best Lunch
Mi Familia in Mineral Wells, TX. Great Mexican food. The steak tacos were covered with cilantro, lime, cheese, and an awesome corn tortilla. It was by fair the single most memorable food item we encountered on the entire trip. (It also came not only with chips and salsa, but with Queso; JACKPOT!)
Best Piece of Pie
Koffee Kup in Hico, TX. As Vicki forced Ian to devour an enormous piece of coconut meringue pie before his meal, it was apparent that the pie title was gone on night one. The pie was famous in TX (as were the burgers) and it did not disappoint.
John Cernohous Certified One-Star Motel/Hotel
Although Hico, TX gave it a run for its money, the A-OK Motel in Waureka, OK was far away the classiest of the classless we encountered on our trip. It contained the fine amenities, a window unit AC, dirty bath tub, and a 19-inch, 1980's tube TV. The capstone of the stay was what we saw in the morning. A man and a woman leaving one room in separate cars, early in the morning. Springer anyone?
Best Climb
The majestic approach into the Loess Hills as we climbed through the tree covered highway, slithering our way through the bluffs in SW Iowa.
Best Gas Station
Cenex in Caldwell, KS. We had pleasant banter between us and the cowboys/farmers. One cowboy expert was willing to trade his horse for one of our bikes. Only problem is that a horse can only ride 28 miles a day (so he said), and we can ride over 110. The stop was topped off by John's aunt's arrival, which at the time was a needed boost to our journey with her high spirits and fresh attitude on a hot day (that turned out to be 110 miles).
Best Day/Ride
As alluded to above, the best day was the century (plus) leading us into Wichita, KS. Once we passed the hundred mile mark we found new legs and cruised into Wichita at our best pace of the trip for over ten miles.
Most Interesting Person
Mel Cude. The 89 year old, bike shop owner with Parkinson disease who helped get us back on track.
Quote/Dialogue of the Day:
Ian: "I feel like I should go outside or something" (Ian to me after he had been gaming on his phone)
Kellen: "Dude we have been outside in 100 degree heat for 10 days, plus we have to ride up and do Ragbrai."
Ian: "Yeah, good point."
Ian Fredrick Hembry's Travel Tip of the Day:
"It's nice to be within driving distance of Casey's pizza." (If you can't tell, Ian loves Casey's pizza.)
John Cernohous's Word of Wisdom:
"Chickasa is the most mispronounced town of the trip." (remember it's pronounceds chik-a-shaaa)
Five Things I Learned Today:
1) Ian misses gaming. He killed thousands of zombies today without even flinching. If there is a zombie apocalypse, I know who I want on my side.
2) Coming up with five things you learn everyday on a bike ride trip is not easy.
3) Hills are much less stressful in a motorized vehicle.
4) Sleep deprivation and extensive physical activity does take its toll. Ian has been sleeping a lot and I can barely bend my legs.
5) After a long journey it's good to see your mother. (Ian says. I won't see my parents for another week and change!)
Ian thanks: Andy Johnson for hooking us up with the house in Sidney (check out his website for cloth www.rooskee.com or his facebook page, Rooskee Designs), my family, my wife and my dog, Ramona.
Kellen thanks: My family, Ian, John, friends that sent me well wishes/calls, all of you that have read this blog, the wonderfully nice people we met along the way, and Brent Johnson (of Bike Tech in Cedar Falls) for some technical help 1500 miles away.
Tomorrow should be a good day of doing some yard work for Ian's mom, a short 20 mile shake-out ride, meeting up with Jared, and the midnight showing of the Dark Knight Rises. I could not be more stoked (excited, to the normal person) to see this movie. Christopher Nolan is the man, I can't wait to see how the trilogy ends. I'll include a review in the next blog without spoilers.
Remember the blog won't end yet, we still have Ragbrai. Keep checking back in with us! And, if you are along the Ragbrai route or are riding come find us!
Until tomorrow,
KRS
Tuesday, July 17, 2012
Stage 1: Complete
Recap.
We enjoyed a good breakfast (including homemade strawberry jam) at the Johnson house. We then planned our route, packed our bags, and shoved off.
The ride from Sidney to Tabor was what you would expect, hilly and beautiful. Trees lined the fairly smooth and guiding roads of mother Iowa. The 12-15 miles were long rollers, hard for me, but eaten up by my teammates. They were strong all day and helped me along. In Tabor we had another slice of heaven (Casey's Pizza) and some Gatorades. I think we averaged about a gallon of Gatorade a day, plus countless water bottles of water. They were G2 so they were healthy...right.
From Tabor we ventured to Malvern. As has been commonplace with the trip, there was a nice steep hill heading into town. As John repeatedly said all trip, "We have to earn it (each town)." He was right on every time. We again took a rest at a Casey's. No slice of heaven, rather a few Gatorades and Peanut M&M's. We ran into several guys working construction and a local who asked us about the trip. How hot has it been? Why did you ride that far? Where are you headed? It has not been a bore or a nuisance to answer any of these questions. It actually is a good conversation starter, and it seems people are actually caring, as well as impressed. As we left the Casey's and rode past Ian's local swimming pool, we climbed yet another hill to head towards Blue Grass road to cut out some hills and mileage to get to Emerson. We started climbing and riding. Once we got to the intersection we found out that the road/bridge is out. Just our luck. Ian had no idea, and how could any of us. We even asked the cashier at Casey's- good joke m'am. We reverted course and headed back out of town towards Emerson.
The next 12 or some miles were just like the first 15 with the exception of the last like 2. Ian kept telling me it was the last hill. Liar. I was pretty quiet on the way into Emerson. A) My bike was making some crazy noise and B) I was frustrated with how my body felt. I just couldn't get my legs going, it felt like anytime my calf or quad would cramp. (Next time I'm blood doping). Regardless of my weakness, we made it to Emerson and Ian's families house. I promptly un-clipped my shoes, took of my helmet, threw it by a bush, and laid down in the shade. Ian and John made fun of me and even took some pictures. I didn't care I felt terrible and it was over.
Everyone was kind of in awe that we had finally done it. Jared's dad, Vaughn, came over and chatted with us. Such a cool, nice guy. We (mostly Ian as John had also joined me in laying in the shade) talked to him about the ride, the upcoming Ragbrai, and other BS. He told us to get in the house and get cooled down. We lugged all the gear in and showered up. Ian's sister Carly brought us some lasagna and garlic bread. Muy magnific! It hit the spot. Now we are just lounging and being sore.
We have finally completed stage one of the journey. It wasn't easy by any means, and looking back at the last 800 miles or so, it hasn't really hit any of us what we just did. The days really blended together. It was hard for us to recount when things happened or in what city. I suppose that happens when you get on your bike at 9 and finally get done around 7-8ish. I tried my best to recount the things that happened in this blog by the end of the day, but I don't know if I did it the proper justice. The rides probably weren't that bad, the people probably nicer, and the terrain more complexly beautiful then my small vocabulary can handle. I did notice throughout these last 10 (or however many) days I tended to use the word "beautiful" frequently. I thought about it for like 10 miles today. I think the word beautiful is the best I could do because it's something that people can relate to. It's a word that let's you be the artist of the painting in your head. I think what I saw and tried to translate to you via these typed words is less important than your interpretation of what we actually saw. Through our voyage we let you into the world we encountered and you supported us through your texts, posts, calls, prayers, thoughts, and vibes. It was really a unique and moving experience.
Enough of the deep, mushy stuff and onto the rest of the show.
Quote/Dialogue of the Day:
Kellen: "Ian what are you going to do when you finally get some Iowa sweet corn?"
Ian: "Probably have a nocturnal emission."
Kellen: "HAHAH (laugh and nearly fall of bike, twice)
Ian Fredrick Hembry's Travel Tip of the Day:
"The Loess Hills are beautiful, but the most important word in that name is hills."
John Cernohous's Word of Wisdom:
"I'm going to Des Moines.":
Five Things I Learned Today:
1) Kellen needs at least 12 hours of sleep to not be a crab ass - Ian. (False, I just don't need 1500+ feet of climbing in like 35 miles)
2) John and Ian calculate that we burned roughly 5,000 calories per day. Think about them apples. Hello Big Macs, Whoppers, and Blooming Onions!
3) Ian finds Casey's pizza as deliciously sinful as he remembered.
4) I learned that as you go north from Texas in July, in 2012 that it actually gets hotter. Today topped 106 in SW IA.
5) We were reminded rather quickly at the end of our journey that we truly missed Iowa hospitality. There's nothing like it!
Tune in tomorrow as we post our inaugural JIK (John, Ian, Kellen) Cavalcade Endeavor Awards. It will be sure to highlight the best and the worst of our journey. We may even lift the curtain on the hairy situation that occurred on Day 1's ride.
No riding tomorrow so Ian and I will be working diligently with John (via text/phone) to get the awards posted as soon as possible. We may even field a question and answer session! Joking, I doubt anyone has any questions after reading this. But call me maybe.
Until tomorrow,
KRS
We enjoyed a good breakfast (including homemade strawberry jam) at the Johnson house. We then planned our route, packed our bags, and shoved off.
The ride from Sidney to Tabor was what you would expect, hilly and beautiful. Trees lined the fairly smooth and guiding roads of mother Iowa. The 12-15 miles were long rollers, hard for me, but eaten up by my teammates. They were strong all day and helped me along. In Tabor we had another slice of heaven (Casey's Pizza) and some Gatorades. I think we averaged about a gallon of Gatorade a day, plus countless water bottles of water. They were G2 so they were healthy...right.
From Tabor we ventured to Malvern. As has been commonplace with the trip, there was a nice steep hill heading into town. As John repeatedly said all trip, "We have to earn it (each town)." He was right on every time. We again took a rest at a Casey's. No slice of heaven, rather a few Gatorades and Peanut M&M's. We ran into several guys working construction and a local who asked us about the trip. How hot has it been? Why did you ride that far? Where are you headed? It has not been a bore or a nuisance to answer any of these questions. It actually is a good conversation starter, and it seems people are actually caring, as well as impressed. As we left the Casey's and rode past Ian's local swimming pool, we climbed yet another hill to head towards Blue Grass road to cut out some hills and mileage to get to Emerson. We started climbing and riding. Once we got to the intersection we found out that the road/bridge is out. Just our luck. Ian had no idea, and how could any of us. We even asked the cashier at Casey's- good joke m'am. We reverted course and headed back out of town towards Emerson.
The next 12 or some miles were just like the first 15 with the exception of the last like 2. Ian kept telling me it was the last hill. Liar. I was pretty quiet on the way into Emerson. A) My bike was making some crazy noise and B) I was frustrated with how my body felt. I just couldn't get my legs going, it felt like anytime my calf or quad would cramp. (Next time I'm blood doping). Regardless of my weakness, we made it to Emerson and Ian's families house. I promptly un-clipped my shoes, took of my helmet, threw it by a bush, and laid down in the shade. Ian and John made fun of me and even took some pictures. I didn't care I felt terrible and it was over.
Everyone was kind of in awe that we had finally done it. Jared's dad, Vaughn, came over and chatted with us. Such a cool, nice guy. We (mostly Ian as John had also joined me in laying in the shade) talked to him about the ride, the upcoming Ragbrai, and other BS. He told us to get in the house and get cooled down. We lugged all the gear in and showered up. Ian's sister Carly brought us some lasagna and garlic bread. Muy magnific! It hit the spot. Now we are just lounging and being sore.
We have finally completed stage one of the journey. It wasn't easy by any means, and looking back at the last 800 miles or so, it hasn't really hit any of us what we just did. The days really blended together. It was hard for us to recount when things happened or in what city. I suppose that happens when you get on your bike at 9 and finally get done around 7-8ish. I tried my best to recount the things that happened in this blog by the end of the day, but I don't know if I did it the proper justice. The rides probably weren't that bad, the people probably nicer, and the terrain more complexly beautiful then my small vocabulary can handle. I did notice throughout these last 10 (or however many) days I tended to use the word "beautiful" frequently. I thought about it for like 10 miles today. I think the word beautiful is the best I could do because it's something that people can relate to. It's a word that let's you be the artist of the painting in your head. I think what I saw and tried to translate to you via these typed words is less important than your interpretation of what we actually saw. Through our voyage we let you into the world we encountered and you supported us through your texts, posts, calls, prayers, thoughts, and vibes. It was really a unique and moving experience.
Enough of the deep, mushy stuff and onto the rest of the show.
Quote/Dialogue of the Day:
Kellen: "Ian what are you going to do when you finally get some Iowa sweet corn?"
Ian: "Probably have a nocturnal emission."
Kellen: "HAHAH (laugh and nearly fall of bike, twice)
Ian Fredrick Hembry's Travel Tip of the Day:
"The Loess Hills are beautiful, but the most important word in that name is hills."
John Cernohous's Word of Wisdom:
"I'm going to Des Moines.":
Five Things I Learned Today:
1) Kellen needs at least 12 hours of sleep to not be a crab ass - Ian. (False, I just don't need 1500+ feet of climbing in like 35 miles)
2) John and Ian calculate that we burned roughly 5,000 calories per day. Think about them apples. Hello Big Macs, Whoppers, and Blooming Onions!
3) Ian finds Casey's pizza as deliciously sinful as he remembered.
4) I learned that as you go north from Texas in July, in 2012 that it actually gets hotter. Today topped 106 in SW IA.
5) We were reminded rather quickly at the end of our journey that we truly missed Iowa hospitality. There's nothing like it!
Tune in tomorrow as we post our inaugural JIK (John, Ian, Kellen) Cavalcade Endeavor Awards. It will be sure to highlight the best and the worst of our journey. We may even lift the curtain on the hairy situation that occurred on Day 1's ride.
No riding tomorrow so Ian and I will be working diligently with John (via text/phone) to get the awards posted as soon as possible. We may even field a question and answer session! Joking, I doubt anyone has any questions after reading this. But call me maybe.
Until tomorrow,
KRS
Monday, July 16, 2012
Three states, three guys, and the open road
Big day for the Cavalcade today. Rode through three states, had some three digit heat, and finally made it to Iowa. Phase one of the journey is nearly complete.
Recap.
Good night's sleep in tent for Hembry and I, the Starlite Inn for John, and a great breakfast at Lori's Cafe in Seneca. Some really well cooked breakfast food, prompt service, and run by a family. They also asked us why we're we riding all the way from Texas, we still don't have an answer. Except maybe, "Why not?"
As you can imagine the roads were hilly and Kansas has huge gaps between "real towns", not fake unincorporated ones.
We luckily had a S/SW wind and decent temperatures when we left. The wind stayed with us, but the hills got a little higher, and longer. Then it got wicked hot. Like the kind of heat that when you walk from your house to the car and you start sweating and try to situate yourself so you leave no visible prespiration marks when you get to your destination. Don't lie, you've been there.
At about mile 45-50, and my cursing the state of NE for back shoulders, hills, and road work, we stopped for lunch at Darking's Cafe in Auburn, NE.
Surprisingly, no one had heard of Cam Newton or War Eagle, but the old timers really liked us. The asked us the usual questions, gave their insight, and marveled at our bikes. They were quite jovial. Maybe to the point if they were in a high school lunch I'd have to tell them to keep it down. I also have determined that when I retire I want to do what they do. I want to sit around laughing, joking around, drinking coffee, and people watching. They thought our spandex was snazzy. I bet I could of got a date with one of the grandma's, she liked my jersey (my dating life is at sub-zero temps right now, her comment boosted the ego a little). Wait don't all grandma's think everyone is cute and nice. Wah, Wah, Wah.
The rest of the day was full of pretty good long pulls, heat, and gravel shoulders. Again, I was the slow guy on the fat bike. I got a little frustrated (ask Ian, he had to coach me out of having the red eye several times) throughout the day. I also had to show Ian what he left back at the bottom of the hill, my third finger on my left hand (the middle one). It was all in good fun as after I caught up to them we hit a flatter spot.
At the top of the last NE hill we could see the river valley and the beautiful state of IA. The ride in was awesome, pretty much a long descent over the Missouri and back to where it all began. As we crossed the state line I gave a Lance like flex (hope Ian got the picture).
We stopped at the "Welcome to Iowa" sign for an impromptu photo shoot, complete with me Tebowing (Ian's idea, remember he leans to the nerdy side). We stopped at a Cenex just off the highway. The young woman behind the counter asked the usual questions and we provided the usual answer. Except I think this young lady didn't knew where Texas was. It's ok though, she got the change right.
The ride into the bluffs by Waubonsie state park was a beautiful climb. The tall trees gave us some much needed shade, but the roads were long and the climbs steep. The ten miles to Sidney were hilly, especially into town. John and Ian had a race up one of the final hill. I watched from a safe distance (and pace), John had a good jump, but Ian took the polka dot jersey.
We climbed over 3,500 feet throughout the course of the day today. We complete anywhere between 87-90+ miles depending on who's computer you looked at. It was a solid day of riding.
Ian's friend Jared got a hold of their friend Andy Johnson, who talked to his parents, who let us stay at their beautiful home. The Johnson's raised seven kids so their place was more than accommodating.
John and Nancy cooked us BLTs, beans, pickled cucumber, potato salad, and blue berry pie. It was awesome. Later, Ian's old baseball coach stopped over and shared some stories about Ian, Jared, and his squad. Some funny stuff. Talk about a nice Iowa homecoming.
It's kind of sad to know that we have one more day left to Emerson, then a few days off before the ride to Ragbrai. Where did the time go? I don't even know what day it is actually- no watch. That has been part of the majesty of the trip, no deadlines, no concrete plans, just keep moving and see where you get. I've really enjoyed it, even though Ian's left-brained idealism basically cattle prods me daily to get moving.
Ian Fredrick Hembry's Travel Tip of the Day: "Husker country still sucks"
John Cernohous Daily Dose of Wisdom: "Your butt cramps when you laugh hard, so watch where and when you laugh."
Nate Herrig's Just Tell me About the Food Section:
Darling Cafe, Auburn, NE. Small menu, big taste. You can look right back in the kitchen and see the ladies cooking away. John and Ian got the pork tenderloin and I got a patty melt. We all gave it solid B's. Good pie as well, I recommend Cherry Pie (sing it with me, "She's my cherry pie...", don't lie you know the words).
Five Things I Learned Today:
1) The three of us now have the ability to identify animals based on their death smell.
2) Never turn down a piece of pie at a cafe no matter what the small town cafe looks like.
3) Gas stations with handicap ramps and indoor seating are far more superior than those without.
4) No matter where you ride in July it's still hot. Dry heat and humid hast are still hot. Case in point: it was hotter in KS/NE/IA than TX the last few days.
5) I do not like hills with my pannier (saddle bags) loaded Surly. "Give me my Specialized and no panniers and I'll climb this beast at 18 mph"- me getting fed up of the continual up and down of the first 50 miles.
*I'm grateful for the patience of John and Ian. The hilly days were tough.
I had Bob Seger's "Against the Wind" in my head all day. The chorus just keep playing over and over. I'm sure there is symbolism in their for each of us three respectively.
I know mine was that a lot of people thought this trip was dumb, or that I'd never finish it, or why would I do it. I don't really know why specifically, other than it was an adventure, a trial of sorts. To see if I can do it, spend some time with a friend, and meet a new one.
The days on the bike are long and quiet riding. We maybe talk an hour a day while riding (up to nearly 10 hours some days) and then at stops. It's a lot of time to think, dream, and let go. It was great, not what I thought it would be, but what I needed. It's openness my eyes to something's and given me inspiration about my next big adventure.
Well, my legs are blasted and I'm tired so I'm going to sign off. Tomorrow we are going to check our weight on a scale to see if we lost any weight on the trip. Any bets?
It's nice to be back in Iowa, but the trips not over. There's still another week and a half. Plus when we meet up with Strangebrew business will pick up.
FYI, Ian had his first Casey's pizza in an undisclosed amount of time. He said it was a "slice of heaven."
Have a good one.
Until tomorrow,
KRS
Recap.
Good night's sleep in tent for Hembry and I, the Starlite Inn for John, and a great breakfast at Lori's Cafe in Seneca. Some really well cooked breakfast food, prompt service, and run by a family. They also asked us why we're we riding all the way from Texas, we still don't have an answer. Except maybe, "Why not?"
As you can imagine the roads were hilly and Kansas has huge gaps between "real towns", not fake unincorporated ones.
We luckily had a S/SW wind and decent temperatures when we left. The wind stayed with us, but the hills got a little higher, and longer. Then it got wicked hot. Like the kind of heat that when you walk from your house to the car and you start sweating and try to situate yourself so you leave no visible prespiration marks when you get to your destination. Don't lie, you've been there.
At about mile 45-50, and my cursing the state of NE for back shoulders, hills, and road work, we stopped for lunch at Darking's Cafe in Auburn, NE.
Surprisingly, no one had heard of Cam Newton or War Eagle, but the old timers really liked us. The asked us the usual questions, gave their insight, and marveled at our bikes. They were quite jovial. Maybe to the point if they were in a high school lunch I'd have to tell them to keep it down. I also have determined that when I retire I want to do what they do. I want to sit around laughing, joking around, drinking coffee, and people watching. They thought our spandex was snazzy. I bet I could of got a date with one of the grandma's, she liked my jersey (my dating life is at sub-zero temps right now, her comment boosted the ego a little). Wait don't all grandma's think everyone is cute and nice. Wah, Wah, Wah.
The rest of the day was full of pretty good long pulls, heat, and gravel shoulders. Again, I was the slow guy on the fat bike. I got a little frustrated (ask Ian, he had to coach me out of having the red eye several times) throughout the day. I also had to show Ian what he left back at the bottom of the hill, my third finger on my left hand (the middle one). It was all in good fun as after I caught up to them we hit a flatter spot.
At the top of the last NE hill we could see the river valley and the beautiful state of IA. The ride in was awesome, pretty much a long descent over the Missouri and back to where it all began. As we crossed the state line I gave a Lance like flex (hope Ian got the picture).
We stopped at the "Welcome to Iowa" sign for an impromptu photo shoot, complete with me Tebowing (Ian's idea, remember he leans to the nerdy side). We stopped at a Cenex just off the highway. The young woman behind the counter asked the usual questions and we provided the usual answer. Except I think this young lady didn't knew where Texas was. It's ok though, she got the change right.
The ride into the bluffs by Waubonsie state park was a beautiful climb. The tall trees gave us some much needed shade, but the roads were long and the climbs steep. The ten miles to Sidney were hilly, especially into town. John and Ian had a race up one of the final hill. I watched from a safe distance (and pace), John had a good jump, but Ian took the polka dot jersey.
We climbed over 3,500 feet throughout the course of the day today. We complete anywhere between 87-90+ miles depending on who's computer you looked at. It was a solid day of riding.
Ian's friend Jared got a hold of their friend Andy Johnson, who talked to his parents, who let us stay at their beautiful home. The Johnson's raised seven kids so their place was more than accommodating.
John and Nancy cooked us BLTs, beans, pickled cucumber, potato salad, and blue berry pie. It was awesome. Later, Ian's old baseball coach stopped over and shared some stories about Ian, Jared, and his squad. Some funny stuff. Talk about a nice Iowa homecoming.
It's kind of sad to know that we have one more day left to Emerson, then a few days off before the ride to Ragbrai. Where did the time go? I don't even know what day it is actually- no watch. That has been part of the majesty of the trip, no deadlines, no concrete plans, just keep moving and see where you get. I've really enjoyed it, even though Ian's left-brained idealism basically cattle prods me daily to get moving.
Ian Fredrick Hembry's Travel Tip of the Day: "Husker country still sucks"
John Cernohous Daily Dose of Wisdom: "Your butt cramps when you laugh hard, so watch where and when you laugh."
Nate Herrig's Just Tell me About the Food Section:
Darling Cafe, Auburn, NE. Small menu, big taste. You can look right back in the kitchen and see the ladies cooking away. John and Ian got the pork tenderloin and I got a patty melt. We all gave it solid B's. Good pie as well, I recommend Cherry Pie (sing it with me, "She's my cherry pie...", don't lie you know the words).
Five Things I Learned Today:
1) The three of us now have the ability to identify animals based on their death smell.
2) Never turn down a piece of pie at a cafe no matter what the small town cafe looks like.
3) Gas stations with handicap ramps and indoor seating are far more superior than those without.
4) No matter where you ride in July it's still hot. Dry heat and humid hast are still hot. Case in point: it was hotter in KS/NE/IA than TX the last few days.
5) I do not like hills with my pannier (saddle bags) loaded Surly. "Give me my Specialized and no panniers and I'll climb this beast at 18 mph"- me getting fed up of the continual up and down of the first 50 miles.
*I'm grateful for the patience of John and Ian. The hilly days were tough.
I had Bob Seger's "Against the Wind" in my head all day. The chorus just keep playing over and over. I'm sure there is symbolism in their for each of us three respectively.
I know mine was that a lot of people thought this trip was dumb, or that I'd never finish it, or why would I do it. I don't really know why specifically, other than it was an adventure, a trial of sorts. To see if I can do it, spend some time with a friend, and meet a new one.
The days on the bike are long and quiet riding. We maybe talk an hour a day while riding (up to nearly 10 hours some days) and then at stops. It's a lot of time to think, dream, and let go. It was great, not what I thought it would be, but what I needed. It's openness my eyes to something's and given me inspiration about my next big adventure.
Well, my legs are blasted and I'm tired so I'm going to sign off. Tomorrow we are going to check our weight on a scale to see if we lost any weight on the trip. Any bets?
It's nice to be back in Iowa, but the trips not over. There's still another week and a half. Plus when we meet up with Strangebrew business will pick up.
FYI, Ian had his first Casey's pizza in an undisclosed amount of time. He said it was a "slice of heaven."
Have a good one.
Until tomorrow,
KRS
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