Aftet yesterday’s rain delay, we waited at Rockford’s Fire Department until the rain passed. In hindsight, however, we should have waited longer. We ended up biking right into the rain, and within a matter of minutes, we were soaked. It’s not my favorite getting pelted with driving rain and having rain droplets fall from the tip of my nose, my helmet, and my hands. Not fun.
At least we weren’t freezing and it only lasted for about 10 minutes. We arrived in Charles City ready for a shower, for dinner, and some relaxation.
An enjoyable evening was found a little later in the city park with food, music, and friends.
This morning we woke at 5am after another night of interrupted sleep. We got on the road by 6, but it didn’t take me long to realize I didn’t eat enough last night to fuel my body for today. My legs turned to noodles and my muscles ached with each pedal’s revolution.
But, goodness, it was a beautiful day… 80 degrees and party sunny. The wind was a little stronger than we prefer, but it kept us cool, despite the feet of climb doubled from yesterday. We took our time with our 56 mile ride, resting in each town. No speed records were set by us this afternoon.
We ate sweet corn pancakes with cheese curds in Ionia (yum!)…
I signed the rider wall in Lawler…
Lawler also welcomed us with balloons…
Protivin was fun and its people were friendly…
We met some new friends along our route. Since our goal is to bike in each of the 50 states, we asked those who don’t live in Iowa for the best places to bike in their states. We’ve received lots of ideas! Jeremy from the California bay area enticed us enough to want to travel there soon and ride their amazing trails. It sounded wonderful!
Tonight we are in Cresco, camped in left field of the high school’s ball diamond. A handful of us found the Catholic church in town who was serving lasagna and all the fixings. There’s no doubt I took in enough food and carbs tonight. Tomorrow, hopefully I’ll feel stronger!
We have 60ish miles ahead of us tomorrow and more hills. More adventure awaits us! I’ll check in again soon.
Blessings!
Julie
This couch potato old gal can’t imagine doing what you’re doing! I so admire you! Amazing!
Cindy, I couldn’t have imagined doing it either a number of years ago. Training makes all the difference! Thanks for coming along with us on this journey.
protivin Is my hometown. glad it was fun. I was working the food booth up the road from the fire station. and you were next door to the locker that my brother owns.
I too am enjoying your posts and pictures.
We so enjoyed Protivin! Its people were so friendly and welcoming. Wish we could have met somehow! I hope RAGBRAI was good to your hometown. Thanks for stopping in here and for sharing! Thanks for sharing your town with us too!