Day 23

100 miles today. Tough go of it today. Into wind and nearly 4000 feet of climbing. Full day. Can’t say I like the shoulders on the roads so far in Mississippi. Tomorrow we have a whopper. We will try to catch the ferry but there is a small chance we get there by the last one at 5 pm. We will make a run for it though and will wish for tailwinds and flat riding.

1. After a longish night on Bourbon Street we woke to a dramatic temperature change. 40 degrees to start the day and it never got out of the low 50’s. Tomorrow looks even colder in the morning. Wear all you brought!

2. Lunch was at a nice place. Food was good and the owner touched the table a couple of times. When he asked about the bike ride and we told him it was Alpha Win for MS he told us of his family’s tragic history with the disease. In case we needed more inspiration. Give to the cause!

3. One 7.5 stretch of road had absolutely no shoulder. We used the Alpha van to drive behind us with the 4 ways on. No chances from us especially on Friday 13th.

4. Passed a mechanic place named Big Mike’s. Doctor Mike suggested that that could be his new nickname. Tough to get used to but after witnessing him pull today in the wind perhaps it makes sense.

5. Another border crossing into Mississippi. Just a couple left. Not that I am counting.

6. Staying in Gulfport and ate at a great restaurant by the beach. Asked for a little horseradish sauce to add to the cocktail sauce for my oysters. Waitress left it off and cautioned me to be careful. She wasn’t kidding. Will breathe clear biking tomorrow.

7. Myron was able to get his bike repaired today. Also Pia took over driving the van while her significant other biked. Seamless transition from Sammy as driver.