Day 27

115 miles today. All in Florida panhandle. Again excellent roads and clean highways. So much warmer today after four straight unseasonably cold days. Nearly 30 degrees warmer today to start out. We can see the finish line. Wednesday should get us in a position to wrap the trip up easily on Thursday. Alpha Team is on schedule to finish and do the final push to raise money for MS.

1. Don’t see many armadillos in New York. While we have seen a plethora of armadillo roadkill, this was our first live sighting. Reminded me of our family vacation in Africa. We did a night safari and spotted a huge anteater. None of the kids stayed awake for it and I know the two aren’t related but what can I say?

2. My bike seat taking a beating on this trip. Those of you who cycle know that a comfortable saddle is vital to this kind of venture. Not using as much saddle cream as we needed in the warmer weather. I remember my first full iron distance triathlon I greased up my seat outfit with cream to such an exaggerated state that 5 miles in I thought my seat was loose.

3. Shocking amount of climbing today on the bike. Well over 4000 feet. Who would guess that Northern Florida would be that rolling?

4. Had dinner tonight next to the Motel at the Smakin Lips Diner. Friendly service and it is apparent they are trying hard.

5. Another day where we mark where we leave off with a cone so that we don’t miss an inch when we restart in the morning. No cheaters on Team Alpha.

6. Biked through an active area of prison inmates removing trash from the side of the road. They seemed interested in us and made me think of Cool Hand Luke.

Only a couple more days of blogs left. Tell your friends. Convince them to contribute to Alpha Team’s ride for MS.