August 10, 2009: Upstate New York
Chuck: The flat is over!! After two days of riding the Erie Canal on a pea-gravel flat terrain, we are now in the hills, and headed for the mountains. Sixty-five miles and 3,300 feet of climbing was enough of a warm up today for what will be the rest of the trip – steep hills and mountains. While riding on the canal, we encountered a group riding the same route as us but heading west. They warned us about the 14,000 feet of climbing they did in two days. I can hardly wait.
Riding in upstate New York has been pleasant – mostly great road surfaces with mostly decent shoulders. This area of the state is agriculturally based – derived from the breadbasket of the US in the Erie Canal days, to diversified farmlands of grains, corn, soybeans, and a wide variety of fruits. We have been among the beneficiaries of this cornucopia, nourishing ourselves with fresh fruits and vegetables every day.
As our destination comes into view, I am taking even more time to savor the scenery and every day of the event. Thanks to Howard and Chicken for the recent kind words of encouragement. They really meant a lot. We really miss you guys and, as I told Howard when asked, “MY BUTT STILL HURTS!!”
I enjoy the photography! Visiting upstate N.Y. and Niagra Falls is on my bucket list! Glad you’re enjoying the fruits and veggies of the region, too. Pendleton is now experiencing a cooler trend and we even got an inch of rain last Friday. My farmer husband was very happy, and it cleared the air of dust and dirt! Fair time this week, and progress continues in Pendleton with R-Up grounds and roads. Susan and I rode our early morning ride yesterday and saw the Canadian Geese feeding in a wheat field, so there are signs of fall. Good luck on your climbs! See you soon!