Just Keep Pedalin' (June 4, 2010)

Sometimes it feels as though some of these climbs go on forever. Sometimes it feels as though there is no end. Sometimes the legs hurt and the butt aches ... but the downhills are always rejuvenating.

Yesterday and today featured some nasty climbing, but unlike the previous days' rides, there was no rain ... lots of sweat-inducing humidity, but no rain.

Yesterday, I rode the 46 miles from Dallas, OR to Lincoln City, OR ... crossing the Coastal Range. It was an enjoyable ride, with several small climbs and one very challenging climb. Upon arrival in Lincoln City, I hastily booked a room (with a view of the ocean) and spent the evening watching large amounts of water fall from the sky. Once again, not gon'na camp in the rain, don'cha know.

The rain fell all night and into the early morning. Walking over to get some breakfast, I noticed the flags flapping in the wind ... pointing due south. Unfortunately, I was to be riding north. This does not make for a very comfortable feeling whilst eating breakfast.

Finally got motivated and started riding the 47 miles to Tillamook, OR.

A couple of personal historical notes: 1) several years ago, I had the good fortune to ride the Oregon Coast with a group of friends. We had a vehicle with us (thanks Peg), so we did not have to carry our gear on our bikes, and 2) In 2001, I participated in the Santa Fe Century Ride ... due to the prevalent and physically stressful riding conditions, I came up with a phrase worthy of a country western song, that phrase being "Hills and Headwinds".

The reason for noting these two items is that I spent a great amount of time riding up a long climb that I remembered "riding down" when we rode the coast ... and yes, today there were headwinds to go along with the upward slant of the road.

Best part of the day was seeing the blue sky this afternoon. No, I take that back, best part of the day was getting my tired legs and sore butt off of the bike.

Life is good.