Day Forty Four-That's All Folks!

Day 44-(83 Miles)- Tuesday, July 31, 2007- Niagara Falls, NY to Henrietta, NY

Ride Update: I have now completed my cross country ride of 3,217 miles and have climbed 90,502' through eight states and one Canadian province. As a sidebar, I logged 2,300 miles in July which included seven centuries (+100 miles) and five additional rides over 90 miles.

The ride today went by at light speed. I was joined by the Millers for the entire ride, but saw many of the group along the way. Today's ride itself was pretty boring, but throughout the ride I experienced strong emotions about this incredible experience coming to an end. Do I wish I was going through to New Hampshire with my friends? Of course. I'd give anything to be able to do that. But it is not to be and I've made peace with that. So, I am glad to have finished what I set out to do.

I have enjoyed myself beyond all expectations. The ride has been more than I expected- harder, longer, prettier, and way more fun. Way, way more fun.

I have commented many times about the nearly perfect weather. Today was another day that you'd kill for. I make no apologies for doing this ride in wonderful weather. None whatsoever. And thanks to whomever was responsible.

This group of riders has been extraordinary. I hope I've made friends for life with some of these folks. Maybe we'll meet up again on our bicycles and we'll ride some more. However, I seriously doubt that any other encounter we might have will top this one. I've read people's journals from other rides in which they refer to fellow riders as "family". I thought that was hokey and overly sentimental- and I was sure that I would not feel that way. But I do. We have done things that families do together- we've eaten together, some have shared bedrooms, we've washed clothes together, laughed and fussed at each other, we've done chores as a team, and we've protected each other. If this isn't how families behave, then I don't understand what they do.

So, I'm happy to be at the end of my ride and I'm proud of what I've done. I look forward to reuniting with Sherry on Friday. It's the longest we've ever been apart and I have missed you. I am excited about spending time this week with Ron, Jack, Susie, Sara and Mom. And I also can't wait to see Kelly and meet Rizzy for the first time. And I hope that Erin, Nora, Patrick, Thomas and Courtney will all be ready to have some fun. Finally, I look forward to soon being with Nick and Jon- it's been a while, and I appreciate you guys taking care of the farm while I've been gone.

I want to say a special thanks to the following friends:

Joe, Brian and Brody at Habersham Bikes- thanks for your help in getting me ready for this adventure and for following along through the blog. I'll see you soon. And thanks for keeping Matthew away from the Cervelo.

Danny Short and Keith Campbell- I had lot's of comments from you guys and though a couple were real smart ass comments, you guys helped me to get through some of the tough days. Thanks a bunch and I look forward to seeing you soon.

The Miller Family- Thanks for taking me in and making me "Uncle Bob". I enjoyed the hours we spent together. Michael- keep killing people and eating them- it's the right thing to do.

Derek Miller- You get special thanks for sharing your food/gum, pulling me when I was beat, pushing me up hills, making me laugh, laughing at my stupid jokes and not getting pissed when I said "yeah?". Keep Ole B-1 running and watch out for chain deformities.

Joel and Allison- I really enjoyed riding with you. You guys saved me a couple of times and I appreciate it. And thanks again for lunch at Wolfgang's!! Good luck to Allison- you'll be Dr. Paine in no time.

Ralph- Learned some things from you, man. Thanks again for the book and it's lessons. I enjoyed riding with you and Gerard (gulp!!). September- Six Gaps?? Let me know. Hope Mariah treats you right.

The Three D's- Brett, Jen and Russell- I enjoyed your company so much. You are neat folks and I hope our paths cross again soon. Good luck to you. Love you Jen.

Gary- I wish I'd have gotten to know you sooner, cause you are one funny dude. We'll do some fly fishing in Madison, OK?

Rich- You were the class of the group Rich. One cool dude, for sure. Sorry about stealing Sarah from you a time or two- but what can I say? She was just a sucker for a guy with a faster bike. Take good care of Peaches.

Will - You showed me what a man with infinite patience looks like. Thank you.

Badger Bill- I will never feel guilty again eating donuts or ice cream. And I have you to thank for this. I still dream about the donuts your wife brought. Is there a cure for this?

Marianne- Thanks for making me laugh so many times. But do be careful on the rest of the trip- I don't want you to poke your eye out.

Marilyn- Thanks for showing me what courage looks like. My hat is off to you- nobody on this trip could compare to you.

Ernst - To the Governator- FOUR MORE YEARS!!! I enjoyed riding with you and thanks for making me laugh.

John and Janet- Drafting behind your tandem was a blast. Thanks so much!!

Daco, Bud and Cindy- Though we didn't ride together often, you guys graciously allowed me to suck wheel a couple times- thanks for letting me run with the big dogs!!

Max and Mark- I had some enjoyable times with you guys, but the best was the Google argument. Enjoy the rest of your ride. Max- keep the rubber side down.

And to the ABB staff- I really appreciate the work you did. This was my first supported tour, but I give you high marks for your organization and attention to detail. Thanks for making my trip a reality.