Raccoon River Valley Trail—Day 1

Hi Friends,

Longer rider than mapped today.
Lost twice.
Yuck! I hate being lost anytime—
Lost via bicycle just adds work.

We're riding Raccoon River Valley Trail.
Keeps us out of traffic,
Mostly bordered with habitat corridors,
As it routes beside farm fields.

Especially grateful for sheltering trees,
Windbreak and shade on
Very windy, VERY HOT ride day.

Pausing often to guzzle water.
Afternoon breaks as frequent as every three or four miles.
Resting, letting our bright red faces
Cool back to normal complexion.

Actually did well with self-care
On day with temps of high 90's.

It reminded me of my getting up WY mountain—
Careful, little bit at a time,
With water and rest.

Even stayed civil when lost. Yippee!
In Waukee, much construction creating new trailhead and intersection.
Directions sketchy or non-existent.

In midst of VERY lost frustrating part,
Passed by Chamber of Commerce office.
Stellar help from woman in charge!
Put us on right path,
Restored confidence.

“Asking for help”—my 2^nd Key for
Saying “Yes!” to bigger things!

Other "lost time" was trying to find
"The Port" in Panora—our lodging for night.
What I relearned is to get
Excellent, extensive directions when
Making reservation.

Overshot with three extra miles on bike trail.
Back toward town,
Then out on road to get to bed-for-the-night.
Friday evening going-to-lake traffic,
Road with ten-inch shoulder filled with
Rumble bar, NOT fun.

Now safely tucked into this spot.

I'm glad to have had this ride day.
Have not liked all of it—
True of any day.
Satisfied to have traveled on my own steam.

Hugs to each of you,
Lin