10

Tour de Wyoming: Day 1

Sheridan to Buffalo, WY: 48 miles

Sunday, July 17, 2016

Today started early.

Elizabeth and I had Bob take us and our
Bicycles to Sheridan Jr H.S. to
Get into 5:15 Q-ing up for
Breakfast.

Service with four lines,
So, quick to get food.
We were on road by six a.m.

Yesterday after dinner,
Had driven leaving-town-route in car.
Big help in morning to know where one is going.

I had asked E. to ride with me this morning,
Until out of town.
Both enjoyed / appreciated that.

Then Elizabeth glided away on her
Fast bike with her strong legs.
Next meeting was at motel.

Miles were through lovely
Wyoming valleys.
New scenery for me.
Beautiful.

More green than usual WY ride,
As followed Piney Creek
About half of journey.

Three rest stops set up for cyclists.
Food, water, Portapotties.
As week progresses,
These will become socializing spots.

Wind came up later in morning.
I was into Buffalo by 12:30, and had battled wind.

Earlier riding,
Hence faster riders,
Have less wind.
Incentive to leave early.

I was VERY tired.
Could tell that it has been week since
A distance ride for me.

Last night's sleep was poor,
Worried about start of this adventure.
I think that today I tried to pedal at a faster cadence.

All those riders passing, passing me.
Surely I could step up my pace.
Another "Relearn".
Biking one's own rhythm is important.

To downtown, via car,
For lunch.
Buffalo is buzzing with many tourists,
Even more cyclists.

One of you asked about my gear:

My Salsa brand bicycle,
Model called Vaya,
Is working well.

I had it "built" for my measurements.
Frame is a little smaller,
Tires are less in diameter (26, I think).

I am not a short woman, and
I am very short waisted.
That makes forward reach short.
Hence smaller frame.

You remember that I had gears changed.
No shift with left hand.
I have a "One and Eleven" by Schram.

My seat is a women's cut-out from Terry Bicycle Co.
I'm very particular about seat.
If ever I'm going to ride rental bike,
I take my own seat.

Last night I was dancing around our motel room,
Saying, "the rhythm will appear, the rhythm will appear".
Meaning that the pre-arranging, the location, the timing,
Will become obvious and easier.

All is well,

Hugs to each,
Lin

Gorgeous wide open vistas

Lin & Elizabeth in New Hoodies

Crossing Narrow Bridge

Morning light on today's route

Green of Piney Creek close by

Vistas in Full Sun

People settle close to water

Me riding into Buffalo

First 48 miles of Tour de Wyoming DONE!

Once library, now museum: after lunch in Buffalo

Lin Bruce
 

Lin McLaughlin Bruce uses stories of her cross-country bicycle adventures post age 60 to inspire and encourage people to reach beyond perceived limitations. In her words, "It's never too late to say 'yes' to bigger things!"

Carla Johnson - July 18, 2016

Lin: What a fun and adventurous summer you’re having. I love reading your progress, your learnings, your limericks as you post about your rides.

Yesterday, in the StarTribune Minnesota section, there you were – wonderful story about your biking adventure and a great photo. Perfect timing and we’re sharing it broadly. You are a “Minnspiration”, for sure!

Love to you and Bob. You’ve touched me over and over and inspired so many.

Strong legs and strong lungs – your heart is full, I’m sure.

Love you,
Carla

    Lin Bruce - July 19, 2016

    Thank you for your loving words, Carla! The feeling is certainly mutual. Thanks for sharing the article broadly, I would love to have some speaking opportunities come to me through it! Yes, legs and lungs stronger and stronger, heart full of gratitude. love you back…

Peggy Prowe - July 18, 2016

Lovely article about you and your exploits in the Star Tribune yesterday. Danielle Fox did a nice job of capturing your spirit!

    Lin Bruce - July 19, 2016

    Thanks, Peggy — yes, I liked the spirit of it very much. A few mixed up facts, but it’s delightful and I’m tickled pink!

Peter Komendowski - July 18, 2016

Lin,

You are an inspiration! Enjoy the ride … Life is fantastic. Peace & love.

Peter

    Lin Bruce - July 19, 2016

    Hear, hear! life is indeed fantastic. Thanks for the “wave,” Peter! Appreciate your presence.

Irene - July 18, 2016

Wonderful view! Must have a closer look at your new bike. Good to see your beautiful smile following you everywhere.
Take care!

    Lin Bruce - July 19, 2016

    We’ll arrange it! Thanks, Irene! And thanks again for posting the link to the Star and Tribune article yesterday!

Maggie - July 18, 2016

So important to remember to work at your own rhythm! Good luck, GramaLin! Love!!

    Lin Bruce - July 19, 2016

    It’s a lesson not just for riding, but for life! 🙂 Thanks, Maggie!

Comments are closed