And we’re off

Williston, Vermont to Ticonderoga, New York. Saturday, April 17, 2021

Now the trip begins in earnest. Fully vaccinated, reasonably prepared, a rough plan in place, it’s time to hit the road.

Jane organized a great send off, brought together family, friends, and neighbors for a little ceremony in our driveway, complete with gold streamers, a bagel breakfast, and the perfect soundtrack: Bruce Springsteen‘s “Thunder Road”. She read me a personalized version of the Irish blessing, and it was hard to see as I clattered down the driveway, my glasses were fogged up.

The route in the beginning will be familiar, I have biked it so many times. It was notable for a nice tailwind, and some heartwarming stops along the way. My son Jason was working at Healthy Living, and I embarrassed him by coming in to say goodbye and giving him a hug. Longtime biking buddy Steve was right on the route in Charlotte, I visited with him and his sweet wife Karen for almost an hour, she gave me a great peptalk. I got a surprise as I approach the Champlain Bridge, my BFFs Brian & Mary had tracked me down on the find my friends app, and we shared a last farewell at a roadside cemetery.

It was cloudy and the wind was icy, but at least it was at my back. I could still see glimpses of the amazing Vermont scenery, and wondered why I was leaving this beautiful state that has been my home for the past 34 years. Crossing the bridge I entered New York, pretty in its own right but just not the same. Soon I was on the official Empire State Trail, a bikeway in name only since I was on a main road with a gnarly shoulder. I was too distracted to take pictures, my only one was at the funny little town of Street Road, at the top of a long hill. [hmm, what’s the deal with the cemeteries?]

A few miles later, I was at my destination, a Super 8 motel in Ticonderoga NY. Spartan, but perfectly pleasant.

So much to say, but let me post this now, and fill in the backstory when I get a chance.

Distance 57.5 miles. Time 7.5 hours with stops. Elevation gain 2,468 feet