Sunday's ride.

Today's ride was either 70 miles or 82 miles...depending on the "official rules." What you didn't know there were official rules...of course there are official rules...also known as "Cheryl's rules." So the question is "do you get to count miles hitch-hiked with your bike?" 12 miles from home my back tire got sliced...oh no...I don't know what sliced the tire...because I was checking out the great view of Lake Sammamish (something I don't think is allowed in the "official rules"). The tire was cut clean through. I thought to myself...I can put a boot in the tire to try to patch the hole...but there is a good chance that might only get me a few miles. My all time record is 5 flats in 40 miles...and I just didn't want to challenge that record. So as I began to take the tire off, I kept an eye open for a pick-up truck (that my bike would nicely fit into to). After the first few passed me by, I checked my watch (1.5 hours before dark)...I figured I'd better give it the good ol' try...but then to my surprise the last truck to pass me by was backing up to where I was. I tossed my bike and wheel into the back and climbed in. That was the easiest 12 miles with my road bike.

My goal was 85 miles today. I got up early and started assembling my gear (also known as food and water). Drank a couple cups of coffee, ate some left over pancakes...and then headed to McD's (my new favorite place to park). I just didn't have much umph today. I wasn't exactly tired...maybe just not motivated. So I decided that what ever route I took, it couldn't pass by the car before it was over (or it would be over). I rode from Issaquah to Marymoore (E. lake sammamish) where I wasted lots of time chatting with people. Then West Lake Sammamish to Newport to Bellevue to Renton (south end of the lake). Once I arrived at Seward Park I realized that the motivation that was lacking in Issaquah was not going to be found today. So I made a deal with myself...I didn't have to ride the whole lake Washington if I rode back to Marymoore on the trail and then home from there. I guesstimated the miles would be the same...so with my new found determination I headed back to Marymoore via UW...Kenmore...you know the gig. I was tired when I got to Marymoore but not in bad shape for having riden 65 miles. another 5 miles and my first flat on the Seven (not bad...800 + mile with no flat).