Day 71, Miles Ridden Today: 38 Miles Ridden Overall: 2,435 Camping: $10, We are staying overnight at a campsite along the C&O Canal at Paw Paw, West Virginia
- To track online our current location, see instruction on the “Ride the Nation Route Plan” page
- Also, follow us on Twitter, search “ridethenation”
- Check out our blog on www.bmxmania.com for exclusive details you won’t find here.
We slept in a bit but managed to make it to the free hotel breakfast before everything was gone. We enjoyed our typical cereal and yogurt (me), Waffle (the Beast) and Biscuits and gravy (Frankenbutt). I wanted a banana but they were all pretty past ripe and I actually don’t like my bananas that sweet.
We meandered back to the room, packed up our stuff and then minutes before we were ready to head out the door, Frankenbutt noticed that one of his spokes were broken. We removed our helmets and consulted the Google maps on my phone. We found a bike shop 9 miles round trip from the hotel. Frankenbutt called and confirmed they had what he needed and headed out on his own. The Beast and I relaxed and watched some TV.
When Frankenbutt got back about an hour later, he explained that the bike mechanic told him it would take 45 minutes to install it. Frankenbutt asked if he could borrow the cassette remover tool and install it himself since we really needed to get on the road. The mechanic agreed and when Frankenbutt returned the tool about 5 minutes later, the bike mechanic was surprised how quickly he had gotten the job done. I guess that part time job at the bike shop has paid off!
At 11:45 am, we finally got out on the road. We used the hotel business center’s computer to print out directions to the C&O Canal that Ben Cary sent us. We hopped on our bikes and followed 522 North out of Winchester. There were some long uphill climbs and I heard the many comments folks at the Hagerstown and Winchester tracks had made about the trip from Winchester, VA to Cumberland, MD. We hung in there and occasionally got a nice long downhill run for all of the sweat we put into the uphills.
 Late in the afternoon, Frankenbutt hollered, “Look right.” I was afraid I had missed noticing a vehicle coming out from the right. As lead rider, I holler “car right!” and “car left!” so that we (and they) notice one another. This time, it wasn’t a car, but an awe inspiring view of the mountains. We stopped and enjoyed the serenity of the moment and the long view we had across the mountains.
We pedaled on with our cell phones and GPS device turned off. It’s not that we were looking for a disconnection from the world, but rather because we knew that we’d be spending the night at a primitive campsite at the C&O Canal sans electric. We noticed a small convenience store as Route 29 North ended and Maryland Route 9 began. We turned in and picked up Gatorade and some fresh water since our bottles were near empty. I asked the clerk, “about how far to Paw Paw?” and she said, “about 3 miles and it’s mostly downhill.” I could have hugged her! That made my day!
 Before we left, my friendly brake/shifter dwelling spider emerged to take a peek around. This spider has been hitching a ride from me since at least Hagerstown, Maryland. My brake is not the first place I’d pick to make a vacation home in but she certainly seems to like it. She emerges when we stop and crawls back in before I can flick her off. I guess we’re friends now. Frankenbutt thinks I should call her “Bitey”; I’m thinking “Charlotte”. If you’ve a better suggestion, feel free to send me a comment.
We flew down the hills and climbed a few small ones before we saw the entrance to the C&O Canal. We rode down the gravel driveway and saw tents set up in a big grassy field. There were also 3 porta-pots, so it wasn’t as primitive as some campsites we’ve read about. We picked a shady spot that happened to have some firewood left at the site. We relaxed for a bit at the picnic table and then Frankenbutt and the Beast set about building a campfire while I pulled the cooking utensils and dinner food.
As I pulled the pans out of the pannier, an “Off Personal Bug Repellant” box tumbled out. I had almost forgotten about that! Diane from Hagerstown gave us her own belt clip style bug repellant that is not a spray but rather a fan style personal bug repellant. I turned it on and set it on the table and was impressed with how well it worked. Thanks, Diane! (Also, I looked for Ryan at Winchester and was disappointed not to meet him. If you guys come to the Grands, please find us and introduced your son to us.)
I found myself nodding off as Frankenbutt prepared to dinner. The Beast had already put the tent up and it was a little after 8 when we finished dinner. I declared that I was heading to my sleeping bag. I barely had my contact lenses out when I drifted off. I awoke around 4 AM when Frankenbutt was stepping out of the tent to go to the bathroom. It was definitely cold outside but I was so snuggly warm in my down sleeping bag that I decided to “hold it” ‘til morning. I made it to 6 AM, ran to the porta-pot and then crawled back in to my sleeping bag for another hour and a half of sleep. Coco did the same; she knows whose sleeping bag is the warmest and the roomiest.
 This picture is for Laura P. in Florida who wanted visual verification that I’m alive and in one piece. Mind you, I’ve left bits and pieces of myself all across the Eastern states but I’m having a blast in the process. Miss you, Laura! And hoping to see you at the Grands!
Day 70, Miles Ridden Today: 9 Miles Ridden Overall: 2,397 Camping: $0, We are staying overnight at a Comfort Inn, Winchester, VA compliments of Winchester BMX.
- To track online our current location, see instruction on the “Ride the Nation Route Plan” page
- Also, follow us on Twitter, search “ridethenation”
- Check out our blog on www.bmxmania.com for exclusive details you won’t find here.
Our day started with laundry. Ugh! And, unfortunately, someone else beat us to the onsite washing machine. So, we ate breakfast and “stalked” the laundry room so that we could commandeer the washer and dryer as soon as our fellow guest removed their laundry. Our laundry finally wrapped up around 11:45 am; we stuffed the clean clothes into our panniers, checked out of the hotel and headed to the Pedestrian Mall in Old Winchester.
Winchester has great signage, is really easy to bike around and we found most drivers to be respectful of cyclists. We parked our bikes at Loudon and Picadilly and strolled through the pedestrian mall. The Beast zeroed in on a terrific little book shop while Frankenbutt and I checked out the menus of several outdoor cafes. We stumbled onto a cozy lunch counter from days gone by with a picture of Patsy Cline having a burger. That was good enough for us! We sat down in the outdoor seating area and ordered burgers for the Beast and me; Frankenbutt ordered the “grooving reuben” special. Coco had a sample of each once we’d had our fill.
 Following lunch, we made our way down to the Old Court House Civil War Museum. The Beast was smiling, knowing that there would most likely be many a display of her beloved Stonewall Jackson. She and I wandered in and she was delighted to find her assumptions were right. She toured the entire museum at a leisurely pace and then lingered in the gift store. I rejoined Frankenbutt and Coco outside while the Beast also took a bunch of pictures.
While relaxing on a park bench, the Winchester BMX track director, Ben Carey, arrived on his bike. His son, Ponton, and daughter, Besma, also biked up to us. We gathered in the shade and his kids got to know our daughter while we discussed our plans for the evening at the track. Suddenly, there was a POP! The tube on Besma’s adorable 20” bike bit the dust, probably from the intense heat of the street … but, possibly because big brother, Ponton, may have put a little too much air in it. Dad, Ben, jumped on his bike and rode to the local Walmart and bought a new tube while Frankenbutt pulled our tools and bike pump. Ponton and Besma agreed to take the Beast on a downtown stroll to the Hanley Library while the fellows changed the tube and remounted the wheel. Ben brought us back a couple of replacement tubes for our bikes, too. Thanks, Ben!
We sat and enjoyed each other’s company, surrounded by historic buildings in Old Winchester. I was glad that both Frankenbutt and I were feeling better than we had in the days prior. Ben told us that TV3 asked to move the track interview time up a little so that the station could present the story both at 7 and 11pm.
 We checked our watches and were surprised to see it was already closing in on 5pm. We texted the kids to return and we all put helmets on and mounted our bikes. The Beast jokingly asked Ponton if he wanted to switch bikes (picture the Beast’s bike loaded with panniers and bed rolls). Ponton willingly made the switch and the Beast enjoyed a light weight road ride from downtown to the track. When we entered the park, there was a downhill dip to an uphill climb and I heard Ponton made an audible “ugh” as he pedaled the Beast’s loaded bike up the hill. The Beast smiled and said, “I like this bike” as she breezed up the hill.
 At the track, we were glad to see Hagerstown’s track director, Sherman Lynn, and son, Cody, had made the trip to Winchester for the Tuesday night local race. In fact, there were riders from other surrounding tracks, including an ABA track that’s more than an hour’s drive away. I thought, “hmm, maybe this USA BMX merge of NBL and ABA may be an easier transition than many believed it would be.” Coco also met up with her old friend, Gizmo, and had a little doggy “ninja” fun.
TV3’s reporter, Justin Granit, arrived as the track office opened for registration. Volunteers were already buzzing about doing all the tasks that need to be done in order for a race to get under way. Justin introduced himself and we discussed how he’d like to shoot the footage and do the interviews. The Beast did the first interview and handled herself well. Frankenbutt and I followed with a bit more nervousness than the Beast ever registers. Next, we loaded Coco into her trailer and rode our bikes around the park so that Justin could get some footage of us riding our loaded bikes.
Once the reporter had all that he needed, he thanked us for our time and we thanked him for keeping BMX in the local spotlight. It was obvious that he had a good working relationship with Ben; other local BMX tracks could learn and benefit from Ben’s approach to media relationships: Make phone calls until you find someone who will care enough to come out and see the magic of BMX.
With our TV interview wrapped up, we registered the Beast for racing and I let them know I was available for scoring if they needed me. Ben’s wife, Tina, came up and introduced herself and told me her kids told her all about us. I felt instantly at ease talking with her as we compared notes on husbands and men in general. Connie joined us and the two of them told me how they love driving Ben crazy.
When I returned to Frankenbutt’s side, he was talking with BMX mom, Sue, and her husband about our crazy biking adventure. They were curious about what lead to our big bike trip and we shared some funny stories from the road. We met their young riders, Carson and Cadyn, and then they invited us to share some takeout pizza with their family. They were so kind and welcoming and truly have the BMX spirit.
 With the last bite in our mouths, we responded to Ben’s announcement for volunteers to take their positions on the track. Sue, Sandi and I made our way to the finish line, clipboards in hand to watch the parade lap start. The Beast was given the honor of carrying the American flag and she lead the riders around the track to an instrumental playing of our National Anthem.
 The race got underway and we had 12 motos to watch and score. The time passed so quickly as Sue, Sandi and I laughed and talked the whole time. As evening turned to night, we scored the main and the kids gathered around the office to receive their trophies. Cadyn and Carson beamed with pride as they showed me their hard earned track bling. Many of us lingered and talked and just enjoyed the relaxed atmosphere that BMX tracks always are. Connie offered to follow us with flashers on as we prepared to ride from the track to the hotel. Once Ben finished up his track duties, he offered to lead us on a mellow path to the Comfort Inn. We said good night to the track families and pedaled off, following Ben. It was truly refreshing to ride in the cool evening air.
We checked into our hotel and Ben paid the bill as Connie and Frankenbutt chatted out front. We went out in front of the lobby to say good night to Connie and Ben and found ourselves enjoying quite a few more laughs. The Winchester folks know how to relax and have fun. We love that! BMX is ALIVE AND WELL in Winchester! We can’t wait to see all of you at the Grands … and the other tracks along the way.
Day 69, Miles Ridden Today: 3 Miles Ridden Overall: 2,388 Camping: $0, We are staying overnight at a Quality Inn in Winchester, VA
- To track online our current location, see instruction on the “Ride the Nation Route Plan” page
- Also, follow us on Twitter, search “ridethenation”
- Check out our blog on www.bmxmania.com for exclusive details you won’t find here.
After a restful night, Frankenbutt awoke feeling better and I was relieved to see him with more color in his cheeks. We dressed and went to the hotel breakfast and was pleasantly surprised to see quite an array of choices. Overall, we’ve found the Choice Hotels line of lodging to be a really good choice for amenities for the price.
Following breakfast, I found myself feeling a little dizzy and tired. We had planned to go out and see some historic sites but opted to stay in for the morning and take care of some emails and track contacts for our route ahead. Around 1pm, we ventured out on bikes for some lunch. After riding the short distance in the thick humidity, I again felt a bit dizzy and attributed it to the heat and humidity.
We locked our bikes and headed into the local mall, which the Beast really wanted to visit. It’s been over a month since the teen aged Beast had been in a shopping mall … she looked happy to stroll through the Claire’s shop and the Hot Topic shop. When we made it down to the food court, the Beast and I chose the Japanese place for chicken, white rice and veggies; Frankenbutt went with the Italian place for spinach stuffed pizza and a Pepperoni slice.
Shortly after I started eating lunch, I felt dizzy again. We finished lunch and as we were walking through the mall, I started to feel really tired. Frankenbutt said everything I was feeling was what he had gone through the day before. He said he felt back to normal after a good night’s sleep. We decided to head back to the hotel room so I could try to rest. As soon as I hit the bed, I fell into a deep sleep. I was out for at least 3 hours. When I awoke, I felt a little groggy but definitely felt better.
We all showered and dressed, glad to be meeting up and spending the evening with old friends who came up from Front Royal, VA. We met Rick, Lynn and Eleni on a cruise years ago that we ended up on after missing our original cruise due to a rock slide near Seattle, Washington that closed the main highway to the Seattle cruise port. As we cruised Alaska, we enjoyed each other’s company right away and the Beast hit it off with their daughter. We’ve since planned vacations together and we try to get together whenever we are in one another’s neck of the woods.
Rick and Lynn picked us up and drove us to a local sports theme restaurant called Glory Days, where we ordered a big plate of Nachos and cold beers while we debated what to order for dinner. I realized that I had not had a cold beer in quite a while and believe me, it tasted as good as I remember. Finally, after singing many rounds of “a Hundred Bottles of Beer on the Wall” during killer climbs, I got my cold beer! And better yet, I was sharing beers and really good conversation with old friends! It was a good evening indeed.
Like so many times before, we all lingered long after our meals were done, laughing and catching up with all the crazy things going on in our lives. The Beast and Eleni were having their own share of laughs and whispers at their end of the table, too. When I realized how late it was and that both Rick and Lynn had work the next day, I suggested we head out.
Eleni really wanted to meet Coco, who was lounging at the hotel room so we headed back to the Quality Inn. Since they brought two separate cars to meet us, Lynn opted to head for home and catch a little sleep since she had to start work the earliest. She gave us all big, warm hugs and headed on her way. Rick and Eleni came to our (slightly messy) room where Coco was jumping for joy to see us. Eleni and the Beast laughed and played with Coco while Rick, Frankenbutt and I talked.
We had truly enjoyed seeing our old friends and I felt so much better than I had earlier in the day. I guess it’s true: laughter is the best medicine! It was midnight by the time I climbed into bed and I had almost forgotten that I had a blog to write. I looked at the computer and opted to write in the morning when my mind would be more alert. So, once again, forgive me for not getting this posted until the morning after.
This afternoon, we head to the Winchester BMX track where Track Director Ben has arranged for TV3 to come out and cover the story of our ride and how we are promoting BMX. We are looking forward to meeting all the Winchester riders and are hoping the threatening weather holds off until late in the evening.
Day 68, Miles Ridden Today: 47 Miles Ridden Overall: 2,385 Camping: $0, We are staying overnight at a Quality Inn in Winchester, VA for free by redeeming some choice rewards points.
- To track online our current location, see instruction on the “Ride the Nation Route Plan” page
- Also, follow us on Twitter, search “ridethenation”
- Check out our blog on www.bmxmania.com for exclusive details you won’t find here.
We got a bit of a later morning start leaving Hagerstown than I had planned. We stayed the night at the Econo Lodge there and the desk manager insisted that we store our bikes in the boiler room, not in our hotel room. Typically, we leave all of our pannier bags on our bikes and unzip them to remove what clothes and toiletries we need for the night. Instead we had to take bed rolls off, remove the bags, pull the dog’s stuff, etc, etc. In the morning, we had to repack and reload the bikes.
Once we were on the road, we followed the GPS to Route 11 South out of town. As we were riding along, a green van beeped and waved and I realized it was Diane from Hagerstown BMX. If we were to pass by anyone we knew as we left town, it was fitting that it was Diane. She had been so kind and caring to us during our brief time in town. I learned that Diane is a caregiver in her employment, too, and I believe her clients our so fortunate to have someone helping them who is genuine.
We rode towards Martinsburg under overcast skies and thick humidity. Frankenbutt hadn’t been feeling well over the last few days and the humidity was adding to his discomfort. I offered to get a hotel room ahead of Winchester but he thought it better to push on and get to Winchester by early evening. Doing so would give him, (and the Beast and me, too) a full day of rest on Monday before we head to Winchester’s BMX track on Tuesday.
We were surprised that the route we chose didn’t have any really tough hills. We stopped along the way and got Gatorade and checked on how Frankenbutt was feeling. He sat down on the curb and I couldn’t tell if he was feverish since we all get hot and sweaty as we ride. Once we got the hotel room, he fell into the bed and rested. Later, he said he felt better and he did look a little better, too. It may just be fatigue but I’ll keep an eye on him as Monday unfolds.
We chose to fix an easy dinner in and enjoy a little cable tv for the evening. We made up Tuna Fish sandwiches on pita and the Beast put on a kids channel. We are thrilled that old friends of ours from Front Royal, VA are coming up to Winchester to meet us while we are in town on Monday.
Sorry for the late posting of the blog; had a few connection issues on Sunday evening.
Day 67, Miles Ridden Today: 1 Miles Ridden Overall: 2,338 Camping: $0, We are staying overnight at Econo Lodge in Maryland for free by redeeming some choice rewards points.
- To track online our current location, see instruction on the “Ride the Nation Route Plan” page
- Also, follow us on Twitter, search “ridethenation”
- Check out our blog on www.bmxmania.com for exclusive details you won’t find here.
Ahhh, Hagerstown BMX. What a pleasant surprise! In earlier communications with the former track director, we laid the ground work for our arrival. When we recontacted Hagerstown, we found out there had been some changes at the track and that our former contact was no longer at the track. With only one week until our planned arrival, I was directed to a lady named Diane. I called and shared with her our story and found her to be so supportive and excited about what we are doing. She took our information and gave me the phone number for Sherman, their acting track director.
I spoke with Sherman and told him about our adventure and he told us that the track was hosting a Maryland state qualifier. We had originally planned to arrive on Sunday but decided that Saturday was do-able. Sherman asked what we needed and I assured him that we didn’t need much; that we’d like to camp at the track, if possible. I suggested that he and his crew contact local media so that we could help build local recognition for the track and BMX. He told me about the Herald Mail and we sent that paper an informational email and later called them, as well.
We awoke about 6:30 this morning after camping track side. I pulled together my clothes for the day and my toiletries and headed to the public restroom. Since it was early morning, I figured no one would need the bathroom; I locked the door and set about the process of a sink bath. I managed to wash my hair and all of my important parts and then toweled off and dressed. By 7am, I smelled and looked good enough!
Around 8am, Diane arrived with breakfast for all of us: McDonald’s big breakfast WITH PANCAKES! I love Pancakes! Although I had eaten a small breakfast meal, I couldn’t resist the breakfast excuse for CAKE! Diane also brought coffee and made a forever friend in Frankenbutt who LIVES for coffee. Diane excused herself to go put in a few hours of work before the race started. The fact that she came to the track before work to bring us breakfast, made us all feel cared about. Thanks, Diane!
 By 9am, Tina and Tim, arrived with their kids to do all the set up and last minute work that needs to be done before a race comes together. Tim started working on the track; word has it he and Sherman worked hard to get the track ready for today’s race. Tina started getting the Concessions ready and organized the paperwork for all the new USA BMX license applications.
 When Diane returned to the track, she surprised us by presenting the three of us with official Hagerstown BMX shirts. We love them! PLUS, they’re long sleeve which is nice for the cooler mountain nights we’ve been spending since we re-entered Pennsylvania. Here's a pic of the Beast, DIiane and Lily who is a terrific girl that i'm looking forward to seeing on the track in the future.
 By noon, the riders’ families arrived and set up the familiar row of EZ-ups trackside. Once the registration line ended, the volunteers went to their positions and I joined the scorers at the finish line. The Beast raced today compliments of Sherman … Thanks, Sherman! Like most BMX parents, we were surprised and disappointed that the “race all year for one price” changed back to the traditional “pay per race” structure. Thanks for easing the strain on our road budget!
 After the motos ran, the riders gathered around the announcer’s tower as Russ (of Cumberland) prepared to give out the race swag. As each rider registered for the race, they were given a red ticket. Several numbers were pulled and riders won everything from race gloves to gift certificates to bike parts. Cool program!
When the mains ran, I didn’t want the day to come to an end. There’s something special at Hagerstown that you just don’t find at many tracks, or in general society, for that matter. We met and talked with several Hagerstown and Cumberland riders and their families. Not once did anyone we meet say a negative thing about anyone else. That is SO RARE. Having been around my 47 years, I know that a group attitude like that starts with a few people and becomes the way “business is done”.
I felt so good at Hagerstown BMX and I’m looking forward to seeing many of the same families at Cumberland, MD’s Riverside BMX later this week. But first, we’ll conquer the mountains again as we head towards Winchester BMX for a Tuesday morning arrival and Tuesday evening race. When I’m climbing those mountains, I’m going to recount the conversations I had and the hugs I got from the truly genuine folks at Hagerstown.
Day 66, Miles Ridden Today: 37 Miles Ridden Overall: 2,337 Camping: $0, We are staying overnight at Hagerstown BMX track in Maryland
- To track online our current location, see instruction on the “Ride the Nation Route Plan” page
- Also, follow us on Twitter, search “ridethenation”
- Check out our blog on www.bmxmania.com for exclusive details you won’t find here.
My apologies for the late (next day) posting of this blog; we honestly enjoyed some late night conversation at the track and I found myself drifting off to sleep before I even got the computer turned on.
Friday morning, we broke camp at Gettysburg and packed up our panniers, in hopes of putting in a good day of riding towards Hagerstown, MD. We had spoken with some of the track parents and knew that we’d be crossing some mountainous area so we kept our mileage expectations low.
Following the GPS, we rode down the road which cut directly through the Gettysburg battlefield. The skies were overcast and there was a subtle headwind as Frankenbutt told us about the historical charges that were led from both sides across the road ahead of us. I imagined the fear and excitement that must have been in the youngest, most recent recruits. I thought about the fatigue and disillusionment that the older, more experienced soldiers may have felt. Over 50,000 soldiers died in that one battle alone.
I found myself in a somber mood after leaving the area. Luckily for me, there were big hills ahead to distract me. The head winds grew stronger as we rode through country roads and we found ourselves lucky to make 6 miles per hour. The road ahead was a bit of an optical illusion at times. It looked to me that the road was flat or even sloping downward; it was actually a gradual uphill. For the next 2 hours, we climbed winding country roads until we reached Route 16.
Route 16 was a well paved road with a beautiful shoulder for cyclists and it appeared to be a subtle climb. The road curved around to the right at the top of the hill and I envisioned that there was a nice downhill run on the other side of the curve. I was dead wrong. There was another winding uphill. And then another one and another one. We rode in our lowest gears for another 2 hours as we made our way to Blue Ridge Summit. We paused every now and again to give our knees and our backs relief from the strain. I thought about the Civil War soldiers who climbed these same hills as Lee’s army retreated to Hagerstown following the battle at Gettysburg. I’m sure our bike ride was a lot easier than their march of defeat.
After sharing a pizza and making a sewing repair to Coco’s kennel, we resumed our ride towards Hagerstown. Our GPS directed us off of Route 16 and led us onto Fort Richie Road. I heard my phone ding a few times as we climbed a rather steep road through some of the most beautiful forested area. Ben, from Winchester, emailed us to let us know that according to our Google Latitude location, we were passing right next to Camp David. We then noticed the small “U.S. Government Property, No Trespassing” placards that bordered the road.
It felt like the unending climb and my husband and daughter gave me words of encouragement when it felt like I just couldn’t make it any further up. Like most of the same prior situations, the road just suddenly leveled out. I upshifted and looked as far ahead as I could and noticed a bit of a slope downward. I had been fooled earlier in the day, so I didn’t get my hopes up. But then, my bike started to roll a little faster and the pedaling got much easier. I upshifted again and when I came around the bend, I could see there was a magnificent downhill run ahead of us. I hollered back, “See you at the bottom” and let my hands just rest on my bars, with my fingertips lightly on my brakes.
We were flying down the road at 35 mph and there was not a car in sight. The road curved gently and there were beautiful old trees whose branches reached across the road and gave us cool shade to ride in. It ended up being a 6 mile downhill run that took all of about 15 minutes to ride. It was so relaxing, I wished I could do it again … without the uphill part this time.
At the bottom, our route joined Route 64 and we rode over subtle rolling hills into the outskirts of Hagerstown. We stopped at a gas station to give Coco some water and to take a break. I checked our GPS and was thrilled to see that we were only 6 miles from the track. Frankenbutt checked for a spot to buy camp fuel and restock our food supply since we were down to a pack of tuna and some pita bread. Since there was a Walmart past the track, we decided to drop the Beast, me and Coco’s trailer at the track and then Frankenbutt would ride the 3-4 miles to Walmart, shop and return.
They were holding a practice at the track and we met the 3 people I’ve been talking to about our arrival: Diane, Sherman and Tina. Like most tracks, weather has slowed the start of their race season. I sat and talked with some BMX parents while the Beast switched the clip pedals from her road bike to her race bike. The riders were all very welcoming and in no time, the Beast was riding the track with Grant, Jada, Lily and a bunch more of the kids.
It’s obvious that this track has a lot of heart. Diane, who helped coordinate our arrival, has an adult son who hasn’t really raced in the last few years. That hasn’t stopped Diane from coming out to the track every week and volunteering. Because of recent changes, Sherman stepped up to take on some leadership responsibilities and so have others at the track. We met their former track director, Brian, who has overseen the track for 12 years. He was in the middle of a bunch of riders playing Foot Down (my daughter’s favorite off the track BMX balancing game). The kids were laughing and watching Brian doing tricks. It’s obvious that his 12 years as track director worked because he put the kids first.
When the sky grew dark and most everyone left for the night, we talked with Brian until well past 11 pm. We exchanged stories of road trips and funny life experiences, while we ate our pasta dinner (this time with fresh Broccoli!). He told us how he took some local “powers that be” on a trip to see the Woodbridge, VA BMX facility. He showed them how local support could build a beautiful facility. His pupils didn’t commit to the dollar figures that have been invested at Woodbridge but they did give him the funds to pave his berms and put in a concrete pad at the starting hill. Good job, Brian!
I went to sleep thinking that Brian’s work isn’t done here yet. He loves this sport, and all that it does for the kids, too much not to stay involved. He gives this program at Hagerstown a lot of himself and I think he gets a lot more back then he realizes. He might be taking a break after 12 years but I think it’s just to re-charge his batteries. We all need that and he’s earned the right.
Day 65, Miles Ridden Today: 17 Miles Ridden Overall: 2,300 Camping: $22, We are staying overnight at Artillery Ridge campground along the Gettysburg Battlefield in Gettysburg, PA. It is normally $45 per night but we finally got to use our Passport America membership for 50% off tonight and tomorrow night!
- To track online our current location, see instruction on the “Ride the Nation Route Plan” page
- Also, follow us on Twitter, search “ridethenation”
- Check out our blog on www.bmxmania.com for exclusive details you won’t find here.
We woke this morning to a light drizzle. It wasn’t enough to slow us down just a little annoying. I, Frankenbutt, went into the camp store and got some complimentary coffee for me and some milk to go with our Reeses Puffs cereal and we all enjoyed the break from our regular oatmeal. Our picnic table was slightly damp and the trees over would occasionally drip a raindrop into our cereal bowls with a face splashing “plop” but such is tent life.
Tammy willingly volunteered to stay at the campsite with Coco so that the Beast and I could explorer the Gettysburg Battlefield, which is the reason I’m writing the blog tonight. The Beast and I prepared by removing Coco’s trailer and any other non-essentials from our bikes and as soon as we got out our rain gear, the rain stopped. We packed our rain jackets just in case, but they turned out to be unnecessary. We mounted our bikes and raced our new lightweight bikes toward town, commenting how strange they felt without all that weight.
 Our first stop was a return to “Abraham’s Lady” where the Beast tried on a hoop skirt and looked at shoes. She was happy and I was looking at my watch. Our next stop was the “Gettysburg Sutler”, a store we saw yesterday but was closed. Unfortunately it was still closed and wouldn’t open until 1:00.
We rode through the center of town to the northwest area of the battlefield where the fighting had begun a week shy of 148 years ago. We rode our bikes along the shoulder of the busy US Highway 30 and then dodged traffic to make our way across to Reynolds Ave. A short ride down the road brought us to where the first shots were fired. With our bikes leaned against a fence, the Beast and I walked toward the tree line. There are several dozen if not hundreds of monuments over the battlefield, that have been dedicated over the years and we were not inclined to read every one but when we reached the edge of the woods, one caught our eyes. It marked the spot where Major-General John F. Reynolds fell and became the first officer killed at the Battle of Gettysburg. We stood there facing the trees with our backs to the road and I could picture the Confederates emerging from the woods.
 We were soon back on our bikes making our way down Seminary Ridge where the bulk of the Confederate Army were eventually positioned and stopped to see the memorial erected by North Carolina and sculpted by Gutzon Borglum. The men in the sculpture are facing across the unspoiled farm land to where the Union Soldiers would have been waiting for them, a mile away. From our vantage point we could see other monuments and memorials erected by the northern states and the thought of all these men charging across the open landscape during “Pickett’s Charge” was enough to send chills down your spine.
 We continued along Seminary Ridge to an observation tower that we climbed to get a look over the entire battlefield. From that vantage point, we could see most all of Gettysburg plus President Eisenhower’s farm.
 The Beast and I climbed back down the tower stairs and rode on and ran into none other than “Robert E. Lee” himself. If he were truly alive today, evidently he would drive a Hyundai with a license plate that that reads IM RELEE, at least that’s what vehicle this “Lee” climbed into after posing for a pic with the Beast.
Around the Rebel’s right flank and onto Little Big Top we rode, where Colonel Joshua Chamberlain repelled the attacking Confederates and earned fame. And then it was onto Cemetery Ridge to see where Meade’s Army defeated the Lee’s forces and turned the tide in the war.
We left the field feeling very good and very hungry, so we rode toward McDonalds to get some lunch. The Beast decided to take short cut into the exit from MickyD’s, cut right in front of me and I smashed right into her causing her to fly off her bike and onto the street. She was a little shaken but sustained no good road rash or bruises and retained all of her hunger.
With her belly full she wanted to go back to the Sutler store to see if was finally opened and it was. She got to shop for all the era clothing she wanted and dad continued to look at his watch.
We returned to the campground and met up with butterball to cook some dinner. I boiled some water for our pasta, added the noodles and chicken, and watch the flame flicker on our stove as it used up the last of our fuel. The camp store didn’t carry our type of fuel so we improvised by getting a fire going and finishing cooking. Nothing like pasta over an open fire just like those cowboys in the” spaghetti westerns” did it.
Day 64, Miles Ridden Today: 30 Miles Ridden Overall: 2,283 Camping: $22, We are staying overnight at Artillery Ridge campground along the Gettysburg Battlefield in Gettysburg, PA. It is normally $45 per night but we finally got to use our Passport America membership for 50% off tonight and tomorrow night!- To track online our current location, see instruction on the “Ride the Nation Route Plan” page- Also, follow us on Twitter, search “ridethenation”- Check out our blog on www.bmxmania.com for exclusive details you won’t find here. It rained and rained and rained last night and our little Coleman tent didn’t leak! YEAH! We sprayed it with waterproofing before we left home in April and we are surprised it’s still holding up. I checked the weatherchannel.com Gettysburg weather before I climbed out of the tent and it predicted thunderstorms and isolated shower throughout the day. Hmm … that was a downer. Still, I’ve known weather predictions to be wrong AND today it was. Instead of showers, we had hot and super humid weather all day. I was looking skyward and hoping for a shower by midday! As we pedaled from our campground in Dover, PA to Gettysburg, we noticed that both our bike mounted GPS device and the Google maps app on my phone were acting “weird”. Had it been just one and not the other, I’d have been concerned that it was the device itself. I had been warned that the closer you get to Gettysburg, strange things happen. I read online how several people find their cell phone batteries and camera batteries drain very quickly in this area.  We turned the corner onto Route 234 (I think that was it) and I saw two bicyclists ahead with pannier bags on their bikes. I got excited to see other long distance cyclists and I hollered back to the Beast and Frankenbutt that I wanted to stop and see them. I stopped and said hi and the two women introduced themselves: Sheena and Mary Ann. They are both recent college graduates and left Princeton, NJ three days ago on a bicycling trip to New Orleans, LA! They had stopped for a snack break and I told them a little about our trip. Since they were still early in their trip, I offered some wisdom now that we are 2 months into ours. We exchanged website addresses and wished each other well. It is my hope that my kids consider doing a cross country trip once they’re adults, too. I can truly say that it’s one of the best experiences I’ve ever had!
We continued to ride the hills towards Gettysburg, making a pit stop at Walmart. Unfortunately, they didn’t have the camp fuel we use; I wanted to get a backup can in case we ran out. I did find Velveeta shells ‘n cheese dinners (just add water) and I picked those up, a jar of dry roasted peanuts, some more contact lens solution, deodorant for Frankenbutt and combo shampoo/conditioner for the Beast AND a box of Reese’s Puffs cereal … It was on sale and would be a nice change of pace for breakfast. Chances are we’ll be able to get milk in the morning from the camp store plus any leftover cereal will make a good late night snack.
We made it to the campground by 3 pm and they gave us a spot right behind the camp store, with the bathrooms and showers attached. That’s good! Plus, it’s only a short walk to the pool. I forgot to ask where laundry is … it’s probably way across the park, if “Murphy” has his way. But, I’m rather pleased with our little camp spot. We quickly threw the tent up, put all the pannier bags, bed rolls, sleeping bags, and the Beast’s race bike inside. Then, we all got back on our bikes and rode to the Gettysburg National Park Visitor Center just down the road. I offered to stay outside with Coco since History is the Beast’s and Frankenbutt’s favorite subject.
While sitting on the bench with Coco, a lady joined me who was admiring Coco. We started to converse about history, the stories of how Gettysburg is haunted … and then she said: “I was a boat captain in the Caribbean in my former life.” Hmm. Interesting. I have never explored what I might have been in a former life. When I told Frankenbutt about her story, he said, “Have you ever noticed that no one was ever a ditch digger in their former life? They were all glamorous people, like Cleopatra. “ Then he cracked me up; he said, “you should have said “I shoveled s*&t in Louisiana in my former life.”
We headed out to the downtown area because the Beast spotted a store called “Abraham’s Lady” and she wanted to checked out the period wear clothing. She made it in just before the 5pm closing and has resolved to return tomorrow for a better look at their “granny boots” and bonnets. I spied an ice cream shop and I thought it would be a good ending to a hot and humid day of riding. I was right! We explored a few more shops and the Beast found a Stonewall Jackson souvenir drivers’ license. She was thrilled!
 We returned to the campground and Frankenbutt got dinner started while I started the blog. Our camp fuel held out and our little Primus stove performed well again. I love that little stove! Within a short time, we had plates of hot creamy, cheesey goodness in front of us. Unfortunately, we were unable to get broccoli again, which would have been a great addition.
The other day, the Beast caught a little bit of the Ellen (Degeneres) show on TV and remarked that she’d love to go see it in person one day. I searched her website and realized that Ellen might find the Beast’s bike trip story interesting enough to invite her to be a guest on the show. So, I sent an email telling our basic story and now I’m hoping for some help from our readers. If you’d like to help me surprise the Beast with the possibility of being on the Ellen show, please go to: http://ellen.warnerbros.com/show/ and click on “be on the show” tab. Write a message about how our 13 year old has pedaled over 2000 miles in pursuit of promoting her beloved sport of BMX. You can give our website address (www.ridethenation.org) and email (ridethenation@yahoo.com). My hope is that the show’s producers will be more interested if they receive multiple submissions about it. Here’s the important part. PLEASE DON’T TELL THE BEAST ANYTHING ABOUT THIS. I don’t want to get her hopes up because it may not come to fruition. If it does work out, it’ll also score more attention for BMX.  On another note, my dear friend, Ellie, had remarked how grown up the Beast looked in her white dress on her birthday. Then she sent me these pictures that she’s had on her desk since the Beast’s first year in racing. Apparently, she’s always liked the little white dress. It’s hard to believe she’s grown up so much. She’s still young enough to not have started wearing the little black dress, yet.
 In her early years of racing, she often insisted on wearing her race pants to bed, which drove Frankenbutt’s parents crazy. They told us we were raising a “tom boy”. All of us, who know the Beast, know that there’s not one category you can really put her in. She loves BMX, skiing, swimming; she loves frilly white dresses, Civil War History, Victorian styles, cooking, building tree houses, playing with snakes and goats and any other animal that happens her way. She’s the Beast.
Day 63, Miles Ridden Today: 0 Miles Ridden Overall: 2,253 Camping: $3, We are staying overnight at Thousand Trails Member campground at Gettyburg Farm Resort in Dover, PA- To track online our current location, see instruction on the “Ride the Nation Route Plan” page- Also, follow us on Twitter, search “ridethenation”- Check out our blog on www.bmxmania.com for exclusive details you won’t find here. Today has been about rest and relaxation … and laundry. After a rainy night, we awoke to cool spring air. The Beast was up and dressed and out of the tent first. Frankenbutt and I lounged for awhile and then we took a leisurely stroll to the camp store, where Frankenbutt enjoyed a cup of real coffee; the instant coffee just isn’t doing it for him.  The Beast was excited to visit the petting zoo area here at Gettysburg Farm. The lady who checked us in yesterday evening was very kind to the Beast and took her to the goat pen for an evening feeding last night. She could hardly wait to see all the goats again this morning. (NOTE TO JEN W.: YOU’VE GOT TO BRING THE KIDS UP TO THIS 1000 TRAILS PRESERVE! THEY’LL LOVE IT!!!)
 The Beast introduced us to the small goats which she knew all the names of and showed us the very loud donkey in the barn. She also introduced us to “little boy”, the baby calf, who is penned with the goats.
 We wandered further down and saw the beautiful peacocks, who were strutting their stuff for the seemingly uninterested female. Such is life, eh? A little further down, there was a pig that was, well, as happy as a pig in mud! The Beast also showed us the bunny hutches and told us she’s hoping to convince one of the farm attendants to let her hold a bunny.
 After breakfast, I finally decided to tackle the laundry. It’s really not as bad as at home since we travel with only 3 changes of clothes and a swimsuit each. The laundry area was near the kids’ activity area where the Beast had found crafts to do with Vada, one of the campground staff. She was happily attaching lace and ribbons to a wicker like fan. Between loads of laundry, I also found her playing ping pong with some other girls. I think this is one of the Beast’s favorite campground stops. She loves animals and has been asking for goats, hedge hogs, snakes, gerbils, cats, mice, and hamsters since she could talk. She has had a goat, a snake, a mouse, 5 dogs, an outdoor (barn) cat, and a hamster in her short 13 years. At age 6 or 7, she let the mouse go in the house, in hopes of getting a different pet, since hers was now missing. Hmmmm.
I’ve also been working on the details for our upcoming stops in Hagerstown, MD and Winchester, VA and reading and answering emails. I received an email today from our track director at Tampa BMX with details about the USA BMX merge of NBL and ABA. I was alarmed when it said that we all need to complete USA BMX applications AND BRING OUR BIRTH CERTIFICATES, before we’ll be allowed to race on ABA or NBL tracks. I panicked because we don’t have the Beast’s birth certificate on us. I emailed Connie Shepler @ the NBL office who assured me that we can submit her birth certificate later; that the Beast will still be able to race. Phwew!
We’ve been on the road now for 2 months and at this point in our ride, here’s what I’ve learned:1) Our $2 thrift store lightweight pot was more than worth what we paid for it.2) Our 14x14” car detailing cloths work well as towels; they dry us and themselves fast.3) I love my down sleeping bag; great when it’s chilly; comfy to lie on when it’s hot.4) Knorr’s “just add water” pasta and rice dishes are cheap, yummy, hot and easy.5) Dental Floss is the strongest, most portable and easiest sewing kit I’ve ever used.6) I could have brought mismatched flatware from home; cheaper and little difference.7) A 7x7’ tent can hold 2 adults, 1 child, a dog and 6 pannier bags … if you like each other.8) When I feel like I just can’t go another mile, messages of support help me do it.9) The $50 we spent for our tiny Primus stove was well worth it: works great!10) $80 Trek Panniers wore out just as fast as $15 Schwinn panniers. $200 Jandd panniers are showing little, if any, wear. We have 2 of each; wish we could have all Jandd. 11) I LOVE my Lazer helmet and my Under Armour sweatband. I never ride w/o them.12) Tuna Fish packs and Mayo packs (picked up @ fast food places) don’t need refrigeration and go well on Pita bread (which doesn’t flatten like loaf bread). 13) Sometimes I get really tired of oatmeal… but there aren’t many other breakfast options that don’t require refrigeration (ie, eggs, milk, butter, etc)14) A free meal is one of the nicest things we can receive; food is our greatest expense15) There are times when we all are just too tired to shower; deodorant is a big help but ONLY IF we ALL agree to skip a shower. FYI, Coco loves us either way.16) People are generally good! We’ve had so many kind gestures by strangers. It far outweighs the few negative “get on a bike path” comments we’ve gotten.17) Padded bike gloves are necessary for long distance riding.18) My Thousand Trails camp membership is well worth it; My Passport America membership has way too many rules, is not “tent friendly” and is not what was advertised. 19) Long distance Bike riding has left me feeling better physically and emotionally than any other activity I’ve ever done. 20) Bringing Coco was a good decision! She is such a comfort at the end of a long day and she’s an ambassador of sorts, an ice breaker, when we stop along our route. 21) BMXers are some of the greatest people in the world. How come most of the people running the sanctions aren’t BMXers??22) The one time $20 fee we paid to Tetherbridge.com (so that we could connect my smart phone to our computer and have internet at no additional monthly charge) isn’t perfect but it’s definitely good enough … and helps our budget!23) The Hydro Flasks that www.stuntlifeinc.com gave us during our visit to Jacksonville BMX are FABULOUS! They truly do what they advertise! We put and Ice cubes and water in at start of day and there are still ICE CUBES at the end of the day! 24) The sponsors that our track director, Art Heinrichs, helped arrange have made a huge difference in the success of our ride. We owe Art and them our gratitude! Thanks to Tampa BMX, J&R Bicycles, Ohio Dreams, Smoothie King, Riderz Ready Jerseys, Comfort Inns and Suites, BMXmania.com, and National Bicycle League. 25) I’ve also discovered I like to write. It only took me to my 40’s to find that out.
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