Day One in the books.

Tuesday March 11

Day one was Monday and while it is in the books, it did not go down easy. Many turns and more than one or two were missed, got us out of the city. Thank goodness several of us were together and we moved slowly but surely to the climb.  It was not disappointing. If you remember the map from an earlier note, you might remember that the ride went straight up. As no ropes or grappling hooks were provided, I assumed that they really meant for us to ride up this escarpment. We did. Around 4600 feet climbing off the day, in 46 miles, the grade was not good for out of shape rider from NC. Me. It was also hot, mid 90s for most of the climb. I don't think I ever spent so much time going just 46 miles. It was truly a Californian Bear of a day.

Forgot to mention that on Sunday morning I had some time and decided to go to church. Which one was the issue, I didn't want to end up in a cult meeting or a new age assembly. "Here, for communion we serve Cool Aide" or "today, Elvis will be visiting".  Actually the Elvis thing would be all right. The King!

I took a chance and went to a pres-BY-tear-eon assembly. They seemed to know that I was coming.  I didn't know the secret hand shake so I had to sit in the back, or maybe that was the Baptist in me coming out. It was a real nice service, the minister talked of the power of prayer, but you have to ask for it. As I am of late asking for a lot of assistance, I guess it was pre-ordained that I was to go there.

Pictures if the first day.