Day 27: A little fun in the sun

Today was a well needed day off. John and I both took our bikes into the bike shop to have a few small things done. First thing I had in mind for the day was to take John out to the Benskin farm and do some swimming and jumping off the tower. He had heard me talk about this alot on the ride so he was finally able to see what I was talking about in person. It has been nice to have all of the comforts of home. From here I have about 1600 miles and John has even less. We are way ahead of schedule so we both decided we need to give the rest of the trip a little more of a RAGBRAI flavor. and not ride as many miles a day.

Day 26: To Des Moines

Early wake up this morning, earliest of the trip, 4:30.. We were on our bikes by 5 a.m. It was still dark out when we began although the sun rise was shortly after and very beautiful. The winds that were expected did hold off for about 2 hours which were nice. Made it about 50 miles into the ride by 9oclock. The head winds were persistent but not ridiculous like the day into Windom. We stopped in the town of Jefferson for lunch, sat down in the employees lunch break area at a grocery store and feasted. From here only 60 miles to go. From here the Raccoon River Trail begins which provided valuable protection from the wind. At mile 140 we stopped for ice cream and met up with my dad who biked to the house from Waukee with us. Today was the longest official day we have had,151 miles. We were quite motivated with showers, beds and a home cooked meal. As I write this I am on my 2nd "off day" in Des Moines. Made it into Des Moines on the 11th. Will be hittin' the road on Thursday the 14th.

Miles biked today: 151
Miles biked total: 2071