Day 46 North Conway to the Atlantic!

Unbelievable that the Journey is ending.

Looks like we made it!

A victory lap today after a later, rainy start. The ride itself is a bit of a blur. Pedaling in my group. The first rest stop. Crossing into Maine. Cruising to the park for a quick pizza lunch before riding the last seven miles to the beach and our well wishers.

At Michael’s request, we let Ron lead us in. As Ron declared on the first evening, he would make it no matter how slowly. A much leaner but not meaner Ron had accomplished his mission.

It is hard to describe the emotions felt when I saw the beach and our reception committee. Some had even made signs and there were lots of cow bells but all were enthusiastic. My lovely and loyal spouse was probably cheering the loudest. She put up with all of the many months of training and planning. Then she worried about me every day of the journey. Thanks for being here and thanks for being you!

Susan’s cousin Kent and his wife Colleen were touring the area and were also there to greet us! There were many friends and family. Blake led a champagne toast and we took the obligatory photos of the group on the beach with the champagne flying! I felt mostly relief along with great joy. I also experienced a pang of regret saying good bye to my steed that had carried me so far and said a quiet thanks that we arrived without injury and with so many new friendships.

We departed to the hotel in Kent’s SUV. It was weird being in a vehicle that was moving so fast after all of the bicycle miles! Although we had to drive into Portland, Jennings and Silk cycled to their nearby home. They had cycled over 3700 miles to…get home! We had enough time to check in, clean up and explore the nearby environs for a celebratory beer (or two) before the group dinner. It was great seeing the group together with their friends and family. Blake had the slide show going so we could all recall the highs of the journey. Carlin actually had enough time and cleverness (along with some help!) to devise a “trophy” for each one of us. Definitely a high light and a source of laughter. It turns out I garnered the “Steven Spielberg Award” for my work in posting the daily videos. Nice work Carlin!

Breakfast the next day was more low key. Those of us spending extra time in Portland lingered over coffee. I was able to say good bye to most everyone then as well. There were hugs with promises to ride again together somewhere, sometime. Finally it was Susan and I, walking the streets of Portland, happy to be together again.