Two by Two

The last time I did RAGBRAI in 2008, I ventured out on my own. This time around, I will have company. My friend Mark from my church will be literally along for the ride. It's kind of fun, since I feel like I contributed a lot to his interest in riding. Or you might say that I'm to blame!

I'm looking forward to having someone along to ride this time around. There are so many unique and fun experiences to this trip that will be fun to share.

The ride is now 30 days away. I have printed out a checklist of things that I had from 2008 and have started to amass a pile of stuff in my garage that I will need to take along. It is nice to have done this before and realize that I really don't need to bring a bike lock, but I would benefit from bringing some sort of chair. For the former, you really feel secure the whole time, even though there are people riding from all over the country and world. I never had reason to think that my bike would be stolen. It must happen, but being in the heart of Iowa is a pretty safe. The values are different. I do want to bring along a chair. I can remember having time to read and such, but not having a place to sit with a back on it. That becomes important, especially as you have spent so much time riding and need some comfort.

We've had some really hot days this week, and I'm grateful for them. RAGBRAI is usually very hot, being in July. I want to be conditioned for the weather as much as I can.

I've more to write, and hopefully I will be back here a few times before the ride commences. I hope you can follow my progress!