The end of the Tour

10/9 - 10/10
Hard to believe that the Tour is over. It's been such a unique experience, unlike anything I've done before, and we're definitely planning on next year! We met so many wonderful people, and yet I realize that there are several riders that I didn't get to talk to much at all. Next year!

It's been a good growth experience for me. Lots of emotions shoot through me when hearing stories of brave survivors, people who have endured pain and fear and so much else in their sickness and have come out on top. The October after my wife Dee Jai died in Sep 04 was very difficult... celebrations of others' survival that were being told seemingly everywhere (and I know because I took a long road trip) aren't the best medicine when your (very literal) better half has suddenly gone home, and without even getting to fight the cancer head on. But this October is worlds better and it was my great honor to celebrate survival, acknowledge the fight that has gone on and lies ahead, and share in the hope with these tremendous women.

The last day of the ride was, again, awesome, and the reception at Hersheys was great. Several Hershey folks joined us for the last leg of the ride, and the crowds were like a sea of pink, clapping and cheering! I'll add some pictures to this entry in the next few days...my camera battery ist kaput und Brent has a bunch of over the helmet shots of the ride in progress that I want to include...so check back by the weekend or so.

Thanks for reading, and for your support.