This morning started out like all of the others. We got up early and had breakfast at the little cafe in the motel. It was on my way back to my room to get dressed to ride that I knew something was wrong. There were 2 police cars and an ambulance right in front of our rooms. The ride leaders wife Barbara told me there would be a meeting at 8:00 am, we were supposed to leave at 7:30 am. I knew something bad had happened. At the meeting we found out Ray one of our riders had died in his sleep. Ray was 65 years old and from Carson City Nevada. Needless to say there was a great sadness among our biking family. Ray had allergies that he had complained about on the windy days. His roommate Mike was the one to find him when he tried to wake him up. Ray told everybody that yesterday's ride was one of the best of his life. In our meeting they brought in a Chaplin to meet with us, I think it was a good move.
We decided Ray would want us to ride so with heavy hearts we left. The ride was long and difficult , my heart was not in it. We rode 125 miles in 90 degree heat, my stomach was upset all day. It took me till 6:05 tonight to make it to Chickasaw Oklahoma . Tomorrow we have the longest day of our ride 146 miles. No pictures tonight I will send some tomorrow.
Life Is Good Ride On
PS: Life Is Short Live Each Day To It's Fullest
I'm so sorry, Randy. I cannot imagine what riding must have felt like today. Between the physical difficulty and the emotional strain of losing a friend, today had to be a serious struggle. Life is absolutely crazy. It's full of twists and turns that we don't foresee. My Uncle Dave, my dad's youngest brother, woke up yesterday with numbness in his legs. He ended up in the hospital (where he still is) not able to move his left leg, unable to use his left hand, able to move his right leg a little, and some use in his right hand. They aren't certain what is going on with him. Two days ago he was perfectly fine. You are absolutely right, "life is short, live each day to it's fullest". Take care. Best wishes for your long day tomorrow. Just think, once you get past tomorrow, it's downhill from there. You'll be past the half-way point and past the longest ride! You are such a trooper. We are so proud of you. Hang in there. You're stronger than you know! Love, Jacque
ReplyDeleteThanks, love you lots.
ReplyDeleteWow, what a day Dad. I am so sorry. I can't even imagine how shocking and surreal that would have been. It makes me grateful to have the knowledge we do that death is not the end. Life is precious and I'm so proud that you are completing a dream of yours right now. Be safe!!! And think, after your longest day only one more then you get a day off. We love you!
ReplyDeleteI am so sorry dad! We love you so much, and continue to pray for your safety and strength everyday.
ReplyDeleteI am sorry. I am praying for you. Keep pedaling and keep your eyes on the road ahead.
ReplyDeleteAl
Thanks Al I appreciate your kindness and concern.
DeleteThis is the first time I've visited this blog but I will surely be back to visit again! What an amazing adventure you've had so far, with joy and sadness. Keep at it!
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