Day 58 – Romney, WV to Winchester, VA

Miles today – 42

Total miles – 3392

My friend and Neighbor, John and I arose to a rainy overcast day in Romney, WV.  Mr. Mezz came up to the B&B to have coffee and wish us well as we headed out to a day of climbing. 

We were only doing 42 miles and John and I discussed that it was probably better to do the day in the rain than in heat.  We knew we had two fairly big climbs.  Route 50 didn’t have great shoulders and John and I rode side-by-side and talked which made the ride go quickly.  John rides with a mirror so he can see what’s coming behind us so he took the outside and I took the shoulder.  We entered Virginia under rainy skies.

We arrived in Winchester at about 12:30.  I pedaled on to my hotel.  John said he would meet me there after he changed. John had brought his camping shower equipment and found a spot out of public view and showered behind his car!  We met at my hotel for a late lunch and John drove me out to the Supersuds Laundromat so I could do some laundry.  While I was there I got a call from Julie Rhyne, a Winchester local and an active volunteer for the Arthritis Foundation’s Virginia Chapter.  She had arranged to have Winchester Channel 3 come over to my hotel for some filming and an interview so I grabbed a cab back to my hotel and changed back into my riding clothing.  Julie and her husband, Jerry invited me to dinner.  It was great to get to know them and hear Julie’s story and how she has coped with her Rheumatoid Arthritis since being diagnosed at age 14.  She and Jerry are courageous people and I really enjoyed our conversation.

David

August 2, 2009