August 28: Ride of Ages

Historically, the Draft is the highlight of my Monday routine.  I dare say, however, that I missed the No Brains All Brawn ride in lieu of an opportunity to experience the Solar Eclipse in OR. A complete sensory and spiritual experience, indescribable with words, at least with my literary limitations.  Z and I thought we might have a shot at winning the Outrageous Drafter photo competition, ousting Arms and Legs from their African Safari post, but taking a photograph of the eclipse with us in Drafter gear while holding a lead shield proved too great of a task for an amateur selfie-photographer.  And during totality, well, it was just plain dark.  These will have to suffice- neither Drafter gear nor the Eclipse are visible, so I will acquiesce that my photo submission ranking remains at ground zero.

How's that for stream of consciousness during recon?  I bet you're relieved it was only a 30mile route.  Can you imagine what goes on in my head during a century?  Scary.  The Eclipse has me a bit reflective and way sentimental.  Life is good, even when it sucks.  I'm grateful for being born in a barn, for my family, for the mentors and opportunities I've had, and honestly, for the Draft.  You guys are the Rock of Ages.Let's ride.  The Ride of Ages is 30 from our house, so add a few extra from Free House.  The short pour could be a shortcut by turning left onto Fellows road (see yellow dotted line on map), or if you wanted to ride clock wise, you could do the Hyer Loop.  The shot could take the Hyer Loop with the bike path home.Garmin Link Rock of Ages PDF download map Rock of Ages 35Draft responsibly,BrickO