JULY 26 MEANDERING IN MASSACHUSETTS

Breakfast at Friendly's

We rode today from Greenfield to Chelmsford,an 85 mile route through the towns, rural areas, and scenic spots in Massachusetts. Our straw poll put Mass. among the top three states we visited in terms of scenery and interesting sights. The other two are California and Colorado.

French King bridge

It was a long day on the road with a variety of riding conditions. There were more hills than we wanted, fewer downhills than expected, and an abundance of rough road in the cities. "Big Dawg," who finishes first every day, was challenged to ride with the "scenic group" all day today. We bet he couldn't do it, as he doesn't like to stop EVER, and we like to stop OFTEN. He stayed with us all day, helping to fix flat tires, taking pictures, ACTUALLY TALKING while riding--and not worrying about being first to the motel. He loved it. We knew he would.

Happy Hour in Chelmsford

Tonight after dinner AbB hosted our final banquet. It was a blast in many ways...and sad in some respects. The riders spoke eloquently about the trip and what it meant to them personally. The theme was of course togetherness. Stories were told, small gag gifts were presented, and we laughed as we recalled many of the funny and strange things that happened along the way. I was given the honor of carrying the "chicken" on its final voyage to the Atlantic Ocean (but that is a story for another time).

Final Banquet

It is late--and in the early morning we depart on our final day of the Cross Country Challenge. We have almost made it. Tomorrow will be a joyous day on the beach in New Hampshire!

         - Bill

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