Welcome to Arkansas

Once again we've crossed another stateline - now I'm in flat and very
windy Arkansas. We had to cross this bridge in the picture to get into
Arkansas from Memphis, TN. To give you an idea of the flatness of AR,
today our ride to Little Rock included 58 miles of one flat road with
strong headwind and yesterday's ride to Brinkley had 62 miles of the
same conditions. Both rides were 85 miles total and pretty
unexpectedly difficult, mostly because if the wind. Today's ride was
great though - we got on a sweet bike path thru a golf course and
alongside a river. And then we crossed a bridge named the Big Dam
Bridge (not kidding).

I've had trouble making posts/I've been really exhausted lately, but
I'll try and recount what has happened.

We weren't in TN too long, but for 7 straight days we had riding with
no off days or build days until we reached Memphis. It was pretty
intense, but there was definetly a sense of accomplisment and a great
wave if relief when we made it to Germantown (near Memphis) and were
greeted by yet another pool party by Anna's relatives. It was great
and the food stupendous. We had a day off and got free tickets to a
minor league game in Memphis and explored the downtown area. Lots of
live music on Beale street. I think some people checked out Graceland
as well. Not me though, I chose biking to a movie over Graceland and
it was awesome.

I wish I could remember more about what transpired before Memphis, but
to be honest I can't remember what we did or where we were. I only
know today is Thursday just because we had a mail drop pickup today
(which, by the way, if you're reading this, I love energy gel, shot
blocks, assorted gifts, surprises, and love letters. Info for how to
send mail is on the bike and build website [2009 maildrops, NC2SD
route]). We're only in towns for a day or two and moving about so I
never really know what day of the week it is or what the date is.
Mostly because it doesn't matter...we're traveling nomads. My only
responsibilities are to bike and build, literally. And do some chores.
Thinking back to earlier host sites back at the beginning of the trip
is really difficult and seems SO long ago. A lot has happened and
everything that has is a big mismatch of events in my head. I guess
that's what biking to San Diego 65 days will do to you.

Also,

Dear dedicated mothers of NC2SD riders,
I am well aware that I have a captive audience amongst most, if not
all, the moms of this trip. And I love that. Big shout out to my mom
and all the moms who keep supporting everyone on this trip with
cookies/letters/love etc. The same goes for all the fathers, siblings
and friends. It really means a lot when we have a mail pickup and
people get awesome packages. It's almost like the fire of enthusiasm
on this trip is reignited everytime we get mail because we see how
excited the "outside world" is for us. I mean it, it really keeps
everyone going.

Anyway, moms, I also know I have competiton with Nhans blog. But, put
simply, I'm better and you should keep reading my blog. And send me
things to show your support...or read both and only send me things ;)
I love to eat and enjoy comments on my blog. But really thanks for
reading -everytime someone on this trip gets off the phone with their
parents and tells me their mom follows me it keeps me going AND makes
me want to update my blog more.

GO BIKE AND BUILD WOOHOO!!!