Wednesday, May 25th .... Today's ride started out with an immediate problem.  Yesterday, I had a flat tire which terminated my ride.  I replaced the tube last evening and was sure I was ready to ride.  As soon as I left the hotel, I felt a thump, thump, thump coming from my rear tire.  I stopped and checked the tire and could see nothing wrong, so I rode an additional 14 miles and stopped and had one of the mechanics check it out.  He noticed that the bead on the tire was not properly seating.  After numerous attempts he determined we needed to replace the tube.  Turns out the tube I had installed was the incorrect size.  So, after about 30 minutes I was ready for the road, but I was so far behind I was transported to the first rest stop where I rejoined the ride.

Like yesterday the winds were 15+ mph very close to directly in our face.  I rode 22 miles and was blown off the road by big trucks twice.  I did not fall and was able to regain control but just did not feel safe,

so I stopped the ride 19 miles from the end!  By the time I arrived at the hotel the winds were reported to be 21 mph!  

It is still a great experience!