Day 052 - Alma to Bay City - Two Far 2023 - Oranges to Apples - CycleBlaze

June 6, 2023

Day 052 - Alma to Bay City

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In theory, todays ride looked great.  Mostly flat, low volume country roads and 0% chance of rain.  Reality was a different story.  The day started out in the low 60's with a high of 68 projected.  I started out with a long sleeve shirt under my jersey and not once did I think of removing it.  I really never got cold, but then I really never got warm either.   And then there was the wind - according to the local weather forecast, there was a steady 10-15 MPH wind from the East with occasional 20 MPH gusts. 

Whenever I was headed east, I had to gear down and only averaged 9-10 MPH.  I did get some relief when I stair-stepped north, but then it was back into the wind.  

It was not all that bad, though.  Once I mentally reconciled myself to the wind, I did enjoy myself.  Most of the roads were in good shape, and the lack of traffic meant that I could look around and enjoy the scenery as much as I wanted.   I was tired, however, at the end of the day.   

Once again, Jeanna came to the rescue - she had a plate of snacks and a drink waiting for me when I arrived at the motel. After my hunger was conquered and my thirst slaked, we spent a very pleasant evening together. Life Really is Good!

It's not a good photo, but this is the first barley field that I remember seeing on this trip. The barley was over 4 ft. tall, and the wind was really whipping it around.
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Keith A. SpanglerBeautiful ~ fortunate you are (to have each other)
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1 year ago
Rose SamsonI was told that the Beer is from the Barley. Is this right?
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1 year ago
These sheep were in a fairly large pasture. When I first spotted them, they were on the opposite side of the field. All at once they started running across the field and then they all stopped in the same spot and started grazing again. Sheep can be strange!
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Old barn of the day - and it's not red.
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My second blue barn of the trip. I wonder if I'll spot any other colors. So far, the barns have been very patriotic - red, white & blue!
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Kelly IniguezWe have a semi local red barn that has a giant smiley face painted on it. I've been told that the old timers think it's an abomination. Personally, I always have to smile in return as I pass the happy barn.
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1 year ago
Due to the lack of other options, I stopped at a Michigan State Police Post for a break.
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Shortly after leaving the MSP Post, I encountered about a 5 mile stretch of new asphalt. Unfortunately, about 5 miles of old chip seal followed. Life can be such a balance.
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Today's ride: 53 miles (85 km)
Total: 2,491 miles (4,009 km)

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