And I thought yesterday was grueling. Yesterday’s greatest effort was just pushed to second place. Today was five climbs with the baby being 6,517 and the beast at 7,722 feet. As if that wasn’t enough, it rained and rained, and rained. I finished the ride soaking wet, to the skin, through my water-resistant gear (where is the thin line between water-resistant and waterproof?) I crossed the line at around 30 miles per hour (thanks to Larry). What a feeling. I so wanted to quit today. I thought of Aubri and Alec and couldn’t stop. My backside is a little sore but at least I don’t have colon cancer, Dennis Carlson. I had a hard time eating because nothing sounded good, but at least I don’t have cancer in my abdomen, Jim Elliott. I was lacking energy and didn’t want to push my self any harder, but at least I have energy and not Leukemia, Tyler Wilson. I thought of several people on my list and the pain they suffer and I was not going to pack it in. Mother Nature must be a cancer fan, because she is not helping us at all.

Taylor was his awesome self today and continues to amaze me with his effort and maturity. I am grateful for great kids and a great wife.

The pain was immense today, both mentally and physically. However, pain is temporary but achievement is permanent. I hope that I am doing some good. Tomorrow is groundhog day. That will make sense if you have seen the movie. Until tomorrow.