September 2, 2013 - Rest day in Lake Placid, NY
Heard it storming through the night. However, when I awoke it had stopped raining. I took my time with my studies and savored the good coffee. Then I spent the next couple of hours journaling some thoughts, observations and insights I have had while on the bike ride.
Although overcast, the 60 % or so chance of rain was not materializing. I checked the weather channel and it appeared that I might have a 2 hour or so window before probable afternoon storms, so I decided to walk downtown for some breakfast and check out the Olympic Center.
Had a terrific omelette at The Breakfast Club, then headed for the Olympic Center. Walked right in to the skating rink where the 1932 Olympics were held. These were the Olympics of Sonja Hening. Next door was the skating rink where the 1980 Olympics were held. There were all sorts of photos and large posters on the walls commemorating these Olympics. What was a little strange was that I was the only person in the skating rinks. Had the whole place to myself. I keep forgetting that it has been over 30 years since the 1980 Olympics and there aren't huge crowds of people lining up to see these venues anymore.
I moved to the Herb Brooks Arena - home of the "Miracle on Ice" upset of Russia and Al Michaels' famous "Do you believe in miracles?!!" I remember the chills I felt as Donna and I watched and cheered. Yes, I do believe in miracles. I believe that I have witnessed quite a few in my lifetime.
I returned to the motel and started planning the route for the next few days and checking out possible accommodations. Then called my new friend Ron in Burlington to see if Wednesday or Thursday might be a convenient time to meet. He enthusiastically answered the phone and we made arrangements to try and hook up on Wednesday. If he is free, Ron plans on biking south towards Shelborne and meeting up to ride part of the way together into Burlington. I think that would be a lot of fun.
By now it was late afternoon and the sun was shining! Go figure. Spoke with my friend Dawne in Denver, LaDonna in Georgia, and took care of some emails. Before I could get out to grab a bite to eat, a strong thunderstorm hit and it began pouring rain - finally. So, I settled for an apple, peanut butter crackers and MM's for dinner with green tea to drink. Actually not bad.
Will try to make it an early night and get rested for tomorrow. I am thinking Westport, NY via the High Peaks Scenic Byway. However, as always, routes and destinations are always subject to change.
