Stage 40 - Oquossoc to ME - July 3 Wednesday  

I wake up early. I’m focused on being ready on time. I tell Peter: “the only way I will be on time at 8:00 is if I aim to be ready fifteen minutes early”.  I’m prophetic. I’m ready as is David at 7:58. We depart. Jonah may ride later. 

The weather is glorious again. Sunny. Few clouds. Little to no wind. Warm becoming hot. For Maine, the weather is exceptional. I’m loving it. I love riding in hot weather. 

TODAY’S RIDE ... 

David and I start on time. Peter’s challenge is met. 

David and I enjoy an awesome day, an awesome ride. 

We breakfast in Rangeley. After, we happen upon their July 4th parade. Full of kids, decorations, bikes... it reminds me of Goose Rocks Beach and their annual Bike Parade. We stop and watch. 

I feel strong the entire day. It is a constant series of ups and downs. David emphasizes the last major climb was two days ago. These are just bumps. For the day, total feet climbed will be the fourth most of The Norseman’s Passage. Nomenclature aside, it is a hard ride. My legs for the last two-thirds are especially responsive. I am happy, alive in the fullest extent, performing beyond my wildest dreams. 

We see a number of signs warning of Moose crossings. Sadly, we see no moose. 

Maine quickly earns “worst roads” of the trip. I am so happy to be in the State that I don’t mind for the most part. Maine is a poor State and, I rationalize, doing the best it can. 

Jonah joins us with twenty miles to go. It’s good for him to stretch his legs ahead of tomorrow’s ride. He does well. 

Maine’s roads turn downright horrible. Indescribable: ruts, waves, potholes, seams, bumps ...a litany of miserable. I fear for The Slim Miss Piggy. 

The ride is finally over. It’s been a wonderful day 40. 108 miles. 5,991 feet climbed. 14.8 MPH. 

DAY’S END ... 

After showering, we head to our celebratory dinner at McLaughlin’s At The Marina. The food and the service are great. I have a two pound lobster and thrill to devour it. I think of Terri and all the times we’ve had lobster together.  We have fun reminiscing and enjoying the setting. 

We return to the hotel anticipating an early start. Peter and David do a final laundry. The Norseman’s Passage rides in uniform tomorrow. 

We plan an early start. Breakfast at 6:00. Van at 7:00. 

Day 41 is almost here!!