Like two characters from ‘The Sopranos’, Harold and I ventured to the Strip District this morning to enjoy the local version of Satriales where Tony and his guys talked business, sports and did crazy awful things after hours! Harold is originally from West Orange, NJ, so right in his wheelhouse. We enjoyed espresso, biscotti, bombolonis (Italian donuts) and hatched our own plans. Instead of pushing off from Pittsburgh this morning, drove up to Findley Lake, NY (near Chautauqua Lake) to SURPRISE my wife’s family where everyone is gathering tomorrow for the 4th. I know some may say this is cheating but let me level set on my route!
The major cycling nonprofit Adventure Cycling Association has built extensive cycling maps for 40+ years. You can purchase paper and digital versions (I have both!) for curated bike routes across America. The detail is invaluable and allows solo cyclists like me to have peace of mind knowing where I am and where I’m going at all times. As you will see in the screenshot, I’m driving due north to Erie and backtracking 20 miles east towards Buffalo where Margot’s parents live. This puts me square on the granddaddy “Northern Tier” to Monroeville, IN, the exact route/spot I was headed for originally from Pittsburgh. So instead of one section on the “NY to Chicago” route, I’m doing an addtional eastern section of the Northern Tier plus 25 miles. Hope that qualifies it enough for any sticklers!
The timing was totally coincidental. In truth, I realized couple days ago I couldn’t be alone on the 4th. It was my bro Chris’ birthday and we are ALWAYS together, usually in NJ in Freehold where my mom had lived or half mile away in Manalapan with his family. The 4th of July was also my mom’s absolute favorite holiday. It represented family to her. Her Minnesota relatives usually gathered every summer at Spectacle Lake near her hometown Cambridge. When she delivered Chris and MISSED the 4th of July picnic, it was the first time in her life. We went back most summers throughout my childhood to attend. My mom is right, the 4th is family and I need family. So Thor Tour goes on a brief pause with a special edition tomorrow dedicated to Chris and embracing the ubiquitous emotion of grief. In the meantime, happy Fourth of July to all of you and your families!
