…Today was day six of the AIDS Life Cycle. Our route was Lompoc to Ventura. We were told it would be 85 miles, but I hear we actually road 90 plus miles. Don’t know if that is true or not. At times it felt like it.
A majority of our ride was along the ocean down the 101 freeway where, in some sections, it seemed as though the ocean would crash over the freeway if given the chance. The smell of the sea was so strong along the route that it literally made it difficult to breath. Who knew that the ocean spray could do that to someone?
One of the better stops was the unofficial Paradise Pit stop in Santa Barbara where the largest ice cream party I have ever been to was being held. It was held in a large median between lanes of traffic. The space was large enough to contain a number of table for ice cream, 5 or 6 massage tables (free massages by local heroes) and an entire troupe of Paul Mitchell students with face moisturizer spray to cool us off. I only mention Paul Mitchell because I met a lot of great people from around the country who run his schools. No, I do not work for Mr. Mitchell. I do, however, not feel guilty for eating as much ice cream as I did. Today’s ride was about 85 miles which surely merited as much ice cream as I could eat.
Pictured below, you see me (Mo) with Tracey’s brother Scott, at Paradise Pit in Santa Barbara. Scott’s parents (Mickey and Jane) surprised us by building up our tents for us before we arrived.
… Finishing the day was the candle light vigil held on the beach next to the camp sight. It was truly one of the most amazing sights I have ever seen. 3,000 people lighting a beach by candle not saying a word to one another. Simply us, the sand, the waves, and the appreciation of knowing that we are participating in something very important in the memory of those who are not with us anymore because of this disease. I will never forget this night for as long as I live.
About 485 miles on the road.
No comments:
Post a Comment