Day 15. Port Jervis, NY to Belvidere, NJ

I was a bit hesitant riding into the State of New Jersey today from Port Jervis, NY to Belvidere, NJ (60 miles), especially given the first sign I saw as I crossed over the border, but my misgivings were not well founded. I rode most of the day through the beautiful Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area. This was one of the most scenic rides yet. I had my now regular lunch (Cliff Shot Energy Gel Pack and water) at a campground. Left a lot of my legs on the road today with climbs totaling over 3,000 feet, but the sights were well worth it. Anyone wanting to enjoy some great road cycling should check this place out.

Day 14. New Paltz, NY to Port Jervis, NY

Rode alongside the Shawangunk Mountains today from New Paltz, NY to Port Jervis, NY (51 miles). This area was the site of many battles between the early American settlers and the American Indians and there were many interesting historical markers along the way. And, as usual, there were the random road signs.

Day 13. Amenia NY to New Paltz, NY

Had a semi-day off today riding from Amenia, NY to New Paltz, NY (46 miles). Crossing over the Hudson River on the pedestrian bridge was awesome. And Bower apparently has a place up here - who knew? Only about a week until I hook up with friends and family in Baltimore and I am very excited about that - see y'all soon!

Day 12. Granby, Conn. to Amenia, New York

I rode into my fifth state today (Maine, NH, Mass, Conn., and NY) and passed the 500 mile mark (514 miles to date) riding out of the big hills into beautiful sprawling farm land from Granby, Conn. to Amenia, New York. I rode past several interesting signs today - a couple of which were inexplicable. Also passed by the Appalachian Trail and a beautiful reservoir. Again, however, the day ended with a motel room that was rather frightening, this one coming with its own cat. I would like to note that through all your generous donations we have raised over $5,000 for CP research thus far --Thank you all and please keep those donations coming!

Day 11. Westborough, Mass. to Granby, Connecticut

Nice but tough ride today through the hills (again) from Westborough, Mass. to Grandby, Connecticut (56 miles). Had Lunch on the road at a table for one on the back of my bike. Saw a star bangled horse. And learned something new - that it was not the Civil War but "The War for the Preservation of the Union.". Unfortunately, the day ended at a motel with green shag carpeting which was more frightening than anything I have faced on the road.