Day 1 - AIDS LifeCycle

What a day. The opening ceremonies were moving as always. The morning was cold and cloudy and I was dressed for hot and sunny but the sun finally came through to show us an awesome California. We rode about 82 miles today. The first part was tough and the last half was pretty flat. As I rode into Santa Cruz, a lady was holding a sign with a picture of a handsome man. I pulled off the rode, we exchanged a hug and I asked if it was her son. She told me it was her brother. I felt like a dagger hit me when she said that. I adore my brother and it was obvious she adored hers. His name was Gary. Last year, I rode by the people holding signs like that and swore I'd never do that again. How special she made today. He may have died in 1995 but not in her heart and now, not in mine.

Tomorrow is 108 miles. One day at a time!!