Webster to Oswego

First day of riding.  We pedaled roughly 65 miles from Webster, New York to Oswego, New York, following the Seaway Trail which runs relatively close to Lake Ontario.  Many stunning vistas enjoyed as we rolled along upstate New York's undulating hills.  Sadly, we were also made privy to some of the havoc and devastation wreaked on towns like Fair Haven from the tornado that went through the area Tuesday evening.  Lots of debris on the roads, and many downed trees.  A few homes had been destroyed.  And, while devouring some delicious homemade cheese and black berries at a small market at mile 33, we observed a house that had burned to the ground only hours after the storm had subsided.  Needless to say, we were all quite grateful that our trip started the day after.

People's spirits were generally quite high today.  The weather was near idyllic with temperatures in the 60s and 70s, and cool breezes keeping us all comfortable and energized.  Some of the highlights of the trip were Sodus Lighthouse, various farmer's markets pocking the route, and the Hardware Cafe in Fair Haven, a hardware store-turned coffee shop and cafe with delightful wraps, salads and fresh brewed iced tea.  I always seem to crave unsweetened iced tea after riding long distances.  And, this tea did not disappoint.

We arrived in Oswego at 2:30 pm, and immediately showered--in our biking clothes (a shortcut to laundering...which, really works "only a little")--then headed out to explore this quite large and interesting university town.  There's a rich history that starts with the Mohawk Indians as stewards of the area, and includes Dr. Mary Walker, a female surgeon who was the first woman to receive the US Medal of Honor for her work and care of soldiers during the Civil War.  There's also a fantastic bike shop in the area, Murdocks, wehere I purchased a t-short some of you may see soon.  This evening we were treated by our chef Sue, to a scrumptious meal of chicken and mushrooms in a white wine sauce over egg noodles, with a strawberry salad and both strawberry and black raspberry pie for dinner, and some sharing of more stories from the day and other's bicycling expeditions.

Tomorrow we ride to Sacket's Harbor, our last stop in the US for a bit!  Here's hoping that you're all enjoying some kind of adventure in your days.  More later!