On Saturday we completed a 62 mile training ride. This is not only my longest ride to date, but definitely the toughest, wettest, windiest, and wildest. We were facing the toughest winds I have ever seen and the entire ride to our destination it was right in our face. At that point we were only able to go at single digit mph's. I don't think my spirits have ever been lower on my bike (who I have officially named Darlene after my fraternity cook). I was cold and couldn't feel basically any of my extremities.When we came to Allerton Park and were able to turn around, I was ready as ever, but we were graced with that strong wind formerly in our face now riding with us. We were able to ride in speeds upwards of 30 mph during this time and made our return trip in less than half the time it took to get there. I thought to myself, this is what riding is all about; going on the open road with no worries in the world.I had a lot of thinking on this up and down trip. I know I will get down at times and wonder what did I get myself into, but then again there will be the times where I will never want it to end. Then I thought to myself, I am doing this for a reason, and no matter how hard the roads may become, it is nothing compared to what those we ride for face on a daily basis. I feel almost silly complaining about the cold or the rain or the wind when I have been so blessed in my life. This is a very motivating way to look at this trip and all it's work involved.I feel like our team is becoming closer and closer as the days progress towards the ride. I love meeting these new and interesting people and cannot wait to go on the ride of our lives.Well that's all for now. I will hopefully be back very soon!