I can’t decide if this is a nightmare or just pure torture.
The morning started nicely.
Kris drove me back to where I had stopped yesterday. Got Gerty ready to roll and front tire was low on air pressure. Nearly flat kind of low. This can’t really be happening, can it?
I pumped the tire up, told Kris to stay close for a while, and set out. Made it a couple miles and front tire was losing air. Seriously?
Had spare tube and tools with me today so pulled over to fix it. At least it wasn’t the rear tire that is much more difficult to change and had caused me all the problems yesterday. Kris drove up while I was working on it so she even got to help.
Went great for the next hour and then…flat rear tire for the 4th time in 24 hours. I was beyond exasperated. I don’t even know how to describe my mental state at this point in time. Pretty sure I should have been put in a straight jacket and institutionalized on the spot.
Called Kris. She was packing up at hotel so told her I would push the bike to somewhere I could get something to eat and then we’d take her to bike shop.
By now I’m pretty experienced at pushing a bike with a flat rear tire. Not fun. Fortunately I didn’t have to go far.
Sitting in diner waiting for Kris I decided I was done for the day. Somebody needs to figure out the problem with rear tire because I’m not putting myself through this anymore. At this rate I’ll be in Key West about Thanksgiving time. This is really stupid.
Kris picked Gerty and I up and we went to bike shop. Told the guy our story and told him to take his time and figure out the problem. I would be at the pub next door and Kris would be shopping.
Got a nice and total surprise while I was sitting there. Our daughter, Kerri, had driven over from St. Petersburg.
Picked Gerty up. Back tire…he smoothed out a sharp spot on rim. Maybe that was problem? Took her out for spin around block and had a flat. Not joking. Ended up putting a new tire on. Hoping that’s the cure. We’ll see.
Front tire had gone flat from a staple. He put a new tube in and a brand new tire just to be safe.
I am going to give it another shot tomorrow. If I have the same issue, I’m done. This is the definition of insanity.
I’d be fine with it at this point. I know that I can/could do it. I just know that I will never do anything like this again that involves a piece of equipment. I don’t like the feeling of being dependent on other things or people.
We’ll see what happens tomorrow.
Ride on.
Just Pete
Just Pete Hiking 
Good luck today!! Hopefully the tide has turned and it’s smooth biking the rest of the way. George
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It’s the two minute warning Pete!
This is what happens sometimes!
Victory is close!
Ride on!
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I am praying for Gertie and you. Know that whatever happens today and whatever decisions are made it will be the right one.
Ride On.
Melanie
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Did you ever think maybe it’s a sign?
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Florida, for some reason, hasn’t been your friend. Glad this didn’t happen in another state were Chris couldn’t have your back. Hoping with all new you can continue with your incredible journey! Ride on, I pray.
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If this is the end of the road, it has been an amazing trip. Sea to Sea is some feet to be extremely proud of!! Pray no more flats for your mental health. So glad Kris can be there for you. Take care!
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Oh man, we want you to enjoy this trip. Hope this mechanic worked magic – though those little wires on the road from truck flats can get you. Some tires are more robust than others. I close with a quote from Billy Mays — “Just had a close call landing in Tampa. The tires blew out upon landing.”
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That has to be a record for flats. What a great surprise to see Kerri. That should have been a day brightener. Whatever decision you make, it will be the right one. You do what you have to do. We are in your corner. Poor Gerty, she has had a rough time. It was meant to be that Kris is with you. Take care and ride safe. Love you, Mom.
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This is beyond ridiculous!!! So sorry. I can only begin to understand your frustration! Maybe that rear rim should be REPLACED. I would try that along with a new tube and tire for your last miles. So glad Kris is near, and how nice Kerry came to see you! May it go better next time you ride. We all KNOW you can do this! Gerty’s hospitalists need to help!
Ride on, be safe, and God’s Speed.
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Wow, Kerri is beautiful. Glad she favors her Mom, Haha. I hope to see you soon on the Plantation. It’s sure been fun reading about your adventure every day. Cheers to a speedy and safe return. Best, Jeni
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I think we’re all in agreement that if these mishaps had to happen, it’s good you are in home territory with Kris nearby and not out in the middle of nowhere!! Hopefully Gerty can make it these next miles and then rest at home in your garage 😉. What a nice surprise having Kerri visit. I’m sure she and Kris loved keeping the secret. Looks like Brooke’s in Florida too for a bachelorette weekend.
We’re rooting for you Jeff 🚴🚴🚴.
Ride on.
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Your flat tire experience is plain nuts. You have achieved so much so calling it a day is very understandable. It may be a sign you should declare your ride is a success. Don
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