Sunday, July 12th became a "Very Special Day". It was notable for being a remote start ride. It was notable for exceptional weather. But more than anything, it was notable for being the first ride we've both ventured out WITH FRIENDS since the pandemic began. Karen and I have been reluctant to start hanging out with others, but we were certain to be safe with trusted friends Joe and Dana who are plenty adult enough to take physical separation seriously. We haven't yet joined any club rides, but we were happy to do a club route with these two. Karen has been out with friends, but it was my first.

I felt like a virgin might feel … excited but ________

Naples - Haskinville (RBC #223) was the suggested route and we were sorta faithful to it with a couple alterations, the first of which was taking the wonderfully quiet Atlanta Back Road (yes, that's actually the name) to Cohocton, followed by the climb up CR121 (erroneously labeled CR21 on the map) to NY21. We skipped Mack School Road being an "early season" kinda ride.

Down the gulch of Neils Creek (misspelled "NIELS" on the map) led us toward Avoca. Cruising' down NY415, we almost skipped by the "Jacob's Ladder" alternate. Hey, Bonus Points! Joe and I turned in … or UP, I should say … and crested the particularly challenging  hill with a beautiful view of the valley below.

After flying down to the valley, we met Karen and Dana at the c-store in Avoca before taking a relaxing stroll back to Naples via 12 Mile Creek Road and down the infamous NY53 where I shall always remember "The Incident" involving a recumbent bike, high speed, and a deer who failed to respect my right of way. No incident this time.

Wonderful ride of 53 miles … With Friends! At Last! And maybe a couple more on the next ride?