Solace & the Fourth of July

'Got out before 7:00am yesterday. I wanted to see the lake. 'Thought that may make my heart feel a little lighter. Saturday was an emotional day; filled with pride seeing my son march in the parade with his Robotics team, (something I would never have dreamed he would do) but later I dealt with the passing of my uncle. So, this ride gave me some time to think about my family and how things keep changing. My uncle lived through more pain and loss than most of us endure, and he never complained or fell apart that I know of. A very strong, proud and hard working man. I am glad he is no longer suffering, but will miss him. My mom will miss him so much more. We celebrated the fourth and my uncle at his house with an amazing display of fireworks that my uncle planned for with the help of my cousins' family and the pyrotechnic skills of their teenage children, Janice and Edward.
Today I rode again, alone. Feeling stronger, so I headed for the hills on Furman Rd and Sweets Corners. The view of from the top of Furman hill was very hazy despite the cloudless sky - glad to be on the road early with temps heading for the 90's. Watched some of the Tour de France on Dave's iPhone - free app that actually shows live coverage. A french rider took first place, Sylvan Chavanel. Lance is in fifth place overall. Apparently the road conditions were not up to par and the majority of riders came into the finish refusing to sprint, as a protest. Race referees will have a difficult time determining placement of the main pack - all rode in with same time. Oh the drama!