Day 4, Girlz in the Catskillz

77.9 miles, Kinderhook, NY to Margaretville, NY! Molly and I are very happy to say that we went THROUGH the Catskill Mountains today, instead of OVER them. Lenny told us that we had chosen wisely to go through the southern route instead of the northern route over, as the northern route would have involved switchback climbing. Instead, we found that the southern Catskill valleys made for very pleasant (and relatively flat) riding. We started off with Lenny as our tour guide all the way to the charming town of Hudson, where the main street offered a cool coffee break at the French-style Nolita Cafe while we waited for the bike store to open. One trued wheel later, we were off across the Hudson River on the Rip Van Winkle Bridge (the man storied to have slept 100 years...hence our photo):

We were on some very smooth and un-trafficky county roads this morning and were treated to some odd sights such as giant white-marble head sculptures in random fields. We would like to extend a very warm shout-out to Mary and Ray from Mezzaluna Cafe on Route 212 towards Woodstock, who offered a very colorful welcome in their modern and inviting cafe. We suggest that you all read local Ray Steiner's book "The Mountain", as we are two very proud new "nieces" of Ray's. Apparently he has many "nieces". We then passed through Woodstock (and neglected to treat ourselves to tie-dye t-shirts proclaiming "Jerry is Alive" although we did partake in some local ice cream) and continued our jaunt through the Catskills. The day seemed easy, as Molly's parents had taken our trailers, although we were confronted with a giant hill at the end of the day up towards the Country Club/Mountain Resort where we are staying this evening. Our valiant efforts up the hill were rewarded with free beers by the golfers here who could not believe that our legs carried us up that enormous hill without the help of a golf cart. You skiers out there will appreciate our efforts to recreate the movie "Aspen Extreme" powder 8 competition UP a hill on bikes. A hot tub (and more beers courtesy of Molly's dad!) has helped rejuvenate our spirits and we are very thankful that Molly's parents, Priscilla and Norman, have come for a bit to support us on our journey. We are both lucky to have such wonderful families!

Speaking of families, we are sending lots of love and thoughts to Stephanie's brother Scott as he is out in California competing in the U-23 Nationals in road cycling. GO Scotto and GO Team Metlife! Love you kiddo!