Day 0*: Tears and Beers

Bloating. Cramps. Gas. Some people may blame this on "The Change" (Hi Mom!). Or maybe bad shrimp. Or maybe you went to your brother's going away party at Red Robin.

A word of advice - if you're going to have a four course meal, don't do it at this outstanding establishment. When the waitress asks if you want Onion Rings, don't reply "Please, we want 2 orders!". When you have the chance to order a burger topped with bacon, eggs and guacamole, pass it up. When the waitress comes back and says "Our desserts usually feed 3-4 people", believe her. Pretty much, be anti American if you visit this most American of eateries.

And while you're at it, don't have those 3 extra beers once you get home. Or the Root beer Schnapps. I could go into detail, but sometimes a picture does more justice than words ever could:

Needless to say, the start of Day 0 did not see yours truly feeling like a million bucks. Luckily, a long, cleansing run with my mom, followed by a double-d breakfast provided by her way too patient fiancee put me right back into the swing of things. After some packing of cars, obligatory photos, hugs, handshakes and tears, we were finally on the road.

Unfortunately, so was every Mass-hole, spoiled Rhode Island trust fund baby (sorry ICH - you know it's true), and speedo clad OOB patron. Despite the challenges brought on by such people who should never be allowed to enter the beautiful state of Maine (or NH or VT for that matter), we were able to make it to our first stop with no major problems (other than a couple stops for adjustments of a couple bike and cargo straps).

All in all, a very good Day 0. Up bright and early for Day 1 tomorrow - New York State, here we come!


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*If you are unsure why I start counting at 0, ask your favorite Computer Scientist.