WN2010 - The ride

I'm surely happy I got to see what is at the opposite end of the foot on several occasions. LOL!

Luv ya!
Sweet Caroline

A lovely little log cabin--which I truly hope will be completed; and where many hours of love, hope, and life can be experienced.

How sad to see the deterioration of such an elegant building. Are many buildings of this nature designated as landmarks? I forget all too often battles have occurred in this area; and, perhaps, such elegant homes have been the target of war. It saddens me greatly to see the destruction of human life--as well as property--in a world that is supposed to be so civilized. I've been truly blessed in my 69 years of life on this planet to have been able to live where we have known no such violence until 10 years ago. Many freedoms we had taken for granted no longer exist; but it's still a land of peace and freedom when compared to so many other parts of the world. During the past several months--as I've viewed the photos of so many gorgeous European cities--I'm reminded constantly of the two WW's. It's only been through the determination and lots of blood, sweat, and tears--and hard work--that these cities have been rebuilt to reflect the strength, courage, and beauty of its citizens.

Very lovely photo. The colorful wildflowers along the highway are certainly a welcomed sight.

Oh, my word! And this is the condition of an overpass? I trust no one fell from their bikes and/or hurt themselves. Was the Dutchman still in a "reclining" position when riding over this road? Inquiring minds want to know. HaHa!

Beep me up! Are you sure this is a road? I hope no one was experiencing any lower back pain when they came to this part of the marathon. You certainly faced a few challenges on this trip; and I'm only experiencing this trip through the magnificent lens of your camera. Great photos, Manfred!

Luv ya!
Sweet Caroline

A magnificent sunset. I love the warm colors of the clouds.

What happened? You ran out of road? LOL! Or is this a shortcut?

Beautiful countryside. I'm amazed at the clarity of all the pictures you have taken while riding on a bike.

Looks like a rough road ahead. I hope no one was peppered with the loose rocks on the road.

The Dutchman looks so relaxed in this pose. But I must admit, just looking at this makes my poor back hurt. I have severe Fibromyalgia and chronic Rheumatoid Arthritis which causes severe back pain. Getting into this position for one minute would be enough to send me to the hospital. At any rate, it looks like all of you are having a delightful time on this marathon. I read your story in the beginning of your accomplishments with the various marathons. Congratulations; and I hope you will have many more successes in the years to come.
BTW, I noticed you are from the Rhine part of Germany. On my travels to Europe during 1991-2001, I got a chance to see part of the Rhine countryside, as well as the Bavarian section. Germany was one of my favorite countries to visit. My adoring late husband had a niece in Dusseldorf we visited several times. Lovely countryside and delicious food. We also visited and stayed in Frankfurt and Munich--two lovely cities. Wish I could travel again.
Luv ya!

A great photograph of the Dutchman!

What a horrible way to have to end a marathon! I truly hope this gentleman's injuries were not severe enough to keep him from participating in future marathons. I hope the driver of the truck was kind enough to stop and check on the injured cyclist. All too often, motorist don't stop to check on the damages and/or injuries they have inflicted upon another. Having ridden on many of the European highways, I consider anyone getting on a major highway with a bicycle a very brave individual.

What with it?

Amazing series of photos of the White Nights brevet. The hard work and effort going into the cycling and the beauty of the Russian countryside. Congratulations on finishing!