It was cold this morning. 35 degrees. Yes, that’s cold. When the guys were getting ready to ride, Phil looked at Tobey and said, “this is stupid,” and off they rode anyway! They were bundled in their heavy coats, gloves, and headed off into the 35 degrees and headwinds leaving Fredericksburg.
The route took them on Ranch Road 1320 north and east this morning. It was pretty narrow and more traffic than they liked for the first 10 miles or so. 
Phil and Tobey split up about 12 miles into the ride with Tobey continuing on the ranch roads and Phil heading south to catch Hwy 290. Both roads had their advantages. Shortly after they split, Tobey’s route had much less traffic, but was 10 miles longer. We passed more of the exotic game ranches and miles of prickly pear cactus.
Phil’s route took him to Hwy 290 which is 4-lane with more traffic, but had a wider shoulder and was shorter. We came back together in Johnson City where Tobey passed the 1,500 mile mark! Thank you Phil for being his inspiration for this ride!!!
We again separated – this time Tobey, Phil, and Marcia continuing on the bike route while I went back to visit Lyndon B. Johnson’s boyhood home. When I arrived, there was a couple sitting on the porch and I found out that there would be a tour in about five minutes. How is that for timing?!
The house was built in 1901 and LBJ’s parents purchased the home and 1-3/4 acres in 1913 for $2,925. They moved from the family’s farm about 14 miles away when Johnson was five years old. They Boyhood Home was given to the National Park Service around 1970 and in 1973, after restoration, was opened to the public. The National Parks ranger who conducted the tour was informative. I visited with her for a few minutes after the tour and could tell she loved her job. 
After the tour, I went to catch up with my group. I saw two bicyclists stopped working on their bikes and slowed down, wondering why Tobey wasn’t wearing his bright yellow safety vest. It wasn’t until I was almost next to them that I realized it wasn’t Tobey and Phil! These young men were riding unsupported and had large panniers on their bikes to carry all their gear. I asked if they needed any help and when they assured me they were okay, I continued on my way.We stopped at the Pedernales Trading Post for a soft drink and visited with some of the guys in the bar. Nice people (and dog friendly)! We are camped near Pedernales Falls State Park tonight and will continue to Austin tomorrow.
Tobey’s ride was 47.7 miles today, putting him at 1515.7 so far – half way!! This is the link to today’s ride:https://ridewithgps.com/trips/31296175
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