October 20th, 2015. Quartzsite, AZ. 112 miles and 5,992 calories later. It’s not that late but everyone has gone to bed. Except for me and Luci who is typing my blog for me. I kinda want to go to bed too but I’m drinking my fourth protein shake of the day. I may make fun of Rae for the seriousness with which she takes her task, but at this point, she’s probably the only thing keeping me on the bike. It was 51 degrees yesterday when we left Descanso. It was 81 degrees today when we left Brawley. It didn’t get any cooler. We spent a good portion of today riding through the desert surrounded on all sides by huge sand dunes. Hydration is the next problem to solve.
My weight dropped below 140 for the first time and I’m sure water weight was a good part of the weight loss (yes, yes, denial again. I know). I can’t drink from the water bottles while I ride because I can’t let go of the handlebars with my good hand to get them. So we have to stop riding whenever I wanted to drink. Before you suggest the camelback my cheek muscles don’t work so well. I can’t use a straw (or kiss for that matter). On the plus side I can finally say without fear of contradiction that I don’t suck (badaboom! We’ll be in town till tomorrow and I’m available for weddings, birthdays and bar mitzvahs). Whenever our support crew meets up with us Rae asks Ian how much I have drunk. He usually tries to change the subject. One of the good things about this arrangement is that Ian generally gets in trouble for my infractions. “Ian! You’re supposed to be looking after him.” Whenever I stop riding, the support crew descends upon me, removing layers of clothing, putting on others, applying sunscreen, filling water bottles, cleaning wounds, wiping off blood, throwing peanut butter sandwiches at my face. Then we get back on the road. To be honest I feel like a formula one racer at a pit stop.
There is no GoPro footage today because the mount snapped. All the vibration finally took its toll. It may be tested by BMX racers, mountaineers and extreme skateboarders but did anyone think to send it on a little road ride? Huh? Anything to say Mr. GoPro man?
Since the beginning of the ride two people have mentioned that I have been ruining my one fall per 100 miles average. Well, not to disappoint, I did manage to fall today. Right in front of Rae and Ian, too. Both of them witnessed me do it. I was barely moving and we’re still not quite sure how I managed to fall. I guess I’m just talented, what can I say?
Towards the end of the day we crossed the Colorado River and are now in Arizona. We spent what seemed like way too much time on Highway 10. Compared to the bleak moonscape of the desert in the morning it was quite the contrast. We began the day in total isolation and by afternoon we were riding along the interstate shoulder, dodging chunks of rubber and engine parts; just four feet from instant death.
Rae commented that my voice is getting worse. I responded that that was because whenever we’re together she’s shoveling food down my throat.
Rae: “You’re losing weight, here eat this sandwich.” Me: “Hmgh phut mmhg phut.” Rae: “Then I want you to drink this protein shake.” Me: “gmgh frchk phut.” Rae: “Ian. How many times did he pee while riding?” Ian: “I think we can still catch the Cubs-Mets game.” Rae: “Eat this hard boiled egg, it’s good for you.” Me: “Shphung phut gugh” Rae: “I really don’t like the way your voice sounds.”
And so it goes. Life on the road with Team: Ray Goes For A Little Ride.
Peace, love and midwives
Ray
Ray's Little Ride 
Ray,
I had been hearing snippets about your ride but wasn’t following. Today was simulation day with the students and Kristy told me the link to follow. I have just finished reading every word you have written and I am so I’nspied by you. Stay strong and enjoy the ride.
For Rae: great recipes for “fat bombs” on Pinterest. These will keep the calories up and they will literally melt in the mouth– no chewing
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Can’t begin to tell you how often I check to see if there is any new news of your day!! I read part of this post outloud ’cause I could “hear” (and act out) every voice so clearly!!
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Hi Ray. Loved riding with you( by amazing video) except for the scary semi trucks coming @ you on the left side. Wish the GoPro had not come apart but maybe you will pick up an extra mile tomorrow without the weight of carrying it. Did not know you kept a journal. Can not thank you enough for sharing all your thoughts.
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You are just Hope and Fun, Ray! And it sounds like you are providing Rae and Ian with plenty to do. Smiles and hugs, kris
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I’m completely inspired by you and your determination. I know personally the effects of ALS through a close family member, so I know a lot about what you’re going through. And I’m really impressed. God bless.
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Loving the updates! You are such an inspiration (yeah I know everyone says it and I already have like 8 times, but it’s true. so you get to read it again). Take care of yourself, and listen to your wife!
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These updates are the cherry atop my day!
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Cheering you on from Dallas – and hoping to see you in Austin.
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Love reading these updates and kind of experiencing this ride with you! Your team sounds like an amazing group of people. Stay vertical!! 🙂
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You determination is truly an inspiration and your story is very moving. I read your story this morning on PEOPLE, which then lead me to your blog. I’ll now be following your ride and am very anxious for you to concur your goal! May God (and your wife) keep you safe!
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I read your updates everyday. So inspired by your journey! You rock Ray (and Rae)! Debbie is right about the recipes on Pinterest so good and melt in your mouth. Until tomorrow! Peace and Love!
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Rae, wishing you the best in using with all your kitchen magician tools to achieve betting living through chemistry in keeping Ray’s Little Ride rollin’ down I – 10. To everyone’s health along the journey. – Mick
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You are amazing! Thank you for doing this! My Mom died from ALS in 2007. Her older sister, my dear Aunt Sue, died from it 3 years before that. Now their younger brother, Uncle Greg, has a form of dementia that is related to ALS. All 3 of them received their diagnosis near their 60th birthday. Such an awful disease. Love to Rae too. It is so hard on the spouses too. My husband is scared. We all did the ALS walk to raise money for years. My sis still does it. God Bless!
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I found out about your epic journey via the People article. Thanks for sharing your trip on this blog! You can do it!! Each day is one day closer to putting your front tire in the ocean! God be with you.
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If didn’t know better, I might have thought that you were using a little literary license in describing Rae. 🙂
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