My time to write dwindled as break wore on, and so I write now to summarize the final four days of break as accurately and in as much detail as my jotted notes and shaky memory will allow.

Tuesday

The famed Jolly Trolley departed the NOC on Tuesday, and wove its way to Stecoah Gap, where we lingered at 3,165 feet above sea-level before descending down for the trek home.

I am sad to say that this year's Jolly Trolley could not match the jolliness of last year's—but really, what can? Songs were still sung, and mountains were again scaled. Despite two near-accidents, we all returned safe and sound, and so I officially label the ride a success.

Wednesday

Cherohala Skyway beckoned and we answered the call. By various paths, all sixty-two of us wound our way up the thirteen mile climb, lingered for at least few moments and then made our descent back down in weather not nearly as unpleasant as last year.

I found my rhythm alongside Jason and we made remarkable time up the mountain—though not without our fair share of pain. There isn't much to say about the descent. I wore too much clothing, anticipating much colder temperatures and sweat a great deal.

At night, we drove into Bryson City to feast at Guayabitos Mexican restaurant and to swap stories of the day. I cannot recount what transpired afterward—to do so would be to dishonor all that is sacred about UW Cycling, and would break the strong bonds of trust formed during a week of hardship and snacking. I am no fool.

All Else

Thursday passed quietly, designated for many as a day of rest and study, and Friday had us driving to Blue Ridge Parkway where some riders set out to tackle a grueling century, while others—including myself— set out to wear ridiculous cycling garb and ride for a little over an hour before packing the bike up for the remainder of the trip.

We then left the NOC for Madison early Saturday morning and made remarkable enough time through Tennessee, Kentucky, and Indiana to stop in Chicago for a delicious meal and still make it back before nine.

---

In the days prior to this break, I felt the same sense of apprehension as I did last year around the same time. I thought that my lack of riding through the winter months would handicap me relative to other riders, and most of my riding companions from last year were knee-deep in life post-graduation. I had some more personal misgivings, too, that I feared would turn the trip from a fun jaunt in the mountains to a week of uncomfortable situations—but I am happy to say that this was not at all the case. Even in the rain, I enjoyed my time on the bike and forged new acquaintances, and my quiet fears were entirely unfounded.

It was a nice break, but I am now subject once again to the merciless toil of school and everything else.