I rode 25 miles today in memory of cousin Billy, who died from testicular cancer when I was too young to understand anything about life or death. And also for Dennis H., who's stoic dignity in the face of terminal prostate cancer taught me much about both life and death.

I chose to ride my Specialized Tri-cross Expert on the "Great Western Triangle" route of the "rails to trails" bike paths just west of Chicago, passing through the towns of Glen Ellyn, Wheaton, West Chicago, Carol Stream, Glendale Heights, Lombard, And Villa Park. The route included about equal distances on the Illinois Prairie Path and the Great Western Trail, which intersect at the eastern and western ends to form a triangle. I chose this route because these great trails inspired me to begin cycling 4 years ago, and they have provided me with good health and hours of pleasure.

http://www.mapmyride.com/route//il/g...24837130794172

Below is a picture of my Specialized Tri-cross Expert, adorned with the Livestrong yellow bracelet on the left hood, at mile marker zero of the Illinois Prairie Path in Wheaton, Illinois. The TDYB now leaves the Midwest and returns to the east coast of the USA for a ride with K&K Dad.