Made a game-time decision to do the Big Spring Meander instead of the 30-mile loop followed by the 20-mile loop because of the steady SE wind. Those loops were both much more N-S and fighting headwinds is not anywhere on the list of things we like to do. The big loop was a little different this year, staying off of Ridge Road and the funky little weirdness at Green Spring with the fish hatchery. Good choice by the route planners. Airborne moisture appeared about mile 20 and persisted for another 10 miles, with some of it strong enough to get roads pretty wet -- not much fun in Amish country with the horse exhaust on the road ... Temps were pretttttty cool, never getting above the low 60s. Zero sun. Was only cold after scheduled stops. Felt plenty strong for the first 30, before the climbing began for reals. Did the climbs without feeling completely terrible, but the last 5 miles, especially after turning due east at 43.4 and pushing into the wind for several miles, were a whole lot of "are we done yet". Allllso notice that it's not quiiiiite 50, even with following all the twists and turns exactly ... This ride really needs another rest stop after the one at 26. Twenty-five more miles without an organized break is a lot, especially with all the climbing. Considered stopping at a park/baseball filed at 35 but it was full with some sort of tournament going on. Stopped briefly at 41 and that helped. All in all, good solo ride. Passed a few groups after trying to stay with them but needing to be on the brakes downhill to not run away. {shrug}