The crowds were overwhelming, but congenial. Many Americans, mostly cyclists, were wandering around, looking for famous cyclists, buying souvenirs, and relaxing before a long day of cycling themselves. Some racers were presented with honors before the new day of racing began. The Caravan was gathering, automobiles and floats filled to the brim and revving up again to please the crowds in the myriads of tiny villages along the route. Beautiful weather and fresh summer fragrances filled the air in this quaint French town of Pau. Distracted by my own quest for a map and official program in all the excitement, I missed the actual kick-off. It gave me all the more reason to scamper to find a spot in a tiny village along the route.