Congratulations! Sounds like you made some big improvements over your efforts last year. You should be proud!
Your write up brought back my memories of Tour de Tahoe a few years ago. I've lived in northern CA for 25 years and had never been to the Lake because of the crowds - just not my thing. Anyhoo, Petunia asked me to ride with her as hubby wanted to ride with a faster buddy. You're right - don't do it alone and only with an organized group. Some of those drivers are scary!
But the ride was beautiful, especially around the Emerald Bay side. That wind coming out of the tunnel near the end! Whoosh! Like hitting a brick wall! Sounds like you really persevered and stuck it this time! Good job!
Frends know gud humors when dey is hear it. ~ Da Crockydiles of ZZE.