thanks everyone,
I ended up with 3 metrics that week as I rode another that Saturday. I finished that one with 69 miles even. Something about that willow grove, I already mentioned that willows are my favorite tree and it seems to be a magical spot for me. I couldn't have PLANNED either of my coincidences that occured on riding and stopping at that beautiful spot.
The first day, my birthday, I just happened to stop to take photos since I hadn't on my way out. I look at my odometer 44 miles (I turned 44 that day). Saturday when I was riding through again and decided to stop for a moment and say hello, I look at my odometer.. 62.33 miles the EXACT moment I hit my metric for the day. Needless to say, I think next time I go through there, I'm going to ride the footbridge across the canal and sit a spell with my willows.
This coming Sunday I'll likely have myself another metric. I plan on at the least a 45 mile ride for the Katrina Relief benefit being sponsored by my favorite bike shop Bike Line in Carmel. I'll probably ride home from the event as well which will give me another 15-20 miles or so.
I do know that I'll plan on riding to see my willows again soon.