Thanks for the input. I did get some cream. I haven't used it yet on any of my rides. One of my riding buddies swears by it also.
The last ride I did I felt a bit of saddle soreness. That isn't typical for me so not sure what caused it - and it wasn't a "long" ride. Maybe just the combination of close rides.
However, it looks like my plan is foiled this round. May need to reschedule.