This is our final pre-trip entry. It’s been an interesting couple of days. Yesterday we were planning to ride to Everett. Twenty minutes into it we realized that things were still not right with the bike after the recent tune-up. The chain has been skipping ever since then. That usually means worn chain or gears, but those were all replaced. With only a week to go we figured we better get it to the shop. We spent the day with them trying things out and us test riding. Finally bought a new derailleur (the old one had 18,000 miles on it), but that still didn’t fix it. Total “training” miles: 12!
So today we completed the route from the Pacific to official start line, the Everett Boys and Girls Club. We changed our shifters from index shifting to friction shifting (I use barend shifters) and that solved the problems we’d been having. We hope that the sunshine today is a good omen. The 62 mile round trip seemed almost lazy which implies we’re ready. We have a total of 1,875 training miles in from the first of the year.
A few thoughts as we head into this great adventure:
- This IS indeed an adventure and one we CANNOT fail! Even if we stop, we will still have had an adventure.
- It’s all “practice”. We’re going to attempt to be in each moment without telling ourselves how much we’d rather be somewhere else (dry, done, on the flats, on a curvy road, out of the wind, in the wind, in a warm cabin, back in Seattle, already to Boston, etc.).
- No point complaining about it. No one wants to hear it.
- We aspire to not use the sag vehicle.
- We aspire to blog consistently as time and access allow.
- We aspire to have FUN!
One of the wonderful things about life is how much a mystery it all is. We’re going to step into that mystery next Sunday, June 17. Come join us! (Figuratively speaking. We don’t expect you to hop on your bikes!)
S&S,
It was wonderful to be with you yesterday! Evan and I send our love, support, respect and admiration as you navigate this continuing adventure. It has begun-may your heartfelt aspiration and care,along with all the seen and unseen support guide you along the way. Blessings, C&E
looking 4ward 2 reading your blog!! Whatta journey to embark – go for it and git ‘er done! Be sure to laugh WAY OUT LOUD when you feel the urge! Best of success! Kris n Scott
Wow, you are embarking on an adventure of a life time with miles and miles of training behind you. Enjoy and cherish every mile. I know how important this journey is to you. You are so fortunate to be able to have this experience. I look forward to reading your blog. Cheers Shelia and Spencer.
I found you guys while searching for my favorite pudding in the world, Stinkey Monkey Pudding. You two are my new found heroes. I’ve booked marked your page (after reading every single, delightful word) and plan to come along “figuratively” on your trip.
Please have a wonderfully, joyous time. And keep a keen watch out for rouge door jams!
LIVE freely
LOVE fiercely
LAUGH often
Warmest Regards
Paul King