Hello Oregon

A view from atop the 3 mile climb heading into Astoria, looking down at Kim and Steve's place.

Again, looking back on the Columbia River, saying good bye to Washington and hello to Oregon.

The Bowpicker, some of the best Fish-n-chips I've ever had.

A statue of Lewis and Clark in Seaside, OR. Lewis and Clark finished their journey in this area.

Walking the beach in Seaside. The views were spectacular! I will always be amazed at the vastness of sand and water.

Wednesday, September 5th

Today I packed away my Washington map and pulled out the Oregon map. Even though I only rode for 4 days in Washington, it still feels like I have passed a small mile-stone as I move into another state. Craig and I took the ferry from Puget Island over the Columbia River into Oregon midday. Our ride began with a 3 mile climb along the Columbia bank, leveled off for a few more miles and then had a lovely downward decent into Astoria.

We ate at Bowpicker, a place that Kim and Steve recommended, which is famous for fish and chips. We waited in line for over 30 minutes, and were not disappointed. If you ever find yourself in Astoria, do grab some fish and chips.

From Astoria we had to cross a bridge that made me thankful for good life insurance. The bridge had no shoulder for biking and the traffic roared by at 55 miles/hour. If that wasn't bad enough, the wind was blowing so hard that even on flat road, I could barely move at 7 miles/hour. If I wasn't so white knuckled holding on to the handle bars, I would have had my hands in folded prayer.

Forecast for the next two days predicted heavy rains and gale force winds. And as much as I love the outdoors, I'm not stupid. We found a hostel and booked rooms for two days. A bit of down time gave me an opportunity to wash me clothes and recharge my mind and body. Craig and I took in the sights and walked the beaches in between rain showers. The rest has been welled deserved.

Things I have become accustomed to/good at:

1. Wearing dirty clothes
2. Not wearing make up :)
3. Praying at the sound of approaching RV's
4. Peeing in the woods without getting my shoes wet, or touching poison ivy
5. Setting up my tent and sleeping bag
6. Asking strangers for directions
7. Being thankful for every minute on the road!