Thursday, August ? I have forgotten what the date is.
Just as my other two days have started off with some unexpected challenges, today was no different. This day was not a matter of walking up a hill, my challenges today were (supposedly) man's best friend. Man's best friend is not a bikers best friend! I can tell you that black German Shepard's do not have the stamina to run for 18 miles per hour for more than a quarter of a mile. Also, pit bulls will stop you dead in your tracks and won't you let you cross their territory for quite some time. I had to wait for a car to approach in order to pass the bit bull. I rode past the dog on the opposite side of the car, holding onto the door frame for almost a quarter of a mile. I am so grateful for the generosity of the people I have met. Everyone has been most kind; providing me with detailed directions, alternative (less hilly) routes, rest spots and food.
I was approximately two hours into today's ride when I had another flat, this time it was thankfully on the front tire and with my current experience of changing flats, was fixed in no time at all. As I resumed my ride, I was approached from behind by another cyclist, the first I have seen so far this trip. As it turns out, he and I were both riding the same bike, Surly Long Haul Trucker. I bike I purchased especially for this trip. Craig is from New Zealand and is spending 6 weeks riding from Van Couver to L.A. We rode together for the next 50 miles into camp at Lewis and Clark State Park. After riding for two days by myself, pacing at only 8-10 miles per hour, it is very refreshing to cycle with someone who can pull you along at 14-16 miles per hour.
Craig is a part time Emergency Room physician in New Zealand, working only as much as is required to accumulate enough money to set off on another adventure. He has shared stories about journeys across the globe that I can only dream about. He is an excellent cyclist, sharing tips on maximizing effort and minimizing energy. Both of us enjoyed the company and plan to cycle into Astoria together.
Today's total: Hills 2, Tish 4. With Craig's help, I didn't walk up a single hill today.
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Dear Tish, You're missing record-breaking crowds at the great State Fair. I think you may have the better end of the 'stick' on that one. 150,000+ fair-goers with strollers and mullets? Or a bike ride down the western coast? You win. So happy things are going well. Everyone is reading your blog and commenting on your journey. We're with you at every hill.
ReplyDeleteLove,
Hunna
Tish, Thanks for the great stories! I am enjoying following along with you! We are on day 2 in Santa Barbara. Ran 9.5 miles at sunrise along the ocean today! It was amazingly beautiful. I will start out on the road bike tomorrow for a crack at the hills. I will let you know my daily count when I am back! Just driving around the car makes a huge noise trying to get up the hills so I am hoping to keep the hills number in single digits. Take care and I hope the flats are fewer and far between!
ReplyDeleteKatie
Love reading about your adventures. You are amazing. Who knew this would require so much patience and giving up control. We're having a lovely Labor Day Weekend here, but not nearly as "away from it all" as your are, physically and spiritually, right now. Blessings as you continue your amazing journey, Anne
ReplyDeleteHey Tish: You go Girl! Picking up a man. Kristi sent me a picture of her sitting on a motorized scooter with a huge gyros in her hand at the MN. State Fair. I know it really disappoints you not being able to be at the fair. Enjoy, Enjoy, Enjoy and stay safe. Cheryl
ReplyDeleteHi Tish!
ReplyDeleteSounds like you are having a ball!!
You are always up for a challenge...
Good luck on the next day of adventure- can't wait to see what happens next...
Joan.
Yeah Tish!
ReplyDeleteLove hearing stories from the road! don't envy you a bit though , fo my counts out there would more than likely be all hills, no shannon! Dad and i missed you on TRAM this year lots, talked abou thow nuts you are for doing this but what an amazing story you will have to share when yo ureturn to us next year! (You better be returning to us! :) Enjoy the trip, stay safe and take tons of pictures - i want to see them when you return. Happy Trails!
Shannon Ruasch