Whidbey Island

Whidby Island looking out over Deceptions Pass. Notice the fog lifting up and over the cliffs. It was amazing watching the fog roll into the bay.

Another picture of Deception Pass while we climbed through a path in the State Park.

Luke, Pat and Jessica. Our picnic on Whidby Island

Sunday, August 30th

Today I reconnected with Jessica, a great friend I have known since high school. We, (Jess and I along with two friends, Pat and Luke) toured Whidbey Island, one of the many beautiful islands off the coast of northern Washington. I love the feeling of being surrounded by water, the gentle fog rolling among the fields and the sound of boats moving in and out of the bays and harbors. We picnicked in Fort Eby State Park, along the shores of Rosario Strait where the fog permitted only a brief glance of the water. The sound of fog horns reassured us that indeed we were next to the water.

After our picnic we ventured north to Deception Pass State Park, hiked among the rock outcroppings and skipped stones into the bay. It was a wonderful relaxing day, exploring the outdoors and enjoying casual conversations in gentle surroundings.

I am feeling relaxed and yet energized to begin the ride. I have decided to move my start line to the Seattle area instead of heading south out of Vancouver. Just like that I have cut out 139 miles of biking. Spending time with Jess was much more important that putting a few extra miles on the bike. I am so thankful that we were able to connect and share updates of our hopes and dreams.

And so to all of those friends of ours, scattered around the globe, that we haven't seen or talked to for far too long; pick up the phone, email them, write them a letter and let them know how much you care for them. Friendships are what bring valuable meaning to our lives. We should cherish these relationships for the strength, support and nurture that sustain us in good times and bad.

Jessica, thank you for being my friend. For teaching me lessons I could not have learned on my own and for sharing your knowledge and love.

The secret of health for body and mind is to live in the present moment wisely and earnestly. Buddha