Tuesday, August 12, 2008

Its not over 'til its over: lasting lines.

The promised Tan Line Portfolio.










I find that blogging about a bike trip comes much easier when I am actually on the bike trip. Not only was this a little “more than a bike trip,” but I believe it is always healthy to reflect.

Not only was I (and everyone who supported me) part of an event that successfully raised awareness, action, and funds for poverty related issues, but also the lives of everyone involved will be and have been changed. (We can pray that it is long-lasting and positive). Last I heard, we had already surpassed our goal of $1.5 million and were at $1.85 million.

These days I get strange waves of emotion (jealousy, sadness, camaraderie) whenever I see touring bicyclists on the highway. Exercise less than 4 hours in duration seems like nothing. An hour for a bike ride is barely worth putting on my chamois. I judge roads in terms of their “bikeability.” Busy roads don’t faze me. (Nothing can be worse than I-80). I miss waking up outside.

Most of these habits and standards will fade in the coming months, but I hope (and fully expect) that my habit of using trusty “Rosie” as a major form of transportation will continue--as I hope that the 221 bicycles used on the tour continue to get heavy use in daily life. And I hope that this trend spreads (as it has been already, we can’t really claim the idea) outside the Sea to Sea Bike Tour 2008.


And what am I doing now? As the rest of the tour faithfully pedaled east out of Denver, I spent some time with my great “Rooney” friends in Denver. Then I was able to meet up with my family for a few days of hiking in Ouray, CO. When we parted ways, I explored around Crested Butte and the Maroon Bells Wilderness on my own…in the rain. I was abruptly reminded the difference between tenting in a tent city of friends and backpacking alone in bear country. And now I am residing in Salt Lake City, Utah, where I am looking for housing and waiting for classes to begin. I will be working on an M.S. degree in nutrition. Its funny (but probably not surprising) how hundreds of miles on the road can shake one’s perfectly laid out plans. So far I have executed mine as planned, but not without much thought and wrestling. And I haven’t actually made it to class yet! The fact that 3 of my friends who planned on leaving the tour in Denver, are back on the road might tell you something.


I can’t thank you enough for your support. We are part of something great.