Today, an estimated two weeks away from the coast, we would like to thank our sponsors. Many people ask us how we're affording a trip like this, and frankly we really aren't. Our parents are helping significantly, and for that we are enormously thankful. Also, though, we have (through my mother's efforts) received the support of several other donors. This is ridiculous. People who have heard about our trip and just wanted to help us make it to California. Thank you Auntie Lisa, Janice, Connie and Kay -- I hope you find your goodwill and generosity alive and reciprocated in the wider world.
Maybe I spoke too harshly about Idaho in our last post -- but probably not. Winds yesterday were the stiffest yet, and our minds were just melted by the end of a meager 44 miles. It's hard to put my finger on exactly what it is about this leg of the trip: busy roads and lots of interstate riding? Ceaseless wind? Unremittant sunshine? I know it sounds silly to whinge about too much sun (although maybe not so much to you, eastern and midwestern readers, with this heat wave you're sweating out), but we're basically in the desert here, so heat really takes it out of us over a day of riding. Anyway, my mind has just been spinning. I catch bits about the debt negotiations, think about the upcoming semester, and all I can do is sit on the saddle all day and fight the wind. So the point, I guess, is that with nothing to fix my attention on, the old brainbox kind of idles.
Yesterday I bought one of those tree-shaped air fresheners for my bike because it seemed kind of funny. But now I get these occasional whiffs of "Ocean Mist," which I thought would spur me onward of the final stretch but somehow just reminds me of linoleum.
Ride on.
How good of you to acknowledge all of us who love and support you. As Ive said to you since you were in middle middle school, I expect Pay Back. Big time like saying yes when I want to go to a movie and invite you and your friends... you have to come. Or when i collect my Mother chips and put them on your iine, gambling that you will welcome me always w open arms anytime I find my way up to your cozy corner of New England. But mostly, I expect that as you find your footing in the wonders of life long career(s), you too will dig into your pockets; finding those who not only deserve help in whatever form, but in a sweet little corner of your heart, there may be a glimmer that that child reminds you of yourself: wide open to the wonders of this spinning planet.
ReplyDeleteAs for the Ocean Mist air freshener, that tidbit is about the best reflection yet of your warped and endearing personality. AN AIR FRESHENER ON A BICYCLE????? Maybe Ill put one in the crew bunk room of a 777. So glad you are near to the waves. Do let me know soon if you want to see an aging mother w a big sign in the surf! Stay well.
PS. am craving photos. Pls when you have a wind blown moment, do share!
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