Rain, Rain Go Away

The Oregon Coast was phenomenal. Biking along ridges overlooking the ocean as it crashed violently against the jagged coastline. Tasty clam chowder. Many new cyclists trekking down south--most having started in Washington or Canada. Surf competitions. 

I got a firsthand taste of the rainfall that Oregon maintains for most months of the year. The strong winds blowing anywhere from 20 to 50 mph and the heavy rain halted riding on three separate occasions. I enjoyed cycling in the lighter rain, but on the third day of one storm wave, I woke up in a puddle under my sleeping mat and I had hit my limit for patience with the rain. Brian, Nicole, their kids Raleigh and Olivia and Chappy, a surf/skater living on the coast, took six of us smelly cyclists packing wet gear after a third rainy day. Huge moral saver. We feasted on Mexican burritos, laughed and enjoyed dry shelter. 

   

Megan, Me and Mary Anne

Megan chowing down on ramen noodles. 

Raleigh and Olivia

Chappy and the gang!

Beautiful Beginnings

Garry and I rode into Astoria, Oregon to complete the coast to coast journey on the Transamerica Trail. I bid farewell to a wonderful ride filled with emotion, growth and phenomenal people and welcome a whole new journey going down the Pacific Coast. The coast welcomed us with open arms, offering beautiful scenery and breathtaking views from day one. 

On the second night, we stayed with Dee, a warmshowers host, who generously welcomed us into her house complete with a huge garden, dogs, ducks, chickens and turkeys. We met two cyclists staying the night as well-Mark and Tyler from Canada. Upon my request Dee let me borrow her kitchen for the next day. I said goodbye to Garry and the Canadians to celebrate the completion of the transam with a homemade chocolate cake and mashed potatoes. The only thing missing was a bunch of people to eat it all. Lo and behold, four cyclists showed up to Dee's house that night. We shared a wonderful dinner in great company. 

Cheers to a whole new ride. 

The Coast

Made it to the Coast at Astoria, Oregon.

My cycling statistics to date:

99 days of cycling

13 states

145 miles in one day!

1 flat tire

15+ peeing in my pants

Billions of hills

More food than any one person should consume in a lifetime. 
 

Aside from cycling, I practically napped and laughed myself across the country. The most notable aspect of this experience has been the endless generosity and support we have received along the way. The distance that complete strangers went for us is unbelievable. Anything from a meal, a place to stay, a much needed shower, laundry, a drink, excitement and interest in our journey, a ride in dire conditions or even just a friendly wave and a smile. Everyday brings new reminders of how caring people truly are and how much there is to be thankful for. 

 

Now, I have finally reached the Pacific Coast at Astoria, Oregon only to realize that I am not ready to stop the adventure. With a farewell to the TransAmerica Trail, I join the hundreds of cyclists that travel down the Pacific Coast. Who knows how far I will go? Or where I will finally settle down? TBD

 

I must thank each and every one of the people that helped us on the trail and all of the people back home that have supported me. A special thank you for my Grandmother Peggy who passed away while I was on the road. I carry her caring nature and love with me on this adventure.

 

AND the moment you have all been waiting for...

This blog! A little background on the blog name: whenever Jeanne and I were having a tough time at any point on a ride, we would sing "Just Keep Biking" to Dori from Finding Nemo's "Just Keep Swimming" song. It always gave us a boost to keep trucking through rough miles. And, my nickname on the trail was Lizbiz.