Note: a "zero day" is a rest day, where we lick our wounds, chill out, do laundry, bike maintance, and prep for the upcoming week. It's also a time to step back and reflect.
Just off Mackenzie Pass, at the entrance to Central Oregon. The Three Sisters are in the background.
I love Oregon.
Both Steve Rothwell and I have been amazed at the hospitality and beauty this state has to offer. At every stop, people have been genuinely helpful and interested in our journey. From Cory who donated the profit from our breakfast in Triangle Lake, to Pastor Barry Campbell who opened up his church gym when we showed up on his doorstep looking for lodging, and all the others who have donated and helped, it's been amazing. Camp fees have been waived, homes have been opened up for showers and laundry, and random strangers we now call friends have hunted down camping space and opened hotel rooms for showering. Our per scout lodging costs for the first week on the road: $5.00. All the other nights have been comped. Thanks Oregon. This crew will be looking to pay it forward someday!
Traveling in 4D
As we were rolling along a spectacular central Oregon valley, I commented to one of the scouts that I've never experience the road like this before. He said it was like one of those 4D movies that are featured at museums. It's so different than driving. When you pass an orchard, there are bee hives, and the bees slap off your helmet. Pass under those high tension power lines, and hear the electricity spark off the lines. Feel the irrigation water spray as massive fields are watered. Smell the Pondersoa and creosote and feel the air dry out as you descend from the mountains to the desert. 4D, indeed.
Eating like a truck driver (or 16 year old) .
At the Sidewalk Cafe, Mitchell Oregon. The steaks were huge. Steve and I devoured them. It paired well with our pre dinner milkshake!
After week one, I feel a bit like Guy Fieri of Diners, Drive Ins and Dives . My bigger fear is I might look like him if I keep it up. When you are riding this hard, if it's not bolted down, you want to eat it. During week one, we've been eating it, but I do get a sense of balance returning.
Living in the moment
Our campsite neighbor Chaplin Bruce L Williams of the Desert Eagles. The nicest guy in the world.
A lot of us say we want to live in the moment, but for the first time in I don't know how long I feel like I truly am. Where are we staying tomorrow night? I have no idea. What lies down the road? Besides what I see on our maps I have no clue. And that is an awesome feeling.
I can't wait for week 2.