August 10, 2016 - Post ride final thoughts

Flew home to Austin on Monday, arriving around 11:30 pm, and couldn't help but immediately notice the 88 degree temperature. This, on the heels of airports in Seattle and Phoenix and flights that were packed to the gills. I made a conscious decision that I was not going to let my return to the "real world" spoil whatever progress I may have made during the past 7 weeks in how to respond to challenging circumstances I cannot control. Took several deep breaths throughout the trip home; closed my eyes and just remembered....said many prayers of thanks. 

Among the takeaways from this ride was an awareness that the readers of my blog really came through for me during this northwest ride. Originally, I started blogging daily during the 2012 Transamerica ride as a way of taking my mother and sister with me, with the secondary goal of raising funds for Truth Be Told. What I didn't count on was the response of friends, family and even strangers who also happened to read the blog. The enthusiastic way people rode along vicariously. Friends, family and people I didn't even know who expressed a certaIn dismay at the end of the ride that they would no longer be receiving their daily blog "fix." Everyone asking where the next adventure would take "us", and how soon before "we" start. It almost felt as though I was providing a service. Giving people something they wanted and enjoyed. 

This northwest trip was different. The decision to keep riding without Randy was not easy for me at the time. What I did not count on was the overwhelming encouragement and support that I received from many of you. And, particularly, from some people I do not know all that well. That blew me away. You expect support from family and close friends...but blog acquaintances? In any event, dear readers, you all really came through for me and kept me going. Made me stay true to the theme of letting go of the rope and going wherever the river took the boat - without having to know. Thanks. The payoff became especially apparent as I rode through those magnificent mountains along the southern border of Canada and wept tears of gratitude. 

It is good to be home, despite the heat, and I even took a 40 mile ride (sans panniers) this afternoon. My bike felt like it was literally gliding. I love my bike! I felt strong, and realized that it is not likely that I will ever be in better physical condition than at this moment. I did feel the effects of aging during various times during the northwest ride. I am heading to Florida tomorrow to pick up Sassy - now 20 1/2 years old - who spent her third summer with "Grannie" and George while I was off on another adventure. 

I would be remiss if I did not also acknowledge and thank my friends - old and new - who graciously put us up in their homes. But what I will remember most about those visits was the generous gift of your time and attention. And some of the most stimulating and thought-provoking conversations. Bill, Suzanne & John, Maxine & Bob, Nancy, Becky & Lewis, Pam & Carin. I can only hope that you were as blessed in the giving as I was blessed in receiving. 

So..I close out this current adventure by sharing the following excerpt from Credo by William Sloane Coffin, which was part of my morning readings this week: 

There is a Zen paradox whereby we may lack everything yet want for nothing. The reason is that    peace, that is, deep inner peace, comes not with meeting our desires but in releasing ourselves from their power. I find such peace is increasingly mine. It’s not that I feel I’m withdrawing from the world, only that I am present in a different way. I’m less intentional than “attentional.” I’m more and more attentive to family and friends and to nature’s beauty. Although still outraged by callous behavior, particularly in high places, I feel more often serene, grateful for God’s gift of life. For the compassions that fail not, I find myself saying daily to my loving Maker, “I can no other answer make than thanks, and thanks, and ever thanks.”

August 7, 2016 Seattle, WA

I decided to walk the one mile to Sea-Tac International Airport and do "reconnaisance" in preparation for traveling tomorrow. Located the Southwest Airlines arrival and checkin stations. Then, walked across the airbridge to the light rail station and rode downtown. I had decided to check out the iconic Seattle space needle, since it might be my only opportunity. There was a monorail across the street from the light rail station in Seattle that went directly to the Seattle Center, where the space needle, museums, etc are located. Since I was still gimping around a bit with my bum foot, I took the monorail. 

As soon as I arrived, I checked out the space needle. The fee to go up to the observation deck was $30. My frugal side kicked in, and I reasoned that I was not all that passionate about going up to the top - at least not passionate enough to pay $30. Besides, how could any view from there come close to those magnificent mountains and nature I had just experienced? So, I opted to walk around and mostly people watch. Came upon an innovative and interactive playground and just watched a while. Took a few pictures of the various museums and the Armory, which was a large warehouse-like building with all sorts of food vendors, art displays, and a children's museum. I also walked to the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation which, unfortunately, was closed on this particular Sunday. That is probably the one fee I definitely would have paid. I was struck by the saying on one of the foundation's outer windows: "The chance to make a difference is not just someday - it's now." Something to think about. 

As I arrived back at the airport light rail station, I received a call from the bicycle store indicating that my bike was boxed and ready for pick up. Since I was at the airport, I decided to just bite the bullet and hire a taxi to retrieve the bike and take us back to the motel. That done, I essentially had the rest of the afternoon to rest and reflect. Gimped down to the restaurant down the street for a late lunch/early dinner, then settled in for an evening of Olympics watching. I have had a hard time getting into these particular Olympics, but I must say the lineup tonight does sound inviting. 

One other update since some have asked: the jaw pain and teeth issues appear to have competely resolved. Even the bite imbalance seems to have resolved and I am chewing normally. I am suspecting that the jaw pain arose out of a muscle spasm, since it was almost competely alleviated by 1 dose of that stronger-than-Advil pain med. Will further explore the teeth issues at my next appointment. Thanks for asking.

Tomorrow I travel the final leg of this northwest adventure. When I started 7 weeks ago, I could never have imagined the unpredictable twists and turns that unfolded. But, when you think about it, isn't that what an adventure is all about? 

August 6, 2016 Victoria --> Seattle via ferry

After reprising breakfast with Shirley at the Days Inn, I checked out of the Robin Hood Motel and biked downtown to the ferry terminal to catch the Victoria Clipper to Seattle. I purposely arrived an hour prior to departure to make sure there were no glitches with the bike. The Victoria Clipper is a high speed passenger only ferry. No cars allowed; however, you can transport a bicycle. What I did not know - and what was not apparent from the website and confirmation instructions - was that the process for transporting bicycles was different from the 3 ferries I had been on previously. The process previously was that you went through customs, then walked your bike on and parked it with the bags intact and then went upstairs and took your seat. Upon arrival, you walked your bike off and, if necessary, went through customs again. Problems arose with the Victoria Clipper because the staff at the terminal apparently had differing ideas regarding the process, or, at best, did not communicate the process in a coherent manner. First, I was told to get in line for checking in and customs. Then, I was pulled out of line and told to take my bike up a ramp where it would be put on board. As I was walking up the ramp, I was met by a young woman who told me to take everything off the bike and go back down the ramp and leave the bike leaning against the rail - someone would put it on the ferry boat. I was to take all my bags with me to go through customs. Did that, and resumed my place at the now further back place in line - now hauling my front and rear panniers in addition to my handlebar bag. A good 25-30 pounds at least. I kept thinking it was sure a good thing that Pam had taken my tent, sleeping bag and pad to mail back from Canada rather than having to carry those as well. Then, just as the checkin/customs process began and the line started to move, I was pulled out of line again and told I needed to check my bags and tag the bike at another stand - this after I had been standing there for 30 minutes after being told that I was supposed to go through customs first with the bags. After tagging the bags, they handed me a waiver to sign for the bike - sort of as an afterthought. Ignored my first four polite requests for a pen. I signed and tried to hand the paper to the staffer, who ignored me until I got at the back of that line, even though they had brought me over to the podium in the first place and tagged my stuff. I handed her the paper and was directed to what was now the very back of the checkin/customs line, and hoped there was no other forgotten procedure that popped up. To add insult to injury, the staff was not very friendly and treated me as if I should have known all this - which I had tried to educate myself on by checking the website. I ended up as one of the very last to board, and gratefully found a seat on the rather crowded ferry. 

Once settled, I took several deep breaths and determined that I was not going to be annoyed. Rather, I took stock of the two couples that comprised my traveling companions in the cubicle. When I arrived, they were fully engaged in sharing the details of their vacations. Turns out both were celebrating their anniversaries, one of 60 years (from Miami) and the other of 25 years (from a small town in eastern Washington near Spokane I think). They also shared a common profession and passion as long time teachers and administrators. I, of course, shared my current bicycle adventure. All in all, a 2 hour 45 minute ride to Seattle shared with very pleasant and interesting people. My annoyance with the bike debacle quickly dissipated. I also learned that the gentleman from eastern Washington was contemplating a possible new job in Beaverton, OR that would allow for more time with his family. A move his wife, also an educator, enthusiastically supported. We talked a lot about balance between jobs and family. Living life as an adventure with no regrets when all is said and done. As I got ready to leave, this couple graciously agreed to let me take their picture for the blog. I am saying a special prayer for this couple, their family, and possible new beginnings. 

After debarking and retrieving my bike and bags, I waived goodbye to the older couple at the curb, who cheerfully waived back, and biked over to the light rail station to take the train 14 miles out to the airport area where my motel was located. The attendant directed me down 3 flights of stairs to the boarding platform. When I asked about an elevator because of the loaded bike, he had no clue. I began wandering around looking for an elevator and stopped another traveler who looked like he might know his way around. His solution was to pick up my bike on his shoulder and carry it down the stairs - ignoring his wife and my protests and plea that he and I carry it together. I mean, we are talking a good 50-60 pounds or so.  I pray that this Good Samaritan is not suffering any ill physical effects today. 

The 35 minute light rail trip went smoothly. I decided to ride directly to the Trek Bicycle Store located approximately 2 miles away down a street with a 6% grade. A mechanic, named Charlie, was super nice and is in charge of getting the bike boxed for the trip home on Monday. He also helped me figure out which busses to take to get to my motel, approximately 5 miles away. I won't go into the details, but lugging all those panniers on my bum foot at the end of a long day of travel was a challenge to say the least. My final stop was .2 miles from the motel, and I gratefully trudged in about 6 pm. Then gimped my way further downhill to a restaurant for dinner. Gimped my way back uphill and got "home" around 7:15 pm. Very tired and done for the day. 

Since I already took care of the bike, tomorrow is a "free" day. I may try to take the light rail back to Seattle to look around a bit and maybe go to the famous space needle. Or maybe just hang out and read, rest and watch the Olympics. I will play it by ear. 

August 5, 2016 Victoria, BC, CA - sightsee and rest - 20 miles riding

Last full day in Canada. Hard to believe the trip is almost over. 

Had a wonderful breakfast across the street at the Days Inn. My middle-aged server, Shirley, was a real character - in a good way. Short and solid (not heavy), she had a deep chested gruff sounding voice that barked out sweet nothings. I was a "young lady" and "honey", and the most important diner in the restaurant of the three people there. I am sure they felt the same way. She was dressed impeccably in a starched white shirt, black mini-skirt and stylish black shoes, all accented with her bright red lipstick. Her hair was carefully piled on her head. All in all, I just felt good being around her (there goes that saying again), and pretty much determined that I would return for breakfast tomorrow, if for no other reason than to see Shirley again. It didn't hurt that the breakfast was excellent and a good value. 

I rode my bike the 2 miles downtown to catch the 35 minute bus ride to Butchart Gardens. Since I had a little time to kill before the bus departed, I wandered around the wharf area. Found some more Canadian geese and sea gulls to watch. 

My initial impression of Butchart Gardens was as you might suspect. An unbelievable display of bright happy flowers and plants, all arranged brilliantly. One of the things I liked the most is that they keep signage to a minimum and instead hand out guidebooks with the maps, theme areas and plant/flower info arranged for easy reference. I wandered about and hit all the trails and theme areas. It was quite crowded. I became a bit dismayed as I observed how the majority of the hoard was so intently  engaged in taking pictures that they quite literally missed seeing and experiencing those magnificent flowers and gardens right in front of them. It was so obvious. It was a lot about jockeying for position and selfies. Another example of technology serving to distract away from real life. Everywhere you go nowadays (and I mean literally everywhere), people are disengaged from each other and obsessed with constant communication, whether by phone, text or social media. Granted, there were a few that thoughtfully observed and obviously appreciated and enjoyed the actual gardens, sometimes approaching the gardeners and asking questions. 

In any event, as I wandered around Butchart Gardens, I found myself almost more intrigued with observing people's behavior than focusing on the gardens. I have sometimes become aware of myself more concerned with good photo ops for the blog as opposed to observing and living the moment. When I find myself doing that, I will sometimes just put the camera up and re-focus on what is in front of me. Consciously take it in. Another example would be hearing v. listening. So often we hear people talk without actually listening to what they are saying because we are so distracted by other things. Bottom line: the way we see and hear can make a huge difference in whether we experience life as meaningful and feel "alive," versus going through the motions and feeling "numbed out." That's why I do these rides - among other things, they give me the space, time and opportunity to help me hone my seeing and listening skills. Feel alive. 

After Butchart Gardens, I spent the afternoon resting and preparing for the journey to Seattle tomorrow. I went for a last ride on the Galloping Goose Regional Trail, and parts of the Lochside Trail.  It was an absolutely gorgeous day, albeit a little windy. Almost felt a little like fall in the air. I stopped at one last bridge and took a few pictures of the picturesque swamp. 

Ended my afternoon ride at "That Li'l Pasta Place" where my Canadian adventure began 4 weeks ago. Filled my waiter in on my adventures since the previous visit as I indulged in that outstanding pasta primavera again. 

Tomorrow - back to the good ole USA. 

August 4, 2016 Port Coquitlam --> Victoria via Tsawwssen ferry & Lochside Trail

Awoke early with the sad realization that this phase of the adventure is ending, and feeling so grateful for my time with Pam and Carin. One of those special interludes that changes you in some ways that you cannot even describe at the moment, even as you know you are somehow being changed. I was reminded of that saying in the Rockaway Beach motel in an earlier post:

Pam insisted on driving me to the Tsawwassen ferry so that I would not have to ride through heavy traffic. This ferry goes to Schwartz Bay just north of Sidney. As I was getting my bike situated on the lower deck for the trip, I met five young men from the UK. We visited for a while during the ride, and I learned that they had just begun a ride from Vancouver to Los Angeles as a fundraiser for two charities: one for Teen Cancer and another for the needs of an African community. They gave me their "VANTOLA" handout. Here is the link to their site if you want more info: vantola.co.uk. I gave them some of my Washington maps to help out with their planning.

Which prompts me to again promote my own cause as I wind down this ride: truth-be-told.org.  This is a program that teaches women in prison how to tell their own stories, empowering them to re-enter the world in a more positive and productive manner. 

The weather was absolutely perfect for the ferry ride to Schwartz Bay, and everyone on board seemed in high spirits. I lined up next to my friends from the UK as we prepared to debark 

From Scwartz Bay, I rode into Sidney for a brief stop, then took the Lochside Trail to Victoria. Once again, I came across the UK boys, and this time I got a picture for my blog. 

I got to Victoria too early to check in to the motel, so rode downtown to make sure of where the ferry departure was for Saturday, then returned to Fisherman's Wharf. I returned to that famous Barb's, where I ate on my prior Victoria visit, but this time I had fish and chips with sweet potato fries in Pam's honor. I am not much into fish, and rarely eat it, much less order it. But I will say this fish and chips was not fishy and I enjoyed it. 

I also checked out the bus to Buchart Gardens for a possible visit tomorrow. It leaves from the famous Empress Hotel. Then ride the < 2 miles through Victoria to my motel and checked in for the evening. 

August 3, 2016 Port Coquitlam

Took a break from the blog and spent the last few days just enjoying my friends and coming up with the game plan for the end of the ride. The theme for this ride has become increasingly clear to me - it is all about the journey and not the destination. My first post on June 14 was about letting go of the rope securing the boat and drifting wherever the river took me, trusting that the river knows where to go. Not having to know and just enjoying the journey. Scary and exciting at the same time. An adventure. Now I am more convinced than ever that letting go of the rope is the key to my life adventure.  And, although I am no closer to knowing where I am going as I conclude this particular adventure, that's okay because I feel more confident and secure than ever that the river knows where to take this boat next. During my studies this morning, I was reminded again of Thomas Merton's prayer, which I could embrace as my own:

My Lord God, I have no idea where I am going. I do not see the road ahead of me. I cannot know for certain where it will end. Nor do I really know myself, and the fact that I think I am following Your will does not mean that I am actually doing so. But I believe that the desire to please You does in fact please You. And I hope I have that desire in all that I am doing. I hope that I will never do anything apart from that desire. And I know that, if I do this, You will lead me by the right road, though I may know nothing about it. Therefore I will trust You always though I may seem to be lost and in the shadow of death. I will not fear, for You are ever with me, and You will never leave me to face my perils alone.

Back to the current journey.

I have thoroughly enjoyed every moment with Pam and Carin the past few days. On Sunday, they took me on a tour of Vancouver that hit all the high points in just enough detail to give me a real flavor of the city, and instill the desire to return again someday for further exploration. Queen Elizabeth park overlooking the city, with its colorful gardens; UBC Anthropological Center; Spanish Park Shores; Stanley Park; Lion's Gate; and Lynn Canyon. 

Monday was Pam's birthday and a national Canadian holiday, and we celebrated in the morning by hiking the Colony Gardens with Max, and having an afternoon snack at Swan E Golf Club.  For her birthday dinner, Pam cooked steaks Argentinian style and made a homemade pumpkin pie that was to die for. Lest you wonder, it was her specific birthday wish to fix the dinner, and Carin and I happily benefitted from making that wish come true. One of the things we have talked about is how our time together has felt like one of those special interludes in life.

Another experience that is firmly burned into my mind is the daily migration of Canadian geese. There are a couple of ponds directly behind the woods across the street from Pam and Carin's home. Their home is literally in the morning and evening flight path of these geese. Hundreds of geese fly out early in the morning, and return in the evening, making that loud "honking" noise. A cacophony to say the least. It is beyond amazing. I tried to take photos, but they are so fast it is hard to do.  Tonight, Pam and I walked across to look at the ponds and try to video some of the landings. This daily geese activity and the associated sounds are another experience I will be able to close my eyes and relive in the future. 

Link to Canadian geese video. 

https://www.dropbox.com/s/9n96g1yze1kpjxv/File%20Aug%2004%2C%205%2006%2014%20AM.mov?dl=0

Tomorrow I am taking the ferry to Vancouver Island and reprising the 18 mile ride from Sydney to Victoria on the Lochside Trail. I will ferry over to Seattle on Saturday and arrange to have the bike packed for the flight home to Austin on Monday. Sadly, this adventure is winding down.