Packed, Nervous, and Ready (I Think…)

Tomorrow I head west to Portland, Oregon, where this journey begins. On Thursday, I’ll dip my tire in the Pacific in Astoria, OR and officially start pedaling east. The packing is done and I’m feeling equal parts nervous and ready. I’ve had a great final week of summer at the Island — including a bocce tournament with friends — and now it’s time to trade lake days for long rides. The first day on the bike is a short 30 miles, but day two jumps straight to 100 miles into Portland, OR. In total, this ride will cover nearly 3,800 miles, with 156,500 feet of climbing and 15 century rides — 7 of those over 110 miles. And honestly? Today I caught myself thinking: Why am I doing this? I don’t have to do this. But here we are… here goes nothing. Thanks so much for all your love and support; keep the texts, comments, and love coming!

So many things to pack…I already feel bad for the Delta baggage team because my bags are heavy!

All the essentials are packed!

Here’s to many beautiful sunrises!