training time

well, matt and i spent the last few weeks training for the big ride whenever we could, while trying to tie up all loose ends, smooth out logistics, and iron out the wrinkles prior to embarking. the plane tickets are purchased, the SPOT satellite messenger is activated, and the unicycle seat is still as uncomfortable as i remember. last weekend we drove from durham, north carolina up to damascus, virginia to ride the virginia creeper trail, logging our longest ride to date on 29-inch wheels: 34 miles. this was an encouraging accomplishment, because this is the approximate distance we hope to average on a daily basis during the expedition. we are doing our best to keep expectations of the trail and mileage reasonable, as it will add factors such as high elevation, ungraded roads, and heavy backpacks.

the evening before riding the trail, we explored damascus, including a ride under backbone rock

matt, with a cheery grin as he keeps truckin' along

if only my pack were this small for the trip...

climbing 17 continuous miles made me a wee bit excited for 17 miles of descent!

haven't you heard? - it's easier to ride with your hands way off to one side ;-)

the virginia creeper trail was converted into a biking & hiking trail (overlaps with the appalachian trail) from a railroad, which means we got to ride over the river on a very high trestle.

inverted balance

and now some silly video fun, although it exposes my weakness of over-the-head filming. views of my scalp were intended to be shots of the bicyclists coming from behind. good thing matt is in charge of the videography this summer!

currently, matt and i are driving my old volkswagen bus, loaded with all my earthly possessions, across the country to california, where i will leave it with family. on june 28th, we will fly to calgary, alberta, and intend to start pedaling on july 2nd, after enjoying canada day and a collective soul concert in calgary on july 1st.

the one-week countdown begins!!

rock n roll.