Day 0 Memories

 

Brother Dave and Susie saying goodbye.

Chris and Judi saying goodbye (soon it'll be just me on this trip :-( 

Just a short note of Thanks for how much I appreciate my brother Dave (and Suzie) motorcycling up from Muir Beach and my sister Chris driving Judi and I down from Seattle.   Family is important to all of us and I just want to acknowledge how great it was to have my family there with me.   So, thanks guys for being there.   It really meant a lot to me to have you there.

The wheel dipping ceremony at Astoria.   I even had company at the wheel dipping ceremony.   Judi and Chris got in this pic in between photoing all the other riders.

The "Black Rocket" (my trusty steed) is cooling tires in the Pacific (in anticipation of this long, hot ride).   The Black Rocket is a 2005 Specialized Roubaix, outfitted with Shimano Ultegra de-railleurs, Kyserium Elite Wheels, Continental 4 Season Tires,  Mountain Bike Gearing for those big hills (this bike can climb a tree) and a Brooks Swift leather saddle for maximum comfort.   The Black Rocket is actually a magical bike.....knows exactly when to go left or right, how to avoid traffic, when to swerve to avoid potholes, has night vision without headlights, and even thanked me when I washed the salt water off his rims after this photo.    I'm spending a lot of time with my Black Rocket over the next 52 days.  We're looking forward to another dip, next time in the Atlantic.

My roommate, Terry Alston and his wife Lois.   Terry is from Tucson.  He is a strong very strong rider with exceptional experience.   As I am writing this, Terry is pre-packing for tomorrow morning's early ride (we start at 6:15 am).   This is a little early for me, but we've got a long day climbing  over the Cascade's and besides, this is bicycle boot camp.   What else would you expect (Ha).

Here's me on Day 1 - Do I look excited?

Here's my partner for the next 50 days - Barry Lucas

Judi and I at the Lewis and Clark Column in Astoria overlooking the Columbia River Watershed.  

Our Trip Leaders at the Lewis and Clark Monument

The view of Lewis and Clark Bridge (from the column)

Brother Dave and Susie (with goggles) as they were departing on Dave's Honda for California.   Suzie has been riding inside Dave's shirt since she was just a pup.   On the way home, Dave rode the very route we were biking and reported the spectacular views that we would have of the Columbia River and Mt Hood (as you'll see later).

More after the long ride tomorrow.  Hope you are all well.
Love to All,
ME