driving thoughts

Perhaps you remember Camille's garage friend, the VW bug. Yesterday I learned how to drive with a stick shift in the bug. Larry started me off in a parking lot at Merrimor Park and after a few rounds I was getting the hang of things so we headed to Thompson Hill for a real challenge. On the way there, we encountered some construction where we had to stop and wait for a while. We were at the front of the line and when the construction worker finally gave us the signal to go, I scrambled to get it all together and he was looking impatient until we started. As we hopped by him with a roar, he burst into laughter. I got lots of practice starting on hills and reversing. It was hilarious, though. Any time you want a really good laugh, just teach someone to drive with a stick shift. Guaranteed fun! 

11 days. I've thought a lot about this trip, planned for a year and am about to depart. The word "depart" in conjunction with "11 days" is enough to send the butterflies into major overtime. Pre-trip jitters are common, I'm told...they last until that final moment that you click into the pedals and start off. It's been interesting to note the reactions of those that I've told. They range from envy to "you must be crazy". No, this is not an "Into the Wild" moment, but rather a well-researched 6,000+ mile bicycle trip through some of the most beautiful parts of America. I plan to be sensible, but if something terrible should happen, I do not fear death. I have planned, prepared and trained for months. I am ready to go. My panniers are packed and Camille is in the bike shop getting her final tune-up. Let's roll!