Durango, Colorado [USA]

I'm officially two weeks into my trip!

The last several days have found me in Durango, CO making final adjustments on gear for a big push to Mexico.  During the ride across Utah, I had problems with several different pieces of gear, including the panniers (bags).  So, I've been waiting in Durango for replacements to arrive.

As I don't like "waiting", I've spent two days speaking to classes at the local high school (Durango High), volunteering with the local avalanche awareness courses (Friends of the San Juans: www.thesanjuans.org), and being interviewed for the local newspaper/adventure TV station (www.4cornerstv.com).

Ain't no sense in resting when there's plenty to be done!

Moab, Utah [USA]

The last few days have been full of ups and downs....  It's great to be biking.  I love cruising along the road and enjoying the scenery; even better when I get a honk or people stop to talk.  People connect with what I'm doing and I can see their excitement.

But, it has been rough.  It's been raining hard the last 5 days....  I keep getting soaked all day and then lightning all night.

Today was the worst of it.  Right as I was packing my gear this morning, it dumped, soaking everything.  This afternoon was another downpour.  I was so cold and wet that I could barely keep my legs moving.

I finally found a place to stop for the night and was getting everything ready to camp, hoping things would dry, when a friendly neighbor drove up.  He jumped out of his truck and gave me a hot meal.  I couldn't thank him enough.  It's amazing what simplest of gestures can do!!

If you have the opportunity, return the favor to Doug at Gearheads in Moab, Utah.  Thank you for ending my day on a wonderfully positive note!

I'm Pedaling

Today is the day!  The bike trip has begun!!! Hoped to start riding yesterday, but..... we all know that goes....

Stayed up late to finish final preparations, did a final mental rally, and got a few hours of sleep.  I got up at 4 am to start pedaling early; needed to be down the canyon before sunrise to hitch a ride to Zion National Park = four days of climbing awesomeness with friends!!!

Park City Television

Today will mark another first...  tonight (Wednesday, October 7) I'll be interviewed by Terry Burden on Park City Television.  You can watch the live show at 18:30 MST on:  parkcity.tv/livestream

Can't make the show?  Don't worry!!!  You can watch the recorded interview on my web page under "Recent Adventures".

Bike complete

The mighty Surly Long Haul Trucker is complete!!!  The final touches were made today by adding the front rack and front bag.  Nearly all the preparations are complete!

Need to finalize a few things and then I'll be hitting the road!