June 23 Midterm Report

Day off at the plush Comfort Inn here in Aberdeen. I declare that the halfway point of this odyssey has been reached. Blogging, sleeping, eating, chain cleaning and route planning happened today. Self assess as follows>>>

Bike>> My Kona Sutra cycle has held up very well. Is comfortable and stable. One flat tire.

Trailer>> The Burley trailer has also held up well (should ask Brindil regarding comfort). Two flats, but none since I switched inner tubes. Tracks very well.

Weather>> Until yesterday, the hottest day was May 22nd in Walla, Walla! Trip has been coolish, with only the one rainy stretch as I crossed the Rockies. Hot and Humid Are Us as we approach July and the upper midwest. Can't wait to outrun the skeeters...

Brindil>> Uncomplaining and faithfull. Loves to stand in the cart, esp. when the wind is in her face (aka a nasty headwind). Has not had an "accident" in a motel (yet)! My gal Sal...

Me>> I started off very unsure that I could manage the physical demands of this trip, given all the nagging injuries I deal with regularly. But at halfway, I am more reassured and confident. I still see the beauty, find the humour and am amazed by the enormosity and grandeur I am passing through. The legs are no longer exhausted after the cycling day, as opposed to the first weeks when I felt wiped out. The bionic right wrist is strong, I think I'll have some hardware installed in the left; it's been a bit tingly at times. The sit muscle continues to be my limiting factor and brings new meaning to the term "sit tight"! The chaffing and irritation can be controlled by deliberate and frequent "butter and flour" sessions. (You figure it out.)

I eagerly look forward to the next 2000 miles, which includes meeting my dear wife in Buffalo, NY, and to finally getting back to my friends and the gorgeous Pacific Northwest.