Last Saturday, I finished my ride into Key West, FL. Brian did say that this week was going to fly by and to do whatever we can to slow down and be present. I have 32 amazing individuals that have become part of my family and will always have a piece of my heart forever. I rode to Key West on #Day8 for my Aunt Kathy, my hubby Kevin, Bo, Grace, Steven, Camden, Cameron, Jamie Roberts, Jeremy Pope, and my Team San Diego 4k for Cancer family (yes I did fit all of these people on both legs. It took 4 days to wash off all the sharpie). During those 8 days of the trip I did the following at least once per day: cried my eyes out, stuffed face with goldfish and sandwiches, shared my story, cracked a lot of jokes, danced my heart out, rang my bicycle bell, hugged a teammate, got injured, drank beer, "that's what she said" remarks, applied butt cream, bathed in sunscreen, wore my awesome bike jersey, jammed to music on the road, and wished that this trip would last forever. I cherished everything about that week. I already knew from my 4k for Cancer journey and other life experiences that people in this world are overall good people. However, Key to Keys (hahaha Katie, got it right!) Was another clear reminder and gave me more faith in humanity. I witnessed so many of my teammates and strangers lend a helping hand or a shoulder to cry on or a hand to hold. It truly symbolizes that nobody has to fight cancer alone. There is always someone there for you when you need it most. Getting back to reality seems not real. I went to work yesterday after getting home at 1:00AM and then only getting a few hours of sleep. The rain in Maryland makes me wish to be back on the shores of Florida in the sand. I am still trying to delay the apparent FOMO coming my way. So if I appear a little sad, it's because I want to go back in time. But fear not, it's most likely me relishing the journey and reflecting on what I have learned. I though I was doing everything I can to be kind, giving, loving, courageous, and selfish. I learned through my teammates that there is so much more I can do with my life and relationships. Thank you for allowing me to have this. ๐๐๐ฒ๐ XOXO -Kirsten (at Southern Most Part of the US "Key West")