Day 69 - Last Night
Port Townsend, WA to Bainbridge Island, WA.
As soon as I woke up and remembered I was in a bed, I knew it was going to be a good day. I had slept well and couldn’t believe this was the second to last day. On top of that, our amazing host, Nellie, had prepared an absolutely stunning breakfast. I cannot believe how much I was able to eat and then get on a bike and ride, too!
At the church, we were joined by Barry Sharry, many church members we hadn’t had the chance to meet the night before, as well as Jacob and his family. It was a beautiful dedication circle, inspiring us to get ready for the road. I had a few repairs to do on people’s bikes and then got my own bike ready to roll. It was expected to be a relatively mild day around 50 miles. We gathered on the steps for a team photo, and I can’t even remember what was so funny, but before I knew it, everyone was laughing and then it was time to go. A quick picture and goodbye with Nellie, and everyone lined up to leave town in a line together.
Our team was led by two church members, Chet and Stephanie through town to a bike path on the other side. We even stopped for a quick second to look at this cool bike/car thing at the local co-op. Chey and I were in the back of the bike line and at some point we learned Adj had been left behind. Chey went back to get her so I started “chalking” for them using grass and sticks. A bit untraditional, but it worked! Eventually, they found their way back to us and groups were formed as Chet and Stephanie left us. My group was Chey, Adj, Elli and Barry! We started but, naturally, I needed to break a nipple before we really got underway. I fixed that and not long after we came up to a HUGE incline. I mean, it must have been more than 45º at least. And, I don’t know if I mentioned this, but I had not replaced the parts I picked up in Whitefish...so I was in my highest gear. Thus, as things go, I fell. It was the first time in a long time (since Erie, PA) I’d fallen and I might have been able to stop it, but I started laughing and didn’t even mind. I got back on and somehow made it up in third gear. That was painful, but felt weirdly right.
We continued on our way, over hills and through forests that reminded me a bit of Pennsylvania although felt much easier then Pennsylvania back on day 2, that’s for sure. It was relaxed and fun biking - one of the days where stories are freely exchanged and conversation flows easily. In addition, Elli’s sister, Hannah, was swimming at nationals today so we made a quick stop to watch on Elli’s phone and Hannah did very well! It was so exciting and more cause for celebration. We made it to the campgrounds pretty early and got settled. i went to the water and met this very nice mom and daughter and we talked for a while. I then hit the showers and took my time as it was going to be the last shower I would have until I was back on the East coast. However, by the time I was headed out, it was time for dinner and there was an even better surprise.
KYLE!!!! Kyle had arrived and everyone was so excited :) it was so nice to see him and have him with us for our final night! The hosts were awesome, the food was amazing and spirits were high. Then we had our final pow-wow and eventually had a big fire built. Eric sniped our tent - don’t think I’d forget that, Eric - but Dana and I managed to find a new one and had it all set up before heading back out to the fire. Stories, libations, and joy were freely passed around the sparking fire and the water’s rocky shore.
When I was little, I used to think that if I didn’t go to sleep then the days wouldn’t change. Like me going to sleep was the driving force behind the great clock of the universe. Well, I now know that unfortunately isn’t the case. But, nights like that one, I wish that it was up to me to decide if the days would progress. I might have stayed on that night for a while.
I’d spent the last 69 days with a bunch of crazy, fun weirdos who make up my 4K family and that night was a wonderful way to top off an unforgettable summer together. The stories, experiences and journeys we’ve shared is something we will always have and will keep us connected forever. That night, as Day 70 was approaching, I knew I was ready to get to Seattle and then find my way back on to Baltimore, the place where it had all started.