Sometime back in those underestimated Appalachian mountains this trip, for me, changed from Bike and Build to Hike and Build. Early in my climbing experience I decided that if I was going slow enough that walking would actually increase my average MPH, then I would (gleefully) get my seat off my saddle and walk a few miles. Little did I know that in some of the more mountainous areas of the country, I seemed to be out of the saddle more than in it.
Despite the fact that while we were in the mountains, my average daily speed was in the single digits, I did have fun. I think I laughed harder walking up those hills than I have on the rest of the trip. It wasn't wasted energy though, this picture, which doesn't give my speed justice, is of me walking my bike at the same (3 MPH) pace that Kelly is riding.
At the top of the hill, Carys and I finally found a street sign that seemed to be specifically for us. I guess we were crossing the Appalachian Trail, but for us, it was like an invitation to hop off those bikes and walk.
One boy said that I really broke the ice when it came to "giving up" on your bike. I didn't really know how to take it until he explained that when he got frustrated in the mountain lands he thought to himself "I bet Carrie is already walking" and it made him feel a little bit better about walking his own bike. And, I think I will be completely satisfied even if that is my only contribution to this trip.
1 comment:
From the looks of the photo, the two people in the street sign are climbing their way into the approaching white car. If it was me on this trip, I would have joined them in the car a LONG time ago and headed in the other direction. I am so proud of you for getting as far as you have; I have NO IDEA how you've done it. I miss you!
Post a Comment