Day 13 - Ashland, Oregon

Gonna go backwards...

Wine, fat juicy Rib Eye cooked over open fire, Caesar Salad....happy.   

...Too much wine, too hot of fire, burned my eyelashes.   LOL.

Gorgeous weather.

Rode to Ashland on Hwy 66.   Great road, really great road as soon as they finish repaving.  The road drops maybe 2-3 thousand feet in elevation with great curves.

Spent the day updating the blog.  Bought a bunch of food at the grocery store and a new air mattress cause mine went flat last night.  :(

Today's Challenge:   My gear is waaaayyyy too hot.   It was only 80’ in Ashland and I thought I might die of heat stroke!   I WANT to ride with full gear, just not sure how to in the summer heat, I took my gloves off and left my jacket unzipped and it felt sooooo much better without them.  Honestly, I wish I could ride in shorts and t-shirt.

Starting mileage:  12550  

Expenses:

Gas        $16.50

Food       $75.00        

Lodging    $ 2.00

Misc.      $43.00

Total      $136.50

Spent      $ 86.50-  (what?)

+/- Trip   $6.50+

Day 14 Hyatt Reservoir, Oregon

Ummmm, y’know how I started last night’s blog with steak and wine?   Well today I paid the piper.   Although I had a kick ass time all by myself last night, today everything is a wee bit “unsatisfying”.

Not to mention, I slept like hell.   My $9 air mattress was flat and I heard every sound that went bump in the night.

I started a book about bird sanctuary in the South...I haven’t actually read a book in years, and it feels so good, I crawled in bed early to read it.

Oh...the best part of my day...I picked up the new tent my mom mailed, it’s like a palace compared to my old backpacking cavern!  Twin mattress and 360’ views of the outside!   It’s gonna change my entire trip, now I have a good place to stretch out (like laying on the couch) when I need to (and read my good book).

Starting mileage:  12600  

Expenses:

Gas        $0

Food       $0       

Lodging    $2.00

Misc.      $0

Total      $2.00

Saved      $48.00

+/- Trip   $54.50+  

Day 15 - Ashland, Oregon

Oh, Ashland, how I love you so. I’ll miss you.  It’s small, warm, charming, hippy-ish and artsy.   Just my style.

Today they had a street fair.  So I parked my bike, changed into shorts and went for a stroll.   The fair was next to the “best city park in the world”...it has to be...so I weaved in and out of both.   

Then, I stumbled upon a concert in the park.   Yep, yes I did.

And, I enjoyed every single beat of the music for hours and hours.   Wahoo!

It was nice to be among throngs of people today, the noise hit the spot. 

Tomorrow I leave the sweetest camping spot, I even had it all to myself last night.  This place has been good to me.

Starting mileage:  12625  

Expenses:

Gas        $12.00

Food       $2 (popsicle at the street fair)       

Lodging    $2.00

Misc.      $5.00 (laundry)

Total      $21.00

Saved      $29.00

+/- Trip   $63.50+

Trip Journal

There is something about being by yourself that is wholesome.   

  

  There’s less pressure to be who I think I’m supposed to be.  It’s nice not to be so damned worried about what others think, which is part of the reason I’m on this trip, to figure out who I am.

   I can eat too fast, I can smell bad, I can fart, I don’t have to be considerate or polite or girlie.   I can just be human and it’s been kinda nice.

When I was in the park listening to music, I moved 3 times to different spots.   If I was with company, it would have been a hassle and a discussion and a compromise, but for me today, it was just fun.

Don’t get me wrong, I’ve had my moments of “this is too quiet and lonely”, I’m not planning on becoming a recluse, it’s just nice to have this opportunity to get connected.

Day 16 - Lava National Monument, California

It’s my first day in Cali.  Of course I chose to go to the hottest place in the world, Lava National Monument, quite a shock after my high mountain lakes of Oregon.   It was so hot on the bike I can’t wait to fricken leave tomorrow, get back into the forest a bit.   

That being said, I had a good day.   My bike is really loaded down now with all the new goodies I got (tent, air mattress, cooler, food, shoes) so I road kinda gentle to get used to it.   

Lower Klamath National Wildlife Refuge along route 161 was a real treat and a surprise. I’m getting more and more into birds and what I thought was going to be a boring section made me grin a bunch.

I’m camped inside the park tonight, it’s easy and although I wasn’t a huge fan of the caving today, I heard that when the stars come out at night, it’s amazing.  So I’m laying in my tent impatiently waiting for it to get dark.   I’ll try one more cave tomorrow just to make sure I gave caving a fair shot.

Starting mileage:  12757  

Expenses:

Gas        $11.00

Food       $0       

Lodging    $10.00

Misc.      $2.15 (ice)

Total      $23.15

Saved      $26.85+

+/- Trip   $90.45+

Day 17 - Road trip to Lassen National Forest

I was so excited to see the stars last night, but the moon was so bright it was like daylight outside.  Bummer.   But I had a nice surprise: there are 14 species of bats here and they put on a wonderful show above my tent.   I’ve always loved bats, it was as good as a million stars.

    


Road tripped on along the longest, lamest most boring stretch of road on the way to Burney, CA.  Hwy 395 to 299.  I had a choice to go East or West out of Lava NM and I apparently chose the wrong way.  Oh well, I got here faster I guess...cruising altitude: 94 mph.

Staying in Lassen National Park tonight, it feels so good to be back in the mountains and trees!   Lassen has lots of promise tomorrow, it looks fantastic.  I went for a quick walk around the lake then I was able to get a hot shower and a soft serve ice cream cone the size of Texas, it was delicious...and it was my dinner.  :)

Been a great but full day.  Can’t believe I’m making this trip happen, every new sight makes me shake my head in disbelief.   Loving it.

Starting mileage:  12863  

Expenses:

Gas        $27.00

Food       $13.55       

Lodging    $18.00

Misc.      $ 1.25 (shower)

Total      $49.70

Saved      $00.30+

+/- Trip   $90.75+

Trip Update

I wanted to talk a bit about how the trip is actually going.  I am surprised to say it’s as I expected so far.  I am having a great time, most of the time.  I have stress but it’s not overwhelming.  When I started on the trip, I wasn’t sure if I would be able to do it, but I’m finding I’m rushed for time and wishing I had longer.

I’m pleased I’m staying within my budget so far.  I’ve bought food at the grocery store, only eaten out three times and have managed to steer clear of all but one hotel room.

I thought that I would end up mostly camping on National Forest land versus paying for campgrounds but have yet to do that.   I find I’m reluctant to go too far off-road on my bike, afraid that if I dump it over in the dirt, I’ll be stuck there on my own.  I’ve also found that being near other people makes me feel safer.

I’ve been sleeping like a rock star, except for one night that I was concerned about my fellow camper next door.  I only left the tent that night with protection in hand.

I also thought I might get really lonely out here, but that’s not happening either.   Turns out I am doing just fine!

Day 18 - Lassen National Park

Drank a couple of beers with a really wonderful group/family last night.   They even tried to feed me dinner...but I was still full from that huge ice cream.   They are the type of people that are gonna make my trip priceless, I had a great time visiting.   Thank you!

Day 19 - Chester, CA

Boy did I need this hotel room.  I am starting to feel human again.

Ok, I have a story for ya.

A couple of days ago, my mom told me my cousin lives in Chester, so I thought since I’m gonna be going through there, I would look him up.   

When I was done hiking yesterday in Lassen, I hit a big, big wall and set out to find the first city with a hotel room, which turned out to be Chester.   But, I was so tired yesterday, I decided to wait to call my cousin until this morning.   I had also decided to wait until morning to decide if I would stay another night in the hotel (it was a big wall I hit) or move on to camp at Lake Almanor...

But...last night at 11:00 my aunt texted me, she said she couldn’t believe the timing but she will be traveling to Chester this morning (she lives three hours west) because it’s my cousins b-day.  

Turns out they are having a picnic with the whole family at Lake Almanor!     

So, with all the spontaneous-ness of my trip; never knowing where I’m going to end up day-to-day and apparently with all the stars aligned...I get a wonderful day with my extended family at the lake.  I’m so looking forward to all of it...

What a God moment, it came when I needed it most.

Starting mileage:  no riding

Expenses:

Gas        $00

Food       $8.00      

Lodging    $85.00

Misc.      $0

Total      $93.00

Spent      $43.00-

+/- Trip   $8.25-

Day 19 - Chester, CA - Part 2

I had a wonderful time visiting with my family, I think it was the first time I really have gotten to spend time with them since I was a little girl.   We went to the beach and then had a big bbq:  blue cheese burgers that were delicious.   Thanks so much for inviting me and happy birthday!

Of course I forgot my camera on the most important day... sorry kids, no pics today.

I realize there are many things I've been taking for granted.

After two nights in a hotel...here are the things I am loving:

...lights, air-conditioning, electricity, TV 

...drinking too much liquid before bedtime

...delivery pizza

...being sprawled across the whole bed

...nakedness

...a locked door

...clean fingernails, hands, feet...

...long, hot shower

...a strong internet connection

...refrigeration

...coffee pot that keeps coffee hot
...closed curtains

Makes me realize how much a city girl I am.

Day 20 - Travel to Lake Tahoe

I dropped my bike today.

It was my fault entirely, I must have had a moment of “very little brain activity”.    It was at the gas station.  

As I was rolling in I slipped the bike into neutral and had the brilliant idea to put the kickstand down while I came to a stop (so I could save what, 2 seconds?)  Yup, as I leaned the bike over, I even thought, “Wow, that’s a long way to lean over to the kickstand today”.   

The rest happened in slow motion, nice and easy, laid the bike right down on the ground, too heavy to keep from falling over.    

So, here I am with my bike laying at the pump, totally embarrassed.   Thank god the gas station wasn’t busy.   I had to ask for help from the only other guy getting gas to lift it.    

Although my heart was beating kinda out of sync and I immediately was covered in sweat my pride made me act nonchalant about it.  My pride also wouldn’t let me look around to see who saw.   

I proceeded to fill her up with gas, fix my headphones and then road off, like people throw their bikes on the ground every day.  :)

The bike is unharmed, my pride is bruised.  Another lesson learned.

Starting mileage: 13134   

Expenses:

Gas        $26.00

Food       $0.00      

Lodging    $25.00  

Misc.      $0

Total      $51.00

Spent      $1.00-

+/- Trip   $9.25-

Day 21 - Lake Tahoe to Reno

Wow!  Lake Tahoe rocks.  Really.   The lake is so pretty and the little towns are resort-y, with lots of yummy looking restaurants.   I wish I had more than $50 a day now!   I love upscale food.  Oh well.   Top Ramen for dinner won’t totally kill me (that’s really what’s on the menu).

The ride yesterday really took it out of me, the heat seems to do that to me, so I spent a lot of time in camp resting and drinking water.   This morning I poked around breaking camp, then road up the North side of Lake Tahoe. 

I can see why so many say this place is awesome, I would like to come play here (with money next time).  Ride bikes, boat, shop and eat.  Great place.

I stopped at a beach for about an hour, got some sun and went swimming.  Then I  had a wonderful Cobb salad at The Old Post Office and  on towards Reno. 

I tried to ride cooler today,  with lighter socks and lightweight jeans.  I also left my jacket unzipped and no gloves.   This made a big difference until I dropped into Reno, then all bets were off and so was my jacket.  

The ride to Reno was excellent, along route 461 over the mountain, great twisty downhill slope and beautiful scenery. 

Tonight I get to hang out with my friend Lynne and stay at her place.  I’m looking forward to A/C and beer and her company, she’s a riot.

Starting mileage: 13308  

Expenses:

Gas           $0.00

Food         $13.00      

Lodging    $0.00  

Misc.         $0

Total         $13.00

Saved       $37.00+

+/- Trip     $28.00

Day 22 - Reno, Nevada

What a killer day, Lynne and I sat by the pool all day, gossiping like two chickens in the hen house.  We headed into Reno later that night and caught a comedy show, did a little dancing and had late night dinner.   It was a perfect day with a great friend.

No riding today - it’s over 100‘ anyway here so it would be miserable.   

Spent a gob of money but sure had fun.

Starting mileage: 13375   

Expenses:

Gas        $0.00

Food       $45.00      

Lodging    $0.00  

Misc.      $32.00

Total      $77.00

Spent      $27.00-

+/- Trip   $1.00+

Day 23 - Auburn, CA

Meeting my Dad and Dalene today!    Wahoo!   They happen to be headed to Oregon from Arizona, so we made sure our paths crossed in California!   I haven’t seen them in a while and miss my parents.

It was so nice to see them!  It was 102 in Auburn today so we happily sat in the hotel room, chit-chatting and sharing pictures of our journeys.  We just 'plain old' got caught up and it was an absolutely perfect day.   I love them so much.

We had a great little dinner if you are ever in Auburn, at Pelican's Roost.   They specialize in fish and chips - cod - and it was delightful, light and flaky and moist.

Next stop, South Lake Tahoe...

Starting mileage: 13375   

Expenses:

Gas            $13.00

Food          $0.00      

Lodging    $0.00  

Misc.         $0.00

Total         $0.00

Saved      $37.00+   (Thanks mom and dad!)

+/- Trip   $38.00+

Day 24 - South Lake Tahoe, CA

What a day...

It started in Auburn, I rode to Placerville then caught Hwy 49 to junction hwy 50 into Tahoe.   It was a completely, unexpected, great ride.   Hwy 49 was gorgeous scenery with tight twisty S curves.   Super ride!

I parked under an awning in the shade at a hotel and I realized I had a flat tire!!  There was a big silver screw sticking out of my back tire angrily hissing air. 

  

So, my first flat tire....tee hee.  I was worried I’d start crying like a girl during my first mechanical style issue and ya know what?  I was calm and collected!   

Luckily I found a bike shop in Carson City that had the tires I needed in stock.   So I called a tow truck and off we went! I got both front and rear, cause my tires were pretty much done anyway and now I have a great set of brand new tires to carry me the rest of my trip!   All and all I was only down a couple of hours!   Amazing.

Then....Lynne and I went to the Chicago/Doobie Brothers concert.  Ha ha ha, it was one of the best concerts I’ve been to and I danced until I could hardly move another muscle.   It was such an awesome day!!!

Starting mileage: 13470   

Expenses:

Gas        $14.00

Food       $8.00      

Lodging    $50.00  

Misc.      $50.00

Total      $122.00

Spent      $72.00-

+/- Trip   $34.00-

Now unexpectedly:

Add on     $275.00 Towing
           $500.00 Tires

+/- Trip   $809.00 -    OUCH.   There goes my budget.