The great bike escape

We left Berkeley on Thursday and drove away with our car packed to the hilt... but not before leaving a sidewalk full of random giveaways outside our old house. It was sad to leave friends and our fruit-laden, flower-filled neighborhood, but exciting to finally be off on the first leg of our journey.

The drive to Portland was long, but assisted by five episodes of This American Life: we learned about the puppy channel, older brothers who turn into werewolves and imaginary friends. The bag of pastries (imagine a chocolate croissant as big as your head) just about made up for the down time without our friend Ira Glass.

Once in Portland it was time for business but we didn't shy away from 3 straight barbecues (thanks to Anna's sister Eb). We spent the days wrenching on bikes, waterproofing just about anything, getting haircuts and researching Jacky Wilson (a new favorite oldie).

Monday the 23rd marked the first day on the bikes. We did a long ride around Portland to test out the gear and shake anything loose that might need shaking. We also continued our research on farms, farmers markets and food security programs; there seem to be a lot of amazing things going on in even the smallest towns!

Tues is the second local ride with increased mileage. We are aiming to average 70 mi/day and have to make sure our legs are up to the challenge of toting 60 additional lbs of gear.

Wed is the first day on the road.