In normal Adi fashion, I did not have time to write before I
left home, because I was packing until 2AM (which was early in my book, thanks
to Danielle’s expeditious help) and had to be up by 5:45 this morning. Thus, I
began writing this post at 35,000 feet above our beautiful country. There is A
LOT of farmland out there, and so perfectly shaped as well. We encountered some
turbulence over Gillette, WY, but had smooth sailing after that.
I am now somewhat settled at
Bastyr University in Kenmore,
WA, about 30 mins northeast of Seattle. Although the weather has been a bit
dreary it is a beautiful campus. I have met my core group for the next TEN
WEEKS and all is well. Everyone seems to be in very high spirits and excited to
hit the road. There are only 12 of us, so let’s hope for the best. While the
interesting mix of people - from college student, to post-college, to young
doctor, to CFO, to retiree – could lead to slight trepidation, I am actually
feeling quite positive about the group after spending the day with them. I am
sure certain dynamics will develop as we get to know each other and as the Ride
progresses. For now, I will withhold further comments about the group and
various personalities.
Before I set out I would like to thank:
- All of my donors who have made this ride
possible.
- My parents who have provided additional funds,
without which I would have half as much gear. More importantly, their
unconditional love and support for me and all of my endeavors have allowed me
to ACTUALLY do this. (Can’t wait to see Dad in Pittsburgh for the home stretch.)
- My sibs, grandmothers, and the rest of the
family for always cheering me on!
- Danielle. Enough said. But really… for her
endless support and love. And yes, she too is crazy enough to do a third of
this trip. I can’t wait until we reunite in Chicago!
There are two people without whom I would not have a bike:
- Former Rosh
Al Hagova and semi-professional cyclist, Josh Friedman. He spent HOURS with
me on the phone, video chat, and e-mailing until we selected the best bike for
me on this journey. We took a lot of factors into consideration (price,
terrain, amount of “cargo,” etc.) and decided that a properly outfitted
Cannondale CAAD8 Tiagra was the best choice. This is the third Cannondale in my
growing collection! Thank you, Josh!
- Sal Lilienthal is THE MAN!
He provided Danielle and me with our bikes at a price you can’t beat. Sal
didn’t just order and build the bikes. He added the best components and gave us
all the time in the world to ensure that we will be SAFE and comfortable on
this Ride. In honor of his great service, we have named our bikes Sal and Sally,
respectively. I HIGHLY recommended Sal and The Bicycle Tour Company for all your cycling needs. The ride
to Kent, CT is both beautiful and completely worth it.
I am excited, nervous, and scared. This trip is a dream come true! Every day is
going to be a new, amazing adventure as I physically move myself across the
country. The people I meet, the sights I see, and the random things I do and
learn will undoubtedly (and positively) shape who I am. Yet, cycling is inherently
dangerous. I have promised my parents I am committed to not just returning in
the same condition, but in better shape than I left. I promise all of you that
I will exercise every caution and ride with due regard. While FUN, adventure,
and traversing the country are the goals; SAFETY is the top priority. As a wise
man once taught me and as I have passed on to the next generation, we must
always live by the 7 P’s:
Proper Prior
Planning, Prevents Piss Poor Performance.
Thank you again for all your support and I look forward to
keeping you posted along the way!
With much love and excitement,
Adi
Befuddlements to come…
