Wednesday, May 21, 2014

It's Our Vaga-versary Ya'll


One year ago today we sat in the Nashville International Airport like open books waiting to be filled with material in just a few short months. A year ago our lives were devoid of an unimaginable number of experiences that have shaped us into three people who are just not quite the same as the ones you see here in this picture. At that moment, we had just said our goodbyes to our family as well as our precious vehicles for the next couple of months until our arrival in Portland, Oregon. I am not sure if we were more concerned with the safety of our family and ourselves for the next few months, or for the safety of our bikes and equipment for the next few hours. Tough call. And after weeks of planning, stressing, fund-raising and questioning, we were here at the terminal with nothing left but to hop along for the ride and finally the chance to let this decision resonate within us.  
So don’t let our goofy faces fool you! Deep down we were more than terrified at what we were actually getting ourselves into and beyond disbelief that this adventure truly was about to begin. We did however, have nothing but good signs up to this point to help reassure us that we were not necessarily biting off more than we could chew. We would not have even made it as far as the airport on this morning if it were not for the financial support, but even more so, the emotional support from sponsors, friends, family and random strangers. Little did we know all of this kindness was also foreshadowing our trip to come. We could have never guessed the acts of kindness that we were about to receive over the next 2-3 months. If while sitting in this airport someone told us that people were going to buy our meals, put us up in hotels, let us sleep inside their homes, and hand us a large donation after a conversation at the bar we would have never believed it. We were much more likely to believe that people were going to try to run us off of the road, avoid our stinky selves in restaurants, and call us crazy hippies who needed to get jobs or do something productive with our lives.
If you followed our trip, or even just take a minute to skim the good news of our blog, you know we had the time of our lives. We could reminisce on the still breathtaking views and awe-inspiring acts of kindness but instead we just want to thank everyone who contributed. (and we believe there to be hundreds of you!) Donations and places to stay were more than we could have ever hoped for or deserved but the enormous amount of tiny acts really added up for us. Things like positive conversations, no matter how short, fresh rhubarb from someone’s garden on a hot day in Hells Canyon, a comment on the Facebook page to reassure that someone is actually following our story, a hand as we attempted to push our bikes up the beach after “dipping our wheels” all contributed to the success of our trip. So we want to thank you all for that with a little education. This is a list we compiled of things we learned a long our trip and quotes that were too good not to share. We hope that this information will be valuable to your life. Enjoy.
We would like to share with you all of the NEAT knowledge about Neature and the world that we learned on our trip so that it’s not just us knowin’ it.( http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6jgvNqNKJ5Q) We couldn’t possible share everything but here are a few things that really stood out:

Skua/ Skuaing (Skoo-uh-ing)- a verb that means to scavenge, thrift or even purge personal belongings. It originates from an Antarctican bird, the Skua, which resembles a seagull with talons. This bird is known for dive bombing lunch trays in order to “skua” food from people. We acquired this knowledge from Gracie in Nathrop, Colorado. You remember the one who unicycled across the country? Well she also lived in Antarctica, naturally.
Used in a sentence: “Jordan skuaed a jacket off of the side of the road one day.”

Pueblo Dad- a very specific yet very generic breed of man common to the Pueblo, Colorado area. They are very easy to spot. Always wearing some sort of sports team t-shirt, but most frequently that of the Denver Broncos. They also all wear the same pair of Nike Shox. Our wonderful host and Pueblo native, Dane, and friend Previn enlightened us on this species. They are easily spotted in grocery stores and sporting good stores however, their kind has taken a dangerous decline since the very tragic event known as Superbowl XLVII. It is unknown what is happening to the Pueblo Dads but a common myth is that they have converted to Seahawks fans and moved to Seattle. The true explanation remain a mystery. Used in a sentence: “Hey, look at that cherry Pueblo Dad over there riding a cruiser from Sundance Cycles”

Dwayne’s Day- A day of rest. Also known as Zwayne’s Day. On this day, you do not have to do anything that you do not want to do. You don’t have to do any work or even answer any phone calls for the entire 24 hour duration. The traditional Dwayne’s Day falls on every Wednesday of every week, but Dwayne’s Day is your day so you do you. This one was brought to us on the flight to Portland by none other than Dwayne. Used in a sentence: “I need to ask Dwayne a question but I will have to wait until tomorrow because today is Dwayne’s Day.”

Rusting- A chemical reaction that affects Eastern Oregonians when the sun comes out. This phenomenon is often confused with “tanning”, the darkening of the skin also catalyzed by the sun, but only affecting the entire world population with the exception of Eastern Oregonians. Used in a phrase: “Shirley, look how rust I got today from working in the yard! I think I am going to have a farmer’s rust.”

Quotes Worth Sharing:
“Nope. We don’t have a bathroom around here but I’ll tell ya what, there is the great outdoors and you can’t beat it with a stick. Trust me.” – The Post Office Lady. Moran, Wyoming.

“Keep two wheels on the ground”- Kurt the Bar/Restaurant Owner. Richland, Oregon.

“If you get hit by a car you’re considered and endangered species.” –Some dude we chose not to spend another second hanging around. Just Outside of Yellowstone National Park.

“I can give ya’ll some bear spray if you want. You may need it around here. You are not supposed to spray humans with it. That didn’t stop me though.” Gabi the Vietnam Vet. A bar in Walden, CO.
*Gabi had many more memorable quotes, however, this was the only one we felt comfortable repeating.

“Umm..this is a European style coffee shop.” – Lady at the coffee shop when we asked if they had Wifi. Tillamook, Oregon. *This was said after she asked us to clarify what Wifi was.

                “Hang on! I gotta go get the back-up rum balls!” –Lex of Lex’s Cool Stuff, yelled out of her car window as she went to get the back-up rum balls. Netarts, Oregon



                “You’re gonna gain weight ya know.” – Creepy Old Dude in a bar on Father’s Day.                        Missoula, Montana. 
*This comment was made to Natalee in response to our bike trip, but most importantly it was made after he showed her a picture of his recently dead dog…in a bar.

Sunday, September 8, 2013

THE LAST CHAPTER

Finally, the long awaited day had come. Departing new bern signified the last ride of our epic journey. The 45 mile ride laid ahead of us was the only thing separating us from the coast. Though it was hard to really  comprehend that this would be the end, we launched for the Atlantic. It was another hot, humid and trafficked day on the road, but it no longer seemed to face us. Our day's route to Atlantic Beach took us through many military bases and towns. As we grew closer towards the beach small signs of our nearing of the coast started to appear. From small boat repair shops to the salty smell of the ocean air gave us signs of what awaited ahead. With emotions running high and filled with excitement we reached Morehead city. The city of Morehead sits at the edge of the coast being shielded by the southern banks of Atlantic beach and Emerald Isle. We had promised to arrive at the easternmost spot of that area, so on we went to the shores of Atlantic beach. Upon reaching the top of the high-rise bridge connecting the main land with the banks, reality quickly started to rush in. Looking back from the bridge and seeing the coastal edge gave us an inexplicable feeling of excitement and nostalgia. We could no longer wait to to dip our wheels so we rushed to the shore ahead. As we arrived to the nearest public beach we were greeted by two women whom we didn't know. Intrigued by our cycling getup, they asked how we had found ourselves there and why. Once we had explained the importance of the moment soon to happen, they selflessly invited us to their home after our "wheel dipping ceremony."The offer was accepted happily! We traded numbers with our new friends Jackie and Susan and continued on towards the beach. A haze sat over the beach from the rain earlier that day. Between the sunset, the muddling haze and children playing on the beach made that moment feel like a dream.  As we stood in the sand, inches before the water, we tried to digest the moment at hand. Every pedal stroke, every mountain climbed and each person we met  had brought us to that moment. It was minutes before we dared enter the water and made the journeys end official. Finally, we braved into the water and ceremoniously dipped the same wheel which was originally dipped into the Pacific 3 months before. After the dipping ceremony, we through our bikes ashore and ran back into the water where we played and rejoiced until we were too tired and hungry to go on. Again, we had to celebrate this triumphant day like many others before. . . WITH BEERS! We left the beach and fell back to a local seaside watering hole and drank beer till we had our fill. After dark, we made our way to to Jackie's mom's place where they treated us to more brews and incredible homemade dinner. We stayed up for a while sharing cycling stories and pictures. We could not have asked for a better end to our night. Even though we had just met hours before Jackie, Susan and Patty made us feel right at home.

The following morning, we woke up to our hosts making breakfast for us. With our stomach's filled, Jackie took us down to her uncle Bob's place who happened to be a local legend. Bob had sailed up and down the outer banks living out of his boat for 16 years before settling down on a beautiful plot beneath a pecan tree. Graciously, Bob agreed to allow fellow wanders camp on his property.  We spent the following four days wandering up and down the Crystal Coast. From making hobo shelters at the beach to visiting Black Beards final resting place, we did nothing but enjoy and relax from sun up to sun down. Marooned on this quiet seaside town, we quickly took to the beach bum lifestyle. It was not long after that our wandering days came to an end when our  parents came to rescue these vagabonds. Happy to be reunited with our folks, we took them around to visit Cape Lookout and a few other places we had found. Despite our homeless appearance, our parents seemed proud and happy to be with us everywhere we went. After all the exploration and celebrations late saturday night, Jordan and myself  would finally split ways before going home. Jordan and myself shook hands refraining from embracing each other but finally gave in. Though the moment was over quickly a friendship that would last even longer was now instilled.

It is now that we go back to our home towns and our lives, with new knowledge about ourselves, our country and everything in between.  We hope that in some way touched, helped, inspired or at least entertained everyone we have met.  We look forward to be re-united with our friends but also feel grateful for all the new ones we have made. Thank you all for have read our stories and its made our journey much more exciting to know people care to know about it.  Though this the end to this particular journey, there are chances that future tours may come about. Keep tuned for a possible new adventure in the years to come. . .



Leaving New Bern


WE GO TO THE COAST!



The edge of the United States



The Vagabonds 3 months later







We finish our long journey

 WE HAVE REACHED THE ATLANTIC!!!

BIKE PILE!!!

Incredible hosts Jackie, Susan and Patty

Bob's place AKA the Smithsonian

...and now to celebrate!

Beach Hobo Camp. GENIUS!!!


Time to chill!


The legendary Bob!

When in Atlantic Beach do as the crabs do


The Backstreet Pub

Poseidon abides!


Rewards of the trip!

100 Days of Beard


Famous Atlanic Beach Fishing pier










Father and sons reunited celebrate

Friday, September 6, 2013

THE JOURNEY GROWS SHORT- NC

Hello again from your two favorite wandering cyclist ! Picking up from where we left off, we survived the sketchy motel night in Ashboro! Leaving Ashboro we took beautiful highway 42 towards Sanford. All day we had perfect weather and great road conditions which was a change for North Carolina. About 60 miles later we arrived at Sanford. Upon arriving at Sanford, we headed directly to the famous Yarborough's ice cream parlor! At Yarborough's we dug into some of their famous malts, burgers and ice cream! Having enjoyed the local flavor we rode to the local police station in hopes of landing a place to stay.  Without much effort the officers on duty allowed us to pitch a tent behind their station.  Once we'd found a camp we decided to explore Sanford a bit more. Riding through the historic streets, we caught the sound of some banjo and fiddle pickin' tunes. Due to our love for blue grass, we were forced to join the music. At the park where the show was, a local group of seniors gave us free pizza, ice cream and cold drinks. One particular gentleman named Joe, seemed  very interested on our story and took a liking to us.  All night we listened to banjos playing and shared stories with Joe, which made for a perfect night. When the music stopped we fell back to camp and slept till morning. 

The next day we had a long 80 mile ride to Goldsboro. It was a really hot day for riding but we were grateful for the lack of rain. Through the endless tobacco and cotton fields, we completed our 80 miles but also reached our 4,000 mile mark. Ecstatic about our new accomplishment we entered Goldsboro. Once again we decided to check out the police dept. for help. On our way to their offices, we passed a group of cyclists at a pub who asked us about our journey. After chatting with them we arrived at the station where the captain allowed us to pitch tent at a local park. With our camping issue resolved, we headed back to the pub to quench our parched throats. At the pub we were invited to join the cyclists we'd met before. Once again, we were really fortunate and were invited to spend the night with our new friends Tom and Barbara Bradshaw. Our new Goldsboro hosts proceeded to buy us dinner and allow us to stay in their home. We are very lucky and grateful to have met Barbara and Tom.

The following morning, after Tom rode out with us for about 20 miles. Heading towards New Bern the reality started sinking in. We were less than 100 miles from reaching the coast! Most of that days ride was spent talking about all the friends we'd met and lessons we'd learned. Unfortunately, out of nowhere, the temperature shot up and the road turned into another busy highway with little shoulder. Lunch time eventually rolled around and with no restaurant or gas station insight we found a bridge to eat under. Fully embracing our homelessness, we proudly ate out of cans and yelled absurdities at passing trucks. After our hobo lunch, we finished our last 16 miles into New Bern. Once we had reached town Israel realized he had a flat on his trailer and had no patch or tube for it. The only thing left to do was to call our hosts in New Bern and see if they could help. Fortunately, Marshall and Betty came to the rescue and picked up the trailer while we biked to their home. Marshall and Betty are Warm Showers hosts who very gracefully accepted to hosts us despite our last minute notice. The next day, Betty and Marshall took us out to their favorite breakfast place and helped us get our errands done. We really enjoyed our day off with our wonderful hosts and felt very welcomed at their home. With our legs well rested and our bikes repaired,the next day, the vagabonds embarked on what would be their last ride to the coast. . .


Please stay tuned for the next post if you want to find out what happens to us upon reaching new shores!

 Oh yeah back in the South!


Abandoned building!



Jordan keeping it weird1


Ice cream at Yarborough's parlor


Free Bluegrass Concert... can't beat that!


Joe. . . one of the best guys you'll ever meet.


Camping behind the Police Station


Cheesin'






 Cant believe we've made it this far, 4,000 miles


If you travel 4,000 miles from Oregon you might end up here

Best folks in Goldsboro. Barbara and Tom Bradshaw



Being escorted by Tom


Great ride with a new friend!


HOT DAY TO NEW BERN!


HOBO LUNCH TIME!





The wonderful Marshall And Betty!