63.96 Miles
2192 Feet of Climbing
Last night’s flight to Bellingham arrived late, but I had already decided against assembling my bike in the Airport, so it didn’t really matter. I ordered up a good old fashioned Yellow Cab van and was dropped at the curb of the local Days Inn. It only took about 40 minutes to reassemble the bike, after which I lost track of how long it took to get all the grease off my hands. This morning, Ed woke up early, but he knew how sleep deprived I was and kindly let me sleep in. After cramming all my gear back into its various bags and hefting it and the bike down the long flight of stairs, we finally hit the road at 9 AM. Before starting our first day of the tour, we headed downtown for breakfast and the traditional wheel dip in the Pacific Ocean.
Washington is green and lush and beautiful. We spent most of the day riding on two lane roads that wound through trees, past wildflowers and grazing farm animals, up and down endless hills, along Whatcom Lake and Skagit River, and past some spectacular vistas. Did I mention that we even saw a Sasquatch? And then there was that section of a Rails to Trails trail that lasted almost a mile, before we found a better alternate (let it be know that pea gravel is not our preferred riding surface.) And I could really get used to this cool weather. This was my first ride in a long time where I didn’t worry about getting heat induced cramps in my legs.
In Sedro-Woolley (who names these towns, anyhow?), we stopped at the last grocery store on today’s route to get some snacks and provisions for our next couple of meals.
A little further down the road, we took a little side trip to see the town of Concrete. The local history museum was closed, which is lucky for us, because if it had been open, we would have stopped, which would have put us in danger of riding in the rain for the last part of our day. The 5 PM weather forecast called for rain in Rockport.
Pushing on toward Steelhead Park, our camping spot for the evening, the rain came early. After four wet, cold miles of drizzle, we were partially drenched and not looking forward to setting up our tents on wet ground, knowing there was going to be more rain. I called the phone number on the door of the campground office and pled for mercy, and just like that, our tent site was upgraded to an Adirondack. I frequently ask myself–am I lucky or am I blessed? And I can tell you, I am both.
Living Our Bucket List 
I look forward to being able to continue to read your blogs along with Ed’s each day. It’s always nice to read the woman’s point of view. I am glad that Ed was able to join you for this trip. I much rather him and you be able to have a partner to ride with, and share your adventures. Have a good ride tomorrow.
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It is definitely great to have someone to ride with, so thank you for letting Ed cone along! I get a kick out of the things we both hit our brakes to get a better look at or take a photo of. Most men would just be unaware or too lazy to stop. That’s a fine quality in a man!
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I am excited to follow your journey. Enjoy, ride safe and have fabulous adventures along the way.
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Thanks Catherine! Hopefully! After just one day of this, I am remembering all the things I enjoy about being on a trip like this. Exercise. People. Beauty. Fun. Adventures. Bam. It’s everything good
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You haven’t posted in a few days (or I am technically challenged and cannot find the posts). Hope you and Ed are great and on schedule…
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Good to see ya on the road. Beautiful !
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It is so nice to be back touring! And it is cool out up here! YES!
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Great photos will be following you on your adventure, stay safe and have fun.
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Thanks Mary! How are you guys doing? Do you think we have a shot at getting into Canada another 12 days from now?
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Are you and Ed wearing a hat under your bike helmets or do they make helmets that have a brim? I like the idea.
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It’s a DaBrim. It attaches to the helmet. Google it. I ordered it from the company.
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Hi Eileen,
So exciting to read your blog. Please add my email to your list.
Enjoyed meeting you in Gilbert,AZ sharing your traveling tales. I’ve been to S-W, and Concrete(but not by bike). Wonderful photos…
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It is so beautiful up here! And cool, so far. Enjoy! Will have to hook up with you when I get home!
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Eileen thank you for sharing your trip. Love all the pics of Washington. I have to admit it makes me homesick. Praying for a safe and enjoyable trip for you guys!
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I wish you were still up here too! I would have made a side trip to see you again!!!
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