Two Wheels: July 18 – 25
Sunday, July 18. FOMO vs. RD. In the midst of sweating, slogging uphill, fighting a headwind… we fantasize about the pleasures of a rest day (RD). Sleeping in. Reading a good book. Enjoying beautiful views. Eating! On one of our rare rest days, FOMO (fear of missing out) whispers in our ear, “Go do something!! You’re missing…. something! FOMO vs. RD. On Sunday morning we listened to FOMO. We intended to hike up Mineral Creek into the mountains outside of Valdez. Rain cut that short. We took that as a sign. Later when the skies cleared, we sat by the harbor, playing cards, chatting with folks who happened by, eating, and just enjoying the little spot of loveliness that is Valdez. RD = 1. FOMO = 0
Monday, June 19. FOMO vs. RD. We’ll call this one a draw. We had talked about taking a boat tour in Seward. In an uncharacteristic change of plans (ha) we chose to seize the carp in Valdez. We chose…wisely.
Tuesday, July 20. For six hours we watched islands and bays materialize out of a foggy Prince William Sound, only to disappear back into the murk. That was the ferry ride from Valdez to Whittier. The town is much as I remember it. A not so attractive community in a stunning location. We decided to give Whittier a chance to show off. After setting up camp in a city campground, we hiked up to see the Portage glacier. It was a bargain hike. The pay off far exceeded the efforts of climbing up to the pass.. We ended the day firmly seated on the Bucks bandwagon, watching them win the NBA championship. It was a very good day.
Wednesday, July 21. Thanks to the rain arriving as predicted, we packed away a soggy mass of tent before heading to the tunnel entrance. A very friendly young man from Palmer agreed to take us through the persistent rain all the way to Anchorage. He was freshly off the PCT due to an injury. Born and raised in Palmer, he had a wealth of information to share. We appreciated the ride and enjoyed our chat.
After so many days in rural or small town AK, Anchorage was a bit jarring. We had a happy reunion with Marshal. Over lunch and a beer he regaled us with fantastic stories of camping with local homeless folks, leaping whales, and adventures with new friends and former co-workers. We parted with vague plans to meet the next day.
We ended the day chatting with friends Kay and John who have once again graciously opened their home to us. (The Deshka cabin was theirs as well)
Thursday, July 22. John and Kay work, so Marshall, Sharon and I biked some local bike trails. Beautiful. After a brief stop at 49th State Brewery, we finally parted ways with Marshall for the last time. Given the uncertainty about Canada, he is flying to Montana to continue his journey. We certainly wish him well on his travels. He will be missed.
It was fun biking around Anchorage reminiscing about my time here a lifetime ago. Later, Kay, John and I took an enjoyable romp down memory lane sharing stories of growing up in Rhinelander.
Friday, July 23. A few chores today. Sharon rode to do some errands. Kay and I strolled the beach below Kincaid park. This evening was spent getting to know a classmates lovely daughter and one of Kay’s dear friends. With access to real grocery stores and a proper kitchen, we provided home made pizza and apple pie. What a treat!
Saturday, July 24. You may have noticed, by the time we get back on the road tomorrow, we will have spent an entire week NOT bicycle touring. This is actually one of the best parts of bicycle touring. Yes, we do enjoy watching the scenery roll by while on the bike. The real point of the exercise though is to enjoy the places we visit. The bicycle just happens to be our chosen means of transport.
Today was a perfect example of enjoying a place. After doing some packing, sorting, preparing and planning, the four of us drove to Girdwood, took a pleasant hike, enjoyed a pint at Girdwood Brewery, had amazing deep fried halibut prepared by John and conversed late into the evening. An amazing day “bike touring” and nary a butt touched a bike saddle.
Fixing six weeks of wear and tear 
A walk down memory lane 
A walk along Crow Creek 
It has been a wonderful week enjoying beautiful places and wonderful people. Thanks again to Fairbanks Tom and Amanda for allowing us to stay at their place in Valdez. And special thanks to Kay and John for being the perfect host and tour guide during our stay in Anchorage. We’re looking forward to getting back on the road to explore the Kenai peninsula…and to making some final decisions about the next portion of our journey.
Until next time…Seize the Carp!
Looks like the good times continue. Life is good!