I know, I know. It's taken a week to offer any insight or explanation. Needless to say, we had to 'tap out' at Helena. Weary bodies, weary equipment...you wouldn't be surprised at the names we called our BoBs (besides Thing 1 and Thing 2). We enjoyed our rest days and after reviewing the map and our pace at great length, we determined that it would be another 12 days before we could reach the next town to easily depart from. Lorne and I also came to the agreement that we were behind schedule and would have to "chunk" this route anyway -- heck, 600+ miles and over 35,000 feet of climbing isn't a shabby start to Conquering the Divide. Many factors, including a lot of irons in the fire at home that really needed tending, lead to our decision to come back and assault this dragon another time.
This trip was a kick in the pants, or kick in the butt - however you wanna look at it. I wouldn't trade this experience for anything and we both learned so much from this endeavor. We definitely aren't quitting, and won't stop till this route is completely ticked, every last mile. We're already planning our assault for next summer and are thinking panniers are a better way to travel. B.o.B. (Beast of Burden bike trailer) is great for road touring, but may not be our tool of choice for a mountain bike adventure (personal preference). We named our BoBs many things besides "Thing 1 and Thing 2" along the way, and now the term "third wheel" makes total sense. Dang BoB was always dragging his feet on the hills and wanted to take over when we were trying to enjoy our short downhill bursts. (There was also that dang gravity thing scrubbing off our downhill speed.)
Long story short, Lorne and I were together 24/7 for 21 straight days and we're still in LOVE! How's that for an accomplishment :) We're totally excited and looking forward to our next adventures, whatever they may be. We met incredible people along the way and want each of you to know that you hold a special place in our hearts and memories - we hope you know you are welcome to drop in on us if you ever find yourselves in the San Diego area: warm bed and showers await!
Thank you everyone, for the thoughts, prayers and well wishes. I know I've said it before but it bears repeating. I hope you'll continue to follow us in our adventures and endeavors by land and by sea and look forward to hearing from everyone soon!
Peace & Love ALWAYS,
Melani & Lorne
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