Back home, I had an amazing lunch in Fenton, Missouri, with Lazarus Lake and Sandra. We had both been crossing the USA, me from west to east on a tandem and him from east to west on foot. Though our paths never crossed, our experiences were so in sync. Stories full of kindness.
Months of planning, staring at maps, training, preparing and executing… and then suddenly, it’s over. Coming down from a big expedition has left me feeling aimless these past few weeks. Post-expedition depression is real. Sometimes the hardest part of a journey comes once it’s over.
The routine on the open road has a sense of adventure and a huge element of surprise. You never know what you’re going to see around the next bend, who you’re going to meet, or what challenge awaits. Back home, I find myself struggling to keep the routines I once cherished.
My run streak for 2024 ended on May 16, when I stepped on a plane to Oregon. Now getting out the door for a run feels forced. I want to bike commute, but I give myself excuses: no good bike lock, no pannier rack, it’s too hot for a backpack. It’s funny how the mind works. I went through the same thing soon after I rode from India to Germany.
But I’m not spending all day on the couch, don’t worry. I’m still running and biking, just not as much as I’d like. This re-entry into normal life is a process, and I’m practicing being mindful and patient.
Mindful that this too is just a phase, and this too shall pass. Patient, as I await the arrival of our baby. Now there’s an adventure! We are really excited to welcome this little one to planet Earth. My biggest adventure yet, without a doubt. One journey has ended, and another is about to begin.
Off to the second session of birthing class now.
A month later
Traveling anywhere from 10 to 15 miles per hour through the heart of the USA on a tandem bike, I had the freedom to take any turn and stop whenever I wanted. Total freedom.
Biking across the USA, I saw things that are impossible to experience by car or plane, and I believe people are genuinely intrigued by those who embark on such slow and human-powered journeys. As Werner Herzog said, “The world reveals itself to those who travel on foot.” In my case, by bicycle.
Can’t believe it’s been a month since completing my Transcon across the US in DC. As I look back at all the photos, I am filled with gratitude for the experiences, the chance encounters, and the power of human kindness. Though the expedition has ended, its impact continues to shape my life.
Thank you to everyone who shared this journey with me. I appreciate you all so much. This journey was possible because of you. Life got busy after the trip, especially with a baby on the way, and I didn’t get to post any updates. Over the coming days, I will be catching up and sharing photos and stories. Stay tuned…