Social distancing, masks, vaccines; conversations revolve around these topics, overshadowing living. The reality that Covid-19 and all of its new variants is here to stay and there is nothing we can do about that but we need to learn to be safe and work around this forever with us virus.
Covid-19 screwed up our 2020 plans of cycling the Continental Divide but then again it messed with a lot of peoples plans. Oh well, adapt and modify but do it safely.
Social distancing is easy where we live, there are very few people and we live with a very low population density. Social distancing is and always has been the norm and its just the way we like it.
2021 has been a rollercoaster year, again postponing our summer tour plans. After my time in south Texas (December – April) I was emotionally spent, frazzled and flat worn out. I just wanted to go home. I hate to admit it but bikes have been dormant, lost in space so to speak and every time we think “now’s the time” something new rises up and grounds the bikes once again. Fall is fast approaching and it’s time to make it happen. It’s time to dust off the bikes, air the tires and pack those panniers.
Today is August 20, 2021 and we got out for a short 10 mile ride.
Sliding onto the saddle of my Salsa Fargo I feel like I am getting re-acquainted with an old friend. We spin down the roadway and find ourselves at a quiet beach. This is peace, this is freedom, this living the life we choose with no excuses.
After family has gone this next month we are loading up and hitting the road. We have gained weight and our butts are soft but we need this. We need the open road, the secluded trails, the lonely campsites. It re-sets the soul and we are ready, not physically but mentally. Cycling is physical but more than that it is mental. Hills are a mind f*ck and if you let them conquer you they win. The realization that “I can do it” is a strength that I rely on and push that little negative voice to the back. It doesn’t take and enormous physical ability to tour but it takes an open mind and willing attitude.
So get ready, CJBikeTours will soon be ready to roll. See you soon!
CJBikeTours 
Glad to know you two will be back on bikes, I’ll look forward to reading about your next trip.
Cathy and I managed to reach escape velocity and exit the gravitational pull of the USA, we’re now living in Portugal and loving it – come visit!
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Like you, I’ve been off the bike but for a different reason, the need to help with grandkids. So happy for you that you’ll be back on the open road, the secluded trail, at the lonely campsite. I’m anxious to get back into the mountains. Here’s to all of us……..Tailwinds, my dear friends!!!
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Looking fwd to your new adventures!
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