Signs of suffering, signs of success.

Climbing up a big hill for the first time, false summits are a big let down. Trying to guess the approximate distance from the top by looking for signs, it's easy to be too optimistic and end up disappointed by the truth. The longer the climb, the more this scenario is dramatized, and the more emotions fluctuate between excitement and devastation. Our climb up and over Carson Pass called for three days of slow and steady pushing, making our completion quite satisfying.

We ended our summit day at the base of Luther Pass, which was only a small morning jaunt to get the legs going the next day. From the top of Luther Pass, we enjoyed six miles downhill on a six percent grade with an average speed of approximately 40mph. As we were accelerating from the top, drafting each other in close formation, we couldn't help but believe this was the funnest thing we could have been doing at that very moment. We also couldn't resist the notion that those watching us from their cars must have believed the same thing. Pedaling bicycles up big mountains and then riding them down presents an interesting juxtaposition for those watching from their cars. Going up, they likely feel pity for our suffering; going down, they likely envy our enjoyment.

Reaching Lake Tahoe, we travelled the western shore, through Emerald Bay and Squaw, down into Truckee where we now reside. Our intent was to spend two nights here to recuperate and prepare for the long and lonesome stretch of highway across Nevada. But alas, Kane noticed a crack in his frame, which is forcing us to stay put for a few days as the replacement comes in. Considering all the places we could be stuck, Truckee ranks as one of the best. There is plenty to do and see here, and the people are amazingly friendly, hospitable, and interesting. We hope to utilize our time playing disc golf, soaking in hot springs, and maybe doing a little spring snow recreation.

We have officially been on the road for just over a month. In that time, we have had some extraordinary experiences, met some great people, and accomplished rewarding tasks. None of this could have been possible without the help of so many people from back home, and out on the road. A special thanks goes out to Sellwood Cycle Repair and Kona for helping prepare Kane and I, and providing continuous support on the road; to Village Bike and Ski and Vulture Cycles for helping prepare Dan, and providing continuous support on the road; to Corinne and friends in San Francisco; Alex, Larry, and friends in Sacramento; Brad, Sonia, and friends in Truckee; all our family and friends back home and out in front of us; and to all the people who have and will share kind gestures of hospitality and support as we make our way towards our destinations. We could not have made this trip a success without the help of other people.

Days on the road: 33.
Distance travelled: 1,216 miles.
Highest elevation: 8,574 feet.
Broken spokes: 7.
Flats: 1.
Broken frames: 1.
Colds: 3.