Big city, big city nights.

In a whirlwind fashion we made it to the big apple. At 5,500 miles, we could have easily traveled from shore to shore and back; but no one planned on this being easy, nor is this task meant to be an efficient use of land.  As we rolled our bikes off the ferry into Manhattan--yes, we took a ferry--a reflection of the past four months brought a few mixed emotions forth.  This is indeed a large country, with much to see, but its not that big.  As a matter of fact, it is not big enough to keep us from riding our bikes across it.  On the other hand, it did take us four months, countless--ahem--spokes, and many other interesting figures which we did not keep track of.

Since the beginning of this nation, New York City has been the cradle to many cultural pieces of our nation.  What once was the epicenter of new beginnings, remains today a global destination. Artists of all walks, from around the globe, flock to the city that never sleeps for a shot at exposure.  Striving business folk look to this, the financial center of the world, as the model of success. Needless to say, New York City is a happening place to be, which is why the streets are overflowing with tourists from far and wide; Oregon included.

As I become an experienced traveler, I find myself less interested in the legendary landmarks of a place, and more interested in the way of life. Contradictory as it may be, pretending to be a resident of a new city and doing things accordingly is the favorite way to see things.  Dining at popular restaurants, picnicking in less traveled parks, and walking through the neighborhoods where the real people live; essentially doing the things one would do on a weekend.  This is how I really saw NYC for the first time, even though it was my second visit.

I'm not only lucky enough to have a friend who lives in Brooklyn, but also to have the most hospitable of friends live in Brooklyn.  Dina managed to host, guide, and socialize with us, while she simultaneously studied for and completed finals week at NYU.  Having her, and her roommate Carter as our hostesses, we had an even more complete experience of NYC living. Thanks ladies.  To make things even better, our arrival timed just right to have a visit from my favorite person in the world, who has now made four appearances along the way, thanks to Henry Ford and the Wright brothers.

As I mentioned previously, arriving in the city brought to the surface a number of reflections and emotions.  Since our route home will be direct, our geographic apex represents approximately two thirds of the total distance.  As I see the end of this adventure coming closer, I find myself thinking more about the next step. Mainly what to do, but also where to do it.  The uncertainty of life at this juncture has provided an insight to each place we visit, one that has opened my eyes to new places significantly more than if I were to be riding home to a certain future.  My appreciation for each place we visit, and the country as a whole have benefitted from said status. It's easy to obtain skewed perceptions of the outside while resting comfortably and certain at home--especially if that place is Portland and you fit in.

--

New York City is where we three travelers reduce to the dynamic duo, as our friend Kane makes his way to the holy land.  This means we will spend the next week or so recalibrating our oatmeal proportions.  Godspeed buddy, it's been a pleasure.