The North West Coast, its like New England with amazing sunsets but no chowder!
one hundred ninety eight
BICYCLE CULTURE IS BICYCLE CULTURE
It was a clear warm Saturday in East Cleveland, and there he was , a man named Daryl. He was the creator of this over the top two wheel ride plus several others he had in his bike stable. I love bicycles as did Daryl. I am proud to feature this man of style.one hundred ninety seven
HOLY POLISH BOY AND A SODA
An East Cleveland Baptist Church was selling lunches as a
Saturday fund raiser. I learned about Polish boy sandwiches. It's a Polish link that looked a lot like a hot dog in a bun, covered with Cole slaw and ketchup soaked French fries. The deal came with a Shasta soft drink or juice box. It was a new experience taste for me.
The people there were interested
in my journey. They asked tons of questions and put me on their Sunday prayer list. I had one of the more meaningful conversations with a man about my age or older.
After the usual basic questions, he asked me if I had found that people were good? From the look in his eyes I felt he was wondering if this country still had a soul and had good people.
I assured him based on my experience there were still generous and kind people. I felt he
feared the country was lost and it was too late.
We discussed if a black man could do what I
was doing and how he would be treated. We figured a man can always find what he
is seeking. If you look for kind hearted people you will probably find them. If
you search for hate, bigotry, and racism, you will probably find plenty.
We shook hands and I rode away. I think we gave each other many things to think about. These were good people I think they saw the same in me.
one hundred ninety six
THE FINISH LINE
I made the coast of New Hampshire 4044 miles from San Francisco according to my GPS. This includes all of the miles Walter zig zagged around the back roads taking side trips.
As I arrived I told the motel owner I had ridden from San Francisco, she didn't seem impressed. There was no fanfare just a warm bed and shower. I was more alone that night then any I can remember.
It rained for the last three days and the next day will have severe storms forecast. I rode up the coast to Bob's Bike shop and met Bob and crew. It was nicer then the last visit, no stitches or x-rays.
I rented a car and drove to the Akron Canton airport. I slept in the car that night then turned it in when the rental place opened then I rode 30 miles to my Mothers.
She was cool about my traveling without telling her (for now). I am so tired I'll be like a returning Tom cat for a few days now that I'm in a safe place. I don't have to watch my back or sleep with one eye open. I'll post pictures soon.
Dave and Will the young English men reached New York safely.
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