The Open Road

Well, here we are, 3 bike rides into our journey. We are in Hood River, Oregon, having spent the night with Pastor Steve and Holly. Steve helped us set the map route for today, and both of them showed us incredible hospitality. It has been a moving experience to be welcomed into the homes of strangers.

We're a good 170 miles from the coast in the Columbia River Gorge. Yesterday we rode the historic Columbia highway and we were treated to breathtaking views almost constantly. Multnomah Falls, Vista House, Mt. Hood, Mt, Adams. The weather has been clear, windy, and hot. We are all getting pretty tan.

We had the opportunity to worship with Theophilous Church in Portland as we stayed with the Swoboda's. Some aspects of AJ's sermon caused us to reflect on the trip. He spoke of budgets and how churches sometimes prioritize them above all else, and how uncertainty cannot be avoided or planned away. Uncertainty is where humanity is uncomfortable, but where God provides and acts.

It reminded me of the trip, and the uncertainty that we experience daily. Where will find water again? Where will we sleep? What is for dinner? If we knock and ask will someone let us camp out in their yard?

As the planner of the trip, I have planned enough for us to have points of reliability. We have had a lot of support at the beginning of the trip, and we will have it at the end. But now (today!) begins the "wilderness section" of the trek, a period with much uncertainty. Our next confirmed host is in eastern Idaho. I have found that there is a balance to be struck between planning and allowing for uncertainty. So far on the trip we have had some wonderful experiences arise out of uncertainty.

Finally I am learning some good "bike across America rules of thumb":

1. Never turn down a bathroom or shower.
2. Don't say no to food.
3. The hills are always worth it (even if you find out why tomorrow).

More shall come. Thank you all for your encouragement from afar, your comments and quick messages of encouragement and advice mean a lot. As always, if you find yourself on the route and you want to meet up and ride or hang out, contact us!

- Joanna Friesen