10. Pat needs to find space for his toothbrush in his pack.
9. During the height of black fly season, it’s important to bring along insect repellent. (We did not and it was disastrous).
8. Panniers on one’s bicycle are an instant way to make new friends. (People want to talk to you and find out where you ae from and where you are going).
7. When a Vermont State Police officer asks you whether you might need a place to stay for the night, say “perhaps” rather than “we are all set.” (As it turned out we were far from set.
6. When you are trying to sneak into a state park campsite, wait until the employee who is leaving gets the gate unlocked and re-locked. (Message – don’t ride right up to him and ask him whether you can camp there like I did). That also did not go well.
5. Make sure that the plug for the self-inflating sleeping pad is secure before sleeping on it. (Otherwise be prepared for a night of twists and turns. Ouch!)
4. It’s impossible for two individuals to try and change their clothes in our tent at the same time.
3. When climbing up long hills, stop and take a breather rather than try to beat your partner to the top. (I almost passed out in my effort to show Pat up).
2. It’s not that easy to purchase a single can of beer in a grocery store. ( We dined on chocolate milk instead).
1. Sleeping enhancements may become an essential when sleeping in such close quarters.
In summary, our experimental trek was far from easy but we endured regardless of the flies and the unfriendly state park person. Thank goodness we had brought along some challenging crossword puzzles
Our journey on the Amtrak train west to Seattle begins on the morning of June 4th. Stay tuned as we share our stories across the US of A. We plan to begin cycling on the Great American Rail Trail on the morning of June 9th.
Shevonne and Pat
Bobby-Jo H Salls
Sounds like the trial run was well spent time!
Deb
If you can find humor with black flies, unfriendly park people, uninflated sleeping pads, and chocolate milk instead of beer, I know you are going to have a great trip. I’ll be anxiously awaiting your news from away.
Heidi
Hopefully the worst is in your rear view mirrors.
Hill
Shevonne and Pat. Good luck on your adventure. Keep Safe. Xx
David
I’m glad you got to do a test camp. It can be an eye opener
Anita
Leave it to you to sneak into a state park!! Just remember to bring money so you can pay if needed! Have a great time and keep posting!
Leah
Omg,! You two are so crazy! Pat, kick her butt! Love lil sis.
Karen
I love this!!! Looking forward to following you and pat on this amazing journey! Xo post lots of pictures!!!
Shevonne
Thanks, Karen. We are now in Seattle.
Heather P
Best of luck on your adventure!! Stay safe and have FUN!! Looking forward to reading all about it. 🙂
Shevonne
Heather,
Thanks much.
Joseph F Ranker
Have fun
GRETCHEN
So exciting! I look forward to more updates. Have Fun, Be Safe & Travel Well. I’m hoping the Unfriendly VT State Park person is the only grump you cross paths with. ☀️😎💕