June 7, 2024
Thus Spoke Greggarceau
Yes, This Tour Is Going to Happen
Given that I introduced this U.P bike trip more than two months ago, one could reasonably come to the conclusion that I've been stalling. The stalling isn't intentional though. It seems the older I get, the more lackadaisical I get about committing to start dates, devising routes, updating old & worn-out gear, determining what I hope to accomplish, planning anything in advance, and taking care of last minute details on the homefront.
As if that isn't enough laziness for you, consider this: Even after finally setting a firm start date, I'm still having a hard time motivating myself to begin packing. In contrast, when I was a few years younger I generally had my panniers packed a couple weeks before hitting the road.
Anyway, the good news is that, after several delays, I will definitely begin bike tripping in exactly five days. I want to get up north in the worst way. That might have something to do with the most spectacular northern lights (aurora borealis) display I've ever witnessed. If I could see something like that in southern Minnesota, who knows what I might see in the U.P.
The news personalities said to drive to a dark area for the best views of the Aurora. It was already past my 10:00 bedtime, so I didn't want to start driving out to the countryside. Instead, I went into the garage, grabbed the first bike I could feel, and rode to the nearest and darkest area I could think of.
Alright, that's it until I start my U.P. bike tour.
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3 months ago
3 months ago
2 months ago
That's a good observation on experience vs. youthful enthusiasm. From what I've seen, you certainly have enough everyday experience to know that pre-tour riding is a good idea, but loading up your bike for the pre-tour riding isn't all that important.
P.S. A couple years ago, I was driving on the part of your route between Challis, Idaho and Chief Joseph Pass and the whole time I was wishing I was on a bike. It's so beautiful.
2 months ago
2 months ago
2 months ago
2 months ago
Holy cow! Those were spectacular. I heard that they could be seen from here, but only if the rain had stopped, which it didn’t. I not only missed the aurora, but the new stucco on my house was delayed! But I’m glad you saw them and got some great shots.
Cheers,
Keith
2 months ago
2 months ago