Our day started at 7 am in Bellingham. We ate breakfast, pumped tires, loaded the support van and headed on our way. We scratched the original directions and it was well worth it.. our amazing host Kyle from the night before and Thomas from Bellingham lead us along a bike path along the coast and through forests and farmland to lunch. Per Kyle’s suggestion, we stopped at a bakery that had amazing bread and coconut macaroons.
We stopped for lunch at Bay View Park where we also relaxed, stretched and played frisbee. Then we continued on our way through flat wind swept farmland. Along the flat straights we got practice in drafting (riding close to one another so the person in front of you breaks the wind and you take turns in front).
By 6 pm everyone arrived in Stanwood to our welcoming hosts at Stanwood United Methodist Church after a 80 kilometer ride. We are staying at this church because last years riders needed a place to stay at the last minute and they opened their doors, and we are thankful to be back again! Members of the congregation provided us with a delicious potluck dinner and then we gave a presentation about Riding to Break the Cycle, Global Agents for Change and microcredit.
We ended the night with a group gathering about logistics and responsibilities that was filled with many laughs. Soon thereafter everyone was feeling very tired and headed to bed. So on that note, I too will say goodbye and head to bed. Check back in tomorrow to read about our ride to Seattle!
-Jackie, 2008 Rider