Cycling In Italy – Finale

Ciao,

It had to come to an end. From making lists of what to pack, to riding in Switzerland, to getting the new bike, to climbing Mount Grappa, to meeting Mr. Pinarello, my cycling adventure is over. It’s both sad and happy and I know I’m still in the transition stage. I’m clinging to the memory of a great vacation while diving head first back into my job and the responsibilities of being a husband and father.

Since this is a blog and not a novel, I had to leave out most of the images and impressions from my trip. To include them all would have been overwhelming for both you and me. As I reflect back, cycling in Europe was not about the number of miles or the mountains we climbed. It was about the small things. What I’ll remember is the great espresso in the cafés, the rides through ancient towns and villages, the wonderful conversations at lunch and dinner, and getting to know friends even better. It was about cycling in someone else’s country and getting a glance at their culture.

For those of you how have inquired, the new bike made it to California unharmed thanks to Gaylen’s hard case. She is now reassembled and ready for a little fine tuning. Her inaugural ride in California will probably be on Thursday. Like me, she needs a little rest until then.

Many thanks to all who made this cycling adventure possible. Without the help of family and friends, I would still be looking at maps and dreaming of cycling in Switzerland and Italy. Instead, I’ll have memories that will last a lifetime. Thank you.