Daily Summary:
4:30 PM to 6:00 PM — Average Speed: 23 mph
Chinese Food for dinner in Whitefish, Montana.
Odometer: 1,766 – 1,778 miles
Climb: ?? ft. — Descend: ?? ft.
40-70° F : Sunny : 0 mph variable winds. Nice days riding around Whitefish and visiting friends.
Battery Performance:
71.5v to 84v — Charged Monday, Memorial Day overnight 110v outlet @ 2 amps = 84v)
— 24 thru 26 —
Friday, May 27th, was my First Day back in Whitefish since 2014 when I stopped in town briefly on my way back to Colorado on my last long-distance bicycle tour.
I lived in Whitefish for 18 months starting in September 1, 2001.
The very first thing that I saw on television the morning after I checked into the Whitefish Motel was the plane flying into the World Trade Center.
Earlier that year, in February, was the first time that I took my son, Daniel, to New York with me while I was on business.
We enjoyed the Waldorf Astoria, the Intrepid Aircraft Carrier museum, the Statue of Liberty, the Frances Tavern where George Washington and Benjamin Franklin supposedly dined, and The World Trade Center Marriott Hotel.
We took our pictures from the top of the Tower that, unknown to us then, would be turned into dust seven months later.
I have many memories of the past, many good, and some not so much; many that were made with my children, and, sadly, many more that were not.
That’s my life, but I’m sure that I not the first person who’s had such experiences.
During a brief few days in Whitefish this year, with wonderful friends and a few quiet times to enjoy them, I was reminded of how quickly time passes, but also of how long good memories can linger on.
Friday night was the First time that I met Barrett, a loving German Shepherd who has been an unforgettable part of Kim and Russ’ lives.
Saturday was the First time that I took Barrett for a brief walk alone. He showed me around and seemed to want me to know where he had grown up and some of the things that he had enjoyed doing.
Tuesday morning was the First time I said, “Goodbye,” to Barrett. Sadly, it will be the last time that we see each other.
Kim and Russ, thank you so much for your kindness and hospitality. Thank you for sharing your home with me, and thank you for introducing me to Barrett. We will all miss him very much.
Thank you, Manita, for the years of encouragement and challenges that we have shared. If you happen to head up to Alaska this summer, let me know! Perhaps we’ll once again find ourselves in the same place at the same time.
Also, if you ever need to talk, or if you ever need anything, you know how to reach me. Call. I’ll be there.
And thank you, Angela, Josh, Jillian, Daniel, and Emily! Thank you all for the memories!
Now let’s be off and make some more!…
Don’t forget to follow us (eventually) on
YouTube and Patreon !
💫 💫 💫 💫 💫
