Post Three - Off We Go

There are lots of sayings, phases and even songs to mark the beginning of a great adventure. “High ho Silver away”; “Off we go into the wild blue yonder”; “Up, up and away; and, of course, “Ready, set, go,” just to name a few. For me, getting ready for this trip has been more like a countdown to the start of an epic trip to places unknown, yet legendary. Ten, nine, eight, seven.… three, two, one. Blast off. It’s like looking at the moon for decades, and now finally getting to visit. 

The French Alps hold a certain mystery for me.  Celebrated and cursed for over a hundred years by those riding the most famous cycling event in the world, I’m finally going to experience the French Alps from the seat of a bicycle. My advantage, however, is that I’ll actually be able to see and appreciate the Alps since I have no plans (or ability) to climb and descend at the same pace as those riding in the Tour de France.  I keep reminding myself that unlike a bike training camp (or Raid Corsica), this trip is designed as a cycling vacation. Maybe I should start looking at our trip like nine days of recovery rides. Just a series of easy spins like we do on a Sunday morning.  But, then reality sets in. Who am I kidding? Somehow, I know that’s not going to happen, as I keep being told. But, it’s a nice metaphor that will keep me calm, relaxed and in self-denial on this last day before we leave. 

  

My next post will be from the Annecy, France. Unless we get delayed in San Luis Obispo, Los Angeles, or Washington, DC.