Reading the right words, just when I was needing them. Warm fuzzies from Tash - stuck together in a letter for me to read once I got to Tasmania, and not all at once. Doubt, circling me, throughout the day. I tried, to open my mouth, to genuinely share. But some days I just don't have it. Introverted, shy, simply tired. It takes so much patience, constant work - not to attack it, forcefully try and change it. Big Burnie Bike Day. Nearly 200 riders split between varying distance rides. I stayed at the main event. Helping with the registration, information table. My scraps, so-called flyers, looked like a sorry effort next to all the gov't bike info. handouts. track bikes, having a go at going round. Conspicuous. No so comfortable in my lanky body today. An empty donation jar. But I simply couldn't push it. People who love me. know me. "Cuddles?" From Tash. Rachel, letting me cry, be quiet. I pick out the harmonica each time it comes up in a band I listen to. I never noticed it, before I started attempting to play it. Lists of goals. Living authentically. Competent. Reminders. Yes, I am here. Must be competent. Even if I'm the shyest fundraiser to pedal this Tasmanian land. Love. Every where I go. For the people I meet. Peddling next to ocean bays. Reminding me of my first, big solo hike on Stewart Island, New Zealand. I was alone then. Learning just as much as I am learning now.
Things I constantly learn and re-learn during cycle touring: when exhausted and mentally low: nap, nap, and nap some more.
I feel much more sane and centered now. Finally got to meet Nick, who was off giving climate change talks in Launceston. Really amazed at how generous Nick and Michelle have been so far. And it is so great to have such enthusiastic people to bounce ideas off of! I'm heading off to Takone tomorrow for my first WWOOF farm. There are horses there! Yay, I miss those! A gradual, constant climb uphill. I will report back on how that goes, though having Goat fully loaded with front and rear panniers fills a lot better than I expected.
So until my next internet access opportunity, loads of hugs and ocean views!
-Kelsey
Heybridge to Burnie (round trip):
Total K's: 19.8
It takes a lot of courage to put your self out there. Three cheers for you. You inspire me to be a better person. xoxo Mom
ReplyDeleteKeep on truckin', Kilo Mike!!!!
ReplyDeleteYou're amazing!!! I can't believe you're actually doing it. So proud of you. I miss cycling sooooo much - although am still commuting to work - 40 mins on a bike is just not enough in one day! Miss ya. xx
ReplyDeleteya ho!
ReplyDelete