Today Margaret and I left for what will be, for me, the third leg of the TransAmerica bike ride with WomanTours. It has always felt scary. I have always felt under-trained. I haven't felt ready. I don't feel capable.

This year there are some new challenges in leaving. My mother has late stage dementia/Alzheimer's and her future care is uncertain at this time. I have been sick with anaplasmosis and have lingering symptoms. An employee abruptly quit my main business in a way that makes it hard on me and the incredible folks who remain. And… the trip is longer this year because we are driving out to Kansas and then back from Kentucky in our new RV, who we have lovingly named Pippi, trying out a “work from van” lifestyle, that is both exciting and a bit scary. Margaret has a working adventure of her own planned for the 3 weeks I am riding my bike.

We have made it to our first scheduled stop: at a campground on Lake Erie. I have been texting with my brother about my mother. Margaret is trying to figure out a way to get online securely, but we can't get the wifi booster to work. Some kinks for sure. But… I am sitting by a campfire writing this. No airports/delayed flights or worries about my bike’s arrival on time or good condition. I feel generally relaxed. I am happy to be making this trip with Margaret. I am happy. Tomorrow we drive to Indiana, no rushing necessary.