Bike Touring Day 9: Pt. Mugu to Los Angeles

When you  are on the last day, you let yourself think about all the nice things you are going to enjoy when you get home.  You suppress these thoughts during the trip because you don't want to torture yourself - it messes with your mind.  Once the trip is almost finished, however, you start thinking about the people you've missed, being able to cook in a kitchen, having running water and a sink to wash dishes, sleeping in a soft bed, and taking a warm shower without wearing flip flops.  (We were happy to have showers, but I had no problem letting these guys be a part of my past).

Even though we were looking forward to the modern conveniences of home, we knew we'd miss some things too.  We'd miss the great views of the countryside and ocean, the simplicity of life on the road, and being on our bikes together.  Although it is convenient to get places quickly in a car, we love the slower, more interesting way of travel.  So as you can see, the last day would have its ups and downs - much like our trip.

We did our usual morning routine and cleared the campsite.

I rode with the guys to the entrance of the park and waved goodbye.  My wife arrived only minutes after they left.  The guys would be rolling through Malibu, Santa Monica, Venice, and Redondo Beach.  Then they would take surface streets for the last 20+ miles to get home.

They suffered through lunch at Chipotle in Venice without me.  From what I hear, the last day went well.  I think Payton managed to get one more flat, but otherwise they were able to keep a good pace.

In talking to Rob after the trip, he also mentioned having more aches and pains than in past tours.  The knee pain was probably from our IT bands tightening up and getting more use than usual.  We trained before the trip, but our 40 year old bodies needed more than we gave them.  (The boys had no complaints :)

Other than some strain on the body, the trip was a great experience.  The boys were proud of their accomplishment and excited to tell their friends about it at school.  God blessed us with 500 miles of fun times, beautiful views, and safety.  Amazing.