Gear of the Week – Parents and Family

I am by nature a solitary animal. I enjoy doing it myself and doing what I want when I want. That said, I have a phenomenal family and their love and support is a significant factor in all of my adventures. This trip is no exception. I can always count on their encouragement and support even when they think what I am doing is ridiculous. My family accepted my absence or reduced availability for holidays and vacations this past year as I accumulated enough time off to take this trip. Rather than point out the flaws in my plan they cheered decisions like adding miles and weight to play golf and to sidetrack to do a portion of the Great Divide Mountain bike Route.

Better yet they are participating actively as I make my way through the Midwest. My sister really did roll out the red carpet with fantastic hospitality including lavish meals and even more impressive, wrangling her kids to come and spend time with their “Cool” uncle. To be honest I don’t think she need to do much convincing to get the kids there and that is a testament to her instilling a sense of family in her children and the quality young adults she and her husband Rod have raised.

Now on to parents as a travelers best gear. Not only have they encouraged me along the way they are my emergency back up. I keep them informed of my whereabouts and know if I have a problem they will spring into action.

Besides being great stand alone pieces of gear by being supportive, and fun to be around they come with all types of great accessories. Here are a few:

A Truck: a vital piece of gear when transporting me and Alister from hotel to trailhead

A Cooler: filled with soda and beer. Enough said!

Bags of Snacks: much like the cooler being able to reach in and get candy, chips, power bars, and sausages has changed my view of supported rides.

Cards: playing cards at the end of the days has been more fun than I would have thought. Maybe I do need human interaction?

Better Taste in Hotels: yes they pick hotels with breakfast, clean rooms, and a better class of people in the lobby.

I will miss these luxuries as I head back out alone but it was a fantastic week. Thanks Mom and Dad!