Here we are just hours away from another epic adventure made possible by a great friend from the Netherlands and my amazing wife and family. It seems to be commonplace for me to find myself in this state of mind when very close to embarking on an adventure. I find myself full of gratitude and this emotion often can be felt physically by manifesting itself into a lump in my throat making it hard to use words. My eyes simultaneously are provided that extra salty liquid substance when I do attempt to say thank you to Erin as I leave early on the first morning. It is definitely an explosion of emotions that I cherish as it means I am still living the good life and still surrounded by those that support such ambitious adventures.

This year while watching many YouTube videos of my favorite adventure cyclists while out on similar journeys in this beautiful world, I have heard numerous times these wonderful people say that if you are not nervous, excited and anxious about the road that lies ahead, then perhaps you should change your path and find a path a little more challenging. We must strive to push our limits and get out there and truly experience this world since as we all know life is way too short. Leave no regrets.

Just as a reminder while I am out here on the Atlantic Coast, I leave you with something I like to say to myself as I pedal away from the start point. When it rains I will be wet, when the temperatures are high I will be hot, when the winds are a strong tailwind in my face I will be slow. The important thing to remember is that I chose to be out here and I guarantee you all that I am happy and appreciative. Time to make those small circles with my feet again.

Pro Tip: If you are not sure you are a strong swimmer, do not go snorkeling in an ocean without flippers unless Folker is nearby to be able to pull you back to shore and save you from drowning. Folker has already done his good deed for our trip and there is one young adult here in Key West that will remember Folker forever.