Lars’ Notes: 

As I woke up this morning, eager to get back on the road, I heard the sorrowful news that my mother, Birgit, passed away last night. While we knew the time was near, it came as a shock and filled me sadness. After a long conversation with my sister Marianne, we decided that mom would want me to continue with the ride and not return home ahead of schedule. She loved adventure and time together, so I know she would rather we continue with the trip. I didn’t have much appetite for breakfast, but managed to eat half a PB&J as we had 64 miles planned for the day. Our destination was Sausalito, a suburb of San Francisco. We left at 9:00 from Bodega Bay with clouds and mist. Both the weather and my heart were a bit gloomy, The ride hugged the coast for about 10 miles, misty conditions, but not too cold and the visibility was fine. The traffic was surprisingly light and virtually no trucks. The terrain was very nice, with gentle, rolling hills; it gave me plenty of time to reflect. Mom was definitely with me today as my thoughts were filled with her memories. Her love of the outdoors, of staying healthy, her endless compassion for family and love for us were the thoughts that consumed my mind. Thoughts of her filled me with joy on the ascents, tears hit me on the flats and the tears dried as I raced down the descents; this pattern continued for miles.

We turned inland, away from the coast and were treated with warmer temperatures and some beautiful farmland. Open fields and pastures led to unique wooded and shady sections. Again, nice gentle rolling terrain…climb, cry, descend…repeat. We then reached Tomales Bay; a large bay separating the mainland from Point Reyes National Seashore. We stopped for a snack and watched as a sea otter frolicked in the bay in front of us.

I have been very surprised at the limited development along much of the California Coast we have seen so far, I have seen almost no recreational boats and very few cargo or commercial ships. Pockets of oyster and fishing boats, but the seas have been clear, only rocks, sea lions and expansive ocean.  California must have more restrictions on these beautiful coastlines, it is wonderful to keep these landscapes protected and let nature display its awesome beauty.

Turning inland again, we headed towards Sausalito through Lagunitas (I know this name from an IPA!) and Fairfax. We were treated with generous shoulders and a few sections of dedicated bike paths. We started to see much more bicycle traffic and heading into a more suburban landscape. We haven’t seen this for a while. We stopped at a small store in Lagunitas for a cup of coffee and to replenish our water. The coffee was mediocre, but the break was nice.

As we got closer to San Fransisco, our route went through some really beautiful neighborhoods with clearly marked bike lanes. The area is very bicycle friendly! The highlight of the afternoon was a one mile climb (not too steep) followed by a spectacular view of San Fransisco and the Bay Bridge. We then had the thrilling experience of speeding back down. I was appreciative of the signs that said “bicycles can take the full lane”. We took full advantage, it was a blast to speed down the hill, leaning into the sharp curves. Mom would have been nervous, but she knows I’m careful. She taught me plenty of common sense!

The last few miles were windy, but we rode the Mill Valley-Sausalito Bike path to our meeting point with Lise.

Thank you for everything you have given me mom, and thanks for riding with me today!