Monday, February 28, 2011
It is a wonderful thing to be able to run away from ones life. to leave behind responsibility, deadlines, work; and even community, friends, and family. There is a freedom we sacrafice for social neccesity and civilization. Huck Finn had it right. The world looks different when the only obstacle is the mountain before you. Day two had plenty of mountains. After 30 miles of continuous uphill and snow, I hit the wall. I dragged my sorry behind over the summit, and enjoyed a 24 oz modelo and a mineral soak in Jacumba. I have been meeting a few fellow xcountry cyclists on the way. Tomorrow brings the great desert. I look forward to a leasurely 65 on the flats. o
Sunday, February 27, 2011
Fw:
> From: Robert J Frias <robertjfrias@yahoo.com>
> Subject:
> To: "bobokerblom@yahoo.com" <bobokerblom@yahoo.com>
> Date: Sunday, February 27, 2011, 2:21 PM
>
>
>
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> Sent from my iPhone
Day one, San Diego to Alpine.
The winter storm with pounding rain was over by sunrise. Heavy snow above 2000 feet prohibited travel past Alpine. With clear sky and chilly temperatures, the journey began. A large group of Santa Maria and San Diego supporters clothed in neon yellow "Drive Cell Free" tee shirts wished us well. The presence of friends, family, and some old friends of Eric, moved my heart! People have been so kind and caring to us. After the obligatory dip of the rear wheel in the Pacific, ten cyclists pedaled to a nice Mexican food lunch in Alpine. Now the fan fare is over and I am left alone with that titanium appendage. Tomorrow, the mountains.
The winter storm with pounding rain was over by sunrise. Heavy snow above 2000 feet prohibited travel past Alpine. With clear sky and chilly temperatures, the journey began. A large group of Santa Maria and San Diego supporters clothed in neon yellow "Drive Cell Free" tee shirts wished us well. The presence of friends, family, and some old friends of Eric, moved my heart! People have been so kind and caring to us. After the obligatory dip of the rear wheel in the Pacific, ten cyclists pedaled to a nice Mexican food lunch in Alpine. Now the fan fare is over and I am left alone with that titanium appendage. Tomorrow, the mountains.
Like Dante, in my middle years I have lost my way. The spirituality, harmony, values, and structure of my former life have been swept away by the killing of my 19 year old son, Eric. I am left adrift on a sea of dark currents and noxious winds. Without direction or destination, I wander the outer circles of hell. Although surrounded by loving family, friends, and community, I am alone in a lonely place. As I begin this journey to honor my son, I hope to also find some way to emerge from this abyss. So from now until the finish, I will pedal for the dead. Here are my travels.
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