10 Weeks

I clearly remember my emotions as I cycled off up the street to start this bike trip.

I didn't feel nervous, how could I? It's my decision to do this, nobody else's. I stripped it down to the basic fact, I'm going on a bike ride.
Excitement was not really there either, I'm not 8 years old and on my way to Alton Towers.

I felt totally calm, ready to embrace the unknown. The reason behind my feelings, I think, is the fact that I had absolutely no route planned.
Maybe you can go with the flow easier when you have no destination in mind.

After the first week, you start to master the art of slowing down. It sounds simple but I think modern life and social media gang up on you, certain expectations are always there in the background, subconsciously pushing you on.

I don't mean you slow down physically, I'm still riding the same distances each week. I think it's an altering of your mindset that is more important. Focus on yourself and the inner contentment that comes with taking a step back from 'real' life.

Also, most of this route has been suggested to me, recommendations either from friends or people I've met along the way. That to me is being totally free. Most of the time you want to be in control of decisions in your life. But it's so important in your development, to learn to hand over choices to others, and then just trust them and go for it.

I've met loads of people on this trip and one thing most of them have in common is that they are giving themselves to others. And take pleasure from it.
Teachers, cycle instructors, nurses. One lady, Nicole from Australia, worked in a hiking shop. She said she spent her days empowering women who came into the shop. They were looking to buy gear because they wanted to do some solo travelling but didn't feel they had the courage to do so. Nicole built up their confidence to go out there and do it. Very inspirational woman.

A French couple, two women, about my age, were touring but their bikes had been stolen. They were upset but they decided to rent bikes and keep going. Good for them. 
One of them had a Gite that she rented out, when I left them she gave me her business card. She said, come and stay, it's free for you, no charge.
Another example of people giving.

I sometimes think, what am I giving back? I'm not doubting myself but maybe I'm drifting along just being me, is that enough?

I will ruminate on these thoughts and get back to you.

One thing I know for certain, the vast majority of people are good and kind. And I think I've met most of them on this trip. Life is meant to be fun.

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