Yesterday marked my first serious tour pace exploration ride. After loading my panniers with a small amount of gear I took off for Montgomery then Conroe and home. My goal was to see what it would be like to pretend i was sight seeing and not in any hurry.

After 20 miles or so I began to  pay little attention to speed. Just focusing on the sights and smells and sounds of the roads. Along the way I began to recall past tours with my brother Dan when we rode unsupported from San Francisco to LA. Then LA to Phoenix taking in the sights and visiting from time to time. Reliving some of the past.

We had four goals every day.

1. Stay on our route.
2. Stay hydrated and fueled.
3. Distance ourselves from our normal day to day routines and challenges.
4. Take it all in. Seize every minute.

I'm not sure how to explain it, but you get into a rhythm and a peaceful mindset when in this state of mind. Similar to meditation in some respects. And interestingly at the end of each day of touring I felt calm and pleasantly fatigued, sleeping soundly all night. Just like I slept last night.

It was so nice I've decided to go out again today and continue the exploration of my new life on the bike. And as The Eagles song goes

Take it easy, take it easy
Don't let the sound of your own wheels drive you crazy
Lighten up while you still can
Don't even try to understand
Just find a place to make your stand, and take it easy

T10 till the next post.