I am a travel photographer who is always yearning for a new adventure. I’ve always enjoyed cycling and have really come to embrace it as a lifestyle here in New York City. After learning the subway system and all it’s nuances and taboos, it quickly became apparent to me that, while having a great public transit system at your disposal, it’s still incredibly vexing. Who wants to wait for three trains to pass just to cram onto an overcrowded car stuck next to someone with volume turned up way too high on their iPod headphones. That’s when I started turning to my bike as means of transportation and not just a leisure activity. I now cycle to every date and engagement, a little sweaty and windblown, but thinner, healthier, and happier.
A few years ago, my brother told me about a friend of his who flew to Portland, Oregon, bought a bike at a garage sale, and rode it to Portland, Maine. Craziness, but what an adventure it must have been! The idea stuck with me I guess, not as an every day thought, but just something cool that someone did. It wasn’t till about a year ago, and many more miles cycling the city, that I came back to it. I have been riding around the city, going to and fro, and somehow commuting more than exploring. So I began looking around, reading some blogs, websites, and exploring what it takes to reach that level of crazy. What I found was incredibly inspiring. For starters, I realized that a cross-country trip can be a very realistic goal. Second, it would be great opportunity to take my photography to a whole new level, exploring new places, meeting new people, and adding serious depth to my work. And third, why the hell not? There are a lot of reasons I’m self-employed and having the ability to take time off whenever I want is certainly one of them. The city will be here when I get back, my work will be here. I’m young and able. There’s really no excuse NOT to do it now.
So here I go.
Oh, and you’re welcome to join me too!
Been enjoying your blog today,Aug3,just saw you and Marissa on the road heading for Pennsylvania and was impressed by some rad hill climbing skill. Thanks for spending some time sharing your thoughts and plans for an amazing adventure! Goodluck and Godspeed! Enjoy every minute,… as I say that it has really started downpouring but fortunately I read that you like riding in the rain! You and Marissa got toughned up in the City and that has come in handy along the way I am sure!
Take Care,
John
Hi Andrew and Marissa,
We went to see a Beatles Tribute band at the Lock 3 in Akron with your parents last night and they told us about your journey and blog. I am so impressed and thoroughly enjoyed the stories and pics in your blog. Will be looking forward to visiting it every day. How exciting and taxing a trip! Will keep you in our thoughts and pray for your safety! Good luck!
Andrew and Marissa –
So sorry I missed the two of you when you passed through Vermilion, Ohio. The kids loved playing in the tent and Jill enjoyed spending time with the two of you. I look forward to reading your blog and can’t wait for new posts. Take care!
Your Uncle Jose passed your website on to me. What a great trip. Memory of a lifetime. I want to do it too. Jose says Hi.
Marissa and Andrew,
I just subscribed to your blog. You are an inspiration. Good luck out there.
Keep makin’ (f)art!! Ride Hard!!!
Love,
Mike
Hello Marissa and Andrew, I just happened to come across you site address that I had in my wallet. I think it was mid to late summer of 2010 that I met you in the Nelson WI area, This was in the Twin Bluff bar (first time for me) late in the evening. Hope all is well life is great. take care Bob