Arrival at my brother Joe’s house in the Bixby Knolls section of Long Beach. Beautiful day and plenty to do.

Now that the bike is together it was time for a 25-miler south on the LA river bike trail to downtown Long Beach, Belmont Shores and Naples to ensure a smooth running machine.  A gorgeous bike trail in a dense urban center. Kayaking done in the more inland protected bodies of water.

Another section of the LA river path north from my brother’s house today.

I was able to ride with 4 close and dear friends a couple of days before I left that I have known for over 30 years. This was what my cycling has come to mean to me. It was an expression of that joy and togetherness.

As the day to go to San Diego fast approaches with all the necessary preparations in place, no small agenda. I will meet my brother in LA put my bike together.  I am struck I am leaving the littlest free wheeler for longer than I wanted.

Off I go at O dark thirty to LA to meet my brother and get my bike and mind together.

I had a 49-lb bike box and a 51-lb rolling duffel checked in. The other stuff hanging off the back pack was the essentials that were pared down to keep the baggage at limit. Onward. Tough scene leaving the littlest free wheeler behind. Onward to LA.