Some learnings from this trip so far.... Things I already knew but have to be re

1. Don't mess with God. He rules. And when you don't respect the Power, you end up in a rear naked choke having to tap out.... Or in a knee bar... Ouch!

2. Bargain for Quality....

This is actually a 2-fer...

First, you don't get what you don't ask for. You never know what people are willing to do on anything until you ask them. Be nice.  Think about what you want.... Think about what they want...

And then imagine a path for each of you to meet in the middle. 

Second - 

Buy good quality stuff... 

Good Bike from a reputable and trustworthy bike shop.   

Best panniers you can get - for me that's hands down - Ortlieb. 

Best Overbuilt racks to carry those panniers - Old Man Mountain is my choice. 

Great quality food. Don't know how much those 2 handmade sandwiches cost me this morning - probably $10 apiece - but they were made with the best of everything and I will remember that meal for the rest of my life.

Good quality lodging - pick a good place in a good location and ask for a better deal. Blue Heron Inn in Mendocino and Breakers Inn in Gualala are 2 great examples of that.  

3. Finally... 

Take time to listen...

To Yourself...

What do you need?

Where does it hurt?

What are you hungry for?

What do You want to do?

There's a difference between it being all about You....

And taking care of You...

Find the Line...

Find Your Balance...

And Live Your Life.