April 3rd.
James and I flew back to Germany together - flight round trip out of Austin, so, we skipped the desert ride from Phoenix by renting a truck and driving to Austin to catch our flight to Germany. Our friend Margie decided to ride the 1000+ miles solo through AZ, NM, to TX when we parted at the ghost cafe/restaurant in Tortilla Flat while J and I headed back to Phoenix.
In Phoenix, we were greeted by a friend of our WS hosts, who set us up and shared her home so graciously and let us sort through what needs to be done next. In the process she shared a most incredible family story of her great aunt who wrote a book about this part of her life - based on true events....and, if you are familiar with the “Dude Girl” cycling jerseys for women, this is the company’s (founded by our host’s cousin)true history.
This is the story:
Margie has been wearing “Dude Girl” jerseys for a while...now we know!
My sad trip to Germany does not need to be described here in my travel journey, but, it is part of the journey in life and though I am deeply saddened and feel the loss of a close family member,
I am now slowly finding my way back (physically and emotionally)to continue our tour. The tour must go on!
Back in Austin with my daughter and another set of incredible WS hosts I am grateful for life, friends, family and the ability to follow my dream.
Here we are reuniting with our friend Margie....bikes are ready...back on our wire donkeys (German expression) Friday morning, heading east towards Florida.
