Camping on the sand during a night rain coated everything in wet sand and drenched my clothing. I'll have to wear wet cycling clothes today.

The riding today is through the parts of California I recognize and remember fondly: golden rolling hills, cattle, and ranches near the coast. My body is still reeling from the pain in my left hamstring, I have all day to bike the 50km to Samuel P Taylor, so I don't rush it.

I am feeling a second wind and excitement to finish the ride now, a little extra energy where it didn't exist before. But each kilometer feels slower, I constantly check how far I've ridden. The anticipation of the end looms over me, it fills my mind most of the day. So close... always so close... why does it feel so slow?

Tonight I'll have some company for the second time on the trip! Craig was king enough to drive out in Oregon and now Kanaad Lukas and Robert are all coming out for an overnighter. 

This journey has involved so much solitude and mental challenges, rightfully so I think. Having friends think about you and come out to share the final night makes the ride feel unforgotten, like it existed and mattered to someone else other than me, it made it concrete.

There is a great Indian restaurant in Lagunitas, we all had dinner and caught up. It was nice to have Lukas understand the ins and outs of my setup, and the challenges of longer distance riding. 

For Kanaad it was his first night camping, which was a great experience to share. My first camping experience was not pleasant and I don't remember it fondly. At the time I thought "People get bitten by bugs and intentionally make themselves uncomfortable for fun? How stupid!"

Thankfully Kanaad didn't have that reaction, he enjoyed himself, hopefully this is a gateway to more outdoor adventures - excited for you buddy!

Camp fire, beers, and crashed. Good time!