Today was the most beautiful part of the coast I've seen so far. When I was at home, dreaming of this trip, I had envisioned this type of scenic coastline

Steep sharp cliffs, dropping into the ocean, the road barely hugging the side. Tall trees shadowing the path, and rolling hills with vistas.

I was so happy to have a massive tailwind. I struggle to describe it... if I were to stop my bicycle, then stand on it, the wind would push me up a hill with no pedaling on my part. Today I was sailing not cycling.

Dan and Ethan are a father and son who have been at my pace for the last two days. Dan grew up in Florence, Oregon 40 years ago. He is taking his son down the coast to relive part of his childhood and before Ethan starts college. I think that's fantastic! 

My bicycle is starting to feel lighter. Craig was kind enough to take some of the items I didn't need home:

• Go pro 

• Camera tripod

• Foldable backpack

• Two day-shirts

• Two pairs of underwear

There items were quite heavy and their loss has been cherished. I have more energy and room to carry food instead.

Food has been an interesting experience on this trip. I estimate that I eat approximately 4000-4500 calories per day, which still may not be enough. Most of the time I have to eat despite not being hungry - which is most challenging when on the bicycle. Our bodies don't want to intake food during strenuous exercise because our muscles need the blood to operate over our stomachs. None the less I eat away.

Some of my favorite snacks on the bicycle have been sausages, pro meal bars, dried mangos, pocky stick, tortillas, and dried seaweed (nori). 

Not to worry though, for lunch and dinner I eat regular meals which are quite healthy. Couscous with curry, avocado, carrot, and red pepper has been a favorite along with soba noodles and chicken fried rice. American grocery stories (for all their faults normally) have abundant caloric foods. I do miss Swedish sandwiches and herring though.

I don't want Oregon to end. It has been so lovely here. Scenic spots, nice people, and amazing bicycle-specific campgrounds with hot showers will be missed. I have another 3 days in this state, and I will try to cherish if. Tomorrow or the day after I should pass through Bandon, which has been recommended to me many times by the locals as being exceptionally beautiful.

Excited for the next day!