4th of July ROMP style

Happy 4th everyone! The fire danger in dry southern California has made this a fireworks-free holiday for us, but it's still nice to be celebrating it in the USA before riding into Mexico next week.

In the 16 days since leaving Eugene, Greg and I have cycled over 900 long miles. We've tackled the hills of Highway 1 north of San Francisco, seen the largest trees in the world on the Avenue of the Giants, ridden over the Golden Gate Bridge, and taken on the arduous road through Big Sur (well, most of us). More than anything, though, we've met some great people eager to support Riding for ROMP.

James "the Diesel" Shanahan has been a welcome addition to our riding crew the last few days. He played host and tour guide as Riding for ROMP stopped in San Francisco and his been on his bike with us ever since. We'll be sad to see him go in San Diego.

People have been more than generous, welcoming us into their homes or hotels and providing us with both the food and encouragement to keep going. Last night we stayed with a great family in Los Osos, who woke us up this morning to the smell of chocolate chip waffles. Tonight we gorged ourselves on the 4th of July barbeque at the Skyview Hotel in Los Alimos (theskyviewmotel.com). Everywhere we stop, be it for the night, lunch, or just a water break, people are eager to learn about ROMP and our ride, and consistently go out of their way to help us.

Next stop is Santa Barbera. We cross into Mexico in less than a week. Thanks to everyone who have made this leg of Riding for ROMP an incredible and successful experience!