Family and friends.....follow along with us as we make our way across the United States by bicycle. The six of us will depart the west coast on June 14, 2010....three friends by bike and three family members by car....in hopes of reaching the east coast in 8 weeks. The following journal will be updated often with stories, pictures, and videos of our journey. We hope you enjoy.

The TransAmerica Trail

The TransAmerica Trail
Our Route Across the United States

Tuesday, June 8, 2010

Tuesday, June 8 - Day Negative 5

Got up this morning to rain that looked as if it was going to last all day. So, we went to plan B and visited the Mall of America, a huge, mega-structure, tourist trap of a mall downtown. Mall's aren't really my thing, but others were interested, so it was off to the mall. I arrived a little later than the others (Kim's uncle and I took a little detour) and when we arrived, Kim and Anna had just purchased tickets to ride the assorted rides in the mall. Kim and Anna proceeded to ride every big ride in the mall while the others watched. I am not sure who enjoyed it more - Anna or Kim.


Family At The Mall of America


Kim and Anna Hitting the Log Ride in Mall of America


On another note, we are not happy with the packing job that I did to start this trip. I thought that Rubbermaid containers for everyone would be the best. Bad idea...a lot of wasted space. So, we went to Wal Mart and bought duffel bags for everyone. After switching every one's gear to the duffel bags, we have a lot more room in the van for the kids. I kind of wish I would have left the containers alone. I am not sure what Kyle's nutrition regimen involves, but I removed more animal crackers and jaw breakers from his container than I have ever seen in my life. What is up with that, Kyle?

Off to Custer State Park tomorrow.

Monday, June 7 - Day Negative 6

Today was travel day number one. Not going to bore you with details. Here are the important items.....800 miles driven and arrived safely at Kim's Aunt and Uncle's home by 8:45 p.m. If you are thrilled with hundreds of interstate miles, fast food stops, and gas fill ups, today was your day.