Finding Your Way

I don't know about you, but I like to have an idea of what's up ahead of me when I take off on a bicycle trip. Don't get me wrong. I enjoy adventure and exploring the unknown, and maybe even taking a few uncharted side trips along the way. However, the bottom line for me is knowing at the end of the day, I will have a place to sleep and some food in my belly.

These simple things allow me to enjoy my day and relax enough to take in scenery, notice the hawk gliding above me and the beautiful waterfall I might have missed if I'd kept my head down worrying about my next stop.

Some people maybe call that Type A or high-strung. For me, it's just how my brain works.

That's why I'm so thankful for Adventure Cycling maps. Our latest appeal letter (you probably received it a couple of weeks ago) delves into why your financial contributions are necessary to keep those maps as up-to-date as possible. From another perspective, British cyclist James Bowthorpe, who recently set the world record time for circumventing the globe on a bicycle, said:

I like to think about maps as conversations between the map user and the map maker. In the case of my Trans Am ride this conversation was between someone who had to move fast, know where to turn, where to buy food, where to sleep, and where to get their bike repaired, with someone who knew all those things. The Adventure Cycling Association maps were indispensable, especially as my ride was unsupported.

Your donation ensures those maps stay indispensable, helping fund the effort to keep new routes coming and the existing routes updated. Donating is quick and easy so please donate today.

P.S. If you donate $250 or more between August 1, 2009 and August 1, 2010, you are eligible to participate in an extraordinary trip with a group of extraordinary people. The Wine Country Special supported bicycle tour will bring Adventure Cycling's donors and leadership together for sublime riding, locally grown and expertly prepared food, tasty after-ride beverages, a special chef's dinner, and the chance to discuss the future of Adventure Cycling's programs and initiatives.

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BICYCLING INSPIRATIONS is posted the second and fourth Friday of each month by Julie Emnett, associate development director, and examines stories that illustrate why and how cyclists support our programs. Learn how you can support Adventure Cycling.