January 17, 2005; Willis, Texas

Today I continue my journey on two wheels. I expected to get on the bike just like I was putting on an old shoe, after all, I felt very comfortable when I parked it a month ago. But that was not the case. Instead, I was nervous and apprehensive; not about riding itself, but about the second leg of my journey.

I have set some rather lofty goals for myself the second time around. I could not help but wonder if I could or would do everything I had set out to do. Looking back, the first leg seemed like it was all candy canes and lollipops. This time the trip will be considerably longer, and I was sure to face some more challenging situations. How would I handle them?

As soon as I was on the highway, my mood immediately changed. The Skank Brother's rendition of "Fly Me to the Moon" was the song of the day. Soon I found myself in Willis, outside of Sue's. She was not home so I decided to get myself a tent. After a four-hour, 120 mile escapade I had myself a tent. Although locating one was a pain, I would be very glad that I did in two days time.

Back at Sue's just after 11:00 pm, I gave the throttle one last twist in the driveway and waited a minute to see if Sue would wander out to see if I had moseyed back to Willis. I ended up ringing the doorbell anyway and Sue's weary expression quickly turn to a smile. She welcomed me in and asked me if I was looking for a place to stay. As if there was any question.