Hey Everyone,
I am told that I was born 24 years ago on July 11th, and given the name, Ryan, I don't remember though. What I do remember is growing up in Los Angeles, California, riding bikes in curvaceous canyons and playing in the majestic Sierra Nevada mountains. Although my obsession with the hills is still unchecked, I find myself in the District of Columbia, learning at the George Washington University.
Despite the festering sidewalks and lack of a clearly defined horizon line, it isn't a bad gig. Plenty of opportunities for respite meander through the city from time to time and the academics are at least entertaining. I'll leave this place with a degree in psychology, a fascinating study in which I have no desire to pursue a career. I have instead set my sights on designing and producing potable ecosystems for the greater good of humanity.
In addition to zymological pursuits in our nation's capitol, I get to play outside with our school's experiential education crew, who both lead outings and maintain a lofty quota of fun. It was during one such excursion that I chanced upon an eventual friend who had spent her summer riding a bicycle across the country while wielding a hammer with Bike & Build. Having recently undulated from Mexico to Canada along the Pacific Crest, I was intrigued by this transcontinental philanthropic expedition. The technical aspects along with the requisite dedication involved in such a odyssey tickled my "between-the-ears place." In time, I learned more about Bike & Build and eventually began to juxtapose previous volunteer activities and distance backpacking. Similarities began to emerge in the mental, physical, and emotional realms, and with those similarities came a momentous urge towards participating in Bike & Build.
Stoked!, and nothing but! I'm looking forward to closing the collegiate chapter of my life and opening a new one. That I will have the opportunity to take part in building homes and assist others in obtaining their dreams is of no small sentiment. I look forward to the meeting of peoples, and the sharing of experiences along the way. Given my childhood, it seems fitting to leave the east and return home in the west via bicycle. I'm looking forward to the small towns and hospitable folks who occupy the nooks of the Appalachians and the crannies of the Rockies.
I have often wondered upon the back of a nickle, how William Clark truly felt when he wrote, "Ocean in view! Oh the joy!". Anyone else think that might have been wee understatement? We shall see. Anyway, I am excited to meet all of the participants on the right coast for the beginning of the trek.
Cheers,
Ryan
