Photo by Dr. Haus
The big part of the trip felt done when I arrived in Cape May and I spent four days enjoying Cape May in the off season. I spent a lot of time enjoying a mostly empty beach, enjoying some delicious seafood, and generally trying to rest and relax after the long ride down south.
Photo by Dr. Haus
I can happily report that I, for once in my life, concluded that just because I could do something didn't mean I should do something. In this case, I decided it would be within my best interests to decrease the number of miles I was riding to get back home as it was supposed to rain the upcoming weekend (and my bike does not tolerate rain riding) and that the place where my leg meets my butt cheek would appreciate a break. I guess what they say is true, age allows a person to decide when it makes sense to be stubborn and when you just need to let it go. I figured I wanted a restful and fun vacation prior to returning to work as opposed to the inevitable stress and tiredness I would feel if I decided to bike the entire way back home.
Photo by Dr. Haus
The plan came together quickly, I would ride the ~50 miles back to Atlantic City and take the NJ Transit train to Philadelphia for the weekend. From Philadelphia, I would be able to take the train back to my town which would decrease the amount I would need to ride to get home from ~200 miles to ~60 miles in total. That sounded great to me and I left Cape May with a renewed energy and excitement in getting to enjoy some train time versus destroying my rear end.
Photo by Dr. Haus
The ride back to Atlantic City was my favorite day of riding. Maybe it was because of the quiet roads, perfect weather, and beautiful views, or it was knowing that I only had 50 miles to ride until I was done with the major riding on this trip. I stopped many more times to enjoy the views and take in the sea air as I retraced my route from earlier in the week. The shore towns were still deserted and I wanted to cherish the quiet and solitude before I entered city mode and the noise of life in the modern world.
Photo by Dr. Haus
Very quickly I was back in Atlantic City (after dealing with two bridges from hell) and I had some time to eat at a local establishment recommended by a friend: Whitehouse Subs. I got a Philly Cheese sub which I DESTROYED - I did not realize how hungry I was until I inhaled this sandwich. Maybe it was the riding or maybe it was how good the sandwich was but I devoured that thing in seconds. I worked my way to the Atlantic City NJ Transit train station (and got lost, because...me...) and made my train with about 4 minutes to spare.
Photo by Dr. Haus
Unsurprising I am sure, I have a lot of opinions about public transit and trains in the United States - it is about time we start funding better public transit and create a society that is for everyone. But alas, I am sure I will find another time to discuss my thoughts on urban planning and public transit. It was with a heavy heart I entered the city that many consider the birthplace of America. Considering what the next four years have in store, I was surprised to find both sadness and hope when visiting the liberty bell (the expectation was only sadness). The photo above states:
"The Liberty Bell is a symbol of the American Revolution. It is a symbol of the liberties gained and a reminder of liberties denied. It is a relic of a nation's beginning. It has inspired and challenged visitors, especially in times of crisis. Its outline, familiar throughout the world, conveys the idea of the continuing expansion of liberty to new peoples and into new aspects of life."
Photo by Dr. Haus
I had spent the days in Cape May pondering my options to try to protect the liberties that are now in jeopardy due to recent political changes occurring in the United States. It felt particularly timely to be visiting the birthplace of the country to reflect upon its history, its future, and to brainstorm how I want to be an activist combating the loss of rights. I do not want this country to move backwards, I want it to move forward to a better future for everyone, regardless of who they are. Above is another impactful quote in the Liberty Bell Center:
"Why do people from around the world choose to visit the Liberty Bell? Why does this now silenced bell resonate so directly with visitors from so many varied cultures? Perhaps the greatest strength of the Liberty Bell is the way it symbolizes the never-ending quest for freedom and the need to remain forever vigilant, for liberties gained can also be lost. This is the enduring message that the Liberty Bell embodies for all American and for our fellow citizens of the world."
Photo by Dr. Haus
The Liberty Bell may be silenced but I am not.
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