Livingston- parting ways

7/25

We took off our cowboy hats, hung up the flannel, and left the ranch life behind. Our next destination was not far, only about 30 miles south to Livingston, MT, but this would be our final leg of the trip riding together.

On the way out of Wilsall we pulled off to the side of a country road to discuss the situation. Alex, engaged to be married in September, had spent a long two months away from his fiance. Final details for the wedding ceremony and reception were due in a week and he felt that it would be best to be with Alyse as they made those decisions together. If he left, it would be a 1,400 mile trip, in two days, riding alone. It also meant that I would be finishing the last 2,000 miles of the trip solo.

God, in his mercy, provided us with some assistance. For Alex: Alyse's dad, a biker as well, agreed to ride out from Chicago and meet Alex halfway in Sioux Falls, SD. For me: a few friends that we had met during our time in Washington would be touring Yellowstone and the Grand Tetons at the same time I would. They invited me to share in their camping and traveling adventures over the next week. And so it was, we were not alone.

With the decision made the next few moments were a bit sappy as we prepared to ride together one last time. We agreed to get back together and reflect once the journey was over.

And with that, we jumped back on the bikes and rode into Livingston, MT. There we met up with Patrick and his wife, both recent Taylor grads. Alex and I loved talking with them about life on Third East Wengatz, outdoor adventures, and his love for off-roading. (My next motorcycle trip will be through Canada and Alaska... Banff, Jasper, Denali.)