Denise Goldberg

[Nanci]

Wow, your webpages sure have a lot of stuff to keep someone who is having a slow day at work busy. I am reading about what's in your bags/panniers right now, and my main question is, when you go touring, do you go by yourself, or with someone?

I wish my tax return hadn't run out before I got to buy a superlight tent (or a bolero!)

Nanci

[DeniseGoldberg]

Nanci -
What an unexpected surprise, a thread with my name as the subject!

My touring companion is me... I started in the world of touring back in 1988 doing supported (as in group) tours. But when I graduated to self-supported tours back in 1998 I also changed to touring solo. I really enjoy touring alone; I ride at my own pace - for as long as I feel like riding, I stop and play with my camera, my rest days are when I need them (no compromises!) - and I find that I meet more people that live in the areas I am traveling through. I've found that talking with strangers happens a lot more often when I'm alone than if I'm with a group. And for me that is part of the magic of touring.

I don't think there is a right or wrong answer though. I live alone, so touring alone doesn't seem odd at all to me. I know other people who are happier (or more comfortable) when they have built-in company on their tours. It's whatever feels right to you.

--- Denise

[SadieKate]

My touring companion is me... se

Wait a minute. What about the pooch?

[SadieKate]

Don't forget him!

[DeniseGoldberg]

Wait a minute. What about the pooch?

Well, I figured that people already thought I was a little nutty, so I didn't mention him. But you're right - Rover does join me on my tours. I haven't been able to convince him to take notes for my journal during the day, and he's happiest if he can ride in a pannier or in my trailer right next to the snack food. He really likes chocolate, but he tells me that if we're not carrying real chocolate that he can put up with energy bars that include some semblance of chocolate flavor.

Oh, you want to see a picture? Here he is as we were getting ready to head out on tour (destination, Prince Edward Island) last fall:


update... Ah, SadieKate beat me to the picture. The one she included was taken in Ireland!

--- Denise

[Jo-n-NY]

No, you are not nutty Denise. I think what you do is great!!! I would call you interesting.

~JoAnn

[DebW]

I've been reading the PEI tour. Thanks for sharing your trips.