Excitement? Still strong, and why not? It’s only day 2! Some things stay the same: the hour-long setup routine—bags on, lights on, radar on—but this time, no Nemo. Yeah, he went rogue, so it’s just me and the trail today.

The rain took a break overnight, leaving behind clouds as I set off, aiming southward. Ten blocks to the trail. I’m feeling optimistic. But, surprise! The rain returns 30 minutes in, just a friendly drizzle this time. And with 81 degrees and 96% humidity, I’m not sure if I’m drenched from the rain or my own sweat. Either way, I’m soaked, but who’s complaining?

Shoutout to the ECG (East Coast Greenway) for keeping things bike-friendly. Even when I hit main roads, Florida’s wide bike lanes had my back. I may be a novice, but if I had to pick a poster child for bike touring, Florida’s winning the crown. No shade to the other states, but Florida knows how to roll out the bike lane red carpet.

Today, I didn’t meet many people on the trail to chat with about brain injuries, but I found some willing listeners at gas stations. Sure, I might forget some key points, but if someone lets me ramble, I’ll say what I can remember. And hey, people need to know about brain injury awareness!

The scenery? Oh man, talk about riding in paradise. Sand dunes, ocean views, palmetto bushes – the first 10 miles flew by with a drizzle and winds that were sometimes pushing me along. By the end of this trip, I might have to rig up a sail and let the wind do the hard work. But would that be cheating?

Things got quieter as I pedaled the next 15 miles—houses on my left, dunes on the right, and enough traffic to keep me alert. Then, St. Augustine came into view, and so did the infamous Vilano Beach Bridge. Half a mile long, 65 feet high, and me? Huffing and puffing like a locomotive climbing to the top. But, the reward? A glorious coast down the other side.

Next up: the Bridge of Lions. Gorgeous architecture, and surprisingly, it didn’t challenge me like Vilano did. One more mile and I’d call it a day. But wait! Chocolate.

Yes, Whetstone Chocolates of St. Augustine. I hit the brakes and parked myself in front of a display of chocolatey goodness. Sure, I’m watching my diet, but who can resist dark chocolate covered caramel with sea salt? If I’m going to stray from the plan, it better be worth it. And oh, it was worth it.

With my chocolate fix satisfied and 33 miles behind me, I called it a day. Not the longest ride, but easily one of the most enjoyable. From bridges to chocolate, sand dunes to sweat, I’m reminded what a blessing it is to be alive. After all, where there’s life, there’s always hope.