Sea Otter was a bit odd for me this year. Omnium not having a booth meant I could float around as much as I wanted, but honestly I spent the most time hanging out with the @hudskibikes crew who created the most chill zone ride by the chemically too-blue pond with plenty of tree shade, chairs to relax, cold drinks, and best vibes I’ve ever experienced at this kind of corporatey bike show. Second day of the show mom called to let me know my Oma had just passed after having surgery. It was unexpected news but not really much of a surprise as she was well into her 80’s and had lived the type of long life we should all be envious of. Having a quick cry after getting off the phone and immediately jumping back into YOO HEY TRUEMARMALADE WHAT’S UP MY DUDE was a bit of a struggle but being surrounded by all my bike friends helped keep the heavy grieving at bay. Spending nights down at the bottom of the hill camping with @oldmanmountainracks and @toutterrain and everyone who rode in for the show felt like home away from home. As usual I stayed late on Sunday to roll around scooping up all the leftover snacks and goodies that everyone left behind, rolling out from Monterey full of fuel for my upcoming ride back east.
