LA PRÉPARATION.

For the first time in what felt like forever, I set my alarm clock. For most of this trip, nature has served as my waking device. I successfully got up at 10 AM. Today there was no time to sleep in. I was dedicated to trip preparation, and I could not have asked for a better town. Seattle is the premier city for both bikers and campers. Bien sûr, I had to start my day with espresso. My first stop was at Victrola, the coffee shop from my first full day in Seattle. The coffee was sufficient, but the search still continued. 

REI was the next destination. It was an overpriced shrine of camping, biking, and hiking. Thanks to my frugal nature, I navigated the store and purchased the necessary tools at the right price. There were still a few more things on my list, but they were too expensive or unavailable. Luckily, Amazon has everything ever, so the remaining supplies have been sent to my cousin in Portland. Spoiler alert, this is where I plan to commence my trek back to Iowa. My mind was at ease knowing that my supplies were secured. There was one more item that I required, the icing on the cake. I sped through the streets of Seattle to Good Weather Bicycle and Cafe. This business idea was one I had not considered. It is Seattle anyways, and I was not opposed to the clever concept. 

After an hour with the professionals, my bike returned to me with a front rack. The ability to achieve equilibrium on my bike is now available. After accomplishing my major goals for the day, I biked around Seattle. Slowly but surely, I am familiarizing myself with this city. It is only my third time here, but it feels like home. Upon arriving back at headquarters, I helped myself to a warm washing. I seriously savored this scalding shower, for soon, they may be a scarcity. The energizing effects of the espresso were running short, the time had come to break my fast. I consumed some sausage slices, a lot of hummus, and the remaining ramen. 

Shortly after, Collin and I met up with his friends at The Ballard Cut. This restaurant specializes in Japanese whiskey. What wonderful whiskey is was. Thankfully, Collin's connections earned us a few drinks courtesy of the house. Needless to say, it was a dream come true. Suivant, I took my bike and made my way to the autonomous zone. The streets were blocked off, graffiti was everywhere, tents were scattered throughout, couches occupied the streets, and food vendors fueled the freedom. This six-block radius was a real-life rebel village. The goal of this settlement is to create a thriving neighborhood without the need for policing. I wish them luck, but slowly their numbers are dwindling. After observing this living civics lesson, I biked back to the house. Collin and I commandeered the couch and spent the remainder of the night relaxing. Every second spent on a comfy couch, watching Netflix is precious in my eyes. Soon this luxury will be foreign to me. Sleep solemnly summons me.