Days 5 and 6: Two Rest Days in Bethlehem

I spent two rest days in Bethlehem since it also rained today. Robin is gracious and let me stay tonight as well.

Yesterday, Robin and I went to her favorite local cafe called The People’s Kitchen for brunch. I enjoyed my pulled pork sandwich and Robin liked her meal as well.

Since Remy couldn’t meet after all, I spent the rest of the day inside at Robin’s house while she was at work.

I started to feel the draw of a quiet life. It’s safe and secure, whereas a bike tour is more unpredictable. I want the best of both worlds, a safe and joyful adventure.

When I started my trip several days ago, I was contacted by a couple of old friends. One was Omar, a friend I had met in college. The other was Steve, an old classmate from elementary school. We had a good chat via Instagram. It made me think about the lives of my other classmates and how they are doing. Though comparison is the thief of joy, I was just a bit curious.

I think people’s paths are like chapters in a book. Some people, such as most of my Warmshowers hosts, have such interesting lives. They seemed to have accomplished many things, both work and travel. I hope when I get older I will have many interesting chapters to tell and write about.

It’s also through traveling that I get to learn new things. Robin told me about a band that she listens to called tUnE-yArDs. I also learned of a Japanese band called Babymetal. Even though I don’t listen to metal it’s good to be exposed to something outside of my usual taste in music.

At Robin’s house, I did laundry and planned my next couple of days. I’ll be staying at a Warmshowers host’s place tomorrow night in south Easton. Then next day, I’ll ride to Portland, PA, a small town next to the Delaware River. I’ll be camping at a Warmshowers host’s backyard since the host won’t be always available.

I had lunch with Robin at Sizzling Bits Halal in south Bethlehem. She wanted to bring me to The Flying V restaurant but it was closed when we got there. When Robin comes back from her second job tonight we might go out if we are not too tired.

Bethlehem is a nicer town than Allentown, where I used to live. It’s a place that I should consider settling. I’ll have to see.

The People's Kitchen

On Robin's fridge

Robin didn't want me to take a photo of her, so here are her dogs: Garth (foreground) and Nancy (background).