Bellimbopinni to Port Macquarie
Yesterday we cycled 60km along the Pacific Highway to Port Macquarie. Despite the constant truck-noise and endless flat tyes, our smiles continued thanks to ginger beer/ icecream stops and Sherida's lovely "flat tyre song" (adapted from a Bob Dylan tune.)
One thing I've really enjoyed along the way is sparking people's interest, prompting questions and watching responses. e.g. On our ginger beer stop, a lady dressed up in glitzy yellow came up to us with a wonderfully honest comment:
"We've seen about 15 of you along this highway. It's amazing. Let me just say that you've made me feel guilty as I drive past you all sitting on my fat arse!"

It has been a huge adventure -- and I'm enjoying myself more and more as we go along.
Despite the leeches in Bellingen, it was a very energising weekend. Painting our faces with mud and eating a gigantic Indian feast were highlights. Also, because we hadn't had much time to relax and reflect before Bellingen, the meaning of what we're doing sank in while I was there. I think this is one of the best things I've ever done.
One reason I love it is because it all feels natural. We're eating healthy and local food, we're cooking every day, we're spending time outdoors, we're actually moving our bodies, we're thinking on a community level -- and our minds have become tuned to a collective and compassionate default. There's less time for idle and self-centred thoughts. It's wonderful.
We are staying in the Girl Guides Hall in Port Mac. It was all smiles last night after everyone saw the big kitchen, comfy beds and clean showers. A Mexican feast with Coopers Ale ended a great day.
It's fun and sun in Port Mac today.
Peas,
- Emma