Preparation

     Yesterday and today have been very busy days of preparation. When I arrived, my bike was in serious need of attention. The chain and gears were especially grimy and covered in solidified oil and dirt. I spent a good half hour or forty-five minutes just scrubbing them off with a tooth brush and rag. The chain kept skipping as I would accelerate and I was uncertain whether a new chain was needed. I went to a bike shop and learned that typically when you get a new chain you need to also change the gears because they wear together and have this inseparable unity. However, the mechanic told me that I would probably not need a new chain or gears, but would have to change the ratio of the gear I was riding. I had previously been riding at the top gear, but he explained that the gear had been warn down too much (causing the skipping) and that I would have to go to a more middle of the road gear.

     Anyways, I am learning a good deal about bikes and mechanics through just trial and error, questioning, and Mr. Nuccilli. I installed the front racks today and they seem to be working well. I am still hoping to somehow strap my banjo on the back rack. A little challenging, since it weighs near 15 lbs all together.
    
     Furthermore, I am hoping to go to a farm called Bee Heaven Farm near the Keys. If I get the position I will be starting about Wednesday which means I will be leaving here probably on Monday. It appears to be a great opportunity to save a little money, learn about Florida agriculture, and meet some new people. I would stay there for about a month and then let the biking begin.
    
     Last night was awesome. Kyle, his buddies Paris and Ryan, and I all went to a local bar and hookah bar called nothing other than the Funky Buddha. It was a brewery and open night was going on. Kyle and his pals played "Aint No Sunshine" by Bill Withers and "Wiseman" by Slightly Stupid. They were a hit in the midst of solo guitarists and raunchy comics. I sat drinking some of the finest local porter and enjoyed the talent and mingling with the locals. Delray is a very nice, hip city with a strong emphasis on health and new age spirituality. The kids that I have met are very interested in nutrition, the environment, and for a few, conspiracy theories.

     I am not sure what we are planning on tonight. I am feeling rather quiet and seem to be bracing myself for lonesome days on the road. However, I am still enjoying my time with these new friends of mine and the weather is always favorable regardless of the storm today.