Day 15 -- Sept 23, 2018

The Dalles, OR to Stevenson, WA

51 Miles

Last day of the 2018 Cannonball

Last time putting route chart together --super windy

Holy Moly Batman. The journey has come to an end! What an amazing experience. We had a late start today, the first group didn't even leave until 11:00 am. The short ride for the support crew was beautiful as always. We followed the Columbia river the whole way and mountains were right beside it. This proved to be such a beautiful sight. No matter how I describe it, I could never get close to giving it justice.

The riders had to cross some bridges that were quite frightening, making it seem like they weren't driving on anything, and if they fell they would essentially be falling onto a cheese grater. We did get to go over the "Bridge of the Gods" which had views to enjoy.

Once we got to the lodge, the parking was crap. There was pretty much no parking available. Starry struggled to back the trailer up, significantly (I'm not saying any of us could do better), we had to call in some reenforcement from fellow support crew member, Magic. He did it like a champ.

This lodge has some cool stuff. You can axe throw, do zip lining, and a ropes coarse. I'm mad, because time doesn't allow us to enjoy any of these things. however, when you step outside into the back of the building, that view is only something you'd see in a movie.

We had some friends show up, we had Mike's friend show up Steve and Jenny also my friend showed up Lynnae with her baby girl Lily. Just like all of these events, there was a large group of people to watch the Cannonballers come in for the grande finale. It's always just a really cool thing to witness how interested people are and how supportive everyone is of all of these riders! Not only are random people cheering for these riders, but all the other support crew members are too. We have spent 3 weeks with these people and have gotten to know them and enjoyed their company. We've all showed support and needed support in return, and everyone is willing to give it. You are excited for everyone who gets across the finish line.

Between the arrival of the riders and the banquet, we were able to grab drinks, rest, catch up with people, etc. Nothing too exciting happened. The Butts did their own thing then met up at the banquet.

At the banquet at our table we had Mike, Mom, Starry, Mary, John and Tom (from Ireland), Charlie, Magic and me. It was the perfect table! Although, I had had a whole glass of red wine just spilt on me -- luckily I was able to get it all out. Magic felt pretty terrible about it, but if you know me, I need to make fun of people and give them crap as much as possible. So, I did.

The banquet food was delicious, which was to be expected. They showed some pictures taken by the photographer, which were amazing! I think we will get to see more of them as time goes (I hope!). We talked about some firsts that happen on the trip. My favorite being that the Cannonball did make it to Minnesota slightly. They awarded riders that made it through all of the miles, which Mike did. Plus some other awards! One being best wrencher, one given for determination and always willing to help and who is a great inspiration. plus there were some other ones. Also, there was a first of a engagement proposal!!!!! One of the riders proposed to his girlfriend in front of everyone at the banquet! It was bomb-diggity.

After the banquet we had to say good-bye to some of our friends. And you know, these people were complete strangers three weeks ago -- but they are like family now. It's like we are going to miss them all so much! We are used to seeing them every day, we've got our routine down!

Look at these views!! Waiting for the riders to come in