October 22 2026

When the Finish Line Moves

This week, I finally rode my bicycle in Utah, bringing me one state closer to my goal of riding in all fifty states. Forty-nine down. One to go.

When I retired in 2018, I thought this quest would take two or three years. Now, I’m predicting Hawaii won’t happen until 2028. That’s TEN years, not two!

First, a serious injury in 2019 brought my quest to a screeching halt. After I recovered, surgery and another injury set me back again. When I returned from the East Coast in 2021, I was disappointed to discover I still had eighteen states to go. Then, poor planning on my part meant I missed three states on my 2022 trip, hence the need for this trek to Utah.

Even with the setbacks, though, I never doubted I’d reach my goal. On the map, it looks like I’m almost finished. But before I ride in Hawaii, I need to complete this ninety-day trip and finish my second book, Finding Joy in the East. And who knows what else life might throw at me?

We set goals, make plans, and imagine how wonderful it will feel when we finally accomplish our dreams. But these eight years have taught me to find joy in the journey. Some of my best memories came from the detours and challenges. And oh, the people I have met!

Are you working toward a goal that’s taking longer than you expected? Has life interrupted your plans, or have other priorities demanded your attention?

Life may keep moving the finish line, but that doesn’t mean we have to put everything on hold. So it takes you twice as long to get the business going or accomplish that dream. Just remember to enjoy the journey.

And when you do cross your finish line, how about planning a trip to Hawaii? I hear there’s going to be a big celebration there in a year or two…or three.