Couch Karma

It was an overcast cool morning when Sierra and I left Bodega Bay in search of bacon and eggs, biscuits and gravy, and coffee and cream. We don’t eat out for breakfast often, but we needed a boost in calories that only a diner breakfast can provide. In a flash, we had ridden through town without finding any food for less than $50.00 at a resort, not the kind of food hungry bike tourists are searching for. We were standing on the side of the road trying to stomach an apple with peanut butter, when a car pulled up and asked if we were OK and needed anything. Although our words said that everything was alright and that we were just eating a snack, our hunger for buttery baked goods must have been covering our faces. The passenger reached down and passed a small pastry bag out of the window. “Here’s something to add to your snack!” the exclaimed. The pair mentioned that they used to tour on a tandem as well and wished us safe travels before dashing away. Sierra and I stared at each other for a second before we hungrily peered into the bag. A still hot out of the oven blueberry scone lay in the bag and we quickly started to devour our new breakfast. Instantly our mood lifted just as the sun began to break through the morning fog. “Did that really just happen?” Sierra asked me. Both of us were still in shock, but now smiling and ready to ride again.

For years, Sierra and I have hosted travelers and cycle tourists. We jokingly call our dinners with guests a way boost our “Couch Karma”. That day we were blessed with a small token in return. These actions can only come from the heart and usually are given when least expected but will completely change the world of the traveler.