Yesterday afternoon, I had the honor of putting my handprints on the wall at Chuck and Susan’s place. I made my handprints look like little feet as that’s something I didn’t see anyone do. What can I say, I like to be different.

I fell asleep early and didn’t get a chance to properly say goodbye to Chuck and Susan. But I’m so glad that I was hosted by them. They are legends in the Warmshowers community and it’s definitely one of the highlights of my trip.

This morning, I left their apartment at 5:30 to start my ride to Lezhë. The route on Organic Maps took me on the major road, SH1, for most of the time. The morning traffic was light. Then I turned to a gravel path with tall plants on both sides of me. I didn’t like it so much since it felt like I was riding in a jungle. When I reached a more rural road I was glad there was pavement and fewer cars. Eventually, I returned to SH1 and rode into Lezhë. I arrived at Vila Kastriotet-Hotel around 8 AM after riding 26.7 miles.

After checking in at 10 AM, I took a shower then walked around the town. There were only a few things to see, the Skanderbeg Tomb and Lezhë Castle. I opted not to hike up the hill to Lezhë Castle and only walked around the site of the Skanderbeg Tomb. I didn’t think much of it and didn’t pay the 200 LEK to go inside.

Back in the hotel room, I learned that Heinz Stücke passed away three days ago on July 22. He’s the cyclist who bicycled around the world continuously for over 50 years. I met him last year and admired him greatly because he lived a life that he chose, not based on what society determined. He’s a legend who influenced many cyclists. May he rest in peace.

I’ve had a lot of time to think and reflect on my life and life in general. I feel very happy and content right now. I have everything I need. When I get back home I will downsize more. Life on a bicycle made me appreciate all the things I carry. My mind is satisfied and I’m physically healthy. What more can I ask. I also have to remind myself that nothing is as good as it is and nothing is as bad as it is. Follow the Middle Way. And be grateful for what I have and what I’m experiencing.

Left my mark on Chuck and Susan’s wall.

The jungle-like path

A cool morning for the ride to Lezhë

Vila Kastriotet-Hotel

Interesting sculpture in the middle of the town

The site of Skanderbeg Tomb

This is the Skanderbeg Tomb

Sculpture of a priest

Another sculpture nearby

Need to pay to go inside

Statue of the Albanian national hero Gjergj Kastrioti Skënderbeu

Skanderbeg Tomb from another angle

Street of Lezhë