R and J in the USA

As we approached the Idaho Capitol building we saw a man taking a picture of his wife at the liberty bell replica out front.

”Would you like us to grab a picture of you both?” We offered.

The generous offerings between strangers to stand as each other’s photographers was one of the delights of human decency we enjoyed participating in along the road.

”No thanks.” They replied. “Can we grab one for you?” They offered in kind.

”No thanks.” We echoed.

Then the get to know you conversations began. While they were enthused by our tales of our 50 states adventure, we were equally as enthused for their trip.

They were retirees from Vancouver, British Columbia, just a few days into a 70 day travel adventure through some of their favorite places. They hopped in the car and brought their bikes with them, staying in hotels along the way and riding on the bike trails they loved the most. They were in the middle of a ride on the trails around Boise, which was one of their favorite cities.

The couple was on their way to St. George, Utah, for the World Senior Tennis Championship games. 

“Oh, wow! How cool,” we exclaimed, and then began peppering them with questions about tennis, as well as recounting our recent journey from the port in Vancouver to its airport.

Not to uphold stereotypes too fiercely, but these Canadians were wonderfully nice people. We enjoyed crossing paths with these fellow travelers.