theDIHEDRAL crew has been taking cross-country journeys since before theDIHEDRAL was around. A few of the O.G’s are at it again heading to Yosemite for Spring Break. We thought it might be fun to make a spur-of-the-moment list of 5 things we recommend for a journey into the woods! There are only three of us on the trip this time, so we’ll each make two recommendations, technically making it 6 things 1 topic, but who’s counting!
- I’ve made solo cross country trips a few times, and there is something to be said about what a solo adventure has to offer, but nothing compares to having loved ones around to share the adventure. The ability to think back 5-10 and say “do you remember when __________” is priceless. Having good travel companions make the highs higher and the lows higher as well. Not only to fellow travelers make add to the journey, they also add to the memories of the journey. If you get the opportunity to travel, take it, and if you get the opportunity to do it with friends, don’t even think twice! – Carrot
- Food brings people together, and road trips are a great moment to spend long hours in a confined space with the ones you love and the others you’ve been putting off (ha!). Break the ice with some delicious snacks, or connect over Gork’s perfect sweet and savory combination. Ever since I was little, road trips equaled to food: perfect excuse to eat all the delicious (junk) treats you would not shove down your throat on a regular basis. So… make sure to pack all your favorites, you’re in for a long ride. – Gaia
- Music! Nothing can coalesces our memories like music. One of my most memorable moments (also to California) included some of my favorite people and every time “Don’t Dream is Over” comes up, it takes me back to that trip, and those people, and our shared memories. It’s 8pm on a Friday night and we just finished listened for Beastie Boys “Fight For Your Right to Party,” and this trip has already changed the meaning of that song forever. We’ve officially selected Bling Bang Bang Born from Mashle (anime)- Carrot
- Come up with games! Like… Make them up! You can always rely on the traditional “I Spy,” but let’s be real, for how many hours can you play that game without losing your mind? Hone in your creative skills and play on your roadmates’ strengths.. or weaknesses.. Whatever floats your vehicle (get it?). During this trip, we came up with a verbal version of Exquisite Corpse. In our story, a constipated robot ended up getting a colonoscopy, and a stuffed animal turned into Celine Dion; neurons were burned, but we had fun. Give it a try! – Gaia
- Self reflection. Take advantage of this time to ponder. Spending time starring out the window is fascinating. From the changing terrain of the landscape to the changing terrain of our thoughts, cross country driving is a way to experience not only the world but also the self, in unique ways that are unmatched by any other means of travel! -T
So, that’s it, grab some friends, some food, play some games, make a playlist and experience the world. There are lots of ways to drive across a country, and these are 5.
5 things 1 topic
thedihedral.com 
Make that cross-country trip on a bicycle, and it is truly memorable! Plus weeks to talk with your loved ones and you can eat ANYthing because you’ll burn so many calories.
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I have a buddy who is trying to get me to start riding with him, do you have any recommendations for a bike that is good but won’t cost an arm and a leg?
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Hard to go wrong with most major brands. First choice is whether you want to sit upright or have drop bars. (Drop bars transfer some weight to your hands and get you out of the wind more, both of which add comfort for longer rides. Most people think sitting upright on a cushy seat is most comfy but they don’t ride much.) Try both and see what you like. Most companies make a few frames and vary the price with different quality components. I would avoid the bottom and top of the line.
I’ve written multiple paragraphs on this, but here’s the short version:
“If you are thinking about buying a bike, ask yourself: 1) what do I need? 2) what do I want? 3) what can I afford? Then think about how long you will own this bike and adjust #3 as needed. [I have two bikes that I bought new 35 years ago and still ride regularly.]
“Next advice – do your research, shop carefully, then go with your gut. Bike and equipment (especially clothing) choices are pretty personal. What’s right for me may not be what’s right for you. If you have a local bike shop, patronize them. (I don’t mean be patronizing – that’s the next sentence.) If you find a shop that is rude or discounts you (because you’re old, because you’re a woman, because you don’t know their lingo) find another shop. Go to a bike shop, not to WalMart. Do you know what you’re doing, and what you want, or do you need someone else’s expertise? How badly (or how soon) do you need something? Can you get it on sale? You can buy online, but don’t try stuff out at the local shop and then buy it online because it’s a few dollars cheaper. That’s rude.” (Excerpts from a prior post on buying a bike.)
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This is so good, thank you!!! I’m currently on the road, but we do have a local bike shop I’ll drop into when I get back. Hopefully that will be the nice kind and not the mean kind!
I like the waiting until sale season, so if/when I make the purchase, hopefully it’s a good one!
Thanks again!!!
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You’re welcome! Good luck with the shopping and I hope you’re having a great trip.
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This would be a good guest post with more Info.
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Hey, don’t forget singing in the car and get a few harmonies going!
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Car karaoke is the best!!! Definitely brings the crew together, great call Alanna!
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