Sunflowers, Seeds, and Storms: An Unforgettable Bike Adventure

Last Tuesday, a customer named Mo walked up to the container just as the Espresso Express was heading out. I was expecting him, as we had been in contact over the past few days about his two-day midweek rental. He had a thick Brazilian accent and a friendly smile.

As the Espresso Expressers, led by the lovely Lauren B, set off, Mo and I chatted while I sized him for a bike and got him a helmet. We talked about some cool places to ride around the area between his conference sessions. He was staying at the Stateview, which is visible from the container shop! Mo mentioned his flight was early Thursday, so he would return the bike Wednesday night. I told him about the Crank Arm ride, which piqued his interest, so I sent him the link, and he went on his way.

The next day, I arrived at Crank Arm around 7:15 and spotted a familiar-looking State 4130 among the regulars' bikes in front of the brewery. Mo was there, waving and excited to be part of the pre-ride buzz as everyone geared up. After another fantastic speech by Cody, we saddled up and rolled through the streets of Raleigh.

It was probably the best Crank Arm ride I’ve ever been on and must have been incredible for a first-timer. We stopped at three different gardens: the Raleigh Rose Garden, Edna Metz Park off Peace St., and the Sunflower Field at Dix Park. People were out enjoying each location, and we saw many familiar faces as we pedaled through the midsummer evening.

After we returned to the bar, Mo and I sat and talked for a while. He works near São Paulo as an agronomist and was in town for a carrot seed conference. Carrot seeds! He shared stories of cities he’s visited in the US and around the world during his 20+ year career. We talked about Brazil, I mentioned my family is from Puerto Rico, and we began conversing in a mix of Portuguese, Spanish, and English. Another friend, whom I originally met at the shop, joined us to practice his Portuguese.

After closing out, Mo and I rode back to the container to return the bike. Fortunately, he was within walking distance of his hotel. As we parted ways, cumulonimbus clouds loomed overhead. I told him to hurry as it was about to rain.

Although I got absolutely soaked on my way home, I couldn't help but smile at the wonderful experience. A man from a continent away had an unforgettable evening, all thanks to the common bond of bicycles. How magical. I, for one, will cherish these memories for a long time.