Escalante Grand Staicase and... Escalante Outfitters

Today, after leaving Boulder we cycled through Escalante National Monument. This has been some of the most scenic areas of the country, thus far. Stunning plateaus, panoramic vistas and muti-colored cliffs as far as the eye can see. We had plans on going at least 60 miles today, but this was not going to be the case. We only made it as far as the town of Escalante. Once we arrived here, we were welcomed at Escalante Outfitters where, Steve, Holly, Vicky, Dennis and Dana made us feel at home and let us stay the night for free. Escalante Outfitters is a "desert haven for outdoor adventure set right in the heart of Utah Canyon Country." Once inside, you will find the Esca Latte Cafe, a store for all your outdoor needs, lodging (Vagabond Inn, cabins, RV hookups and campsites for tents), hiking, mountain bike rental, and guided fly fishing tours. Whatever you happen to need, or want you can find at Escalante Outfitters. Tomorrow, we will back on the road, in the desert drinking lukewarm water and eating energy bars, but tonight its real food.

Boulder Mountain

Today, we set out from Boulder Mountain. I have to say that I have been a little intimidated by the thought. 9600 feet to the summit. Up til now, the mountains have been brutal and every seems to get a lot of joy out telling me how difficult this one is going to be. I've put it off long enough. Here we go, I'll write more from the other side of the mountain.

Well now, that wasn't so bad. I guess it's like a lot of things in life. The thought of a thing is a lot worse than the actual doing of that thing. There was only a little wind, and that was only occasionally. What I thought would take us all day only took a couple of hours. And now that its done, we have to find a place to stay here in Boulder. What few motels they have are all booked and there is absolutely no camping allowed in here within the town limits. It looks like we have to go back the way we came and do some more wild camping. I don't like camping in the wild so close to a town, but it's getting late so that'll have to do.

Tot ziens!

Greetings From Torrey, Utah

It's been a few days and several hundred miles since I last posted anything. I have cycled through the desert and back into the mountains of Utah. Now I am taking a rest day here in Torrey.

Many people have asked, "Why are you doing this?" I guess the simple answer is, that we thought that this would make a big enough statement about the problem of teen homelessness in the United States, not just in our little corner of the world. Most people are so busy in their day to day lives that they may not even be aware of the problem.

In truth, I didn't know that this journey would be as difficult and rewarding as it has been. I did the research, bought the books and the maps, but I still wasn't sure what to expect. I am still on an old bike, I don't have the proper pedals or shoes, and I am seriously overloaded. But, I am just a few hundred miles away from my destination. I can almost smell the ocean... almost.

The important thing is that "we" not lose sight on why we are here. In reality, it does take a village. I would not have been able to make it this far without the love and support of all you wonderful people. I am continuing on, through more deserts and over more mountains, but I will come back with a renewed strength and purpose. God has put all of us here for a reason and this ride, crossing the country by bike, has been part of that reason for me. The lives that have touched mine, the barriers that have been broken (both by me and for me), all of that contributes to that purpose and will trickle down and touch the lives of the teens that we work with.

I know I am rambling, but I just wanted to share my thoughts with you before I get back on the road.

Dolores, CO

Yesterday, I left Telluride and got back on the road. I stayed in the town of Dolores, just a little under 900 people. It's warm down here, as opposed to up there in Telluride. I was freezing coming down the mountain, but it didn't take long to warm up in the lower elevations. Soon, I will be in the desert and will have other issues to concern myself with. Water, water, water. I hope that I will have enough. I will be traveling US 50, it is called the loneliest highway in America. I am kind of looking forward to it. I've heard that it is BEAUTIFUL, and I am that much closer to California. Right now I am off to Utah... at least I hope to be there by the end of the day.

Photos of Telluride

"Life is either a daring adventure or nothing. Security does not exist in nature, nor do the children of men as a whole experience it. Avoiding danger is no safer in the long run than exposure. - Helen Keller"

OK, I am now nine states into my journey. A little tired, but still good to go. Right now I am in Telluride and I have been here for three days now. Julie has done an excellent job as "Eye in the Sky", and had things set up by the time I arrived. What a fabulous person she is! Accommodations were made for us at the Telluride Mountain Lodging. They allowed us to stay for 2 nights... for free. It has been amazing to see how supportive people can be when you take the time to talk to them.

Right now in Telluride there is a "Blues and Brew" Festival going on. Lots of music and lots of beer. I have taken in some of the music... none of the beer. I have spent the days riding the gondola (the free gondola), up to the mountain and taken walks on the trails and to the nature center. I have also walked the streets of Telluride, taking candid shots of the people and the town. It is a very interesting place with a lot of interesting people. This is a place I could learn to love.

In the beginning, I had no plans on coming to Telluride, I was moving on to Delores... but as I started up the mountain, I thought to myself "I have never been to Telluride and I am sooo close, so I should go". So, I turned around and headed back into town. It has turned out to be a very good decision. This place is great. The people here have gone out of their way to be helpful and welcoming.

Right now, I am staying at the Fire Station in Telluride. 'Met up with Gary Whitfield (the district fire chief) again and he opened up the fire station for a couple of days for us. Sleeping on the floor, but I've found that on this ride it's easier to sleep on the floor than in a bed. What I mean is that it's easier to get up and get going... maybe even more comfortable. I do have a good sleeping mat.

Tomorrow... on the road again. Even though I love it here, I am looking forward to getting back out there. I can hardly wait for the adventures that lie ahead.

I Caught Up With Clive

I caught up with Clive today. It’s kind of funny that the very next day after I wrote about him I tried to send him on his way. I had to ride an extra 30 miles to catch him, but I’m glad I did. I don’t want to ride this alone anymore.

Back to today’s ride. It was hard. I started off this morning at 6:00 am and it was raining then. It rained and rained and it was only 46 degrees, up ahead of me on the mountain where I would be going I could see the snow from last night and this morning. It was the most miserable I have been on this entire journey. I was trying to catch up with Clive (who was in Ridgway) before 10:00 and it wasn’t looking good. I had a several thousand-foot climb, it was raining, I had a head wind, it was cold and there was almost no shoulder. I was losing the desire to ride today. The map said that it was only 26 miles to Ridgway, but it was more like 30. When I did arrive, all I wanted to do was get some breakfast (which I did) and some hot chocolate (which I didn’t).

Clive came down and met me at a restaurant called the “Galloping Goose”. It was an interesting place. The menu (at least the breakfast menu) had only individual items. If you wanted a complete breakfast, you had to order for example eggs, sausage, toast, and hash browns all separately. I have never seen that before. Anyway, while we were inside, we took a look outside and the weather looked ominous, to say the least. The clouds were almost black and we had a serious climb ahead of us, the temperature was only supposed to get up to 54 degrees, and it was raining. We considered staying in Ridgway, we actually talked about it for about an hour. While I was paying the bill, Clive went outside to take a look at the sky and came back very excited to tell me that the sky was blue where we were going. So, we decided to head off to Telluride.

The ride from Ridgway to Telluride has a couple of climbs. The one out of Ridgway was tough. It took us over 2 hours to travel the 12 miles up the mountain. Because of the fresh snow, we both got some really good photos. The descent was a long one as far as descents go, but there was a head wind, again. So the 11 miles down didn’t go by as fast as I would have liked. But they did go by. At the bottom of the mountain, I was ready for some hot chocolate. I was still cold from this morning and I couldn’t get warm, so I stopped in the village of Placerville. It has the distinction of being the smallest town (population) in Colorado… 27.

We are staying at the fire Station in Placerville. We were trying to figure out where we were going to stay (by the way that is half of the adventure) when I saw a vehicle with a fire fighter sticker on it. I approached the owner and he turned to be the chief of the fire department and a cyclist, as well. I told him we were traveling cross-country and needed a place to stay for the night and he ended up opening up the entire fire station for us, washer and dryer, kitchen, shower… and food. His name is Gary Whitfield and he is a very nice guy.

I have discovered that as much as I love Colorado, It has been my least favorite state to cycle in. A lot of trucks (pickups and others) have been getting very close to me, even though I am riding on the shoulder. Today, with the rain and the climbs I don’t think I needed the extra abuse from the traffic. Anyway, I am here now and I am safe.

Tomorrow, Telluride!

Where's Rob?

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Here I am!

Clive Rogers

Let me tell you about Clive Rogers. I met Clive in the town of Eureka, KS a few weeks ago. I was at the Pizza Hut in Eureka, just relaxing with 3 other cyclists who were also riding coast to coast when I saw Clive ride by towing a "funky" looking trailer. I motioned for him to come over and join us and he totally ignored me and rode riyght on by. About a half hour later, he came back and he did indeed join us.

Clive is the main reason I have made it so far in such a short period of time. He comes from Poole, England, and he is a "real" cyclist. Just recently, he completed a cycle tour of Cairo to Capetown. He sets a good pace and it takes all that I have to keep with him. We have gone almost 1000 miles and we have every intention on finishing in San Francisco together.


Today, we have more mountains to climb. We left Gunnison (home of the world's smallest Walmart), and we headed west on Highway 50. We were shooting for Montrose, CO, a town 66 miles away, but we had to fight the head winds again... and the scenery once again so beautiful that we kept stopping to take photos. There was no way we were going to make it to Montrose, so we decided on a campsite just outside of a town called, Cimarron. The site is a really good one, its right on the bank of a river and I am sure that the sound of water will help me sleep tonight.

I have a really slow connection, so I have to go. I will write more later.
'Just wanted everyone to know about my new "brother".

I Made It Down The Mountain!

Today, I made it down the mountain. I am in the city of Gunnison, CO. A college town with the distinction of having the world's smallest Walmart. I will be going there tomorrow for a visit, to get a few things before I head back into the wilderness of Colorado. Gotta go for now!

Thank God for Angels

Today was the most difficult day of my journey. Once I got to 9000 feet, I started feeling it. I could only go 30 yards or so before I had to stop and catch my breath and the road ahead kept going up and up. Monarch Pass is one that I will never forget, the summit is 11,312 ft./3448 m. In addition to the altitude, I had another flat tire. After I repaired my flat tire, I sat down on the ground and had an orange, just as I was about finished with the orange, an angel showed up in a white pickup truck. Her name is Debbie Gallagher and she lives in Salida. She asked me if I was OK and told me to throw my bike into her truck and she could take me up the road to Monarch Lodge. I complied, how could I argue with an angel. Once I arrived at Monarch Lodge, they gave me a room and dinner. I met some of the most wonderful people there, most of all... an angel.

In the Rockies II

This is the 2nd day of me being high up in the Rockies. It is so beautiful up here that is has taken me all day to make it the 47 miles to my destination. Just today I have taken several photos. It seemed that every mile or so there were numerous photo opportunities. I am still looking for a bighorn sheep, no luck yet.

I am in the town of Salida, looking forward to several more days of being here in the Rockies.

The topography has changed so much, just since Pueblo. It is absolutely amazing. I think back to all the states I have been through, the terrain. The Ozarks, the Appalachians, the Praries... this is something that all of us should take the opportunity to experience for ourselves. This is a life-changing event.

Rocky Mountain High

Tonight I am in the Rockies, in my tent, cold and tired. I didn't plan on coming this far today, but it ended up being more miles under my belt. I am staying at a campground called, "Fort Gorge", it is just outside of Royal Gorge where the famous suspension bridge is. I don't think I am going to make it to the bridge, its 4.5 miles away and it looks like it is all uphill. I need to save energy for the ride to Salida tomorrow. I am at about 6000 ft right now, so I will have to climb to 9012 ft by the time I stop tomorrow. It won't be easy. Having said that, I will be signing off so I can get some rest before tomorrow.

The sunset tonight over the Rockies was absolutely beautiful. I will post some photos later, but for now I have to conserve my batteries... all of them.

Congratulations and Thanks to Joanne Francis!

Congratulations and thanks to Joanne Francis, our new director of maps and trip planning! You make it all possible.

Feel Free to Make a Donation.

I have finally arrived in Colorado! I have the wind to deal with, as I have for the past 3 days, but at least I am here. I am determinded to continue this journey, but I can only do it with your help. Make a donation today so that we can have a better tomorrow. Click on the Donate Button below to make a donation.

How Far I've Come So Far

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If anyone wants to join me for the next leg, I'll be in Pueblo, CO in a few days!

This is for you, Joanne!

OK Joanne, what do you think now. This is for you and all of your cookies, support and prayer! Also for the pillowcase that I use every night.
Thanks!

Kansas

Wow! In the last few days I have covered over 200 miles. There have been several stretches where there are no services for almost 60 miles. After you throw some +90 degree temperatures, a headwind or two and some never-ending grades, you have the ingredients for some tough days. At least tough for me. I have met up with a few other riders and its good to ride together for awhile.

I am still meeting awesome people, though. In Larned, Kansas and not long after I arrived in town I was getting ready to setup my tent for the night in a city park. As I pulled up to the restroom there were two girls coming from a church across the street. They were excited to see cyclists and invited us to the church for cake. After meeting the pastor, he offered to put us up for the night in a hotel.

The next day we are off again, heading to Kinsley. Kinsley is the halfway point between New York and San Francisco. Along the way we are treated to old cars and tractors, trains and a lot of silos. Kansas is a long state with a lot of wind and we are steadily climbing up, getting ready for Colorado.

We met up with a group from Boston today. Matt is the leader and he is traveling by wheelchair. They are an exceptional group and you can learn more about them at: http://www.officialmattsplace.org/

Thats all for now as I have to get back on the road.

My Visit to Dinosaur National Park

Riding With The Wind in Kansas

I am in Kansas and it hasn't been as flat as I thought it would be. Maybe the reason I remember it being so flat is usually I am in a car. Riding a bicycle is an entirely different experience. Hills take on a totally different meaning. Today I did about 80 miles, just trying to get on to Colorado, but I still have a way to go.

Kansas is a long state, but it's also beautiful and diverse. A lot of farmland, oil and really nice people. Tonight, in Newton I am staying with an extremely nice couple who have opened up their house to me, Simon and Clive (a new friend from England). They had dinner prepared for us when we arrived, they have beds for us as well. This is the sort of thing that you never hear about, but I have experienced it time and time again.

I will try to catch up with this blog in a day or two, but right now it's late and I am very tired.

KY3 News in Springfield, MO

This is a story they did on me when I was in Springfield, MO.I was just about to leave
town when the reporter came and we had a good conversation off camera.

So far this trip has been GREAT. I have run into a few "knuckleheads", but like I said earlier, most of the people I have met go out of their way to be helpful.

It may be a few days before I have the opportunity to write again... I am going deep into Kansas and I may not have the chance to get back online. In the meantime, please send me email and continue to comment on the blog. Thanks again to all of you who support me in what I am doing!

I will be in touch!

Super 8 Has Been Super... GREAT!

Once again, I am staying at a Super 8 Motel. In every state, they have gone out of their way to assist me. So, once again, my hat goes off to the kind folks at Super 8 Motel!

Pittsburg, KS

Well, here I am, Pittsburg, Kansas. I have been here for a few days and have already been adopted again by a nice couple. I have worked in their pawn shop (Easy Money Pawn Shop) and have really gotten some good rest. I have been staying at the Super 8 here in town (Super 8 has been great in supporting my ride). The Internet connection is really slow right now, so I am not able to load any photos. I will try again later. I am well and looking forward to getting back on the road tomorrow. I am right on the eastern edge of the state and I have to start preparing myself for the 400 mile ride across the state.

Words to Live By Helen Keller

The best and most beautiful things in the world cannot be seen or even touched, they must be felt with the heart.

-Helen Keller

Marilyn and Katie

This is Marilyn. My new friend who came up to me in her Hoveround motorized wheelchair just as I was getting ready to start packing up to leave Ash Grove. She started talking to me and asking questions about what I was doing. Later, she took me on a tour of the area and took me to meet Father Moses at his church. She also gave me a ride to the Nathan Boone house. It was nice to have met her and her dog, Katie.

Historic Ash Grove, MO

OK, so after I leave Springfield I head northwest to a historic little town called, Ash Grove. Ash Grove is only about 25 miles from Springfield and is famous for being the home of Nathan Boone, the youngest son of Daniel Boone. I was only planning on being in town one night, but after meeting a few o f the residents, I decide to stay on another day. By now, I have heard at least 10 times, "you have to meet Father Moses". I don't know who Father Moses is, but I am looking forward to meeting him. I hear that he is the smartest man in town, that he is a descendant of Nathan Boone, that he established the African American Museum in Ash Grove and that he built his church almost with his bare hands. Later that evening, another resident drops by my tent and tells me pretty much the same thing, then she asks me if I would like a drive out to Father Moses' church. Of course I agree and in few minutes, I am face to face with... Father Moses.

Father Moses is indeed a smart man and all of the other things that I've heard about him. His church is small, but immaculate. He offers to let me stay overnight so that I can go and visit the Museum that he is going to open up just for me. I would take him up on the offer, but the town of Ash Grove has already agreed to let me stay in the "Barnum House", one of the oldest houses in town that is listed with the historical society. After I go back to the Barnum House, I prepare for tomorrow, a day with Father Moses.

Early the next day, I meet Keith. Keith is the brother of Father Moses. He also describes himself as being ANGRY. I have a good talk with him while I am waiting for my tour of the museum with Father Moses. Keith talks about being one of only a few black people in a predominately white town. I tell him I can relate. I also tell him of my experiences since I left Pennsylvania. I tell him about all the wonderful people I've met along the way. "Most people are good and they don't mean you any harm", I tell him, I don't think he's buying it. Just then, Father Moses comes out and calls me over to the museum. Keith doesn't come with me.

While in the museum, Father Moses tells me about his connection to Nathan Boone and the affair he had with one of his slaves. That slave turns out to be Father Moses' great, great grandmother. He shows me his artifacts and gives me the slave collar and shackles to try on. This small museum has things that I'm sure the Smithsonian would love to have. After the museum, I go out to the cemetery for slaves, Indians and paupers. The cemetery is on the "Berry" property and right near the house and church. I meet some ladies out there and before you know it, I have a ride to Springfield and lunch. I go go Springfield and Branson as a full fledged tourist and on the way back to Ash Grove I have an appointment with John Kelly of KY3 TV of Springfield. KY3 is the Number 1 news channel in Springfield.

The next morning, KY3 is there for the interview. In addition to KY3 News, I am also treated to racial slurs from to young men who seem to be in town just to harass me. I have to ride around town for some of the shots for the news (its a really small town), and everywhere I go these guys are there. I must have heard at least 15 times, "N__ger go home!". Hearing this over and over again threatened to "mess up" my day, but it doesn't. I have to remember the hundreds of interactions I have had with so many awesome people. That's what I have to remember... and that these two represent such a small minority. At first I was a little angry, but now I just feel sorry for them.

After all that, I am off to Pittsburg... Kansas.

My Journey Thus Far...

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Take a look at how far I've come so far!

Greetings from Ash Grove, MO

A & B Bicycles, Springfield, MO

I stopped at the best bike shop in the US today. I was just there to replace my pedals, but I ended up with new pedals, a new freewheel, a water bottle, a new chain, a new stem for my handlebars and a few other things. I have to say that everyone there went out of their way to help me out. I have to mention Scott by name. He did a lot of work for me and didn't charge me a penny. He didn't want me to leave until my bike was good to go and ready for the upcoming "Rockies". I have to give a great big THANKS to all the folks at A & B Cycles! I would also like to thank the ladies at AAA of Springfild. You are absolutely AWESOME! Laura, Theresa and Sarah... Thanks so much!

I Have To Show You The Peaches!

These were the best peaches ever, thanks Dale!

Dale Gross

Today as I cycled on down the road. It was hot and I was tired. I didn't really have a good night's sleep and that's exactly how I felt. After a few hours of not feeling so great about the ride, I took a break at a Peach Stand. The proprietor's name was Dale Gross and he knew everything there was to know about peaches. I offered to buy one, but he was only selling them buy the bushel. So he gave me one. I sat and talked to him for what seemed like a couple of hours... just talking. When it was time to leave he gave me more peaches than I could carry, but I took them anyway. They were the best peaches I've ever had in my life. Thanks, Dale. Spending time with him made me forget all about feeling miserable.

The Laacks

While I was in Illinois, the Laack family took me in and made me feel like family... right away. Pastor Dan is excited about serving God and he is happy to share the love that comes Him. Dan, Pat and Kendra thanks for making me feel like family. You guys are the best.

May I Introduce... Mia

This is Mia ladies and gentlemen. Disney's next star. You can watch her and Danielle first video here:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1WS8fjAVYjY

Dick and Joanne Francis

Today I met two very special people, Dick and Joanne Francis. They live in Altamont, IL and I will be staying with them for a few days. Julie lives there with her daughter, Mia. Dick showed me around town and gave me a tour of his farm.

After one of my tours of the area, I was introduced to a fire breathing dragon.

Welcome to Illinois

What a great state this is, "Land of Lincoln" and all that. I have much to look forward to. Going to a rodeo, visit a farm and meet some more wonderful people. I can hardly wait. Eye in the Sky, here I come.

So much corn here.

Richmond, KY

After a goodnight's sleep in Berea, courtesy Super 8 Motel, I look outside to see that its raining. Before I leave town, I head over to Wal-Mart to get a few things and to wait out the rain. The one thing I have discovered on this journey is that I don't like to ride in the rain.

Just before I go into the store, I meet two young men from the LDS Church. I have a very good conversation with them for well over an hour. Not a debate, but a conversation about God and what He means to them and their mission. These two young men are truly remarkable. They just want to help people, cook for them, shop for them... do whatever they need. I was impressed by what they had to say and they helped me pass the time.

After speaking with the missionaries, I decided to go to Hong Kong Chinese Buffet for lunch. I went over with Simon and our idea was to "load up" before we got back on the road. One thing I have realized is that you never know when you will have the chance for a warm meal. A complete meal with veggies, rice, meat, fruit... I don't think you can go wrong with a buffet. It was only $5.00, so it was a "no brainer".

Just before we left the restaurant, I met Robin and Rachel, a mother and daughter from Berea. Even though we should have been on the road by then, we ended up staying and talking with them for well over an hour. By now I am not surprised to meet so many nice people. After some good advice from these two ladies, we decided to get on the road and head to Richmond. I needed a bike shop and it seems the best one for what I needed was in there.

When I get to Richmond, Motel 6 there has a room ready for me. Rick and Alicia had it all set up and they were happy to help. It was after 7 when we got there so we would have to wait until the next day to go to the bike shop.

I guess that's it for today.

Random Photos...

Inspiration...

I truly hope that some of you reading will find inspiration through me taking on this challenge. Inspiration to do the things in YOUR lives that you may have always wanted to, but were maybe a little too unsure or afraid. We say all the time to our kids, "You can do whatever you set your mind to", or "You can be anything you want to be". We as adults need to put our money where our mouths are. Trust me, you CAN do whatever you want to do. So, get out there. Plant that garden, buy that ticket to Paris, start taking some classes... whatever it takes for you to get back in touch with your dreams. GET OUT THERE!

Berea, Kentucky

Today, I arrived in Berea, the folk arts and crafts capitol of Kentucky. I have been looking forward to it for a couple of weeks now. This is another city rich in history. I learned that Berea College, founded in 1855, was the first interracial and coeducational colleges in the South. It also charges no tuition and admits only academically promising students, primarily from Appalachia, who have limited economic resources. Berea’s cost of educating a student exceeds $23,000 per year. They only requirement is that the students work at least 10 hours per week on campus.

The ride here was... interesting. It was the most difficult day I have had in a while. I was under the impression that I was finished with the mountains, at least for now. I guess I was right, because what I encountered today was more hills than mountains. I don't think the 100 degree temperature helped. The hills at some points were relentless, and then the map I am using has me going over hill and dale, going north to come back south. By the time I was half-way, I was out of gas. I stopped in a little town called South Irvine, where a driver proceeded to call me the "N" word for the first time since I started my journey. I later encountered him when I finally made it to Irvine (just a few miles north of South Irvine) and he wouldn't even make eye contact. Even with that incident, 99.9 % of my experiences on this trip have been positive. I have had many warnings about the people in the Kentucky, but they have been great and many of them have gone out of their way to make me feel welcome.

I am staying at another Super 8 Motel here in Berea. They have been very supportive of my ride and are willing to do whatever they can to help.

Tomorrow, I am off again. There is a real joy in not knowing what is on the next page, not to mention the next chapter.

More Great People

These are just a few more of the people who have gone out of there way to make me feel special while I am on my journey. There are others, as well. I don't have photos, but I do have their names. I also want to thank Super 8 Motels for letting me stay for free because they believe in our cause.

My Entire Family for their Support
Super 8 Motel Whitesburg, KY
Super 8 Motel Hazard, KY
Super 8 Motel Berea, KY
Super 8 Motel Branson, MO
Motel 6 Springfield, MO
A & B Bicycle Shop, Springfield, MO
Nancy, Berea KY
Springfield Victory Mission, Springfield, MO
Jim and Marilyn Chastek, Camp Hill, PA
Harrisburg Bicycle Club, Harrisburg, PA
Danielle Sturgill, Whitesburg, KY
Kathy, Whitesburg, KY
Richard Smith, Damascus, VA
Laura Stahler, Hanover, PA
Pastor Lewis, Richmond, VA
James Martin, Fairfield, VA
Nick Boekelheide
Elizabeth Capko, Branson, MO
Bunny Medeiros, Damascus, VA
Julie Hayden, Altamont, IL
Dick and Joanne Francis, Altamont, IL
Dan, Pat and Kendra Laack, Vandalia, IL
Kristin Bergmann
The Police Departmant, Ash Grove, MO
AAA Branch Office, Springfield, MO
Scott Kirchner, Springfield, MO
Marc Golden, Middletown, PA
Dwayne Golden, Harrisburg, PA
Mari McShane, Dana Point, CA
The Police and Fire Department, Troutville, VA
The Police Department, Wytheville, VA
Damascus.org
Ray from Holmes Cycle and Fitness, Camp Hill, PA
Pedal Pusher Bike Shop, Harrisburg, PA
Kim Gray, Mechanicsburg, PA

Great People Along the Way

Just a few shots...

I'm Rolling...

I left Damascus and got lost for about 20 miles when it started to rain... it was the worst storm I have ever been caught in in my entire life. I was in the middle of nowhere and I just stood under a tree in someone's front yard. When lightning struck just a few yards away, I ran up and rang the doorbell. When no one answered I went back and stood under the tree, trying to wait it out. After about 5 minutes, I heard the garage door open up and there stood this woman, she was calling me in out of the rain. She had been in the shower and didn't hear me when I rang the bell.

I stayed there and talked to her for about 20 minutes and I wasn't sure whether I would turn around and go back to Damascus, or continue on towards Kentucky. The rain didn't stop, but it did lighten up so I decided to continue on towards Rosedale. I thanked the woman, I never even got her name, and I took off.

I rode for about 25 miles when I met up with 2 other cyclists (Keith and Larry). I was going up the mountain and they were going down. They went all the way to the bottom and caught up with me before I reached the top. We all rode to the top together and I told them all about my ride. They were really nice guys and offered to take me to dinner. I accepted and we had a great time.

After dinner, Keith helped me with my bike and we said goodbye. We both said we'd stay in touch. I would be sleeping at the Elk Garden Methodist Church Hostel, so when I got inside I just threw down my sleeping back and knocked myself out for the night.

Tomorrow... the Breaks

On the Road to Damascus

Today I find myself in Damascus, VA. One of the last stops before I get into KY. I have ridden quite a few miles to get here... almost 600 and I have decided to take a rest day here. Damascus is a town that is right aong the Appalachian Trail, so there are a lot of hikers in this town. I have decided to stay at a world famous hostel known to bikers and hikers all over the world. It's called, "The Place". In town, I have access to the Internet, but no signal for my phone.

On the way here, I followed the AT trail for some time and think to myself that I would like to hike it someday... maybe next year.

Along the way I finally caught up with Simon, I have heard about him since I was at the Cookie Lady's house. We have decided to ride together for at least a little while.

Thad and Sarah

Wait Until I tell you about these two wonderful people. They took me in, they fed me, I stayed for 2 days and I really felt like we were family. I'll write more about it tomorrow, but once again, I can say that meeting them has been the best part of my trip, so far. O.K., I'm back, so let me tell you about the Lee’s. I got their number from Boris when we were at the Cookie Lady’s House. They live in a town called Radford, which is right on the route heading west. They invite ALL cyclists to come and stay with them as long as they like. Thad Lee is a local physician and his wife, Sarah is a nurse in Radford. They are two of the most awesome people I have ever met. They live in a nice big farmhouse on a hill and have three cats and two dogs. When I called Thad and told him that I would like to take advantage of his hospitality, he gave me directions and said that he would be waiting for me. When I arrived, Thad and Sarah were outside waiting (as promised) and right away Thad went to work on me. He told me that I could stay, but I would have to stay another day as a rest day. Then he told me that I had to get something to eat. I told him that I don’t eat after 7:30, but he wasn’t interested. While they were deciding on where to go for dinner, Thad and I talked. We talked about where we come from, family, religion, politics, everything.

After a while, we were finally ready to go to dinner. We all jumped into his car and went out to dinner. We went to a nice Italian restaurant and we talked and talked. After dinner we went back to their house and I went straight to sleep.

The next day, I awoke at around 10:30 and I went down for breakfast. When I got downstairs, I met "Tucker" and "Olive"... the Lee's dogs. Tucker wanted to play with me and I so I did. I would throw the ball and he would fetch it. Again, I'd throw it and he would fetch it again. If I didn't stop it would have gone on for hours... we both enjoyed it, though.

For lunch we went to Wendy's and then off to Wal-Mart for supplies. When we got back "home", I worked on my bike for a couple of hours and began prepping my mind for tomorrows departure.

When dinner came around, Sarah made the most amazing meal. A nice southern, inspired dinner with beans, cornbread, veggies from the garden and homemade iced tea. After dinner I played a little more with Tucker and before I knew it, it was bedtime.

The next day as interesting. Thad and I blew a tube before I left and that gave us more time to talk and put off the inevitable... my departure.

Eventually I did leave, I was a little sad and hesitant to say goodbye. The Lee's are great people.

Next

I left Troutville Park at around 7:30 and rode to the nearest McDonalds. I had breakfast and filled my bottles with their version of Gatorade. They had a television on there, so I watched a little ESPN. After about 20 minutes, I got back on down the road. Since I am still in VA, I am still going up and down these hills. The fact that there is so much history, nature and wildlife here makes it a lot easier. Earlier today I saw two unusual squirrels, one black and the other was brown with a black underbelly and feet. When I stopped at the local store, I was told that they were actually quite common.

This particular store I stopped at is right on the Trans America Bike trail, so the people here are used to seeing bikers come in. They told me that I was welcome to into the back room, eat something and then take a nap. I was considering doing just that when I see to other cyclists come in. They appear to be heading west (like me) so we start talking. The two cyclists are Nick and Kristin and are actually a newly married couple from Maryland. They are actually moving out to the Bay Area, so they figured they would ship their stuff out and ride their bikes. They are calling it, their “Honeymoon”. They are very nice and we hit it off immediately. We decide to ride together and get a campsite in Christiansburg, which is about 28 miles away. We are still in the hills, so it’s going to be a little challenging to make it before nightfall. Nick and Kristin are riding Trek touring bikes and they have a good pace going. I don’t have as many gears and I am really loaded, so I try to act like its no big deal, but I have to work to keep up with them. I tell them at a rest stop, “Don’t wait for me if I fall behind, I’ll just see you at the campground”. Not too much longer, I have a mishap with my bike and I have to stop to kind of put her back together. I don’t see Nick and Kristin again until about 8:30 PM at the campsite.

Only after I ride all over town looking for this campground, I decide to stop and ask someone. I see a pawn shop and I look inside, I always look inside pawn shops. I hear someone tell me to come inside so I do. I meet the owner, Dave Strathy. Dave is a nice guy who upgrades my camera for me and then gives me directions to the campground. He tells me I am going in the wrong direction and that it is about 4.6 miles in the other direction. After talking to Dave for a while, I decide to start heading for camp. It’s all uphill, of course. After a little while, I arrive and find Nick and Kristin in their tent trying to stay away from the mosquitoes. When I show up they come and we talk for some time, exchange information, and I tell them that I won’t be leaving with them in the morning.

So far...

So far I have slept in 3 motels, 3 campsites, 2 houses, 1 city park, 1 state park. I have inhaled approximately 2 flies, umpteen mosquitoes, a bunch of gnats and aphids. I have gotten rained on a total of 4 days (at least 3 hours each day). I have met some really awesome people, here are a few of them... Juanita - Willis Church, Pastor Lewis - Richmond, Mary and Laura - Radford, James Martin aka "The Computer Doctor" - Fairfield, June Curry aka "The Cookie Lady" - Afton, Frances Ramann - Charlottesville, Boris Grogg - Oakland, Thad and Sarah - Radford, Nick and Kristin - Maryland, Rafu Patel - Radford, Dave Strathy - Christiansburg, and all the wonderful people of VA. It has been truly amazing. So far, 99% of my interactions with the people here have been positive ones.

The Reason for the Ride

Just wanted to thank all of you out there for reading and following along. I just want to say for the record, this trip has been great so far and I have met some truly interesting and great people. However, this trip is all about homeless teens and families. With your help, we can make a difference together. Go to the website: www.gowestusa.org and make a donation. I'll ride the bike, you just keep coming with your prayers, email, calls and blog comments. I am not trying to sound like a presidential candidate, but together we can make a difference.

Puttin' My Time in the Saddle

I did my laundry last night at the Cookie Lady’s house and I have to wait for it to dry before I can leave. I anxiously wait for the sun to come up and while I am waiting, I perform some much-needed maintenance on my bike. I meet some really nice cyclists while working outside and we talk for almost ½ hour. I am still hearing stories about what I have waiting for me as I enter what could be my most difficult day thus far. The road from the Cookie Lady’s house seems to go straight up and up and up, then there is a turn and I cross my fingers hoping that it will level off, but no such luck. I continue this climb as I enter the Blue Ridge Parkway. The Blue Ridge Parkway is beautiful, and has been well worth the grueling climb getting up here… at least that is what I think until about 3:45. That’s when it starts to rain. After it starts it doesn’t stop until about 7:30 the next day. I continue riding and stop at a visitor’s center – trying to wait out the storm. After I see the the rain has no intention on moving on, I take off towards my next camp site. A place called "Sherando Lake" is going to be my home for the night. The problem is, its still raining and I still have to go up. Up and up before I can come down to Lake Sherando. I finally get there right before dark, I am wet, tired and hungry. I meet a couple of really nice Rangers who did me a nice favor and made a $20 donation. I talk with them for awhile and get directions for the next day and then I head to my camp site. Too tired to make a meal, I eat Dorito's, a honey bun, some potato chips and have a gatorade as my beverage. Its still raining and I am so tired so I just set up my tent, crawl inside and go to sleep.

The next day, I ride and ride trying to make it to Buchanan (pronounced Buck-Ann-An). Its about 70 miles away and it doesn't look like I am going to make it as I stop at a Chinese Buffet and stuff myself in a small town called Stuart' Draft. I don't really feel like getting back on the bike afer that meal, but I do it anyhow. I continue my roller coaster ride through Virginia and after about 4 hours I stop in a town called Fairfield and meet the "Computer Doctor", James Martin. James lets me set up my computer, get on his network and... blog. He has a very nice shop, the nicest one I have ever seen. It is setup kind of like a coffee shop, he has a big conference area and table there if you want to hold a meeting and they have drinks and the best chocolate. I stay for an hour or two and get back on the road.

After a few more hours, I reach Buchanan and then continue on to Troutville. Once in Troutville, I set up my tent in the famous, Troutville Park. I meet the sheriff and the Park Supervisor and the fire department. It seems like a very nice town and they let me use the showers in the Fire House. All in all, this was a very good day!

The Cookie Lady

I had a late start this morning. I was “dragging my feet” knowing that I had this “Mountain” to deal with. Leaving Charlottesville, I could see the mountains in the distance and I thought to myself, “How am I going to do this”? I am not a cyclist and before the riding in the “Tour de Belt” I had never ridden more than 20 miles in a day, let alone riding up mountains in 95-degree weather. One hill after another, up and down… after a few miles of this I decided to rest in the shade of a tree in a parking lot of the “Christian Aid Mission”. As soon as I pulled to a stop, a woman came outside and asked me if I was lost. I told her no, I was just taking a break in the shade and wanted to make sure I was still on the right track (these maps are not 100% and sometimes they sent me the long way). I think she took pity on me because I was soaked in sweat, so after speaking with her for a few minutes, she invited me inside for a cool drink and something to eat. She was a wonderful woman and after a few minutes of conversation I didn’t want to leave. I walked in on a birthday party for “Grandpa” (an 87 year old man who tried to break my hand when he shook it) and his very nice family of about 20 people from all over the United States and the world. I think I consumed about a gallon of Minute Maid Orange Juice while I was there. I told them what I was doing and why I was doing it and they were very supportive. As a matter of fact, Frances Ramann, the lady who invited me inside, she reached into her purse and gave me all the money she had in there. I went outside to take my picture with her before I left and just as I was about to get back on my bike, she asked me if I wanted anything else before I left so I had another glass of O.J. and took some apples and cake for the trip. I said goodbye and that I would keep in touch and then I was on my way again. About a mile down the road, I find a twenty-dollar bill just sitting there waiting for me to pick it up.

Back on the road I was faced with a little problem. This was a very “upscale” part of VA and I had to use the bathroom… urgently. I was riding past all of these estates with walls, gates and fences… no forests, no trees, no stores, no nothing. I had to ride on for miles before I could actually go. I finally find a suitable wooded area about 5 miles away. This was at the very bottom of the “mountain”. After a short walk in the woods, I get back on my back and begin my ascent. Once again, I am soaked in sweat. I make a few phone calls for moral support and then take off again. After about 2 miles, I stop at a restaurant called “Otto’s”. It’s a very nice place and it looks like it might be the last opportunity to get something cold to drink for quite awhile. I buy some chicken tenders and lemonade for lunch and then I am off again. I am now at the part of the trip that I have been dreading. I have read books and online journals from accomplished cyclists from all over the United States and they all agree that this is the most difficult part of the entire journey. I ‘m thinking that I am going to have to get off my bike and start pushing (something I have never had to do in my life) all the way to the top. The first part of the climb is lined with trees, so I had shade and that was nice because it is a very hot day. I also take time to reflect on what I am doing and how important it is and that gives me extra energy. I have also learned by now how to focus on other things as I am riding and I think about the kids that I am cycling for. I think about how awesome it would be if they could be here and see that the world is so much bigger than their present circumstances.
Well, before I know it, I am almost at the top of Afton. I did have to stop three times before I reach my destination. One of the stops was under a tree in someone’s yard and she came out and gave me a bottle of Aquafina.

When I did reach the top, I was so happy to see the “Cookie Lady” house. For me, this is the most exciting part of the journey so far. This lady has opened up her house for cyclists for over 30 years. She has turned the house into a museum. I love it. I will stay here for the night, do some laundry and get something to eat. When I knock on the door, a young man opens up and introduces himself as “Boris”. Boris is cool. He just graduated from Berkeley and is cycling to Washington D.C. We talk about politics, California, snowboarding and then I go up and meet the “Cookie Lady”. Her name is June Curry and she is 87 years old. She doesn’t get around good anymore, but she is awesome. I talk to her for about 1 hour and then go back to the bike house to take a shower (which is just a garden hose poked through a hole) and do some laundry. Before I shower, I eat some of Boris’ pasta surprise. It’s a mix of macaroni, spaghetti sauce and tuna. For desert, its Little Debbie’s Oatmeal Crème Pies. It’s very good and afterwards its more conversation and dishes. There’s a guitar here, so I strum on that for a while and after talking to my "Eye in the Sky", I call it a night and fall asleep.

A Long, Long Day

After leaving the campground near Lake Anna, I literally biked over hill and dale getting to my next stop. I was planning on stopping for lunch at a town called “Kent’s Store”, about 25 miles away. It was a hot day and it was the first day with a lot of hills so I was really tired when I arrived. To my surprise, Kent’s Store was actually just that. It was a store called… that’s right, Kent’s Store. There was also a post office across the street, but that was it. No restaurants, no traffic light, no houses, no school… nothing. To make matters worse, the store was closed and had a sign that read, “Just Had A Baby – Will Be Back Some Time After Labor Day”. I was so disappointed; I was hot, tired, hungry and thirsty and today for me there would be no cold drink or a hot lunch. Today is another, “beef jerky, crackers, warm water and warm Gatorade for lunch” day for me. After lunch I got bike on my bike (which has now been affectionately named “Sally”) and rode until evening and landed on the west side of Charlottesville sometime after nine. Ride around Monticello, I met a nice family who was very helpful in getting me to where I needed to be in Charlottesville and informing me on what I needed to do the next day to get up the mountain. The “Mountain”, something I have not been looking forward to since I started this trip. From everything that I’ve read, it is supposed to be the hardest part of the entire journey… and tomorrow morning I will have to face it. I thought briefly about taking some time to go around Charlottesville and check it out, but then I though I should maybe save my energy for the steepest climb on the entire TransAmerica trail that I will have to face tomorrow. So after washing my clothes again in the sink, I go to bed.

Lake Anna

I got a late start on Thursday when I left Richmond. It was well after 1:00 PM and I rode the 40 plus miles to Lake Anna almost non-stop. It was dark when I arrived and I was so tired I that I didn't feel like doing anything but sleep. I set up my tent and knocked myself out. The campsite was actually Christopher Run Campground and it was very nice. In the morning I turned around and headed back the way I came in via a small town called Mineral. After I arrived, I decided to hang some of my laundry on the fence at the local baseball field to let it dry. I met some nice people there in Mineral, as a matter of fact, most of the people here have been really nice.

Say Hello to My Little Friend...

I have a new best friend. Since I started this trip, I have discovered that a lot of people in Virginia have dogs that are running free. They charge, I spray... that seems to be the game they enjoy most. Seriously though, I know its not the fault of these animals and I don't get any joy out of spraying them with pepper spray. If the owners would be more responsible I would be writing about something else. Pet owners/ guardians/ parents take note. I don't want to spray your dog!

What About B.O.B.?

BOB has got to go! I have spent the day riding around Richmond looking for ways to "unload" BOB my trailer. I even listed it on Craigslist. My brother has a friend who he thinks will hold it for me. I can do without the extra weight... so, BOB must go. As I am figuring out what I am going to do, down comes the rain. I mean RAIN in buckets. That means an extra day in Richmond. I pass some of the time with an old man who sells produce from bank drive thru lane (the bank has long since been closed). I buy a cantaloupe from him and we talk about everything from sports to politics. After a couple of hours, I decide to call it a night and head to the closest motel. Tomorrow, I am off to Lake Anna

Riding through History

Today I spent the day riding past so many historical sites from the civil war. One site in particular was Cold Harbor. It was one of the bloodiest battles in the Civil War. Grant lost over 6000 men in less than 30 minutes there. The trenches that the Conferate Army dug is still there... over 7 miles long! I listened to a presentation from a very informed Ranger, named Barry and then I walked around the battlefield. It is amazing to be riding through so much history, Civil War and Revolutionary War era. I rode on and stopped at a Panera Bread for a lemonade and their "free" Internet. While I was inside, the pigeons used my bike for target practice and then the rain came. After about 20 minutes of waiting, I put on my rain suit and got back on my bike and rode to my destination for the night. Americamps - North Richmond. By the time I arrived, the rain had stopped and the sky was clear. There I met a man and his son who were also doing a portion of the Trans America Trail. They had been on the road for a little over two weeks and they were very happy to have made the decision to do it. After setting up my tent and taking a shower, I slept like a baby and I was looking forward to the next day's adventure.

Willis United Methodist Church

Last night, I arrived at the Willis United Methodist Church where I met a sweet lady named Juanita. She let me into the church (where they allow cyclists to stay overnight (free of charge) and use the kitchen and bathrooms). No shower, no bed, so I had to sleep on the floor, which is not really a problem for me. I don't mind that. I do mind the nightmares that I had, though. It was not a very good night for me. Waking from my nightmares several times and before I knew it, it was time to get up and get back on the road. I realized that I lost my chain (lock) somewhere between Williamsburg and Glendale, so I have to be extra careful until I get another one. Anyway, I am back on the road now, so stay tuned.

Almost as soon as I got underway, I stopped to save a snapping turtle who appeared to be taking a nap in the middle of the road.

I stopped around lunchtime at the sight of one of the bloodiest battles of the Civil War. The Battle of Cold Harbor was a very interesting one indeed. I made several stops along Cold Harbor Road, where much of the fighting took place.

That's all for now.

Thank Goodness for Roaches...

After a long ride to Yorktown, VA (thanks Dr. Laura) I setup my bike an trailer and realized that I still had too much weight on the trailer, so I had to take some things out of the bag and send them back. After doing this about 4 or 5 times, I hopped onto my bike and rode to the Victory Monument in Historic Yorktown. At first I thought I would send my laptop back home as well, but nooo way!

After saying goodbye to Doc, I took the Colonial Parkway to Jamestown. It was a very nice ride. But just as it was getting dark I arrived in Jamestown I found out that the campgrounds had been sold and that they are no longer campgrounds. So I had to turn around and ride for about 6 or 7 more miles back to Williamsburg to find a hotel. I found Motel 6 and that is where I am right now, just about to go to sleep... after I make a few calls.

Tomorrow I am off to Glendale and beyond.

Oh yeah, I almost forgot. I said, "thank goodness for roaches", because there was a roach in my room and after I told the front desk, they gave me a room for free.

Wow II

Blogging from my Blackberry. Something tells me I had.better get used to this.

Wow!

I spent the entire day getting ready for this RIDE! I moved everything out of my office and into storage. I loaded and unloaded my bike and trailer several thousand times (it seems) to lose some of the weight, but now I am actually ready to go. I will be leaving for Yorktown in about 10 minutes and then tomorrow... off I go!

tot ziens

Independence Day...

Happy 4th of July to everyone out there!

Random Numbers...

61YHB-Q9BSS-YEXJG-CDB2E-BW72U

'Just got back...

I just got back from my last training ride before D-Day! I am still working on leaving some of this stuff behind. I am down to about 70 pounds of "stuff" now. If I can cut that down to 1/2 I will be good to go. I mean, do I really need 3 towels? No. So there goes another pound. I still have a few days before I take-off, so if you have any suggestions... please send them to me at: robbie@gowestusa.org

Almost there...

I have just about everything in order now. Five more days and I will be on the road. I just have to take another look (or two) at my gear and "whittle" it down a bit more. I don't want to take more than I actually need.

Stay tuned, as I will post a photo of my "wheels" later today.

The Tick Tock of My Soul Clock

The Tick Tock of My Soul Clock

We’re living in this thing they call a “rat-race” Everybody’s moving at a high speed pace
Everyday we run so fast, that we’ve forgotten how to walk
But now I’m gonna slow down and move at the speed of my “Soul Clock”

The Clock of My Soul lets me stop to lend a hand To spend some time with the ones I love And to try and understand… To see the beauty that is in the world Made by the hand of God …and I’m gonna take the time to be friend and offer up my heart And show some love to my fellow man as he tries to make a start To travel through his fast paced world at a slower speed And live the kind of life that he was born to lead Chorus

The Clock of My Soul let’s me stop to lend a hand To spend some time(s) with the ones I love And to try and understand… To see the beauty that is in the world Made by the hand of God …and Now I can see that miracles in all that God has made I can visit with you overnight and be glad that I stayed I can talk with you in the morning as we walk around the block Walk and talk and laugh and sing at the speed of our “Soul Clock”.

Patriot News and the Harrisburg Bicycle Club

Yesterday, Nancy Eshelman of the Patriot News, did a nice story on me and my ride. I knew about the article since I was interviewed last week, but I didn't know when it would be coming out. So yesterday morning as I walked into the YMCA, I was asked if I would be so kind as to sign a few autographs since I was now famous. I had no idea what they were talking about as I had already forgotten about the interview with Nancy. Anyway, as it turns out, she did me right. I was most pleased with the article, I think that she knew where I was coming from. Thanks Nancy.

I also got an honorary membership to the Harrisburg Bicycle Club and I will be sporting their jerseys as I cycle coast to coast. I met Marilyn (from the club) at the Tour de Belt (a local 20 mile ride through the city of Harrisburg) a few weeks ago. Since that time she has been so helpful and supportive. I have received from her, both advice and equipment. She has been awesome.

I Love It When A Plan Comes Together...

Things are starting to come together. Yesterday, I got my BOB Yak Trailer. Today I got a used Touring Bike, I don't know if it is going to work, but it does seem to be a good one for the age. I got it from a wonderful lady in Reading. Her name is Tamara and she is very supportive of GO WEST!!! USA and the "Ride for the Kids". She is also committed to making the world a better place. I almost missed the final game of the NBA finals because I got so "caught-up" talking to her and her family. She asked me to promise to send her photos of her (used to be) bike from the road. I did. Just a couple of weeks left before I go! Time sure flies!

Just a thought...

"If we could see the miracle of a single flower clearly, our whole life would change. ~Buddha"

Needless to say, but we should really appreciate the simple things in life.

Thursday June 12 again

I almost forgot, I met with Nancy Elshelman today and my article should be in the local newspaper soon.

Goodnight now.

Thursday June 12

Today I put in just a little under 20 miles. It's difficult for me to push myself harder (although the cycling itself is getting easier) when I am not yet on the road. I have gone from aksing myself, "What did I sign up for?" to actually looking forward to hitting the road and meeting the new adventures and challenges while I am out there. Things like, what will I do if I ride all day and there is no where for me to sleep, or what if I am in the middle of nowhere with a storm coming my way?

Anyway, tomorrow is another day and I will get back on my bike and ride some more. In the words of Jim Carmines, "Stay within yourself... know your limitations." If I can do that, I'm sure I'll be alright out there.

Stay tuned...

I almost forgot

Yahoo! Yesterday, someone donated some aerobars for the ride. I was looking to spend almost $100.00 for some "new" ones.

Its Getting Hot Out Here...

Wow, the end of June is just around the corner and it still feels like I've bitten off more than I can chew. I just have to remember to pace myself. PACE MYSELF. I got some advice from a world class athlete today, he told me to remember to... that's right, PACE MYSELF.

I still haven't gotten a B.O.B. yak yet. If anyone reading this post has one laying around, let me know.

Right now, I gotta get back on the road... stay tuned.

Sleepless Nights

Working long hours to make sure that everything is in place by the time I leave on my "epic journey". Lots of riding and training... lots more to go. Stay tuned as I will try to update this blog as often as possible.

7/6/07

Leaving Indiana early in the morning, we traveled straight through Ohia and West Virginia to Pennsylvania on I 70. We arrived back home at around 8pm. What an adventure it has been!!!

7/5/07

Traveling through Oklahoma city, we pulled over due to a huge rain storm that came through. It did not last long but dropped buckets of water. On the road again, we stopped at the largest McDonald's in the world in Vinita, OK. It is also known as the "Glasshouse". The dining room sits on a bridge crossing I 44 with large windows to view the highway. After our stop, we made our way through Oklahoma and into Indiana were we spent the night.

7/4/07

We drove through New Mexico and into Texas. Close to Amarillo, we stopped along the road at a visitor site that does not have a name - it can only be described.... It was 10 older cars that have been 1/2 buried in the ground. Cans of spray paint were available to put graffiti on the cars. Everyone took turns putting something on the cars. Heading farther east, we stopped in Groom, Texas, where there is a replica of a cross that is the 2nd largest cross in the western US. It is 190 feet tall ( 19 stories). Surrounding the cross were statue replicas of the stations of the cross. From Groom, we continued east into Oklahoma. We spent the night at Cherokee KOA campground in Hinton, OK. We were able to see some fireworks from the campsite ( Happy 4th of July). We also experienced our first raindrops that night. We had not hit any rain the entire trip until that night.

7/3/07

As we headed east, we made a stop in Arizona to visit the Petrified Forest. We spent some time at the Rainbow Forest musuem where we saw a film about the forest. Did You Know?Petrified wood at Petrified Forest National Park is almost solid quartz, weighing in at 168 pounds per cubic foot. It's so hard, you can only cut it with a diamond tipped saw! We did some hiking about the forest. We also visited Newspaper rock where we could view petroglyphs, which are lines or drawings on rocks made by prehistoric people. Did You Know? Petroglyphs are sometimes calendars, marking events like the summer solstice with interactions between the glyph, the sun, and natural landscape features. We made another stop at puerco pueblo where the remains of a 100 room pueblo exist. Our final stop was to view the painted desert from an overlook. After we left the national park, we stopped at Stewart's trading post. Thanks to the generousity of the owner, Gazell Stewart, we were each given a sample of petrified wood as a souvenier. We also were given food to feed her many ostriches. The ostriches were so quick to feed, they kept snatching our food cups out of our hands. Ostrich food was flying everywhere. These ostriches were scarrier than the rattlesnakes at Praire dog town. We did get our first taste of ostrich jerky ( yum??). Back on the road again, we made it to New Mexico before stopping to rest.

7/2/07

We got up at 5:30 am this morning to pack up camp and head out towards San Bernardino. We had a long drive ahead of us. In San Bernardino, we dropped off the loner vehicle we were using and rented a van to take us the rest of our trip. "Thanks, Barry for letting us use the Suburban!" Tonight we began our trip heading back East. We did get a brief opportunity to check the GO WEST email. We received an email from a family that was in the Grand Canyon and received the deck of playing cards that were passed on to us during our travels in the G.C. They also passed the deck onto others who were hiking the G.C. (Pay it forward).

7/1/07

Our camp site offers complimentary hot chocolate and coffee in the morning - what a great treat! We got up leisurely this morning and cooked pancakes for breakfast. We learned another new card game called "pebbles". This became the new game for the day. Losers of the game found themselves with dish duty. We did laundry today which took up a big part of the afternoon/evening. When we made it back to camp, we started a fire and again made "s'mookies". Although it was not quite a full moon tonight, from the valley the moonlight was reflecting strongly off the granite walls of Yosemite through the trees. It is a shame that no camera can recreate that view under the stary night- truely magnificant.

6/30/07

We arrived at Yosemite in the very early hours of the morning. We were able to get a campsite at Camp 4 which was down in the valley and within hiking distance of Yosemite Falls. After we set up camp, we played a card game that Rob taught us called, "Tonk". In the mid afternoon, we went for a hike to go see the lower Yosemite falls. We climbed up the rocks to get to the base of the fall. This water fall is the 2nd highest water fall in the world. We worked up a sweat climbing the rocks to the fall. We rewarded ourselves with a swim/dip into the fall base waters. According to Rob, this was the coldest water he has ever gone into. We all agreed that we would all get in and go under, despite the cold. Would you like to guess who got in first??? Cathy got in first but Rob was the first to go all the way under. We were all very awake after that swim. After showers and dinner we entertained ourselves with more "Tonk". The crew loves this card game. We made a fire and roasted marshmallows. We created a new treat which Taylor appropriately named, "s'mookies". It consists of toasted marshmallows in between chocolate chip cookies. We were out of s'mores supplies and improvised. They were very tasty.

6/29/07

Today we traveled from San Bernardino to Yosemite in the Sierra Classic Suburban. We made a stop in downtown Fresno and to a local mall/movie theater. To take a break from all the driving, we decided to watch a scary movie at the theater. After the movie we continued our travels to Yosemite.