Hi All - Happy Sunday.
Still not able to get some pictures up but wanted to share this invitation to anyone who might be along the NY/NJ route - or able to get to it...
It is my sincere hope that you will consider coming to our final rally of the 2008 North American Continent Sea to Sea Tour to welcome the 200 + riders who have ridden either all or part of the way.
This effort has raised over 2.1 million dollars to alleviate the causes of poverty. Just as importantly, it has raised awareness of the issues which contribute to the cycle of poverty and perhaps, in the raising of that awareness, people & agencies and institutions will understand that if we work together we can alleviate if not completely eliminate much of the suffering that occurs in our world. This is not an idle hope or an unrealistic effort. We have the means, the knowledge and the resources to end this blight on humanity. It is now up to us to chose to do so. The fact that in the time it takes to pedal 4 strokes, a person dies due to poverty related isssues is
unconsionable. The fact that so many people are working to end this tragedy is something to celebrate.
If you cannot make it - please be sure to send the cyclists a note on their blogs or create a sign
which can be left by the roadway as we pass through NY & NJ and it will encourage many hearts.Please pass this on to anyone you know who may be along our route - you can find that at
www.seatosea.org.
Thank you for all your encouragement and support and I look forward to seeing you soon or keeping in touch when Dave & I return home from a week at Ocean Grove.)
Hugs - Joanna
Sunday, August 24, 2008
Saturday, August 23, 2008
More Michigan & Beyond
Hi All -
Thanks again to those of you who read our blogs - and for letting us know.
We realize it's not always consistent - but then again - isn't life a bit like that?
People ask - "how has the riding been?" and I ususually answer, "alot like life, some hard days, some easy, some rough patches, some smooth - but all in all I wouldn't have missed it for anything".
I've also been asked whether I'd do it again if I had the chance and to that I say, "It depends on when you ask me." I probably would if it was meant to be - but I would surely want to know that it was something God was asking of me. The level of stamina and endurance that is needed for this is significant - and I do recognize that I have made it this far - with my break - but I honestly believe that I have done what I did because God provided the opportunity and then empowered me to do it. On my own - I wouldn't have considered riding across the country on a bike. Not that I wouldn't have given it some thought - or just thought it was a neat thing to do - but in terms of what I am usually up for physically - this would not be at the top of the list. There are some riders who are athletic - some who are more casual riders and some who truly have had to deal w/physical ailments that would make anyone think twice about embarking upon this type of ride. Yet, I guess in each of our cases, God asked it of us and then empowered us to go ahead and do it.
I also truly believe that the prayers we have had prayed for us and the support and encouragment that is directed towards us all play a part in keeping us going, moving eastward and God-ward as we use this tour to do our part in ending the cycle of poverty.
For all those who have said that they are involved in only a small way - I say that each person who has chosen or been moved to participate in this tour is a necessary and vital part of the tour. Systems work together in ways that allow for good or for ill to occur and if you have taken part in this tour - either through prayer, financial support, baking goodies for us or opening your homes to us - you have been a part of this special system that has been created to address the unhealthy systems that keep people oppressed or feeling that they are doomed to spend their lives in need and want.
I will say that if the whole tour had been like the last couple of weeks, there would have been a lot less drama and angst on my part but again - life doesn't work like that either as there will be uphills, hot days or headwinds. It's all part of this package and avoiding or trying to avoid the challenges and difficulties usually doesn't work. As tough as the first 4 weeks were - and they were - I would have missed out on so much had I not taken part in it. I don't ever want to bike through a desert again - but I got to see a part of the country I had never seen before. We've been blessed in terms of weather other than that very hot days that we encountered (yes, I did miss some of them in Nebraska & Wisconsin). And the roads and environment in Michigan & Canada have been terrific. It seems to be true, in my case at least that familiarity makes for comfort. Michigan and Canada look a lot like what I am used to - green, suburbs & farms, humidity and other characteristics which in their familiarity I find comforting. It should help me to empathize more I suppose with those who find change threatening or unwelcome and I hope I will be - but I also hope that others will take the risk that change seems to represent and find out what else there is for them in life. Like many things - it doesn't have to be either/or - life can be both/and. Familiar and yet new, similar yet different, comfortable yet going beyond comfort to the next level.
As of Wednesday - we have been in Canada and I cannot say enough about how hospitable our Canadian cousins have been. Ontario is beautiful and the rides have been mostly smooth - (again - a few rough spots here and there) and the outpouring of support is phenomenol. If it is true that people express their love via food - then we have been loved as high as the clouds and as deep as the oceans. Churches and individuals have provided us with snacks and fruit and cold water and ice cream and pastries until we feel like Thanksgiving turkeys (American style) ready to be served. To see all the people awaiting our arrival in Ontario on Wednesday when we crossed on the ferry was truly overwhelming. Of course there were many family members there -looking for their riders but even we Americans felt like we were being welcomed back home. How fitting and again - how illustrative of the concept of true, biblical hospitality.
For myself, I wanted to find a place to buy a Canadian flag to "wear" on my bike. I saw a gentleman speaking w/one of the riders and asked him if he could let me know where I might get one. He didn't answer but responded by giving me the flag he held in his hand. It's bigger than the ones that most people have been putting on their bikes (Canadian or American) but I attached it as best as I could and rode on my way.
Other wonders occured on Wednesday when Johnny ("Do Something Beautiful") Pierce rode by w/John Vanderveen and somehow I managed to catch up w/them. Yes, they had to have been taking it easy but we rode from the marina to Chatham (Ontario - not NY my New York friends) together. I don't know where the energy came from - it had to have been the cupcakes and candy and boeter koeke (Dutch- see if you can guess what it means) that I had before getting back on the road. Everything went smoothly until about 7 km from Chatham where we stayed Wed. night. Earlier - John's (Pierce) rear tire & my front one clicked although we didn't go down thank goodness. But it seemed to have affected his tire because not 1 but 2 spokes broke. Suffice it to say I felt badly but Johnny was a good sport and said it was something that happens when biking - which is true. I know he would have preferred not to have to SAG into camp but as it was - he did get a ride to a bike shop where the spokes were fixed, the tires replaced and someone very generously covered the cost. Then John got a ride back out to the spot we had stopped and rode the rest of the way into camp. Given that another rider had taken a bad fall due to his frame splitting (I'll spare you the details but please keep him in prayer as he recovers) I am happy that nothing worse happened to John or myself. The best part of that ride was singing our way into camp. It's amazing I can sing and ride at the same time but it does pass the time. Which is good because there were a couple of days during that week that I wasn't sure whether or not I'd make it in to camp that day.
Tuesday was pretty tough - as it was a 95 mile day and I was dragging along. Lovely Greta got in front of me at some point and we took off. I was able to keep up w/her for most of the day but I know she was holding back as well. We spent a number of miles together and then when we got to Walter's stop I let her break free. Jake P. & I ended up doing the last 20/30 miles together and got help along the way from Tim V. Tim does work w/the CRC and is a really good rider as well. If he hadn't carried us along I would have called it quits long before getting to camp but he like so many others kept us going and we rode into camp just as dinner was being served.
Those long days are the ones that really get to me. I think I can handle up to about 60 miles and then I want to stop. There were so many places along the roadway that looked inviting enough to stop at and take a nap - a long nap. Which only works if you have all the time in the world and don't have to be any place in particular.
On Thursday - it was almost the same thing. I couldn't keep up w/my shadow it seemed and the road seemed endless and I was sure I would miss lunch that another wonderful congregation was serving but I managed to get there around 1 and there was plenty to eat and I wasn't even the last or near to the last person to get into camp. Thursday was a busy day for some riders as there was a time trial for anyone who wanted to sign up - (testing yourself against yourself) but they did ask that only riders who could do 18miles/hour or better sign up so the volunteers who were helping out didn't have to stay out all day. Suffice it to say - I didn't sign up. (Many bikers also went to the VELODROME. It's an indoor bike track that goes around in circles at some bizarre angle and riders can ride like it's some kind of amusement park thing).
I did get to London early enough to get clothes done but I missed going to the work project I had signed up for. We needed to meet before 7 but I thought we had to meet at the bus at 7 - so I missed that one. If I can get in early enough for the project in Binghamton NY - I'll do that. In London we were greeted again by a number of wonderful people who had all the different kinds of dessert in the world you can imagine -after serving us snacks and dinner and inviting us to do laundry and swim in their pools.
From London we went to Hamilton and again were greeted graciously. I may even have been on a news story that aired Friday night as a local station was videotaping riders for their story and I rode in just as they were preparing to tape the riders following their van. Everyone said to get in the group and perhaps be on t.v. - For once, getting in late didn't mean missing everything, although I did miss getting a pedicure or foot massage. I will appreciate them even more now than I ever have. I also had decided to see if I could go home w/someone as I wanted to sleep in a bed and take a shower in a home setting. There was room & I signed up to stay w/Sandy & Suzie (from NJ) and we got to stay w/Ann who was just wonderful. It was also nice spending time w/others from NJ even though neither of them grew up there like I did.
Ann got us back to Redeemer University where we had been hosted by 7 a.m. Sat. morning and we were on the road again before too long. Corinne & I rode again together today (did yesterday also) and got to St. Catherine's this afternoon around 3:30. She got into camp before I did - as she can put the pedal to the metal (so to speak) when she wants to. I got caught at a couple of lights and stopped in a bike shop for some chain lube. I ended up getting some other things & forgot the lube but hopefully will be able to borrow some before the week is over.
Now I am getting ready to go to sleep for the night at the home of another lovely couple - Mike & Engline, my hosts for the night.
I will do my best to get updated w/pictures before too long. The smoother, shorter rides have provided the opportunity to take many moreand I enjoy sharing them w/my readers.
As I reviewed this before posting - I realize I have used a number of superlatives to describe the people and experiences from the last 2 weeks. It's hard to know how to express the level of what we have experienced in words alone and writers usually advise not going overboard but it's hard not to. I hope when I get the pictures up - they will be able to convey a sense of what we are feeling and thinking but perhaps it can only fully be understood by others who are participating in some way or another. Again - this is similar to life itself. Sometimes you just have to be there.
Thanks again to those of you who read our blogs - and for letting us know.
We realize it's not always consistent - but then again - isn't life a bit like that?
People ask - "how has the riding been?" and I ususually answer, "alot like life, some hard days, some easy, some rough patches, some smooth - but all in all I wouldn't have missed it for anything".
I've also been asked whether I'd do it again if I had the chance and to that I say, "It depends on when you ask me." I probably would if it was meant to be - but I would surely want to know that it was something God was asking of me. The level of stamina and endurance that is needed for this is significant - and I do recognize that I have made it this far - with my break - but I honestly believe that I have done what I did because God provided the opportunity and then empowered me to do it. On my own - I wouldn't have considered riding across the country on a bike. Not that I wouldn't have given it some thought - or just thought it was a neat thing to do - but in terms of what I am usually up for physically - this would not be at the top of the list. There are some riders who are athletic - some who are more casual riders and some who truly have had to deal w/physical ailments that would make anyone think twice about embarking upon this type of ride. Yet, I guess in each of our cases, God asked it of us and then empowered us to go ahead and do it.
I also truly believe that the prayers we have had prayed for us and the support and encouragment that is directed towards us all play a part in keeping us going, moving eastward and God-ward as we use this tour to do our part in ending the cycle of poverty.
For all those who have said that they are involved in only a small way - I say that each person who has chosen or been moved to participate in this tour is a necessary and vital part of the tour. Systems work together in ways that allow for good or for ill to occur and if you have taken part in this tour - either through prayer, financial support, baking goodies for us or opening your homes to us - you have been a part of this special system that has been created to address the unhealthy systems that keep people oppressed or feeling that they are doomed to spend their lives in need and want.
I will say that if the whole tour had been like the last couple of weeks, there would have been a lot less drama and angst on my part but again - life doesn't work like that either as there will be uphills, hot days or headwinds. It's all part of this package and avoiding or trying to avoid the challenges and difficulties usually doesn't work. As tough as the first 4 weeks were - and they were - I would have missed out on so much had I not taken part in it. I don't ever want to bike through a desert again - but I got to see a part of the country I had never seen before. We've been blessed in terms of weather other than that very hot days that we encountered (yes, I did miss some of them in Nebraska & Wisconsin). And the roads and environment in Michigan & Canada have been terrific. It seems to be true, in my case at least that familiarity makes for comfort. Michigan and Canada look a lot like what I am used to - green, suburbs & farms, humidity and other characteristics which in their familiarity I find comforting. It should help me to empathize more I suppose with those who find change threatening or unwelcome and I hope I will be - but I also hope that others will take the risk that change seems to represent and find out what else there is for them in life. Like many things - it doesn't have to be either/or - life can be both/and. Familiar and yet new, similar yet different, comfortable yet going beyond comfort to the next level.
As of Wednesday - we have been in Canada and I cannot say enough about how hospitable our Canadian cousins have been. Ontario is beautiful and the rides have been mostly smooth - (again - a few rough spots here and there) and the outpouring of support is phenomenol. If it is true that people express their love via food - then we have been loved as high as the clouds and as deep as the oceans. Churches and individuals have provided us with snacks and fruit and cold water and ice cream and pastries until we feel like Thanksgiving turkeys (American style) ready to be served. To see all the people awaiting our arrival in Ontario on Wednesday when we crossed on the ferry was truly overwhelming. Of course there were many family members there -looking for their riders but even we Americans felt like we were being welcomed back home. How fitting and again - how illustrative of the concept of true, biblical hospitality.
For myself, I wanted to find a place to buy a Canadian flag to "wear" on my bike. I saw a gentleman speaking w/one of the riders and asked him if he could let me know where I might get one. He didn't answer but responded by giving me the flag he held in his hand. It's bigger than the ones that most people have been putting on their bikes (Canadian or American) but I attached it as best as I could and rode on my way.
Other wonders occured on Wednesday when Johnny ("Do Something Beautiful") Pierce rode by w/John Vanderveen and somehow I managed to catch up w/them. Yes, they had to have been taking it easy but we rode from the marina to Chatham (Ontario - not NY my New York friends) together. I don't know where the energy came from - it had to have been the cupcakes and candy and boeter koeke (Dutch- see if you can guess what it means) that I had before getting back on the road. Everything went smoothly until about 7 km from Chatham where we stayed Wed. night. Earlier - John's (Pierce) rear tire & my front one clicked although we didn't go down thank goodness. But it seemed to have affected his tire because not 1 but 2 spokes broke. Suffice it to say I felt badly but Johnny was a good sport and said it was something that happens when biking - which is true. I know he would have preferred not to have to SAG into camp but as it was - he did get a ride to a bike shop where the spokes were fixed, the tires replaced and someone very generously covered the cost. Then John got a ride back out to the spot we had stopped and rode the rest of the way into camp. Given that another rider had taken a bad fall due to his frame splitting (I'll spare you the details but please keep him in prayer as he recovers) I am happy that nothing worse happened to John or myself. The best part of that ride was singing our way into camp. It's amazing I can sing and ride at the same time but it does pass the time. Which is good because there were a couple of days during that week that I wasn't sure whether or not I'd make it in to camp that day.
Tuesday was pretty tough - as it was a 95 mile day and I was dragging along. Lovely Greta got in front of me at some point and we took off. I was able to keep up w/her for most of the day but I know she was holding back as well. We spent a number of miles together and then when we got to Walter's stop I let her break free. Jake P. & I ended up doing the last 20/30 miles together and got help along the way from Tim V. Tim does work w/the CRC and is a really good rider as well. If he hadn't carried us along I would have called it quits long before getting to camp but he like so many others kept us going and we rode into camp just as dinner was being served.
Those long days are the ones that really get to me. I think I can handle up to about 60 miles and then I want to stop. There were so many places along the roadway that looked inviting enough to stop at and take a nap - a long nap. Which only works if you have all the time in the world and don't have to be any place in particular.
On Thursday - it was almost the same thing. I couldn't keep up w/my shadow it seemed and the road seemed endless and I was sure I would miss lunch that another wonderful congregation was serving but I managed to get there around 1 and there was plenty to eat and I wasn't even the last or near to the last person to get into camp. Thursday was a busy day for some riders as there was a time trial for anyone who wanted to sign up - (testing yourself against yourself) but they did ask that only riders who could do 18miles/hour or better sign up so the volunteers who were helping out didn't have to stay out all day. Suffice it to say - I didn't sign up. (Many bikers also went to the VELODROME. It's an indoor bike track that goes around in circles at some bizarre angle and riders can ride like it's some kind of amusement park thing).
I did get to London early enough to get clothes done but I missed going to the work project I had signed up for. We needed to meet before 7 but I thought we had to meet at the bus at 7 - so I missed that one. If I can get in early enough for the project in Binghamton NY - I'll do that. In London we were greeted again by a number of wonderful people who had all the different kinds of dessert in the world you can imagine -after serving us snacks and dinner and inviting us to do laundry and swim in their pools.
From London we went to Hamilton and again were greeted graciously. I may even have been on a news story that aired Friday night as a local station was videotaping riders for their story and I rode in just as they were preparing to tape the riders following their van. Everyone said to get in the group and perhaps be on t.v. - For once, getting in late didn't mean missing everything, although I did miss getting a pedicure or foot massage. I will appreciate them even more now than I ever have. I also had decided to see if I could go home w/someone as I wanted to sleep in a bed and take a shower in a home setting. There was room & I signed up to stay w/Sandy & Suzie (from NJ) and we got to stay w/Ann who was just wonderful. It was also nice spending time w/others from NJ even though neither of them grew up there like I did.
Ann got us back to Redeemer University where we had been hosted by 7 a.m. Sat. morning and we were on the road again before too long. Corinne & I rode again together today (did yesterday also) and got to St. Catherine's this afternoon around 3:30. She got into camp before I did - as she can put the pedal to the metal (so to speak) when she wants to. I got caught at a couple of lights and stopped in a bike shop for some chain lube. I ended up getting some other things & forgot the lube but hopefully will be able to borrow some before the week is over.
Now I am getting ready to go to sleep for the night at the home of another lovely couple - Mike & Engline, my hosts for the night.
I will do my best to get updated w/pictures before too long. The smoother, shorter rides have provided the opportunity to take many moreand I enjoy sharing them w/my readers.
As I reviewed this before posting - I realize I have used a number of superlatives to describe the people and experiences from the last 2 weeks. It's hard to know how to express the level of what we have experienced in words alone and writers usually advise not going overboard but it's hard not to. I hope when I get the pictures up - they will be able to convey a sense of what we are feeling and thinking but perhaps it can only fully be understood by others who are participating in some way or another. Again - this is similar to life itself. Sometimes you just have to be there.
Thursday, August 14, 2008
Back on the road
It's Thursday - my second day of riding. I got back to the tour on Tuesday night - 10:oo p.m. thanks to Rev. Liala B, of Chicago. She picked me up and drove me to Palos Heights where there were tents and trucks but we didn't see anyone for a couple of minutes. Liala didn't want to leave me there - bless her - until we found someone and not too much later I nearly ran across Bert sitting by the truck. Everyone else was either in their tents or staying with folks in the area. Fortunately - I didn't have to set up my tent as the tour was invited to stay in the college buildings (Trinity Christian College). Since I hadn't set up prior to getting back, I figured trying to do that for the first time in the dark wouldn't be the easiest thing in the world. I got in - put my bag on a couch and hit the proverbial hay. Unfortunately - (and Dave, you aren't reading this), somewhere between that point and the time I woke up in the morning - my sunglasses disappeared. Yes, the really expensive ones that I got just for this trip. If no one at the college has picked them up, and I didn't leave them in Liala's car then who knows where they are.
No pictures from my trip back but I did meet an angel at Albany airport. For a couple of reasons I needed to bring everything with me on the plane - didn't want to check any bags so I tried to consolidate as much as possible. We got my clothes AND the sleeping bag in the small carry-on case. However, there was a bunch of other things that needed to go and the check in person said that if I didn't get it all together, then I wouldn't be able to bring both bags on the plane. Let's just say I got a tad upset and decided that perhaps I wouldn't return. So, I sat in a lounge chair, pouting - yes - I know, shocking - and someone came over just to check the seat for his keys. They weren't there but as he left - he put his hand on my arm and prayed a blessing that things would turn out better for the night. After that - I pulled everything out of the one bag, everything out of the other and repacked. Except for 3 items - I got everything I needed in the carry on and made the trip. It went smoothly and Liala picked me up, we had a great talk and I got back on the road.
Pictures to come as the connection just went off.
Anyway - the ride yesterday went very well. It was a short ride, a cool day and mainly level. This I can work with. There were only 2 mishaps on my part. Well, not totally mine; the first was when I rode with a group and Lou H. was part of that group. He came up behind us and it looked at first like he would stop on time and with no problem. However, things can happen in a split second and he couldn't unclip his shoe so that as he got up to where I was, his arm shot out and before either of really knew what was happening - he fell over on me and we both went down. After checking to see if we were ok, Marti D. very quickly offered to...
no, not help us up - but wanted to take our picture. I'm surprised she could focus she was laughing so much. Of course we were ok and I said sure - go ahead - shoot away. Be sure to check out her blog to see the site of Lou & myself lying prostrate, legs askew.
We picked ourselves up - got going and made our way to 2nd Highland CRC for lunch which they so graciously prepared. We ate and ate and got back on the road. I took off - apparently in violation of the mandate for the day that we stay in pairs. Didn't know so enjoyed myself riding along, talking wth people and taking more picutres. It all went well as Roland & Clare I got going riding togther, until my tire made this phhfftt sound. The tube went and Roland & Clare did their thing and got me back on the road. Roland again comes to the rescue as he let me use his patched tube which he did have with him. Since I didn't have an extra one. Yes, I was not prepared but I had forgotten the size tires that were on the bike so I figured I'd pick up replacements when I got back to the tour. However, I thought I'd have a day or two before any mishaps occured but no!!! Apparently God/the universe wanted to be sure I didn't think things were going to be too easy my first day back so I got to add to the evening statistic report.
Anyway - we split up again - I ran into Mark, Bryan & Manley and we rode into the campsite together - Indiana Dunes - a very nice site if anyone is interested. We had crossed into Indiana earlier in the day.
The night went well - other than the mosquitos which were abundant. I said the evening prayer and we went to small group. That was a time for a little catching up and then we went to our tents. I got to go to the new one that Rachael & Moonray sent me - back in Denver. This tent has traveled more than some people. It was mailed home (to me, in NY) from there and then I brought it back with me to the tour. Rach & Moonray - it's great. Sets up easily and there is a lot of room. Of course when I woke up this morning - I found that a bird had "christened" it. Sorry - but I did clean it off. I was hopeful that there would be no other mishaps to come.
And no major ones did for me - as "almost" getting creamed by a car doesn't count as someone did actually get hit today. Prayers please for Lois who got clipped by a car mirror. Someone was a little too close. Alida & I had to stop pretty quickly as someone had failed to stop at the stop sign and pulled out right in front of us. We were a bit shaken up but kept going. I had been riding with a group earlier but Alida & I stopped to get more water from a very helpful young man named David. He and his grandparents were another of many people who have set up water stations and just signs of encouragement along the way - HINT HINT.
I ended up back w/the group and Alida went off with someone else after our "Walter" stop.
Also got another picture of all the great "Kitchen Ladies." They could put together a calender with all the pictures that have been taken of them and sell them to donate the proceeds to "Sea To Sea".
The route took us past the beach & the famous "Sherman's Ice Cream", where I got "Hawaiian Ice". We spent about 1/2 an hour there and then continued on to our site - the Baseline Middle School in South Haven. And here I sit - updating the blog - not getting to put pictures on - but trying to share some of the experiences of this trip.
It was good being able to ride w/a group these last couple of days. It's not that I don't enjoy riding on my own - as I do - but I have been making better time and I enjoy feeling like I'm not dragging in at the end of the day - but it does help to strengthen the bonds I think. Of course in a group this size, bonds have an interesting way of being created, strengthened, challenged and even sometimes weakened. It's that last part that can be a challenge in & of itself. No group of any size will escape having those moments when people rub each other the wrong way - not because of any innate problem but just because - people are people and it's inevitable that stuff happens. But people seem to work things out or just let them go and we try to focus as John said tonight in prayer on why we are together.
So, that's what we will continue to do - and love each other through our adventures.
TO ALL THE FOLKS FROM NY/BINGHAMTON AREA - IF YOU CAN COME BY THE ROUTE or HAVE YOUR CHURCH OFFER US SOME SNACKS - WE WILL BE ETERNALLY GRATEFUL - AND YOU WILL BE A SIGNIFICANT PART OF THIS ADVENTURE.
BE WELL & BE BLESSED -
No pictures from my trip back but I did meet an angel at Albany airport. For a couple of reasons I needed to bring everything with me on the plane - didn't want to check any bags so I tried to consolidate as much as possible. We got my clothes AND the sleeping bag in the small carry-on case. However, there was a bunch of other things that needed to go and the check in person said that if I didn't get it all together, then I wouldn't be able to bring both bags on the plane. Let's just say I got a tad upset and decided that perhaps I wouldn't return. So, I sat in a lounge chair, pouting - yes - I know, shocking - and someone came over just to check the seat for his keys. They weren't there but as he left - he put his hand on my arm and prayed a blessing that things would turn out better for the night. After that - I pulled everything out of the one bag, everything out of the other and repacked. Except for 3 items - I got everything I needed in the carry on and made the trip. It went smoothly and Liala picked me up, we had a great talk and I got back on the road.
Pictures to come as the connection just went off.
Anyway - the ride yesterday went very well. It was a short ride, a cool day and mainly level. This I can work with. There were only 2 mishaps on my part. Well, not totally mine; the first was when I rode with a group and Lou H. was part of that group. He came up behind us and it looked at first like he would stop on time and with no problem. However, things can happen in a split second and he couldn't unclip his shoe so that as he got up to where I was, his arm shot out and before either of really knew what was happening - he fell over on me and we both went down. After checking to see if we were ok, Marti D. very quickly offered to...
no, not help us up - but wanted to take our picture. I'm surprised she could focus she was laughing so much. Of course we were ok and I said sure - go ahead - shoot away. Be sure to check out her blog to see the site of Lou & myself lying prostrate, legs askew.
We picked ourselves up - got going and made our way to 2nd Highland CRC for lunch which they so graciously prepared. We ate and ate and got back on the road. I took off - apparently in violation of the mandate for the day that we stay in pairs. Didn't know so enjoyed myself riding along, talking wth people and taking more picutres. It all went well as Roland & Clare I got going riding togther, until my tire made this phhfftt sound. The tube went and Roland & Clare did their thing and got me back on the road. Roland again comes to the rescue as he let me use his patched tube which he did have with him. Since I didn't have an extra one. Yes, I was not prepared but I had forgotten the size tires that were on the bike so I figured I'd pick up replacements when I got back to the tour. However, I thought I'd have a day or two before any mishaps occured but no!!! Apparently God/the universe wanted to be sure I didn't think things were going to be too easy my first day back so I got to add to the evening statistic report.
Anyway - we split up again - I ran into Mark, Bryan & Manley and we rode into the campsite together - Indiana Dunes - a very nice site if anyone is interested. We had crossed into Indiana earlier in the day.
The night went well - other than the mosquitos which were abundant. I said the evening prayer and we went to small group. That was a time for a little catching up and then we went to our tents. I got to go to the new one that Rachael & Moonray sent me - back in Denver. This tent has traveled more than some people. It was mailed home (to me, in NY) from there and then I brought it back with me to the tour. Rach & Moonray - it's great. Sets up easily and there is a lot of room. Of course when I woke up this morning - I found that a bird had "christened" it. Sorry - but I did clean it off. I was hopeful that there would be no other mishaps to come.
And no major ones did for me - as "almost" getting creamed by a car doesn't count as someone did actually get hit today. Prayers please for Lois who got clipped by a car mirror. Someone was a little too close. Alida & I had to stop pretty quickly as someone had failed to stop at the stop sign and pulled out right in front of us. We were a bit shaken up but kept going. I had been riding with a group earlier but Alida & I stopped to get more water from a very helpful young man named David. He and his grandparents were another of many people who have set up water stations and just signs of encouragement along the way - HINT HINT.
I ended up back w/the group and Alida went off with someone else after our "Walter" stop.
Also got another picture of all the great "Kitchen Ladies." They could put together a calender with all the pictures that have been taken of them and sell them to donate the proceeds to "Sea To Sea".
The route took us past the beach & the famous "Sherman's Ice Cream", where I got "Hawaiian Ice". We spent about 1/2 an hour there and then continued on to our site - the Baseline Middle School in South Haven. And here I sit - updating the blog - not getting to put pictures on - but trying to share some of the experiences of this trip.
It was good being able to ride w/a group these last couple of days. It's not that I don't enjoy riding on my own - as I do - but I have been making better time and I enjoy feeling like I'm not dragging in at the end of the day - but it does help to strengthen the bonds I think. Of course in a group this size, bonds have an interesting way of being created, strengthened, challenged and even sometimes weakened. It's that last part that can be a challenge in & of itself. No group of any size will escape having those moments when people rub each other the wrong way - not because of any innate problem but just because - people are people and it's inevitable that stuff happens. But people seem to work things out or just let them go and we try to focus as John said tonight in prayer on why we are together.
So, that's what we will continue to do - and love each other through our adventures.
TO ALL THE FOLKS FROM NY/BINGHAMTON AREA - IF YOU CAN COME BY THE ROUTE or HAVE YOUR CHURCH OFFER US SOME SNACKS - WE WILL BE ETERNALLY GRATEFUL - AND YOU WILL BE A SIGNIFICANT PART OF THIS ADVENTURE.
BE WELL & BE BLESSED -
Monday, August 11, 2008
Random Thoughts & Pictures -2
The following pictures are from the first week. (Ithink a couple of the pictures are out of order. Not sure how that happened but I thought I had all the Leavenworth, Ellensburg
pictures in the previous blog.
Thought I'd "shoot" the pony. He seemed to notice that a camera was pointing his way.
I took this shot as I sat on the curb in front of the store. It was just after taking this break that
Corey drops me off on the other side of the incline and I head down on Lucy Blue.
Coolin' the "dawgs"
pictures in the previous blog.
I passed this site and took the shot as it shows us heading south.
WSU is where Amber is now enrolled. She got to Pullman WA
last week (around Aug 1st). She headed west as I was riding back east.
Thought I'd "shoot" the pony. He seemed to notice that a camera was pointing his way.
This sign was on the side of the place I stopped in for a break & a coke. This is where my
thirst for Coke seemed to take hold. The bottom of the sign says, "The weather will change", and "No, I don't know what time it is."
I took this shot as I sat on the curb in front of the store. It was just after taking this break thatI encountered the man who I nearly gave my bike to. The road took a definite upward turn after this stop.
I eventually gave up the struggle & hitched a ride with Corey. We ended up driving almost back to Leavenworth as he needed gas for the van & more water.
A shot showing some of the logging results.
I eventually gave up the struggle & hitched a ride with Corey. We ended up driving almost back to Leavenworth as he needed gas for the van & more water.
A shot showing some of the logging results.
Heading to Ellensburg -
Yakima is Thursday's destination.
Yakima is Thursday's destination.
Corey drops me off on the other side of the incline and I head down on Lucy Blue.I liked this scene. It reminds me of a picture my dad took years ago when he & mom 
About 5 miles from the site. 
Took a break along the bike path. took a trip to Washington State in the 70's.
Got to Ellensburg. This is a shot Larry S. took as we left the school on Thursday, July 3rd.
Larry takes off to lead the way to Yakima.
Sites from the Yakima Canyon.
Got to Ellensburg. This is a shot Larry S. took as we left the school on Thursday, July 3rd.Larry takes off to lead the way to Yakima.Sites from the Yakima Canyon.About 5 miles from the site. Coolin' the "dawgs"
Finally at the school. Later that afternoon, I caught a ride to the local Wal-Mart with
Dr. Sandy. After dinner, she took me w/her to her office where I got to catch up on some
emails and posting. This was one of many examples of this type of help & support the riders
experienced throughout the tour.
Dr. Sandy. To her right is Frank F. He rode from Seattle to Denver. The person in the background aiming - a camera - is Jonathon Stoner - one of our 2 media people.
Jenn & Megan - cooling off in the air-conditioned school.
Jenn is Ed's assistant & Megan is the other media person. More of our great support team.
Saying goodbye to the Riverside Christian School who graciously hosted us during our time
in Yakima. 
Catching up with pictures and other things
Day 1 we stayed in Sultan
Day 2 headed from Sultan to Leavenworth.
Had to go through Stevens Pass first - first major incline of the trip.
Had to go through Stevens Pass first - first major incline of the trip.
Biked as far as I could then got a ride the last 3 miles up. 
Now heading down.
This next picture was taken from inside Vivian's car. She & Que picked me up, literally off the road and took me to the site in Leavenworth. And no, not the state penitentiary. It's a small mountain town - with German ancestry. 
PEOPLE WHO HAVE MADE A DIFFERENCE.
There have been a number of people whose paths have crossed mine in the last several weeks.
I may not have mentioned you prior to this but I hope if you are keeping up with the reading - (and again, my apologies that it's been sporadic) know that I have not forgotten you or how important a part you have played in my journey. Also including pictures from the trip.
VERY SPECIAL THANKS TO -
Que & Vivian. They were the 2 guardian angels who stopped to help me out the second day of the trip. I had gone as far as I could go up Steven's Pass when I decided to take the SAG vehicle to the top. It was the going down part that I really looked forward to. While on the way down, I stopped to talk w/a couple of other riders. As we got going again - my bike slipped and I went down - hard. Ended up w/huge bruise on leg and elsewhere and chest pain. The cell phones didn't work and there was no one else around but these 2 saw me as I fell and stopped to help.
I may not have mentioned you prior to this but I hope if you are keeping up with the reading - (and again, my apologies that it's been sporadic) know that I have not forgotten you or how important a part you have played in my journey. Also including pictures from the trip.
VERY SPECIAL THANKS TO -
Que & Vivian. They were the 2 guardian angels who stopped to help me out the second day of the trip. I had gone as far as I could go up Steven's Pass when I decided to take the SAG vehicle to the top. It was the going down part that I really looked forward to. While on the way down, I stopped to talk w/a couple of other riders. As we got going again - my bike slipped and I went down - hard. Ended up w/huge bruise on leg and elsewhere and chest pain. The cell phones didn't work and there was no one else around but these 2 saw me as I fell and stopped to help.
Then they drove me to our site that night.
Wed. July 2 -
Packing up camp at Leavenworth.
Packing up camp at Leavenworth.
Leaving Leavenworth-heading to Ellensburg
Random Thoughts & Pictures
RECIPES FROM THE ROAD:
Thought I'd get this down as memories from the summer.
Thought I'd get this down as memories from the summer.
From the Lee Family in Kennewick -
Easy To Make Doughnuts.
1 container buttermilk biscuits
Open. Make a small hole in middle of biscuit.
Fry in vegetable oil (about 1/2 inch in frying pan)
Take out. Coat w/sugar/cinnamon mix.
Eat - enjoy!!
Easy Tacos from Jill S. in Denver.
Eat - enjoy!!
Easy Tacos from Jill S. in Denver.
1 flank steak.
Cook in crock pot - adding taco seasoning and chilies till done. Meat will flake.
Cook in crock pot - adding taco seasoning and chilies till done. Meat will flake.
Tortilla shells
Grated cheese
Grated cheese
sour cream
guacamole
tomatoes
lettuce
Anything else you like.
Place ingredients on shells - roll - eat. Excellent
Place ingredients on shells - roll - eat. Excellent
If anyone has any other recipes they've gotten while on tour - or if any readers want to share their recipes - please feel free to. Perhaps I can get some from Lavonne as well if anyone needs to know how much to use for serving large groups of people.
Home- Pictures Aug 3-11, 2008
These pictures are really probably more for me in the event I feel a little homesick while back on the road. However, I hope that if you are checking out this site-you will find them of interest. They represent what life is like at home on any given week. But I did want to keep a record of my time at home during this particular summer. I am going to be back on tour as of tomorrow night (Aug 12) and I've been thinking about a lot of things. I haven't written much about them as our son noted that my site leans more toward the reflective, analytical than he expected. And we asked, "why?" Not being detail oriented, I do tend toward narrative in my writing but the pictures from the last 2 weeks are more a recording of events, not an evaluation of them.
Later on Tuesday - I went to the dentist and found out I'd need a root canal.
No pictures from Wednesday - and then Thursday at 4 (the appt. got changed from 6:30 which worked out well since Dave was able to take me, bring me home and then go back to Schoharie to attend the geneaology lecture re: Palatine settlements. Since the Tipples are descended from the Palatines who settled in Columbia County in the 1700's, it's something his family has some interest in. He is also on a committee which is making plans for the anniversary of that settlement in conjunction with the anniversary that's coming up of Henry Hudson's sail up the river which led to the settlement of the Hudson Valley.
Dr. Solomon & his very able assistant (sorry, forget her name). She participates in Trialthons. Perhaps I could consider that for my next endeavor - not anytime soon however.
The post office in Hudson, NY
Later on that day, we went to Latham and met my brother & his family and cousin Leo & Kathy (just below). Leo is the son of my birth father's brother - Paul DeMartino. This is one long, convoluted story.
I took this picture of Dave, P.J. & Leighanne (Joe & Dianne's kids), Joe, Leo, Dianne, Kathy
P.J., Joe, Me, Leighanne & Leo - The DeMartinos
SATURDAY- Aug 9
Charlie -
This is the Lutheran church where I preached on Aug. 3rd. St. Thomas, Churchtown, NY
Me at the pulpit. It was communion Sunday & of course there are different ways of engaging in this tradition. Have to remember that wine is served otherwise one can be surprised when partaking. The people were gracious and patient with the subsitute preacher.
One of the ministries of the church is to make pillows and quilts.
This is Dave later on that day (Aug 3rd) outside of one of the congregations he serves:
Mt. Pleasant, Greenport NY
The choir sings at Mt. Pleasant. It was a combined choir this Sunday as the Reformed congregations from Germantown, Livingston Memorial and Linlithgo all met to worship at Mt. P.
Me at the pulpit. It was communion Sunday & of course there are different ways of engaging in this tradition. Have to remember that wine is served otherwise one can be surprised when partaking. The people were gracious and patient with the subsitute preacher.One of the ministries of the church is to make pillows and quilts.This is Dave later on that day (Aug 3rd) outside of one of the congregations he serves:Mt. Pleasant, Greenport NY
The choir sings at Mt. Pleasant. It was a combined choir this Sunday as the Reformed congregations from Germantown, Livingston Memorial and Linlithgo all met to worship at Mt. P.MONDAY - Aug 4 - Here I am at the walk-in clinic in Coxsackie (pronounced - cook sockey). (Take note writers & actors from "Law & Order). Apparently it's nothing serious. Just have to wait out the sore throat.
After seeing the doctor - we head to Tannersville - and the North/South Lake camp site and lakes. They are 2200' above sea level. So, even bikers in the east have to pedal hard when riding around. We are in Greene County now. This is about 15 minutes from where we used to live in Kiskatom, NY. We came here a lot during the summer since it was generally about 5 to 10 degrees cooler than where we were. 
You can tell that the wind tends to come in off the lake.
The kids from the family we sat next too.
Dave eating one of the cucumbers from our garden.
You can tell that the wind tends to come in off the lake.The kids from the family we sat next too.Dave eating one of the cucumbers from our garden.The view from the beach.
Another view.
Leaving the campgrounds, heading back to Route 23 and we're going to head west.
Ominous clouds. It rained on and off all afternoon. It also got pretty chilly which is why we left the beach/lake in the first place.
Just another view on the road. Of course pictures almost never do justice to what it looks like in reality - but it still gives an idea of what the scenery is like.
We had never been out this far before on 23. We are now in Schoharie County and we stopped to see the falls.
Dave walking determinedly toward the falls. Fortunately, they weren't too far from the parking lot. 
Another cool site.
Back on the road, heading toward the Old Stone Fort, in Schoharie. It was another Palatine Settlement. 
Stopped in Middleburgh - thought these guys deserved a picture.
Unexpectedly found another historic site. Stopped to look around. Didn't stay long however as the mosquitoes were atrocious. Apparently Schoharie doesn't spray for them, or they just didn't care. 
Finally at the Fort. Dave only got a couple of pictures then the batteries in the camera died. 
TUESDAY Aug 5th.
Dave looking like a true biker. We've just droped Emily off at soccer cam and he is checking out his saddle. We will be riding the Harlem Valley Rail Trail. He borrowed this bike from his brother Matt. Matt is a bit taller than Dave, even if he is the youngest and Dave had to make sure the saddle was the right height.
Columbia County cornfields w/the Taconic Mts. in the background - looking west.
TUESDAY Aug 5th.Dave looking like a true biker. We've just droped Emily off at soccer cam and he is checking out his saddle. We will be riding the Harlem Valley Rail Trail. He borrowed this bike from his brother Matt. Matt is a bit taller than Dave, even if he is the youngest and Dave had to make sure the saddle was the right height.
Columbia County cornfields w/the Taconic Mts. in the background - looking west.Checking out the damage from the tire blowing out.
On my way back to get the car, I stop at this historic marker which notes that a fight took place a number of years ago - "on this very spot". 
Later on Tuesday - I went to the dentist and found out I'd need a root canal.
No pictures from Wednesday - and then Thursday at 4 (the appt. got changed from 6:30 which worked out well since Dave was able to take me, bring me home and then go back to Schoharie to attend the geneaology lecture re: Palatine settlements. Since the Tipples are descended from the Palatines who settled in Columbia County in the 1700's, it's something his family has some interest in. He is also on a committee which is making plans for the anniversary of that settlement in conjunction with the anniversary that's coming up of Henry Hudson's sail up the river which led to the settlement of the Hudson Valley.
Back at the dentist - "happy, happy, joy, joy"
Dr. Solomon & his very able assistant (sorry, forget her name). She participates in Trialthons. Perhaps I could consider that for my next endeavor - not anytime soon however.
FRIDAY - August 8th - HAPPY ANNIVERSARY - Married - 10 years. The day we got married was pretty much the hottest of the summer. And the only time in our relationship that I was late. Amber & I were getting our hair done at my sister Helen's place of employment - (Neuland & Minton Salon) and I got lost getting back to my other sister's house in Hillsdale, NJ. And then other things happened so I didn't get the church until 3:30. But it worked because my parents were also late due to heavy traffic on the Garden St. Parkway.
So, we finally got started and had a great ceremony and great reception. Even if the DJ didn't show up. A whole nother story.
Anyway - 10 years later and it's Friday and every Friday, Dave or both of us do a worship service at the Pavilion in Catskill, NY. As I noted, it refreshes us as much as anything it does for the residents. Below are several of them and they all are very wonderful people.
The post office in Hudson, NYLater on that day, we went to Latham and met my brother & his family and cousin Leo & Kathy (just below). Leo is the son of my birth father's brother - Paul DeMartino. This is one long, convoluted story.
I took this picture of Dave, P.J. & Leighanne (Joe & Dianne's kids), Joe, Leo, Dianne, Kathy
P.J., Joe, Me, Leighanne & Leo - The DeMartinosSATURDAY- Aug 9
Charlie -
enough said.
View of the back field behind the house. That's where the chicken house and horse stall will be - eventually.
Schnapps, rounding up one group of chickens. The others get to roam around pretty much as they please.
SUNDAY - Aug 10 - I stay home, trying to get better. Dave gets back from church around 1 and takes the necessary Sunday afternoon nap. We also watch a show on PBS (WMHT in our area - channel 2) and they are presenting a series on the German immigrants who came to here to America through the years. It was well done but certainly thought provoking as the issues of how we treat immigrants who make their home here & contribute so much continue to be treated.
MONDAY- Aug 11 - Catching up and getting ready to head to Illinois tomorrow night.
View of the back field behind the house. That's where the chicken house and horse stall will be - eventually.
Schnapps, rounding up one group of chickens. The others get to roam around pretty much as they please.
SUNDAY - Aug 10 - I stay home, trying to get better. Dave gets back from church around 1 and takes the necessary Sunday afternoon nap. We also watch a show on PBS (WMHT in our area - channel 2) and they are presenting a series on the German immigrants who came to here to America through the years. It was well done but certainly thought provoking as the issues of how we treat immigrants who make their home here & contribute so much continue to be treated.
MONDAY- Aug 11 - Catching up and getting ready to head to Illinois tomorrow night.
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