Just saw an intriguing sight. Tonight's worship celebration ended and I was heading back to the dorm room. I saw 2 HUUGE crows hanging out and they flew off a little ways. And then I heard a scraping noise and saw a sqirrel climbing out of the garbage can, eating. It was so bold and so close. I was less than a foot away. Of course he made me think of all the people who also have to eat out of garbage cans for whatever reason which has led them to that place. I guess it's not too unusual to think along these lines given the purpose of this tour and the message of tonight's worship.
I found worship very relevant and timely for me. At the risk of upsetting some who may read this - I realized tonight somewhat clearly that I stepped away from the pastoral setting - not just because of all the stuff that occured over the last 2 years. I had to - in order to be able to keep loving.
The pastor read Galatians 5 - and talked about the particular fruit of love. His message also dovetailed with a scripture I came across yesterday in my calendar. It was from James and had to do with putting our faith into action - not just saying we love one another but living it as well.
His message also resonated in that he touched on the issue of how here in North America - worship plays out in a very consumerist fashion - in that we end up expecting to receive - but rarely are willing to give. It becomes more about what do I in the pew receive - rather than what can I do to serve God. It seems to me (just my opinion) that there is a corollary in the decline of the health of the churches that is being experienced in so many places.
Even this pastor - here on the west coast noted that it's not the size of the church - the amount of people - but the depth of their love that matters. That is a theme which has carried through several conversations this weekend as well.
How is love being expressed? How are we - the Body of Christ - living out our faith?
This is something I have tried to impart and just as importantly - something I seek and will continue to try to live out.
That is a key piece of why I am participating in this ride.
One last note- re: the fall I took this afternoon (actually 2- 1 more and it would have been
very trinitarian) - there may be more - but I hope that I've gotten that out of the way and can now continue on the tour - making progress - meeting people - doing A-I-F (awareness, involvement, funds) and seeing the country close up and personal.
And to live out the call that Christ has created for me.
Peace & blessings to all - especially my loved ones and for tonight - my partners along the way.
Sunday, June 29, 2008
Saturday, June 28, 2008
Early a.m. thoughts
So, it's about 4:00 a.m. Saturday. (7:00 a.m. back home) Dave, are you up yet? :)
Random thoughts -
need some last minute items...don't forget.
Did you know that there must be a powerful cell phone signal around?
Charged my phone Tuesday night and haven't needed to since then. At home, have
to charge at least once a day. More if left on inside our house.
Did you know it's been sunny since I got here Tuesday?
No rain, clouds or HUMIDITY!! I could get really used to this. Although Jess & Rob say
it's not like this all the time. But the winter doesn't usually get lower than 40. And if you
want your snow & cold you can go to the mountains. I could definitely get used to this.
Did you know that there is another coffee chain (don't think national) that native Seattlites
(my word - not one of the lost tribes) have recommended? Tully's preferred over the other more familiar brand. Not that there aren't plenty of those around too.
Do you know how close I came to not having my bike clothes, tent, sleeping bag and other supplies?
Jess was going to take me to the university to meet someone who offered to help me
put my bike together. I originally thought we'd be there by noon. Jess
had to change the tire on her car but a special key for one of the lug nuts was
missing so she couldn't get the tire off.
Eventually she called Rob to come home so we could use his car. While we were waiting
I saw the UPS truck park down the street. The only reason I knew he came was that we
were all outside working on the car and then waiting for Rob. I saw the driver walk down
the road w/what looked like a package in his hand. He went back to the truck
and started to pull away.I stopped him & asked him if he had a big box for delivery.
He asked me for the address. I gave him Jess's. He said he hadn't seen the address
and was about to bring the box back to the center. If we had been out running errands
like we had planned - (even if we had been able to get the bike together ourselves),
we wouldn't have been home when he came, I wouldn't have seen him and my box of
supplies would have been sent back home. So - amazing how it was all taken care of.
And please don't tell me it was just a coincidence - not this one.
Did you know it's mere hours away from the beginning of this ride and there's no turning back?
Well, I could I suppose but what would be the point? It has definitely finally sunk in that
I am about to get on a bike and ride nearly 4000 miles. Had to sooner or later.
And as they say - sort of - a bike journey of 3895 miles begins with a single push on the
pedal. That's all.
Did you know I think I am going to try and go back to sleep?
This is not the time for missing out on all my zzzzzzs.
Random thoughts -
need some last minute items...don't forget.
Did you know that there must be a powerful cell phone signal around?
Charged my phone Tuesday night and haven't needed to since then. At home, have
to charge at least once a day. More if left on inside our house.
Did you know it's been sunny since I got here Tuesday?
No rain, clouds or HUMIDITY!! I could get really used to this. Although Jess & Rob say
it's not like this all the time. But the winter doesn't usually get lower than 40. And if you
want your snow & cold you can go to the mountains. I could definitely get used to this.
Did you know that there is another coffee chain (don't think national) that native Seattlites
(my word - not one of the lost tribes) have recommended? Tully's preferred over the other more familiar brand. Not that there aren't plenty of those around too.
Do you know how close I came to not having my bike clothes, tent, sleeping bag and other supplies?
Jess was going to take me to the university to meet someone who offered to help me
put my bike together. I originally thought we'd be there by noon. Jess
had to change the tire on her car but a special key for one of the lug nuts was
missing so she couldn't get the tire off.
Eventually she called Rob to come home so we could use his car. While we were waiting
I saw the UPS truck park down the street. The only reason I knew he came was that we
were all outside working on the car and then waiting for Rob. I saw the driver walk down
the road w/what looked like a package in his hand. He went back to the truck
and started to pull away.I stopped him & asked him if he had a big box for delivery.
He asked me for the address. I gave him Jess's. He said he hadn't seen the address
and was about to bring the box back to the center. If we had been out running errands
like we had planned - (even if we had been able to get the bike together ourselves),
we wouldn't have been home when he came, I wouldn't have seen him and my box of
supplies would have been sent back home. So - amazing how it was all taken care of.
And please don't tell me it was just a coincidence - not this one.
Did you know it's mere hours away from the beginning of this ride and there's no turning back?
Well, I could I suppose but what would be the point? It has definitely finally sunk in that
I am about to get on a bike and ride nearly 4000 miles. Had to sooner or later.
And as they say - sort of - a bike journey of 3895 miles begins with a single push on the
pedal. That's all.
Did you know I think I am going to try and go back to sleep?
This is not the time for missing out on all my zzzzzzs.
Friday, June 27, 2008
Thoughts
So far, so good. It's Friday Morning...Happy Friday everyone!
I have been getting up fairly early - at least according to the clock. My normal time to wake up is around 8:30. But that's 5:30 here in Seattle so that's about the time I'll need to be getting up once we get on the road. I'll want to be getting an early start so that I won't be out in the heat of the mid-day sun while riding. I think that will take some working up to however. I realize that I let myself get distracted from my goal this year as I tried to prepare for this ride. (Not that I didn't have a really legit reason as some of you know but now I have to deal with the consequences). I'm really starting at almost ground zero in terms of conditioning and it's going to be a challenge to keep up. On the other hand - it's reinforcing the fact that we do the best we can with what we can and this is where the faith & trust factor come in. God brought me here - I have no doubt about that and God is not going to leave me as I seek to serve faithfully. I will be doing the leg work (for real) but not in my own strength. And being with a group of like minded riders will surely help in terms of support and encouragment and guidance. So once again - it's a partnership thing.
Speaking of support - THANK YOU SOOOO MUCH to everyone who has helped or been involved in some way that's gotten me this far. This morning I want to especially acknowledge Rachel & her cousin Jess. (This is not to diminish what everyone else has done in any way). Rachel provided support and a number of things that I needed so I didn't have to spend money unnecessarily. And because of her - I am staying in Seattle with her cousin's family and having a chance to decompress from recent events. This is also allowing me to get everything together -last minute prep without feeling undue pressure. But the best thing about it is that what has been offered most is the true expression of hospitality - taking a stranger into one's home, treating her with kindness and making her feel like a true family member. (Especially the kids who after one day have felt comfortable enough to be themselves around said stranger - LOL). Jess has driven me around - Rob has made dinner and helped me get my pictures onto the computer and the boys (Kevin & Mikey) have tolerated a change in the schedule without undue angst. (Kudos to Kevin who came shopping w/me & Jess for supplies and stuck it out for about 3 hours as we roamed around Target deciding what I needed and what I could do without. We both got cranky around the same time and Jess got us home for dinner -nachos - which soothed both savage beasts. I was probably worse than Kev).
This time w/the Foster family - (there is something symbolic in their name I think) has allowed me to really get my mind around what I am about to do and just let go of some of the stuff from the last few months. I have had moments of overwhelming emotion -(surprise, surprise) which I think has been a release of some of the past allowing for a sense of renewal. I've also been privleged to be the recipient of Sharky' attention ( the family dog - a yellow lab). My first night here Rob had to take Jessica to work and the boys went with them so I was on my own. Sharky made sure that while I was alone - I wasn't lonely. He followed me EVERYWHERE and where I sat - he sat. He also allowed me the honor of scratching his belly - (& he's no small thing) to both our satisfaction. This is one loving, lovable pal. The 2 cats have been kind of scarce but they also make it feel like home. The only thing missing are chickens - our newest family members.
I actually miss them but I will be home in time to get reacquainted before the eggs start coming. Meanwhile - I am trying to engage in as much mental preparation as I can since that's about all I can do at this point. Later on this morning I will be putting the bike back together and praying that it at least holds up until I get to the University tomorrow to have someone look at it. And I hope I can figure out what that little small piece is that was at the bottom of the box.
I will be picking up the last of my supplies today but I have now figured out why we need a memory stick. If we don't have our own computers - (which many of us decided not to bring due to weight restrictions) we need to be able to get our pictures sent then off of the group computers which will be provided for our use. I also started thinking that maybe an MP3 player would have been a good idea. Music is such an integral part of my life and it occured to me that having "Born To Run" to listen to on the road would keep me energized. (Not that we can listen while riding but it was in my head this morning as I woke up and I realized it would be nice to hear it). As well as "Who Says - You Can't Go Home" and so many other inspirational tunes.
Anyway - for those who've come this far with me - thanks!! You're the best.
More later...
I have been getting up fairly early - at least according to the clock. My normal time to wake up is around 8:30. But that's 5:30 here in Seattle so that's about the time I'll need to be getting up once we get on the road. I'll want to be getting an early start so that I won't be out in the heat of the mid-day sun while riding. I think that will take some working up to however. I realize that I let myself get distracted from my goal this year as I tried to prepare for this ride. (Not that I didn't have a really legit reason as some of you know but now I have to deal with the consequences). I'm really starting at almost ground zero in terms of conditioning and it's going to be a challenge to keep up. On the other hand - it's reinforcing the fact that we do the best we can with what we can and this is where the faith & trust factor come in. God brought me here - I have no doubt about that and God is not going to leave me as I seek to serve faithfully. I will be doing the leg work (for real) but not in my own strength. And being with a group of like minded riders will surely help in terms of support and encouragment and guidance. So once again - it's a partnership thing.
Speaking of support - THANK YOU SOOOO MUCH to everyone who has helped or been involved in some way that's gotten me this far. This morning I want to especially acknowledge Rachel & her cousin Jess. (This is not to diminish what everyone else has done in any way). Rachel provided support and a number of things that I needed so I didn't have to spend money unnecessarily. And because of her - I am staying in Seattle with her cousin's family and having a chance to decompress from recent events. This is also allowing me to get everything together -last minute prep without feeling undue pressure. But the best thing about it is that what has been offered most is the true expression of hospitality - taking a stranger into one's home, treating her with kindness and making her feel like a true family member. (Especially the kids who after one day have felt comfortable enough to be themselves around said stranger - LOL). Jess has driven me around - Rob has made dinner and helped me get my pictures onto the computer and the boys (Kevin & Mikey) have tolerated a change in the schedule without undue angst. (Kudos to Kevin who came shopping w/me & Jess for supplies and stuck it out for about 3 hours as we roamed around Target deciding what I needed and what I could do without. We both got cranky around the same time and Jess got us home for dinner -nachos - which soothed both savage beasts. I was probably worse than Kev).
This time w/the Foster family - (there is something symbolic in their name I think) has allowed me to really get my mind around what I am about to do and just let go of some of the stuff from the last few months. I have had moments of overwhelming emotion -(surprise, surprise) which I think has been a release of some of the past allowing for a sense of renewal. I've also been privleged to be the recipient of Sharky' attention ( the family dog - a yellow lab). My first night here Rob had to take Jessica to work and the boys went with them so I was on my own. Sharky made sure that while I was alone - I wasn't lonely. He followed me EVERYWHERE and where I sat - he sat. He also allowed me the honor of scratching his belly - (& he's no small thing) to both our satisfaction. This is one loving, lovable pal. The 2 cats have been kind of scarce but they also make it feel like home. The only thing missing are chickens - our newest family members.
I actually miss them but I will be home in time to get reacquainted before the eggs start coming. Meanwhile - I am trying to engage in as much mental preparation as I can since that's about all I can do at this point. Later on this morning I will be putting the bike back together and praying that it at least holds up until I get to the University tomorrow to have someone look at it. And I hope I can figure out what that little small piece is that was at the bottom of the box.
I will be picking up the last of my supplies today but I have now figured out why we need a memory stick. If we don't have our own computers - (which many of us decided not to bring due to weight restrictions) we need to be able to get our pictures sent then off of the group computers which will be provided for our use. I also started thinking that maybe an MP3 player would have been a good idea. Music is such an integral part of my life and it occured to me that having "Born To Run" to listen to on the road would keep me energized. (Not that we can listen while riding but it was in my head this morning as I woke up and I realized it would be nice to hear it). As well as "Who Says - You Can't Go Home" and so many other inspirational tunes.
Anyway - for those who've come this far with me - thanks!! You're the best.
More later...
Thursday, June 26, 2008
More pictures from Seattle - June 26, 2008
Hanging Chilis at the Market
Puget Sound from the Market
Taconic Farms Runaways!
A Picture of the Market
At the Market
Roses at the Market
The Monkfish is saying Hello
HUUGE Artichokes
The Fountain at the Needle
Public Market Center
Inside the Food Court
Having trouble aligning the captions to the picture (& getting them in order) but I think you get the idea.
Being A Tourist in Seattle
Going to try again -
I am having trouble posting tonight. I got my pictures attached to the blog but then it wouldn't post.
Anyway - today's activities included trying to get the bike put together. I wasn't sure I could do it effectively so I was going to take it to a bike shop. That didn't work as there was a time factor and a considerable charge. Jess & I decided we'd do it and when I bring it to the U of W - I'm sure one of the other bikers will be able to check it out.
Next we went to the Space Needle. That was fun. I didn't go up in it but just walked around and we did the tourist thing - buying post cards, eating at the food court (your typical mall fare) and then taking the monorail to the market.
Seattle reminded me of several places - Atlanta (where Dave & I stayed last year), Fanueil Hall & Quincy Market - and even Capetown - only without the shacks.
We spent the afternoon doing that and then thankfully got home before one of the tires on Jess' car went flat. After that was dinner and me trying to upload all my pictures onto this blog. Rob helped me get them onto the computer but after getting them into the blog - it wouldn't publish/post it. I hope this time around works.
Anyway - tomorrow will be spent finishing up last minute errands - repacking and getting ready to join the other bikers on Saturday.
Will keep on posting our progress.
More again tomorrow -
I am having trouble posting tonight. I got my pictures attached to the blog but then it wouldn't post.
Anyway - today's activities included trying to get the bike put together. I wasn't sure I could do it effectively so I was going to take it to a bike shop. That didn't work as there was a time factor and a considerable charge. Jess & I decided we'd do it and when I bring it to the U of W - I'm sure one of the other bikers will be able to check it out.
Next we went to the Space Needle. That was fun. I didn't go up in it but just walked around and we did the tourist thing - buying post cards, eating at the food court (your typical mall fare) and then taking the monorail to the market.
Seattle reminded me of several places - Atlanta (where Dave & I stayed last year), Fanueil Hall & Quincy Market - and even Capetown - only without the shacks.
We spent the afternoon doing that and then thankfully got home before one of the tires on Jess' car went flat. After that was dinner and me trying to upload all my pictures onto this blog. Rob helped me get them onto the computer but after getting them into the blog - it wouldn't publish/post it. I hope this time around works.
Anyway - tomorrow will be spent finishing up last minute errands - repacking and getting ready to join the other bikers on Saturday.
Will keep on posting our progress.
More again tomorrow -
Another Day
It's about 10:00 a.m. - Thursday. Yesterday - Jess & I went to Target and got a lot
of the extras I still needed - like tissues, soap, makeup, first aid kit & medical supplies. I still need a couple of other things but it looks like I will be mailing stuff home. Apparently - the weight limit is well, limiting. Of course with all these riders it would be insane if we all tried to bring everything that we think we need but some people are cutting back to one pair of bike shorts and shirt and one pair of fregular paints and a shirt. Ummm. This will be interesting.
Anyway - we made nachos for dinner and I spent time on the computer and then went to bed about 10 p.m. I woke up about 6:30 and made breakfast about 7:00. So far I don't feel overly exhausted and seem to be adjusting to the time change well.
Anyway - today we are going to get the bike put together, pick up the last of my necessary items and do some sight seeing.
Will get some pictures up today I hope so those of you who haven't seen Seattle
will get to a bit of it.
More later...
of the extras I still needed - like tissues, soap, makeup, first aid kit & medical supplies. I still need a couple of other things but it looks like I will be mailing stuff home. Apparently - the weight limit is well, limiting. Of course with all these riders it would be insane if we all tried to bring everything that we think we need but some people are cutting back to one pair of bike shorts and shirt and one pair of fregular paints and a shirt. Ummm. This will be interesting.
Anyway - we made nachos for dinner and I spent time on the computer and then went to bed about 10 p.m. I woke up about 6:30 and made breakfast about 7:00. So far I don't feel overly exhausted and seem to be adjusting to the time change well.
Anyway - today we are going to get the bike put together, pick up the last of my necessary items and do some sight seeing.
Will get some pictures up today I hope so those of you who haven't seen Seattle
will get to a bit of it.
More later...
Wednesday, June 25, 2008
REFLECTIONS - Wed - June 25
BELOW IS AN EMAIL EXCHANGE I HAD WITH A LOCAL D.J. RE: OUR EFFORTS.
I copied it here as I want to re-emphasize why I am participating in this
incredible effort. I have also been greatly encouraged by Dave & many of our
friends. As one friend stated and as so many of you understand:
"This is such a great thing that you are doing! I understand the soul's need for the occasional pilgrimage. Further, there is no cause that is more urgent to our peace, stability, and future than poverty awareness and reduction. What you are doing takes a lot of courage and determination, and I am truly happy for you that you have accepted this challenge.
I will keep you close in thoughts and prayers as you start your journey.
Please know that you have my full support, and I believe that
you can do this."
EXCHANGE W/D.J. Michelle Taylor 98.5 Lite F.M. Hudson Valley, NY
Hi Michelle -
I just wanted to thank you for taking the time to speak with me on Saturday in Hudson.
If there is anything you can do to promote this effort it will be very much appreciated.
With the economy being what it is - people who not too long ago were supporting food banks etc., are now in need of their services.
And, of course the food banks and similar services are suffering as a result of the faltering economy. I'm sure you are fully well aware of the situation but suprisingly - many people are unaware of the depth of deprivation present
even in their own neighborhoods. Of course what we experience as deprivation
in our country (and there are pockets of extreme poverty) don't
come close to what people in the rest of the world experience daily.
I could send you all kinds of examples and figures but those can be found
anywhere on the web.
I'm just hoping that people will continue to contribute to this effort
in whatever way they can. Donations and pledges can be made throughout
the month of August.
The direct link is http://www.crcna.org/pages/sea_profile_tipplej.cfm
Anyone who wants to follow the progess of the ride thoughout the summer can
go to www.seatosea.org and check out the blogs which many of the bikers will be posting as we record this incredible experience.
Thanks again - and be well in all your endeavors -
Sincerely - Rev. Joanna Tipple
Joanna Tipple is riding her bike across the country in the summer of
2008 to raise money in order to help alleviate poverty, both domestic, and
abroad. To find out more, or to donate to Joanna, please check out the
following link.
http://www.crcna.org/pages/sea_profile_tipplej.cfm
On Fri, Jun 20, 2008 at 4:19 AM, Taylor, Michelle wrote:
Pastor Jo:
Good Morning….It was so great to meet you as well and each day I have mentioned your effort and mission to Cycle to End Poverty. I hope that my effort will show you results.
All my best to you and again, it was such a pleasure to meet you Pastor Jo.
Michelle
Hi Michelle -
It was also a pleasure to meet you and whatever the results may be, you have
participated in this truly worthwhile effort in your willingess to help in a way that
covers far more territory than my efforts have. There have been a number of donations which have come in and I am not familiar with some of the names so it is possible that your participation has indeed helped out.
Brief update: I am now in Seattle preparing for the journey that is to come.
A friend's cousin has been very gracious in that she has opened her home to me
to come a few days early so I could acclimate to the time change & pick up some
additional supplies. This helped in that it was enough to get my bike and a back-pack
cross country intact.
Anyway - take care, enjoy the summer and check out our progress when you can.
I also have a blog at http://jo-seatosea.blogspot.com
I hope to keep it updated regularily with news and pictures.
Peace - Pastor Jo
*******************************************************************
11:30 a.m. (PST)
I am curiously not experiencing a major case of nerves. As I said - maybe
I just haven't really comprehended enough to be nervous. Although I know
that for me - this will be the undertaking of a lifetime - labor & delivery
notwithstanding some 28 & 27 years ago.
Maybe I'm still too tired. I slept about 12 hours last night. My body
seems to be adjusting pretty well however to the time change. The only thing
I'm noticing is that I feel like it should be later in the day - not still morning.
I look forward to being a tourist for the next couple of days in Seattle as well
as completing my preparations for the trip.
More to come...
I copied it here as I want to re-emphasize why I am participating in this
incredible effort. I have also been greatly encouraged by Dave & many of our
friends. As one friend stated and as so many of you understand:
"This is such a great thing that you are doing! I understand the soul's need for the occasional pilgrimage. Further, there is no cause that is more urgent to our peace, stability, and future than poverty awareness and reduction. What you are doing takes a lot of courage and determination, and I am truly happy for you that you have accepted this challenge.
I will keep you close in thoughts and prayers as you start your journey.
Please know that you have my full support, and I believe that
you can do this."
EXCHANGE W/D.J. Michelle Taylor 98.5 Lite F.M. Hudson Valley, NY
Hi Michelle -
I just wanted to thank you for taking the time to speak with me on Saturday in Hudson.
If there is anything you can do to promote this effort it will be very much appreciated.
With the economy being what it is - people who not too long ago were supporting food banks etc., are now in need of their services.
And, of course the food banks and similar services are suffering as a result of the faltering economy. I'm sure you are fully well aware of the situation but suprisingly - many people are unaware of the depth of deprivation present
even in their own neighborhoods. Of course what we experience as deprivation
in our country (and there are pockets of extreme poverty) don't
come close to what people in the rest of the world experience daily.
I could send you all kinds of examples and figures but those can be found
anywhere on the web.
I'm just hoping that people will continue to contribute to this effort
in whatever way they can. Donations and pledges can be made throughout
the month of August.
The direct link is http://www.crcna.org/pages/sea_profile_tipplej.cfm
Anyone who wants to follow the progess of the ride thoughout the summer can
go to www.seatosea.org and check out the blogs which many of the bikers will be posting as we record this incredible experience.
Thanks again - and be well in all your endeavors -
Sincerely - Rev. Joanna Tipple
Joanna Tipple is riding her bike across the country in the summer of
2008 to raise money in order to help alleviate poverty, both domestic, and
abroad. To find out more, or to donate to Joanna, please check out the
following link.
http://www.crcna.org/pages/sea_profile_tipplej.cfm
On Fri, Jun 20, 2008 at 4:19 AM, Taylor, Michelle
Pastor Jo:
Good Morning….It was so great to meet you as well and each day I have mentioned your effort and mission to Cycle to End Poverty. I hope that my effort will show you results.
All my best to you and again, it was such a pleasure to meet you Pastor Jo.
Michelle
Hi Michelle -
It was also a pleasure to meet you and whatever the results may be, you have
participated in this truly worthwhile effort in your willingess to help in a way that
covers far more territory than my efforts have. There have been a number of donations which have come in and I am not familiar with some of the names so it is possible that your participation has indeed helped out.
Brief update: I am now in Seattle preparing for the journey that is to come.
A friend's cousin has been very gracious in that she has opened her home to me
to come a few days early so I could acclimate to the time change & pick up some
additional supplies. This helped in that it was enough to get my bike and a back-pack
cross country intact.
Anyway - take care, enjoy the summer and check out our progress when you can.
I also have a blog at http://jo-seatosea.blogspot.com
I hope to keep it updated regularily with news and pictures.
Peace - Pastor Jo
*******************************************************************
11:30 a.m. (PST)
I am curiously not experiencing a major case of nerves. As I said - maybe
I just haven't really comprehended enough to be nervous. Although I know
that for me - this will be the undertaking of a lifetime - labor & delivery
notwithstanding some 28 & 27 years ago.
Maybe I'm still too tired. I slept about 12 hours last night. My body
seems to be adjusting pretty well however to the time change. The only thing
I'm noticing is that I feel like it should be later in the day - not still morning.
I look forward to being a tourist for the next couple of days in Seattle as well
as completing my preparations for the trip.
More to come...
Tuesday, June 24, 2008
ARRIVED IN SEATTLE
I am in SEATTLE. I had the opportunity to stay with the cousin of a friend (& her family) for a few days before the start of the ride. Jessica picked me up about an hour ago at the Seattle-Tacoma airport. My bike arrived as did my backpack without any damage. It is now only 12:30 here on the west coast and 3:30 back on the east.
Dave & I were up at 5:00 this morning after staying at my brother's house in NJ. We got there about 10:00 p.m. last night (Monday - June 23) and he & Peg took us to dinner. Unfortunately we didn't get to see Justin but I called and said good-bye.
The trip was uneventful and it was amazing to see the differing topographies as we passed over the states. It still hasn't really hit me that not only am I on the west coast for the first time -but I am going to be riding back home - on a bike!
I don't think it will be really real until we all leave next Monday - and my muscles will probably also let me know it's real. I am really glad I have this time to rest up - get some riding in and get whatever else I need.
So, enough for now - time to get settled for the next few days - and really contemplate what it is I am about to do.
More later -
Dave & I were up at 5:00 this morning after staying at my brother's house in NJ. We got there about 10:00 p.m. last night (Monday - June 23) and he & Peg took us to dinner. Unfortunately we didn't get to see Justin but I called and said good-bye.
The trip was uneventful and it was amazing to see the differing topographies as we passed over the states. It still hasn't really hit me that not only am I on the west coast for the first time -but I am going to be riding back home - on a bike!
I don't think it will be really real until we all leave next Monday - and my muscles will probably also let me know it's real. I am really glad I have this time to rest up - get some riding in and get whatever else I need.
So, enough for now - time to get settled for the next few days - and really contemplate what it is I am about to do.
More later -
Saturday, June 14, 2008
One Day Closer & Counting
What is it they say, "To make God laugh, tell Him your plans." Well, God is at least chuckling today. So, I had my plans together to
go to the Fairview Plaza UPS store where DJs Bob & Sherri (broadcast on local station 98.5 Lite FM) were appearing. I didn't get a call back from the owner of the store about setting up outside the store but I think it worked out well anyway. I met the local DJ, Michelle, from Pougkeepsie and she took all the ride info and spent about 15 minutes talking with me.
She said she'd announce the ride, & that I would be at the Flag Day Parade in Hudson so that people would hear about my efforts. She was really gracious.
I then spent the next couple of hours at home getting some things done & went to Hudson about 2:30. I met Dave there and we sat w/Leona through the whole parade. Basically, today's results were a net loss. I received $4.00 in donations and then spent $9.00 on dinner. The $4 will go into the ride kitty - and Dave & I had dinner in the rain. I really thought that given how well the G'town Memorial Day parade turned out, in terms of donations received that this would prove even more succesful. So, live and learn.
What I thought and what was meant to be didn't cross paths. However, the time with Michelle I hope will bear fruit. She indicated that the station would put my link w/Sea To Sea up on their site.
Well, time to write a sermon and prepare for tomorrow. There is always something to learn and look forward to. More to come.
go to the Fairview Plaza UPS store where DJs Bob & Sherri (broadcast on local station 98.5 Lite FM) were appearing. I didn't get a call back from the owner of the store about setting up outside the store but I think it worked out well anyway. I met the local DJ, Michelle, from Pougkeepsie and she took all the ride info and spent about 15 minutes talking with me.
She said she'd announce the ride, & that I would be at the Flag Day Parade in Hudson so that people would hear about my efforts. She was really gracious.
I then spent the next couple of hours at home getting some things done & went to Hudson about 2:30. I met Dave there and we sat w/Leona through the whole parade. Basically, today's results were a net loss. I received $4.00 in donations and then spent $9.00 on dinner. The $4 will go into the ride kitty - and Dave & I had dinner in the rain. I really thought that given how well the G'town Memorial Day parade turned out, in terms of donations received that this would prove even more succesful. So, live and learn.
What I thought and what was meant to be didn't cross paths. However, the time with Michelle I hope will bear fruit. She indicated that the station would put my link w/Sea To Sea up on their site.
Well, time to write a sermon and prepare for tomorrow. There is always something to learn and look forward to. More to come.
Friday, June 13, 2008
REALLY COUNTING DOWN
It's Friday - June 13, 2008
On Tuesday, June 24th I will be heading to Seattle to start the ride.
I am not sure if I am feeling excitement or nerves. Actually, they are
basically the same thing.
It looks like I will have raised the total amount although we're cutting things
close. But I have the ticket so I'm heading west regardless.
I have my bike box for shipping, and I have to get a box if I am going
to send my clothes and things via UPS instead of bringing them on the plane.
But I can check one bag with no charge so that may be the thing to do.
Jessica will pick me up in Seattle & I will have a few days to pick up final
items and get packed for the trip.
Well, no turning back now.
On Tuesday, June 24th I will be heading to Seattle to start the ride.
I am not sure if I am feeling excitement or nerves. Actually, they are
basically the same thing.
It looks like I will have raised the total amount although we're cutting things
close. But I have the ticket so I'm heading west regardless.
I have my bike box for shipping, and I have to get a box if I am going
to send my clothes and things via UPS instead of bringing them on the plane.
But I can check one bag with no charge so that may be the thing to do.
Jessica will pick me up in Seattle & I will have a few days to pick up final
items and get packed for the trip.
Well, no turning back now.
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