Sunday Afternoon - July 27, 2008

I have just returned from our Sunday Celebration rally with Joel, Jill & Adrian (3 mos old) Schreurs. Joel is the pastor at First CRC in Denver - the southern end. The morning service

took place at a local high school (Englewood) coordinated by several local congregations & groups. We sat in the bleachers in 90 degree heat but it was well worth it.

I come away from the service chastened and humbled as I recalled the words from my earlier blog - that "my motivation to get from point A to point B was Coke & ice." Truly, while I needed the coolness to soothe parched mouth and body - I got from point A to point B because of my call to serve God by serving others. I was reminded of this through the message - preached by Pastor Jerry Dykstra - Exec. Dir. , CRC of North America.

I'd like to share the worship service here so the following is this morning's order of worship - with random editorial thoughts.

WORSHIP CELEBRATION - July 27, 2008

The service was formed around the biblical theme Creation-Fall-Redemption-Renewal.

May the Spirit of God stir us all to renewed hope and action in the name of Jesus.

God's Goodness Fills the Earth

Gathering & Bike Parade - Do Something Beautiful

As the bikers arrive in the stands, please offer a seat near you to worship together.

Opening Hymn - Praise to the Lord the Almighty

Praise to the Lord, the Almighty, the King of Creation!
O my soul, praise him, for he is your health and salvation!
Come, all who hear; brothers and sisters draw near,

Join me in glad adoration!

Praise to the Lord, who o'er things is wonderously reigning,
Sheltering you under his wings, o, so gently sustaining.
Have you not see all that is needful has been
Sent by his gracious ordaining?

Praise to the Lord, who will prosper your work and defend you;
Surely his goodness and mercy shall daily attend you.
Ponder anew what the Almighty can do

As with his love he befriends you.

Praise to the Lord! O let all that is in me adore him!
All that has life and breath, come now with praises before him!
Let the amen sound from his people again.
Gladly forever adore him! Joachim Neaner; tr Catherine Winkwork. Public Domain

Responsive Reading from Psalm 146

Praise the Lord!

he is the one who made heaven and earth, the sea and everything in them.
He is the one who keeps every promise forever,
Who gives justice to the oppressed and food to the hungry.
The Lord frees the prisoners.
The Lord opens the eyes of the blind.
The Lord lifts the burdens of those bent beneath their loads.
The Lord loves the righteous.

The Lord protects the foreigners among us.

He cares for the orphans and the widows,

But he frustrates the plans of the wicked.
The Lord will reign forever.
Your God is King in every generation!
Praise the Lord!

God's Call

In the midst of a world where people hunger and thirst...

Come worship a God who feeds the hungry.

In the midst of a world where people are abused and oppressed...

Come worship a God who calls for compassion and justice.

In the midst of a world filled with wars and rumors of war...
Come worship a God who desires nothing less than peace for the world.
In the midst of a world of spiritual emptiness...
Come worship a God who gives life meaning.
Come worship a God whose grace and love know no end.

from Sacraments and Seasons: Peacemaking Through Worship

God's Greeting - Welcoming Sentences

Our Response of Adoration and Submission

We Sing the Mighty Power of God

We sing the mighty power of God that made the mountains rise.

That spread the flowing seas abroad and built the lofty skies.
We sing the wisdom that ordained the sun to rule the day;
The moon shines full at his command and all the stars obey.

We sing the goodness of the Lord that filled the earth with food;
He formed the creatures with his word and then pronounced them good.
Lord, how your wonders are displayed where'er we turn our eyes,
If we survey the ground we tread or gaze upon the skies!

There's not a plant or flower below but makes yoru glories known;
And clouds arise and tempests blow by order from your throne;
While all tha borrows life from you is ever in your care,
And everywhere that we may be, you, God are present there. Issac Watts, Public Domain

Blessed Be Your Name

Blessed be Your name in the land that is plentiful,
Where Your streams of abundance flow, blessed be Your name.
Blessed be Your name, when I'm found in the desert place,
Though I walk through the wilderness, blessed be Your name.

REFRAIN: Every blessing You pour out I'll turn back to praise
When the darkness closes is Lord still I will say,
"Blessed be the name of the Lord, Blessed be Your name.
Blessed be the name of the Lord, Blessed be Your glorious name."

Blessed be Your name when the sun's shining down on me,
When the world's all as it should be, blessed be Your name.
Blessed be Your name on the road marked with suffering
Though there's pain in the offering, blessed be Your name.

You give and take away, You give and take away,

My heart will choose to say, "Lord blessed be Your name."

You give and take away, You give and take away,

My heart will choose to say, "Lord blessed be Your name."

Matt & Beth Redman 2002, Thankyou Music. CCL#152531

Welcome - Doug Hansum - Director, Volunteers in Action

Jamie Van Leeuwen - Office of Denver Mayor, John Hickenlooper

WE LAMENT HUMAN POVERTY

Call To Confession - Ruth Padilla DeBorst, President, Latin American Theological Fellowship

Christian Reformed World Missions, El Salvador

Prayer of Confession - Each section will end with a time of silence, followed by:

Leader: In your mercy,

People: Lord, hear our prayer.

Prayer for Illumination - Open Our Eyes

Refrain: Come and bring light to a people in darkness.

Come set us free from the chains we have made.
We are your people, the flock that you tend.

Lord, open our eyes once again. Kevin Keil 1998, Lorenz Publ. Co., CCLI#152531

GOD SPEAKS HIS WORD OF REDEMPTION

Message Unwelcome Advice - Job 5:8-16

Rev. Jerry Dykstra, Exec. Dir., Christian Reformed Church of North America

GOD CALLS US TO JOIN HIM IN RENEWAL

Confession of Faith - Our World Belongs to God - article 6

(Unison) We rejoice in the goodness of God,

renounce the works of darkness,

and dedicate ourselves to holy living.

As covenant partners,

called to faithful obedience,

and set free for joyful praise,

we offer our hearts and lives to do God's work in his world.

With tempered impatience,

eager to see injustice ended,

we expect the Day of the Lord.

And we are confident that the light which shines in the present darkness

will fill the earth when Christ appears.

Come, Lord Jesus! Our world belongs to you.

SONG OF RESPONSE - Called as Partners in Christ's Service

Called a partners in Christ's service, called to ministries of grace,

We respond with deep commitment fresh new lines of faith to trace.

May we learn the art of sharing, side by side and friend with friend,

Equal partners in our caring to fulfill God's chosen end.

Christ's example, Christ's inspiring, Christ's clear call to work and worth,

Let us follow, never faltering, reconciling folk on earth.

Men and women, richer, poorer, all God's people, young and old,

Blending human skills together gracious gifts from God unfold.

Thus new patterns for Christ's mission, in a small or global sense,

Help us bear each other's burdens, breaking down each wall or fence.

Words of comfort, words of vision, words of challenge, said with care,

Bring new power and strength for action, make us colleagues free and fair.

Words by Jane Huber 1981 Westminster John Knox Press CCLI#152531

WE GIVE OUR TIME, TALENT and TREASURES

Ministry Fair -

OFFERING

The offering will be divided in two; half will stay in Colorado to be used by Volunteers in Action to support their work among the local poor. The rest will be sent with the bikers to support the agencies of the CRC and RCA working against global poverty issues. Checks for Volunteers in Action can be sent to - VIA, 9185 E. Kenyon Ave, Ste 130, Denver CO 80237

For RCA missions - go to http://www.rca.org/ For CRC missions go to http://www.crcna.org/

In addition to our financial gifts, we also offer our time and talents to ministries of mercy. (Please visit the ministry fair to discover a place where you might serve.)

Theme Song of the Sea To Sea Tour - Do Something Beautiful

We are a shining light - city on a hill that can't be hidden - a shining light.

And this shining light is the life of Jesus in us - oh what a light!
The fire of His Spirit burns with justice, joy and peace

And works through our hands and feet.

Refrain: Go do something beautiful

In the name of Jesus, do something beautiful

Go do something Jesus would

Do something beautiful, do something beautiful.

We are the salt of the earth - here to purify and flavor - salt of the earth.

Sent through all the earth to love God and love our neighbor - salt of the earth.

As freely as we received so freely we must give,

And we are his hands and feet (Refrain)
Bridge - Let your light shine before the world.

That all may see the good you do.

And give their praise to God our Father - (Refrain)

Grahm Kendrick 2002 Make Way Music CCLI#152531

GOD CALLS US TO THE FEAST

We are given a communion wafer and juice (individual servings)

The following ministers representing the CRC, RCA and Sea To Sea Tour lead the communion celebration:

Pastor David Cheadle - Harvest RCA Rev. Karl Neerhof - Hillcrest CRC

Rev. Tom Draayer - Third CRC Rev. Sam Perry - Third CRC

Rev. Jerry Dykstra - CRCNA Rev. Len Riemersma - Sea To Sea Chaplain

Rev. Joy Engelsman - First CRC Rev. Joel Schruers - First CRC (My host family)

Rev. Kathy King - Harvest RCA Rev. Gerald Vander Hoek - Second CRC

God's Promises

Jesus' Life of Invitation
Rembering With Thanks

Let us proclaim together our hope and faith:

Your death, O Christ, we proclaim.

Your resurrection we affirm with joy.
Your coming we await with hope.
Glory be to you, Lord Jesus!

Prayer of Consecration

Invitation
Communion

Response of Praise - Agnus Dei

Alleluia, alleluia, for the Lord God Almighty reigns.
Alleluia, alleluia, for the Lord God Almighy reigns.
Alleluia. Holy, holy are you, Lord God Almighty.
Worthy is the Lamb, worthy is the Lamb.
You are holy, holy are You, Lord God Almighty.

Worthy is the Lamb, worthy is the Lamb,

Amen. Amen. Amen!

Michael Smith 1990 Sony/ATV Milene Music. CCLI#152531

Call To Discipleship and Benediction

As you have been fed at this table, go to feed the hungry.

As you have been set free, go to set free the imprisoned.
As you have received, give. As you have heard, proclaim.
With God's help we will.

The blessing of God Almighty, the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit,

Be upon you, and remain with you forever.
Amen.

Sending Song - Do Something Beautiful

Go do something beautiful
In the name of Jesus, do something beautiful
Go do something Jesus would

Do something beautiful, do something beautiful.

Heartfelt thanks to the Reformed and Christian Reformed Churches of Colorado for their participation in this event; to Denver Christian Schools, Volunteers in Action, and the Christian Living Communities for their support; to the local, national and international ministries who care for the poor in the name of Jesus; and the many volunteers who made this weekend possible.

Comments to come later - it's taken way too long to get this up. Bye for now.

HOMEWARD BOUND

It's Sunday morning - and it's my last day with the tour for a while. As I wrote to numerous friends this past week - I realized that the new bike notwithstanding - it is time for me to take a break. I've been away from Dave & home for 5 weeks - (left a week early) and like everyone else, I am missing my beloved. But I also realized that I came into the tour with an empty tank and empty tanks don't go far. Well - I did get far enough along to know that with God and angels anything is possible. (Angels- "God's messengers). I've traveled over 1000 miles and done what I set out to do - "raise funds, raise awareness and ride".

Because of the events of the past year - with residual effects from previous life events - my emotional state/psyche was just drained. Having experienced the kind of evil that flourishes "when the good do nothing" - (not because of mean spirits but not realizing that we are called to act against injustice & an ignorant judge - yes I'm still peeved by that decision) - I embarked upon this endeavor because 1) it is a cause close to my heart & 2) to get me outside of myself. I accepted the challenge and I discovered that I have an inner strength which allows me to move forward in faith. However, I also (re)discovered the extent of how vulnerable I am and it wearied me much. So, I am stepping away from the tour - for a bit - to recoup - regroup and regain some energy. I hope to return to the ride in Grand Rapids (if I can get a plane ticket) and if not - join up in Niagra Falls or thereabouts.

I learned a number of things on this ride:
1) Be prepared - use the right tools for the job.
2) I will drink hot water and shower in cold.
3) Cadence is important for maintaining a good pace.
4) "Don't stop 'til you get to the top.
5) I will shill for Coke - Coke & ice became prime motivators to get me from point A to point B.
6) Angels do exist - not the commercialized ones that have proliferated in our culture but the ones who come from God to say "Fear Not!" and "I am with you always".
7) There are some saddles (bike seats) that, like certain types of underwear, should not be worn by some of us - thank goodness for old, comfortable, platonic saddles.
8) Friends will challenge you, hold you, and accept you for who you are - idiosyncrisies and all.
9) Cliche or not - it is the simple things in life that can mean the most - after relationships.
10) True friend will share the truth in love with one another - the measure of true friendship is the willingness to share & hear the truth. (poster at the YMCA resort in Winter Park).
11) Hospitality is sharing with the stranger in your midst.
12) School gymnasiums are great places to find words of wisdom - and some silliness.
13) Food cooked by others in love will always taste wonderful.
14) There is always someone faster than you & slower than you. We all have a place in this world and something to offer.
15) We are all created for a reason -with a purpose. Find out what it is and find joy in your life.
16) Music provides energy.
17) We can live with much less than we think we can.
18) A well timed word of encouragment also provides energy & endurance. It will keep a person going long past the point she thought she could go.
19) It must be a precondition of living near a school or park that one homeowner will have a dog that barks all night.
20) Watermelon is truly God's nectar.
21) It's ok to rest. The mountain does NOT have to be conquered in one day. Or one hour.
22) People are people - wherever they are from - whatever faith they profess - whatever their likes and/or dislikes. We may not like everyone - but respect and compassion are paramount to living a life worth living.
23) I can richochet off a curb - into another one - and not wipe out. Progress has been made.
24) I LOVE my family, home and friends. (Not that I didn't already know this - but I have been reminded again of how much.)
25) I had a true vision quest experience on the road & found my pilgrimage name. Will share if asked. Would like to find out the tribal equivalent of the name - if there is one.

I will be continuing the blog and hopefully after I get home will be able to get some more pictures up for you to see the amazing sights this country has to offer.
http://www.seatosea.org

Also - please continue to share the word about this tour and our purpose. We are still receiving contributions for the purpose of ending the cycle of poverty.
"If a family receives money for one meal - that is all they will receive. If they receive the funds to by a sewing machine to provide for themselves, then the cycle of poverty can be ended."
Henry (C2C rider west)

Week 4 - en route to Denver

O God, come to our assistance. O Lord, make haste to help us.
OPENING PRAYER:
Most holy God of heaven, you who paint the shining enter of the sky with the brightness of fire, illumineour hearts, banish sordid things, release the chain of guilt, and make void our crimes. Amen.

Psalm 139:1,2,6-12
Collect:
Almighty and loving God, your Son came into the world to free us all from sin and death. Breath upon us the power of your Spirit, that we may be raised to new life in Christ and serve you in holiness and righteousness all our days. We ask this through the same Jesus Christ your SOn, who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, on God forever and ever. Amen.

Tonight's Shifting Gears reflection -
QUESTIONS THAT MAKE YOU THINK:
ARE ALL THINGS INTRICATELY CONNECTED?

Reflections on this week.

The events of this past weekend were quite unexpected. As I previously wrote - Saturday was a day in which the truth of the adage that an endeavor of this sort is more or at least as much mental as physical. Of course I think these kinds of statements don't cover every situation but are a general rule of thumb. But Saturday for me was a day in which I just couldn't keep going, knowing what was to come and knowing that this week was going to present quite the challenge. The weekend went well after everyone got settled. Sunday most of the riders got to sleep in and many were able to stay w/host families. Church members and numerous family members came and volunteered their time and assistance for the riders. The park personnel also did what they could to see that things were taken care of.

Sunday people got to catch up on laundry and do get some much needed rest in. The worship service took place in the evening after an amazing dinner provided for us by the First CRC.
On top of it all - we saw not one but 2 rainbows.

Oh yeah - and I got a new bike. An anonymous angel (who shall remain nameless, nyuk, nyuk)
decided that I needed the right tool for the job. So I was taken to a local bike store (in Park City) and a bike was picked out for me to ride - for the rest of the tour. It is a true road bike - a TREK, 2.1 w/Bontrager tires, woman specific design. Red & White. Amazing. I was ready to leave the tour after the weekend given how much of a struggle it has been to keep up and get into camp at a reasonable hour. So, on Monday, I hopped on and found that life got so much easier. We went from Jordanelle to Duchesne and while there was a major incline to conquer, I managed to do so - at least most of it. The bike weighs about 18 pounds - much less than Lucy Blue - not that she has anything to worry about. She was designed for a different type of ride. She is actually on her way home. Sterling & Karen Swan very graciously offered to box her up and send her back to NY. That worked out well as space is at a premium on the tour and it would have been a bit difficult to carry her around with us.
So, when I get the next set of pictures up - you will be introduced to "Lucy Too". She rides really well. The only major problem I've had is adjusting to the new - VERY NARROW saddle. For those who don't use these things - you need to know it will take major time to adjust. Not always a good thing to have to do on a tour but the change in bikes was necessary. However, good thinking prevailed (not necessarily mine) and I kept Lucy Blue's saddle to exchange with this one if needed. It's needed. Rick did that for me tonight. The saddle from Lucy Blue is like a comfortable platonic old friend. Lucy Too is too much of a racehorse to want that heavy thing on her but we have to compromise. I am not one for experiencing un-necessary pain and those little things that they call "comfortable" - aren't - at least not for me.
So we will see how tomorrow goes. Yesterday I did manage to ride 70 out of the 90 miles. (To the town of Dinosaur - yes, that is what it's called)

Today I got about 1/2 of the 88 done. It was hard getting started today - I had to fake it until I made it as I couldn't really get myself going. I didn't want to get on the bike - big time. But I told myself we'd just go 1 mile and see what happened. Then I was able to go 2 & 3 and so on. I then promised myself I'd do just 10 and see how things went. At about 7 miles or so Ad came up and kept me company for a while until I couldn't ride anymore - just too sore. I walked for a bit and then tried to ride again. Amazingly I was ok at that point and rode through the desert for the next 6 - 7 miles. I got to the SAG wagon at 18 miles and decided I had done the best I could for the morning. I had a snack and then got into the truck and fell asleep. I actually slept for about 2 hours. I think I really needed it. I rode w/Corey for a number of miles w/a couple of other riders and then Bill (one of the Bill's) & I decided we would accompany each other in for the last 20-25 miles which included up & down hills. That was a nice ride. The wind was kind of strong but because of the cloud cover - we were cool and that helped. We got to Craig, Colorado around 4- 4:30 this afternoon. I managed to have time to clean my 2 laundry baskets out and get a shower and have dinner and make the Pelaton meeting and get some blog work done. It's a good night. Tomorrow's ride will be for tomorrow - but now it's time to get that much needed sleep.
Peace & blessings to you all.
jo
(pictures tomorrow I hope - I have a great one of a visitor we had tonight - Louie - a local dachsund who visited us w/his owner. She & her friends came to the school to see the tour as we were again written up in a local paper).

Captions for previous pictures

The pictures from the previous blog should have had captions with them.
Unfortunately - they too disappeared into cyber space.
I can tell you that the start from Friday morning in Snowville and end up Friday night in Willard State Park in Utah.

We left Snowville - and that's when I had problems with my brakes.
We then continued on passing the ATK/NASA site in Utah. Please advise if you know what
ATK stands for. Some of the riders went into the building and even the employees didn't know.

The pictures after that are of the local landscape. The ground looks literally baked in some sections but there was also lakes along the route as well.

After those pictures comes a picture of a father & daughter (Rachel & her dad) who were having lunch in the Golden Spike Cafe. (The site of the Golden Spike site was only 5 miles from the ATK site). They asked me about our tour and I told them about the tour. Rachel was very interested. When I told them where we were staying for the night - her dad (I didn't get his name) said it was a nice spot - but full of mosquitoes. Didn't really want to know that but it wasn't too bad when I got there. I slept on the beach and doused myself in OFF (non-sticky) and had no problems.

The picture after Rachel and her dad is of Lucy Blue in front of the cafe sign. It was a good place to stop and most of us did so before continuing on.
Following the cafe are pictures of the rest of the route to Willard, including 2 local enterprenuers.
The next pics are at Willard St. Park & a picture of Arnie - a fellow rider who had to leave the tour over the weekend due to a ruptured Achilles tendon which will be operated on Friday. Please remember him in your prayers.

The last 2 pictures are from Saturday a.m. on our way to Jordanelle St. Park - just outside of Salt Lake City. The first one is the sign at the local recycling center where Corey (SAG driver) and I ended up as we looked for the CRC in Salt Lake City. We obviously took a wrong turn.
The last picture is the churh which provided refreshments for the riders before the major climb up the huuuugggeee pass on the way to Jordanelle Park.

Hope you've enjoyed these and will work on getting more up a.s.a.p.

PiCtUrEs - 7/18-7/19

The

View from the mountain pass that the bikers rode down. /Historical marker

Park City - site of 2002 Olympics.

Took this picture on the way in to Jordanelle State Park in Utah. We will be in Denver - God willing - next week.

Missing in Cyber Space

O Lord, open my lips, and my mouth will proclaim your praise.
May our compassionate God drive away all our anguish, bestow health and give us by the loving-kindness of our God, the kingdom of the heavens.

Psalm 63:1-8
Collect
Eternal Lord, our God, the beginning and end of our lives, give us grace to serve you with joy that we might know that our full and lasting happiness is a life of constant service to you and our neighbor. We ask this through oru Lord Jesus Christ your Son, who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God forever and ever. Amen

Reflection:

Greetings this sunny Sunday morning - this is the day that the Lord has made - let us rejoice and give thanks.

However, I posted a blog yesterday and it seems to have disappeared. I have no idea where it wnet to. I am partly amused - partly annoyed because it takes a bit of time to get these things done and to have spent that much time and not see it posted this morning is a bit of a downer.
(Although a friend wrote and told me she had seen it so I'm not sure where it has ended up).

Anyway - the real downer may be for some bikers this morning when they wake up to find their bikes all knocked over. Last night the wind came whipping through the park (Jordanelle St. Park, Utah) like I have NEVER experienced before. It was like a mighty force that had a soul of its own. Bikes were knocked down and people's equipment was spread around as if a small child had a temper tantrum and in a fit just threw the things around.

It was a trying day for the riders with the distance and climb of 6000' that they had to make. There was both exhiliration and frustration when they got into camp. If you were able to read yesterday's blog - you know I didn't make the trip. I was being proactive in that I rode as far as I could which wasn't all that far and then had to hop a ride with Corey -one of our support team members. Whether it's my bike and/or my physical capabilities - I knew if I tried to make yeterday's climb I probably would be finished for a couple of days if not for good. As they came in and I heard their comments I felt that my decision was the best one for me - even if I am somewhat disappointed. But that's the thing - if this ride is about "the cause" then I - along with each individual rider has to know when to push and when to back off. It can be a challenge because what I am coming to discover is that bikers can be extreme in their commitment to keep riding. Not that commitment is a bad thing, I don't want to suggest that. But I think it's hard for some to understand how some of us can't get up day after day and just ride no matter what. Believe me - it's not for lack of desire. But as a long ago friend said - even though we want to treat our kids equally - we can't treat them the same. And I think that applies in some fashion to this or similar situations. We aren't all the same and as Paul indicates in his wisdom - each body part has a part to play in the overall scheme of things.
God called Moses - Moses thinks that's crazy - he can't speak clearly - he isn't good with people and yet - God says - "Go to Pharaoh & tell him to 'let my people go'.
God called Jeremiah - J says - "no, wait, I'm just a child - not ready for this" -God says - "Do not say you are too young".
God called Mary - "Mary - you are going to bear a child and his name will be Jesus". Mary isn't quite sure how this will happen but says - in spite of how crazy it all seems that she will do whatever God asks of her.

It doesn't make sense of a lot of time - what God asks of us - and this ride definitely qualifies - but I'm not about to argue with God. I've tried it - it doesn't work. Many of us have come to that conclusion in our lives and we do our best to be faithful to the "call", whatever that looks like.

QUESTIONS THAT MAKE YOU THINK:
IS FAILURE ALWAYS BAD AND SUCCESS ALWAYS GOOD?

Mad Dogs and Englishmen

That was the title of yesterday's blog. However, after writing for 45 minutes while not getting to sleep as early as I would have liked, I managed to delete the whole thing. So, I'll do my best to recreate the events of the previous days and include today's as well. Pictures will come separately.

It has been wicked hot this last week and days since we saw any kind of rain. Although on Thursday there was a brief shower apparently for a mere few seconds - which I was too late for. It occured at the border of Idaho & Utah. I made it through Idaho thanks to Brian, Mark, Justin and other encouragers and made it to our campsite last night at Willard but knew this morning that I had had about all I could take. I did an 82 mile day on Thursday which lasted from 7 in the morning until 7 p.m. That was the day I had my first & second flat tire - same one - 12 hours between flat 1 & flat 2. Jerry fixed the morning flat & Larry the evening flat. Thank goodness that took care of it because I am not sure how I would have reacted if it had been flat Friday morning. We stayed in Snowville Thursday & had a great time using the creative shower that Ed rigged up for us. There may be pictures elsewhere - I didn't get around to shooting that. On the way out however I had trouble with my brakes and Len unclipped them since they were dragging on the tire. Given how much weight I'm carrying w/the bike there is no way I could ride w/the extra friction. It was the front brakes so it wasn't too bad. I rode for about 10 miles that way and when we got to the first stop a couple of the guys took care of it. Mark and I rode most of Friday together which really made the ride go well. We stopped at a cafe in Corinne where a number of us had stopped and had lunch. He then went on ahead and Dave from the sweep team rode me into camp. I was exhausted but took a swim in the lake. The lake is actually 3 salt water lakes that have flowed from the mountains. That makes the water salty but it's been dammed off too so that there is fresh water to swim in. Needless to say I was happy. I ended up sleeping on the beach last night which was nice. The ground was hard and there were bugs but thanks to the OFF and Rachel's sleeping bag I had a decent sleep. There is still quite a bit of the Jersey in me.

Today was our hardcore day. After 3 hours of riding I decided enough was enough. Additionally - some crazy person tried to scare me pretty good. I don't know if he actually wanted to run me off the road but he came up behind me - laid on his horn and then came up close to my side and drove off. That was it!! I called Corey to come get me. Between the fact I seem to be getting slower and slower and that little incident I was ready to call it a day. Maybe I am a wimp - or maybe I just feel like I have raised funds and awareness & I want to get home - alive but I also wanted to go home. I miss Dave - I miss my home, my pets - my chickies and I don't have anything to prove -right? But I don't want to give up either. I really am happy to be here and perhaps narrower tires would make enough difference so that I am not draining myself. It's not that I mind being behind so much as the fact that I don't have the down time that the stronger riders have when getting into camp. I know - stop whining. Don't mean to - but this is the inner conversation that keeps going on. I stopped in at the church rest stop and it was interesting. I was asked how I was and then someone kind of suggested that I could perhaps do the rest of the tour anyway (not in a pressure way - just kind of encouraging me to try) and then someone else came by and affirmed me in that she understands the need to know when to stop and draw the line. It was funny because I had this image of the biker w/horns on one shoulder and a biker with wings & halo on the other. (Again - not referring to the actual people I spoke with - they are both angels). Be wise - be brave - be proactive - give it a shot.
I think wisdom won out. As Corey & I drove up the mountain that the rest of the bikers were riding up I knew that if I had tried to make this ascent I would have been shipped home with my bike either comatose or gone. I realized I am adventurous - not suicidal. Besides I believe that if I spend today & tomorrow re-charging - then I have a good shot at doing the ride on Monday that is also supposed to be heavy-duty.

I got to our site first and the look on Ed's face was priceless. In a small way I feel kind of guilty but I can't do that to myself. What I was able to do was start to unload the gear truck (similar to unloading bales of hay - I'll be ready when I get home honey for that) and just tried to help out as much aroudn the site. We are in Jordonelle State Park by Park City (site of 2002 Olympics).
It's a beautiful area The difficult part for the riders coming in is that the campsites are quite a distance away from where the trucks are parked and so people are going to have to walk away to where the tents will be set up. Fortunately - there are people here who are transporting the tents and gear to the sites so that folks won't have to carry them so far. There are also a number of people here from the local congregation who will be hosting members of the team tonight at their homes. Our worship service won't be until tomorrow evening so people can sleep in.
I know that will be a treat although I have a feeling that sleeping in for some of them means sleeping till 6 or 7 instead of 7 or 8. I may or may not go home with someone as there my not be enough room for everyone who wants to stay over with someone. But I did speak w/someone who knows bikes and it looks like I will have to make some adjustments on "Lucy Blue" if I want to finish this trip. It's more psychological than anything as cliche as that may sound. But the fact is - I can't keep up this pace and expect to finish. So, I am looking at getting narrower, puncture resistant tires and a new stem (so I can lean more) and having the bike fitted to me. I think it's what I have to do if I am going to finish this out. If those changes aren't enough - at least I know I've done what I can so that I have more of an advantage and not more disadvantage.

Yes, you read tha right - "Lucy Blue" That's my bike's name. She's earned it. "Lucy" for the "I Love Lucy" character and her misadventures & "Blue" for being true, blue faithful.

I'll do my best to post before & after pictures if we can get her adjusted tomorrow. Sterling (the man & spoke with) and his wife Karen are avid riders and really know their stuff. He will find out if the local bike shop is open tomorrow and take me there so that I can done what I need to.

Dinner is being served - will do my best to get back to this tonight and get some pictures posted.
Peace & Blessings on your night.
Jo

BOISE - LAND OF SUBDIVISIONS & GOLF COURSES

Agatha & Justin on the route to Boise

Hi -
It's Tuesday and I'm able to post some so I'll try to catch up before we have our pelaton meeting.
(Someone - please check the etymology of that word for me). Friday we were in Ontario Oregon and on Saturday morning headed out to Idaho. It was a looooong, hot day.

I was planning on taking my time but Agatha - one of our senior bikers decided she would ride with me. It was nice to spend some time with her as she and another of our bikers had plans to leave on Sunday. A third - Martin had to leave Saturday night from Boise so he headed off as early as possible.

Joel had to leave Sunday to get back home for classes on Monday. He is working on his PhD - in...sorry Joel, it slipped my mind. Agatha (a member of the church Joel attends) will be going to the Netherlands in a week and has to pack. Joel's family gave her a ride home. (Here Agatha & I enter Idaho on our way to Boise).

BOISE WHEAT FIELD

ANOTHER IDAHO CROP

This was the sun around 9:00 a.m. on Saturday morning.

Stopping for coffee - anywhere - on the route helps to keep us going.

From Left:
Liz M., Kathryn M., Ad D., Agatha, Not sure who's in the red - Dave (Liz's hubby) & Larry, Dave's Father. Paul is standing behind Agatha & Ad.

Subdivison in the middle of nowhere.
By the time I took this picture - Agatha was long gone (I think it was from the coffee stop) and Larry was ridng w/me to Boise.

Note the greeeeen lawn. There is a lot of lawn watering in these parts. I don't think I have a picture of a golf course but we passed several on this leg of the trip - all with greens as green as this.

NOT the golf courses

This was my sleeping space on Saturday night.
(There are some other pictures from Saturday but this was a highlight). Sometimes, the school personnel forget to turn off the sprinklers for the night and some of the campers get a midnight shower. I might have been spared but this was the one night I decided not to put on the fly (cover) because it was so nice. Until about 12:30 when all of sudden I felt myself getting drenched. I knew immediately what was happening and sort of half shouted - "Oh NO!" A couple of us ended up sleeping in the gear truck as our tents and sleeping bags were drenched. This was Hans' second time around. The next night I figured I'd put the fly on but didn't really think lightening would strike twice as someone said that the sprinklers were timed for every other night. Guess what?!! It happened again. Perhaps I should have moved my tent but where would I know to set up. So, the tent got a bit wet but I remained dry for the ride out Monday.

Joel & Agatha at Julie Davis park where we gathered for Sunday service.

The Band Shell at Julie Davis park in Boise where our Sunday service was held.

More Random thoughts - Friday July 11

FIRST OFF - HAPPY BIRTHDAY TO DAVE!
Many of us are on this trip as our loved ones celebrate birthdays and anniversaries without us.
However, we remember them in our prayers and acknowledge the specialness of the occasion. (sp). We also keep our friends, families and strangers in prayer as they go through difficult situations so know that those of you in that situation are in the hearts and prayers of many.

I am having a brain block but the scripture verse for yesterday (July 10) is "God is doing a new thing - can you not see & perceive it?" Yesterday we left Baker City OR for Huntington, OR. I left B.C. before 7 a.m. & got to Huntington by TEN FIFTEEN - IN THE MORNING. It was amazing - I actually to spend time hanging out and socializing before NOON. It was a new experience and whether or not it occurs again - I did it. Of course the ride was fairly short and basically all down hill but hey - it was still great to be at the camp site before the gear truck pulled in.

To my former Drill Sargent - and D.I. (1984) and to some of my past camp counselors who seemed to think I have only 2 speeds - "slow" & "backwards" - nanny nanny boo boo!!
I can keep up. Maybe not always - but enough. I got to shoot a couple of games of pool with a fellow rider (Frank) and have another cold COKE - (note to Coca Cola Co. - while I'm not a fan of advertisement the way it's practiced in our culture - I would definitely consider doing a short term endorsement for you - a cold drink of Coke at key moments have kept me going when I wanted to just stop and sit in the road - and let the ride pass me by. I am not a fan of soda anyway but the things that keep us going (on the basically healthy side-soda is a "want", not a "need") are so greatly appreciated. Ice has become a treasured luxury. While the heat in these parts is dry (unlike the east coast where the cliche "it's not the heat, it's the humidity" is supposed to make it better) it's STILL HEAT!!!

I now know what a baked chicken would feel like if it could feel. Sorry chickies (our new family members). Yesterday I spoke with one of the many local people of Huntington who were so happy to have us in their community and as we spoke we stood outside in the sun. I enjoyed speaking with him but my left leg felt like it was ready to crisp off in pieces. I tried to gracefully & politely end the conversation but he was so enjoying it that I wasn't sure I'd have a leg left to stand on - never mind ride with.

But - he was one more example of the true meaning of biblical hospitality - "welcoming the stranger into the midst of the community". We aren't just one stranger but 170 strong (144 bikers and our drivers and support staff and it can be a bit overwhelming to have this "horde" descend upon some of the small communities. In some places we overwhelm the infrastructure - (think overflowing sewage systems) so for people to open up their schools and homes to us is something we treasure.

So it was another day of spending time sharing our story with the people of the varying communities and hearing their stories and for the most part being supported and encouraged.
(Every now and then someone we meet will suggest that the funds that are being incurred to do this ride would be better spent on community gardens or some similar suggestion.) But it isn't just about funds although we have raised a considerable amount; it's the raising of people's consciousness - awareness of how poverty isn't just lack of money but a whole mindset of hopelessness and despair. Not having money in and of itself is being broke. But not having hope or a way out of this mentality is true poverty. It's not that if a person has a positive mental attitude then they can think their way out of deprivation and despair; it is the awareness that one in this situation isn't alone and God is still with them. The sad part continues to be the realization that alas, there are enough resources for everyone on this planet - if everyone were willing to see that the resources are distributed evenly. Again - a bit of preaching.

Tonight I got to say the closing prayer for our group meeting. We took the time to say good-bye to 3 of the riders who are leaving this weekend. It is good to acknowledg that there will be a loss to the community. We acknowledged their presence among us as well as that they are leaving - but they will not be away from our thoughts and prayers.

- Random fact - There are 13 pastors participating in this bike ride.
Another random fact - Clip shoes/pedals are a great way to get the maximum benefit in riding.
It's a matter of not only having to push down on the pedals but you can pull up as well. This doubles the amount of effort that goes into riding and helps move things (me) along at a better pace.
Another another random fact - if you have a bike which keeps you upright (like my hybrid), be sure to remind yourself to relax your shoulders. That is one thing I have in my mind as I ride - don't tense up - it makes it harder. Today I did find a chiropracter in Ontario, Oregon. I wasn't really on planning finding one but as I was walking around looking for internet access, I passed the office of ONTARIO CHIROPRACTRIC. "Something" pulled me in...I asked the receptionist - Donna - if there was an opening and she said that as a matter of fact - someone had just canceled like literally minutes before I walked in. The doctor who saw me was Donna's daughter - Dr. Hillary and she was a gem. Because I go for chiropractice adjustments on a somewhat regular basis - (Thanks Dr. Dorneman) they were willing to take accept me as a one time patient.
Dr. Hillary worked wonders. I told her about the spill I took last week and after examining me she told me I had done some damage to my sternum. Basically I just need to keep it iced and take ibuprofen. The funny thing is it doesn't hurt when I bike, just when I lay down to sleep. It's not serious but it's another earned badge - reminder of what a challenge this ride is.

FOR ALL FAMILY & FRIENDS who know people along the route - remember, if you can encourage the people you know to come out and wave hi or take a moment to speak with us or just take a card, it would be really cool.

Oh also - THANKS TO THE PEOPLE WHO HAVE CONTRIBUTED TO MY PERSONAL EFFORT. We just got our donation update today and I can't thank you enough for your help.

PICTURES - check out next post. I know a number of you are look forward to seeing them but please be patient. Our internet access is a bit limited and if I can get anything done, I try to write before uploading. But I promise - you will get quite a show when I get them in.

More songs -
John Mellencamp - THIS IS OUR COUNTRY
& for our departing riders - "GOD BE WITH YOU TILL WE MEET AGAIN" -

July 7,8,9

Greetings from Baker City, Oregon.

MID-DAY Service

O God, come to my assistance, O Lord, make haste to help me.

OPENING PRAYER:

Jesus, Lord God and Creator of all things, be yourself our joy, you who are the future prize.

May our glory be in you always, through all the ages. Amen.

Psalm 119:25-32

Journey & Reflections:

On Monday at 7 a.m., Henry drove me back to the park at Kennewick WA and I got my things together and took off for Pendleton Oregon. For about 15 minutes things went well and I got a chance to talk to a road work in Pasco. (Pasco is the next town over from Kennewick).
I crossed the bridge, and kind of caught up with Brian & Bill and we made our way together for a while. We passed a couple of guys doing some work and sstopped to speak w/them about the tour. It was funny because the man I spoke with asked where we were from and where we are going to - I told him Jersey City, NJ. He said he knew we couldn't be from around that area as the city had just put in a whole bunch of new bike trails but we hadn't actually been riding any. I explained the purpose of our ride and he expressed encouragement.

(Never in my life did I ever think I would perceive Jersey City as the Promised Land but for some of us that is what it is feeling like. So all ye citizens of JC - a place that has not always received respect - know that you are the place to which we are headed and you reside in our imaginations as the final destination - ok, not permanent final destination but nonetheless - JC now means something else in addtion to the obvious.)

While we realize that reaching JC will be a major achievment, the fact is, we live moment from moment - day to day as we pursue the ultimate goal of raising the funds and awareness to mjake a difference in the lives of others.

So, about 1/2 hour into what appeared to be a good day - the self-doubts crept back in again and I found myself thinking I will never get to the point where I can keep up with anyone - and why Larry bothered teaching me to ride draft (following close behind another rider so that the rear rider fnds it easier to pedal and keep up) was beyond me and all those other thoughts that like to infiltrate when one has time to think. But then - out of the blue Jim B. came alongside of me and kept me going through the rest of Washington into Oregon.

Jim and I rode through more high desert country - not what I expected in Oregon - and he kept me going a loooooong way. We enjoyed conversation and he like so many others on this ride maintained his patience and good humor.

(Pictures will be on next blog).

At one point - we got into a little hamlet and as we drove through - a man sitting in a building asked us if we would like some cold water. I immediately rode my bike over, said yes and we spent some time talking. His name is Lewis. (I have been experiencing tastes of my life through the years in little ways like this - Lewis was my dad's name & last week I met a woman named Vivian, mom's name and similar type things. I suppose we can make meaning out of anything and since I like to - that's what I've been doing). The water came from an artesian welll and was very refreshing. Jim and I continued on and a few miles down the rode met up with Steve and Frank. It was Steve & Frank who rode with me almost to the school in Pendleton. However, as we got to the drive up to the school - Gayle came up and noted that it was just "wrong" that we would have to go up one more steep hill.
Monday had been a day of incredible climbing and to have to go up this one more incline was just a bit too much. Frank & Steve made it up and I sort of shuffled along. It got to be a bit much and out of the blue Alec rode past me and realized that I was in a bit of trouble. He took my bike and walked it up the hill to the school. There are many incidences such as this and it is what makes what seems like an impossible situation doable.

It was a tough night. I actually fell asleep in the truck for a moment and then Dave T. suggested I could nap in his tent. I did that and while I did he got my tent up. Again - it's stuff like this that makes you know we are a community.

There are less pictures from the last couple of days as a result of them being a bit challenging. Yesterday (8th) also incorporated a lot of up & down riding and if we could eliminate the hills and the heat it would be all good. My "babysitters" from yesterday were Bert & Dave both pastors in the CRC. Brian also gets special mention. Brian doesn't just encourage - he literally pushes some of us up the inclines. Several of the young men do this for those of us who need the extra push and you come to realize that angels do truly live among us. These younger guys have the strength and stamina to not only get themselves up the hills but they get some of the rest of us to where we are trying to go.

Special note from yesterday: after getting to the park site I did get in 10 laps in the pool and while in the shower a woman named Denise was talking with Liz (one of the riders). Denise was really interested in our ride and what we are doing and as we left the showers asked if there was anything she could do for us. I said thanks but I couldn't think of anything but keep us in prayer and let people know about the ride. About an hour later she came back looking for me wanting to give me some health supplies as she used to work in a health food store. She also has a brother in law who rides and he has just undergone hip sugery. I did remember I needed to buy a card for Dave's birthday on Friday. She said she'd come back to get me and take me to Wal-Mart for one. She also said to let anyone else know that they could come.
I made the announcement at our group meeting and Arnie said he would come as well. At 9 Denise came back and we went to the store - I got a card and some other things and she brought me to her house to give me some of her son's old sports socks to use a cooler when riding - (idea from Marti D., avid rider). We then picked Arnie up from Wendy's and came back to camp.

This morning we left La Grande - and I did ride out of town w/a group of riders. They got a bit ahead and I stopped at the Flying J rest stop for ice, a drink and to spread the word. The manager who used to be a news guy called up the local paper. I did let hm know that the tour is keeping the media informed but he wanted to call anyway. The local paper let him know that they had already spoken to some of us and so we said our goodbyes and I headed off.
It was not too much later that I caught up with Len, Agatha & Mark. It was a good ride and I got to our site around 2 p.m. Got my shower (I have never encountered so much hot water in public showers in my life - I never thought I'd want a cold shower but COLD IS GOOD - IT IS MY NEW FRIEND) and have spent the last couple of hours trying to catch up with the news from the road. Of course there has been a lot of good conversation going on and I have been a bit distracted. I will wrap up here as it's about 1 minute to dinner and finish up either later or hopefully tomorrow.

Be well, be blessed.

There are several of us on the tour who are pastors although aside from Alida (one of the tour chaplains) I am the only female. This is one difference between the CRC & the RCA but to be honest - the differences are so superficial as to be ludicrous. The thing is - we think certain things are so relevant and significant but in fact - when it comes to what counts - loving God and loving one another - there isn't much that should be keeping us separate. I will post the pictures from yesterday with commentary but it was today's conversation with Len (head chaplain) that really underscored this. The thing I have come to realize is that while we in the east see the CRC as superspiritualized and conservative (I say that as a result of previous conversations) the truth is they are no more, no less faithful and human than anyone else in any denomination or no denomination.

Down to earth, compassionate, committed. And people (not on this tour) who are just people with all their faults and foibles just like the rest of us. Well, yes, all of us - on and off the tour are people, each seeking their way in life - traveling their own roads, cycling, running, coasting, hiking, walking etc. just trying to get to the destination.

Songs which come to mind - "He Ain't Heavy, He's My Brother" - The Hollies; "How Beautiful" - Twila Paris;