WE MADE IT!!!!!
65 days, 4000 miles, 14 states.
Coast to Coast
Best summer of my life.
Thursday, August 20, 2009
Santa Clarita to Santa Paula 35 miles
Slept in until 7! This morning was so muh fun getting ready. We were all dancing around and taking our time getting ready.
It was super smoggy and cold this morning as we were riding. The wind also picked up about 5 miles in. But since it was only a 35 mile day it wasn't too bad. The mountains were so pretty to ride through. We passed through orange, avacado, lemon, and apple orchards they smelled awesome!
We stopped at a fruit stand and the lady gave us oranges and strawberries to try. They were picked fresh this morning... So good!
A couple miles later we hit a sign that said Santa Barbara 53 miles!!!! Got into town and Alex's mom took us out to a great lunch at a local BBQ place.
We are staying at a church and went to the parishoners houses to shower. I went to one of their ranches. They had kiwi, grape fruit, and peach trees along with this really cool swing they let us use.
Came back and saw mom and joe. Had a great dinner now off to the bar for the leader roast and the boys creepy mustache shaving party.
Slept in until 7! This morning was so muh fun getting ready. We were all dancing around and taking our time getting ready.
It was super smoggy and cold this morning as we were riding. The wind also picked up about 5 miles in. But since it was only a 35 mile day it wasn't too bad. The mountains were so pretty to ride through. We passed through orange, avacado, lemon, and apple orchards they smelled awesome!
We stopped at a fruit stand and the lady gave us oranges and strawberries to try. They were picked fresh this morning... So good!
A couple miles later we hit a sign that said Santa Barbara 53 miles!!!! Got into town and Alex's mom took us out to a great lunch at a local BBQ place.
We are staying at a church and went to the parishoners houses to shower. I went to one of their ranches. They had kiwi, grape fruit, and peach trees along with this really cool swing they let us use.
Came back and saw mom and joe. Had a great dinner now off to the bar for the leader roast and the boys creepy mustache shaving party.
Wednesday, August 19, 2009
Palmdale to Santa Clarita 36 miles
Short short ride today. Still woke up at 6 though for some reason. The first 10 miles were all uphill. But from then on out it was all downhill. We have finally gotten to the lush green part of California.
We went through this little town during the downhill that was really cute. While we were riding though we kept going through these really weird pockets of cold air.
Got into town and it was only 9:30. We all really wanted In N Out so we stopped at one along the way. But it didn't open until 10:30 so we waited around outside playing cards until it opened.
After our early lunch we headed to the host. Changed really quick and went to the water park for the day. It was so much fun, and nice to see water... A little change from the desert. They had these crazy water slides that were basically a straight drop down. Long story short, I have never had such a bad wedgie in my life. After that we just floated around the lazy river for a while.
Got back to the host, had dinner, decided where we are officially donating our money. Now a little poker game.
Short short ride today. Still woke up at 6 though for some reason. The first 10 miles were all uphill. But from then on out it was all downhill. We have finally gotten to the lush green part of California.
We went through this little town during the downhill that was really cute. While we were riding though we kept going through these really weird pockets of cold air.
Got into town and it was only 9:30. We all really wanted In N Out so we stopped at one along the way. But it didn't open until 10:30 so we waited around outside playing cards until it opened.
After our early lunch we headed to the host. Changed really quick and went to the water park for the day. It was so much fun, and nice to see water... A little change from the desert. They had these crazy water slides that were basically a straight drop down. Long story short, I have never had such a bad wedgie in my life. After that we just floated around the lazy river for a while.
Got back to the host, had dinner, decided where we are officially donating our money. Now a little poker game.
Tuesday, August 18, 2009
Build Day Palmdale
Last build day today, I cant believe it! Got to sleep in until 7:30 which was probably the highlight of the day. We headed over to the build site around 9 and they had tons of work for everyone to do.
We split up into a bunch of different groups. Some people did landscaping, others worked on a driveway, and I helped strip a roof. It was hot up there all day. We were up there with shovels and scrapers taking off all of the old roof. When they redid the roof the last time they didn’t do a very good job. Because, they put the new tiles right over the old ones instead of stripping it to the bare wood.
We got about half of the roof done and then had lunch. Came back and worked for about an hour until an ice cream truck drove by. In which case we were all forced to take a quick snack break. Got back after that and finished the rest of the house. After we left a couple of us went to the pool, while everyone else went back to the host.
Had dinner and then an affordable housing meeting to discuss where we are going to donate all of the money that we raised. Home stretch, only 30 miles tomorrow!
We split up into a bunch of different groups. Some people did landscaping, others worked on a driveway, and I helped strip a roof. It was hot up there all day. We were up there with shovels and scrapers taking off all of the old roof. When they redid the roof the last time they didn’t do a very good job. Because, they put the new tiles right over the old ones instead of stripping it to the bare wood.
We got about half of the roof done and then had lunch. Came back and worked for about an hour until an ice cream truck drove by. In which case we were all forced to take a quick snack break. Got back after that and finished the rest of the house. After we left a couple of us went to the pool, while everyone else went back to the host.
Had dinner and then an affordable housing meeting to discuss where we are going to donate all of the money that we raised. Home stretch, only 30 miles tomorrow!
Victorville to Palmdale 53 miles
The end of the death march through the desert! We made it through Arizona and into California and now we have a build day.
Today was such a fun ride. We got to sleep in this morning. The first 10 or so miles were up hill, but then it was down hill from there. There was and awesome downhill to lunch that I just coasted into. We had lunch at 9 am like usual, which was pretty funny. The ride was really pretty along side the mountains. But the whole time I kept hoping that we didn’t have to turn left into the mountains.
Once we got into town we were hungry again. To my great surprise we saw and In N Out! I was so pumped it since has been over a year since I have had a double double animal style. If you have never indulged in a little In N Out you are really missing out!
We are staying at a vocational school for youth who dropped out of high school. The program is really cool. It started 4 years ago, with 7 students in the back of a church. Now they have over 100 students and just moved into a larger facility.
After we got in we went to the pool to swim for a little and then shower. Came back, had dinner, and then went to a local brewery.
Today was such a fun ride. We got to sleep in this morning. The first 10 or so miles were up hill, but then it was down hill from there. There was and awesome downhill to lunch that I just coasted into. We had lunch at 9 am like usual, which was pretty funny. The ride was really pretty along side the mountains. But the whole time I kept hoping that we didn’t have to turn left into the mountains.
Once we got into town we were hungry again. To my great surprise we saw and In N Out! I was so pumped it since has been over a year since I have had a double double animal style. If you have never indulged in a little In N Out you are really missing out!
We are staying at a vocational school for youth who dropped out of high school. The program is really cool. It started 4 years ago, with 7 students in the back of a church. Now they have over 100 students and just moved into a larger facility.
After we got in we went to the pool to swim for a little and then shower. Came back, had dinner, and then went to a local brewery.
29 Palms to Victorvile 92 miles
I slept so well. When I woke up to my alarm it was the first time that I had slept the whole night all summer. However 3 more hours would have been nice. We came back to the host site, had breakfast and headed out. Everyone was super sore and tired from yesterdays ride.
The host gave us an alternate route to avoid a brutal hill. The detour though took us up this super windy long hill. After 1st lunch the wind really set in. I was going downhill pedaling and only going 10 miles an hour. Once we got to the bottom of the hill there was about a 5 mile climb back up to get out of the valley.
It was a long slow ride to second lunch that was at this little gas station. Hung out there for a while to try and cool down from the heat. Almost all of the rest of the ride was downhill. We went into Apple Valley which was the biggest town we had seen in a very long time. Stopped at a sub shop to eat again then went to target just because we could….
The rest of the ride to the host was ALL uphill though! We got back onto rt 66 and the host site was right off of it. We are staying at a house that the church owns, across the street from the church. 2 bathrooms, 2 bedrooms, small living room 32 people. We had dinner at an all you can eat Chinese buffet. And the boys really took advantage of that all you can eat.
All and all it was a pretty hard ride. I spent just as much time on my bike today as I did the day before.
The host gave us an alternate route to avoid a brutal hill. The detour though took us up this super windy long hill. After 1st lunch the wind really set in. I was going downhill pedaling and only going 10 miles an hour. Once we got to the bottom of the hill there was about a 5 mile climb back up to get out of the valley.
It was a long slow ride to second lunch that was at this little gas station. Hung out there for a while to try and cool down from the heat. Almost all of the rest of the ride was downhill. We went into Apple Valley which was the biggest town we had seen in a very long time. Stopped at a sub shop to eat again then went to target just because we could….
The rest of the ride to the host was ALL uphill though! We got back onto rt 66 and the host site was right off of it. We are staying at a house that the church owns, across the street from the church. 2 bathrooms, 2 bedrooms, small living room 32 people. We had dinner at an all you can eat Chinese buffet. And the boys really took advantage of that all you can eat.
All and all it was a pretty hard ride. I spent just as much time on my bike today as I did the day before.
Sunday, August 16, 2009
Parker to 29 Palms CALIFORNIA!!!!! 118.9 miles
Few so the day started off pretty bad. We woke up at 2:30 and most of us had only gotten about 2 hours of sleep at the most because of the heat. We got everything ready in the dark. Aaron gave an awesome pump up talk to the group and we pedaled off into the sunrise.
We crossed over the river into California and it was still too dark to get state line pictures which was kinda a bummer. There were just rolling hills with mountains around us until 1st lunch.
The ride to second lunch was pretty much the same. But there were a couple cool things on the side of the road. There was a half torn down house that had hundreds of shoes on the fence. Then there was a mailbox on the side of the road which must have been atleast 40 feet in the air. And there was a sign next to it that said air mail.
Sweet downhill to 2nd lunch with great views. After 2nd lunch there was about a 20 miles climb that felt like it never ended. But finally we got to the downhill which lasted for atleast 10 miles right to 3rd lunch.
Yes 3 lunches! 3rd lunch was at mile 100 and we mostly just refilled our water. The van ran out of water so we waited while they drove into town and came back with water for us.
The last miles were the hardest. The wind picked up and we started to feel the heat. Once we got into town we stopped for another snack. Yep count it that's 5 meals so far....
After that we headed to the host had dinner, gave a presentation, and then all split up to sleep at peoples houses. I got a real shower and a real bed!!! The family I stayed with was so nice.
Few so the day started off pretty bad. We woke up at 2:30 and most of us had only gotten about 2 hours of sleep at the most because of the heat. We got everything ready in the dark. Aaron gave an awesome pump up talk to the group and we pedaled off into the sunrise.
We crossed over the river into California and it was still too dark to get state line pictures which was kinda a bummer. There were just rolling hills with mountains around us until 1st lunch.
The ride to second lunch was pretty much the same. But there were a couple cool things on the side of the road. There was a half torn down house that had hundreds of shoes on the fence. Then there was a mailbox on the side of the road which must have been atleast 40 feet in the air. And there was a sign next to it that said air mail.
Sweet downhill to 2nd lunch with great views. After 2nd lunch there was about a 20 miles climb that felt like it never ended. But finally we got to the downhill which lasted for atleast 10 miles right to 3rd lunch.
Yes 3 lunches! 3rd lunch was at mile 100 and we mostly just refilled our water. The van ran out of water so we waited while they drove into town and came back with water for us.
The last miles were the hardest. The wind picked up and we started to feel the heat. Once we got into town we stopped for another snack. Yep count it that's 5 meals so far....
After that we headed to the host had dinner, gave a presentation, and then all split up to sleep at peoples houses. I got a real shower and a real bed!!! The family I stayed with was so nice.
Salome to Parker 66 miles
Today was a short ride but we still woke up early to beat the heat. We had a tail wind so we flew. We made it 40 miles in under 2 hours.
Had a quick lunch on the side of the road and head out. Once we got into Parker a bunch of us stopped at subway to eat again.
It was only 10 when we got into town. So to kill some time we stopped at the casino and hung out there for a while. I played 3 dollars on the penny slots.... Which took all of 10 minutes. We tried to DM some rooms to sleep in since we were camping. But no dice.
After enjoying the AC for a couple hours we decided to head out. I walked outside and to my surprise had a flat! We fixed it quickly and pedaled off. The last 8 miles to to site felt like they took forever.
We got to the camp site and headed straight for the colorado river to cool down. There was a floating bar on the river that we all hung out at for a while. We all had so much fun swimming haning around the bar.
We headed back to have dinner and got to bed around 6 since we had a 2:30 am wake up. After dinner we all tried to go to bed. But I have never been so hot in my life. Imagine opening the oven door and the burst of hot air that blows at you. Now imagine that all night long. Long story short after 2 cold showers and lots of tossing and turning I got about 2 hours of sleep.... Who knew the desert was so hot at night!
Wednesday, August 12, 2009
Ash Fork to Prescott 54 miles
So since school was in session we had to wake up early to be out by 7 for the kids. Since it was a short day that sorta stunk because we would have slept in.
They cooked us a great breakfast and then we hit the road bright and early. At the cue sheet meeting everyone sang me happy birthday which was really nice.
The first 25 miles were all down hill. I felt really great and Brad and I were cruising, passing everyone. We stopped at a gas station for lunch and hung out there for a while since we didn't have much to do all day. After all it wasn't even 9 yet.
The next 25 miles were all up hill but it wasn't that bad at all. About 10 miles away from the host I saw a golf course and decided to stop. I went into the pro shop and talked to the guys in there for a while. They were super nice and ended up giving me a free bucket of balls to use at the driving range. I was so pumped since I never got a chance to hit the links before I left.
We stayed there for a while then headed to the host. There were these crazy rocks along the side of the road that were so cool looking.
We got into the host and were all starving. So we went to the Prescott Brewery and got beers and burgers.
After lunch we came back to the host since I was on laundry crew. Showered quickly did laundry then dinner. We gave a presentation to the church then headed out to the bar. We only had one round since it is a 4 am wake up tomorrow..... I decided that we will celebrate another night!
Monday, August 10, 2009
Grand Canyon to Ash Fork 80 miles
This morning was so much fun! We all woke up, got ready, and joked around. Trailer crew cleaned out the entire trailer before they packed it. The people camping next to us were singing and playing guitar.
We headed out and it was so pretty leaving. No one was really up or on the roads. Right outside of the park there must have been a forest fire because it was so smokey.
The first 30 miles were down hill and we flew. We stopped at the gas station that we had stopped at two days ago. Since the canyon was a detour we had to back track.
We had lunch at a horse ranch on the side of the road. The next 20 miles after lunch were so hard. It was all up hill and started to get really hot.
But we made it to this little town that was famous for its pie. We stopped at a diner got some pie and enjoyed the ac. The pie was pretty good and we all felt energized.... And full.
The last 20 miles was all down hill. You could have almost not pedaled. We ended up going down about 2000 feet. Tonight we are staying at a school. When we got here though we found out that today was the kids first day back from summer vacation. So there were kids walking through the halls as we brought our bikes in.
I unpacked and re packed my bag to try and organize things. We had dinner, family meeting, showered and now time for bed pretty soon!
Big day tomorrow!
Grand Canyon day off
Man does it get cold at night! It dropped to 40, and we were all bundled up in our sleeping bags. A couple of us woke up at about 4:30, went over to the rim and watched the sun rise. It was really pretty.
I came back and went back to sleep after. Everyone else went and got breakfast. A couple hours later I woke up, and it was still cold out!
Matt Jodi and I were the only ones left at the camp site so we went to breakfast then we went to mass. After mass we walked to the rim and took our time walking along the rim trail. We stopped a bunch sat on the edge and just chatted.
We were all pretty hungry so we got some sandwich stuff at the general store and headed back to the camp site. Ate lunch, cleaned my bike for a while, and just hung around. It sure is nice having nothing to do.
A couple of the guys actually hiked from the rim to river and back. But everyone else decided to save their legs! I for sure want to come back another time and do it though.
Once it got dark we started another fire and made dinner over the fire again. I packed my bag, wrote some post cards and then hit the thermarest. It was a cold night again but we laid and looked up at the stars for a while.
Flagstaff to Grand Canyon 77 miles
While we were all waiting outside to leave there was a road race starting a block away. They all ran by us and we cheered them all on. Then we headed out. The first 10 miles of the day were all up hill. We reached our highest point of the trip 8046 feet.
Then it was pretty much down hill from there to lunch and about 20 miles away from the canyon. We stopped at a gas station and hung out there for a while looking through the gift shop. Across the street was bedrock city. It was a camp ground with a flinstones theme. We didn't go over but I wish we had.
The last 20 miles we went up 1000 feet. It was so exciting knowing that we were almost at the GRAND CANYON! I got a flat about 5 miles out so we had to stop and change that.
We all met up about 2 miles outside of the park entrance and shuttled in since it was cheaper then each of us biking in. Once we got in we set up the tents and a group of us rode to the rim. It was so pretty!!!! We took lots of pictures.
Came back to the camp site, showered and made hotdogs over a camp fire. For the rest of the night we just hung out around the fire and chatted.
Friday, August 7, 2009
Winslow to Flagstaff 61 miles
Just a quick note, if you are from Arizona live in Arizona have ever visited or just like Arizona I'm sorry for what I am about to say.....
Arizona BLOWS! I rode sweep today with Caroline and I want to first off thank her for putting up with me. I was not a happy camper at all today. I was just in one of those moods an anyone who knows me knows what that means... Because, for the entire ride we had cross and head winds of 30 to 45 miles per hour. Someone even said there were gusts of up to 60 mph. NOT FUN AT ALL.
I was literally leaning my entire body weight and bike 45 degrees so that I didn't get blown over. I had a lot of scary moments where i thought that I was going to get blown over. I rode white knucked all day holding onto my handle bars. We had a rider actually get blown off of his bike today. A little scratched up but he is ok.
I have never experienced wind like that ever, let alone trying to ride my bike in it. There was one point in the day where we actually had to get off of our bikes and attempt to walk them because the wind was blowing to hard at us to ride.
The shoulder was atleast 4 feet wide which was the only way it was safe to ride in that wind. Because you were getting blown from side to side. If there were cool things to see on the side of the road I clearly missed them because my eyes were glued to the ground.
The day started to look up a little when I ran into a mail man though since I forgot to mail some post cards. We got into Flagstaff and it's a pretty cool town.
We showered at an athletic club which was SO nice. The showers were amazing. Two B2SB alums made us dinner and then we went into town since they are having an art festival and closed off all the streets so people can walk around.
Grand Canyon tomorrow and then a day off!
Ps my birthday is only 4 days away now! Send me some sweet cards people!!!!
Just a quick note, if you are from Arizona live in Arizona have ever visited or just like Arizona I'm sorry for what I am about to say.....
Arizona BLOWS! I rode sweep today with Caroline and I want to first off thank her for putting up with me. I was not a happy camper at all today. I was just in one of those moods an anyone who knows me knows what that means... Because, for the entire ride we had cross and head winds of 30 to 45 miles per hour. Someone even said there were gusts of up to 60 mph. NOT FUN AT ALL.
I was literally leaning my entire body weight and bike 45 degrees so that I didn't get blown over. I had a lot of scary moments where i thought that I was going to get blown over. I rode white knucked all day holding onto my handle bars. We had a rider actually get blown off of his bike today. A little scratched up but he is ok.
I have never experienced wind like that ever, let alone trying to ride my bike in it. There was one point in the day where we actually had to get off of our bikes and attempt to walk them because the wind was blowing to hard at us to ride.
The shoulder was atleast 4 feet wide which was the only way it was safe to ride in that wind. Because you were getting blown from side to side. If there were cool things to see on the side of the road I clearly missed them because my eyes were glued to the ground.
The day started to look up a little when I ran into a mail man though since I forgot to mail some post cards. We got into Flagstaff and it's a pretty cool town.
We showered at an athletic club which was SO nice. The showers were amazing. Two B2SB alums made us dinner and then we went into town since they are having an art festival and closed off all the streets so people can walk around.
Grand Canyon tomorrow and then a day off!
Ps my birthday is only 4 days away now! Send me some sweet cards people!!!!
Sanders to Winslow 88 miles
So when we woke up in the morning Trey couldn't find his bike. After looking for over an hour we finally came to the conclusion that it had been stolen. There wasn't much anyone could do so we all headed out.
But then around noon we got a call. Terry who was in charge at the fire station had been out looking all morning and found it sitting on someones back porch. She was so amazing she drove all the way here to deliver his bike!
The day was pretty fast, it was pretty much all down hill into Winslow. We had first lunch right near the petrified forest national park.
Second lunch was at a Gas station along 66. We got there before the trailer so we just got subway instead.
After we left the hardest partnof the day set in. We had to ride against 30 mile an hour head and cross winds. There wasnone point where I was leaning almost 45 degrees sideways just so that I didn't get blown over.
But we made it into town and stopped at sonic for a drink. We all got them to go since we were only a mile away from the host. When we got to the host I pilut mine down to take my helmet off and just my luck the wind blew my untouched drink right over!!
Since the van wasnt there yet with our stuff we decided to explore a little. We went to the library and then stood on a corner in Winslow Arizona.... Literally!
Showered had dinner, then just hung around. Finally I have cell phone service!
Eagar to Sanders 82 miles
So there has been sort of a cold going around the group and this morning I officialy woke up with it. I didn't sleep well last night and my head felt like it was going to explode. So I decided not to ride.
The van day was pretty boring and I was bummed that I couldn't ride. But when it hit 95 by 11 am I realized that I made the right choice. A fever in 95 degree heat is not a very good idea.
Tonight we are staying at fire house. Since they only had one shower they decided to get a little bit creative. So everyone got their soap and the sprayed us with the fire hose and a truck! Then they set up a pool for us. Anyone who didn't go in at first was thrown in.
Most of us slept outside since it was cooler then in the fire house. There was a crazy wind storm in the middle of the night. But it cooled us all down which was refreshing.
All the fire fighters and EMTs were so awesome! They made us feel right at home. I have to say that was probably the best host to date.
Pie Town NM to Eagar AZ 71 miles
Welcome to Arizona! Started off the day really well, we all were making really great time. Stopped at a gas station and we saw the most adorable puppy ever. He was only 6 weeks old and his owner had just picked him up last night.
It was sorta hilly on the way to lunch, and the altitude was starting to get some of us. Lunch was on the side of the road at the top of a hill.
After we left lunch as soon as we started to go down the hill I got a flat. I patched it we kept going. After an epic hill I got another flat. After changing my tube and tire we headed off to Arizona.
Right after we crossed over the state line we were greated with 3 HUGE hills. Seeing as New Mexico has been our favorite state so far Arizona didn't do a great job of welcoming us.....
Got to the host, showered, ate, wrote some post cards, then time for the talent show!!! It was so much fun, all of the acts were hillarious! We had poems, plays, songs, dances, you names it. We really are one talented group!
While my groups act didn't win a judges award we did get the audience award.
Tuesday, August 4, 2009
Socorro to Pie Town 83 miles
Phew long day of climbing! Early wake up to beat the heat, then we had an awesome pancake breakfast. It was so cool as we were leaving we all walked our bikes to the street into the sunrise.
The second road we turned on we had to get off our bikes and walk because it was gravel. Again into the sunrise, it was so pretty!
The ride was pretty much uphill all day through the Rockies. In 80 miles we only went through 2 towns. And we had a lunch in each.
The ride between lunches had this 15 miles stretch that was in a valley between mountains. It felt like it went on forever, but it was so pretty! There was this patch of about 40 satelites just in the middle of the field. Apparently it was in some movie recently.
About 3 miles outside of town we passed to continental divide and we are now at our higest elevation of the trip, over 7700 feet!
Tonight we are staying at the toaster house. It is an old log cabin with all of these toasters hanging in the front. It is so cool looking! Most people are sleeping inside but since it's a nice night out I decided to pitch a tent.
Pie Town only has 100 residents and they are all so nice. They cooked us dinner complete with great pies!
Sunday, August 2, 2009
Carrizozo to Socorro 78 miles
Early wake up and out by 7 to try and beat the heat. About 5 miles outside of town we hit the valley of fire which was so cool looking. It is this valley that has all of these lava rocks and crazy looking plants.
The first 30 miles were pretty much all uphill about 1600 feet. We had lunch at a rest stop and hung out for a while. The views were amazing!!!!!!!!
Then the last 48 miles were rolling downhill about 2200 feet. While we were riding in the hills looked like they were a painted backdrop.
We stopped about 10 miles out at the first gas station we had seen all day. Got some snacks and then headed off to the host. It was so hot those last 10 miles.
We are staying at a pastors house which is really nice. Right when we got in he had burgers waiting for us. Around 4 a bunch of us left for the bike shop to have some repairs done. Almost 4 hours later we are still here..... Good thing I had a burger or I would be grumpy!
Saturday, August 1, 2009
Roswell to Carrizozo 96 miles
Had a real bed to sleep in last night.... With a real pillow! Woke up at 4:30 and packed my bags quickly. Grabbed a danish from the buffet and then mom and I drove to the host.
I got there as everyone was waking up and just sat around for a while. Had more breakfast and then we all pedaled off. The head wind was crazy for the first 10 miles. And then it turned into a cross wind.
We rode up and down for a while and had a sweet descent into first lunch at a gas station. I had a little wipe out in some gravel, I'm ok though just a little scratched up.
On the ride to second lunch we passed through the town Billy the kid was from. It was pretty cool. After that we started to notice the altitude change. We went up 3400 feet and maxed out at about 7000 feet total. My legs weren't tired, but we were all out of breath.
Had second lunch at a little grocery store. The rest of the ride was all downhill from there. It was so pretty going down and looking back at all of the mountains that we climbed today.
Tongiht we are staying in a tiny tiny town at the high school.
Friday, July 31, 2009
Day off in Roswell
Slept in until 10…. Amazing. We had breakfast at the hotel and then headed off into town to find somewhere to eat tonight. There is one main street in Roswell that pretty much everything is on. We drove up and down that street about 10 times.
We walked around town for a little and went into a few shops. Then we went to the UFO museum. Personally I think all of this UFO stuff is really weird. The whole town is obsessed with aliens, crop circles and government conspiracies.
After a couple hours I was hungry again. Big surprise right? We got a bite to eat and then continued our search for another restaurant. We ran into a bunch of B&Bers so we shuttled them back to the host and I picked up my bike.
We came back to the hotel and I did a few bike repairs. Then we went to picked up some stuff for breakfast tomorrow and headed to the host to pick people up for dinner. We had dinner at this truck stop diner that all of the locals suggested.
The food was pretty good, but once again people underestimate how much we eat! The owner Charlie was super nice and gave us all of this extra food to take with us.
Since my mom isn’t going to be with me on my birthday she got me a cake to celebrate with today. It was chocolate with raspberry. Delicious.
It was really nice to see my mom, a little taste of home. But I was sorta bummed that there wasn’t much to do or see in Roswell. But I think we just enjoyed each other’s company.
Last day of July AHHHHHHH! That means 2 things. First my birthday is 11 days away, and second we only have 20 days left. This summer is flying by!
We walked around town for a little and went into a few shops. Then we went to the UFO museum. Personally I think all of this UFO stuff is really weird. The whole town is obsessed with aliens, crop circles and government conspiracies.
After a couple hours I was hungry again. Big surprise right? We got a bite to eat and then continued our search for another restaurant. We ran into a bunch of B&Bers so we shuttled them back to the host and I picked up my bike.
We came back to the hotel and I did a few bike repairs. Then we went to picked up some stuff for breakfast tomorrow and headed to the host to pick people up for dinner. We had dinner at this truck stop diner that all of the locals suggested.
The food was pretty good, but once again people underestimate how much we eat! The owner Charlie was super nice and gave us all of this extra food to take with us.
Since my mom isn’t going to be with me on my birthday she got me a cake to celebrate with today. It was chocolate with raspberry. Delicious.
It was really nice to see my mom, a little taste of home. But I was sorta bummed that there wasn’t much to do or see in Roswell. But I think we just enjoyed each other’s company.
Last day of July AHHHHHHH! That means 2 things. First my birthday is 11 days away, and second we only have 20 days left. This summer is flying by!
Portales to Roswell 98 miles
So a little recap of last night since I posted my blog so early. We went over the United Methodist Church for dinner which was so good! After we ate we gave a little presentation about bike and build to the parishioners and Mayor. Then the mayor came up, gave a little speech, and announced that July 29th was officially Bike and Build Day in the city of Portales!
Then some of us took a tour of the local habitat house that had just been finished. It was really nice, its cool to see the different types of houses as we move farther west. On our way back to the host there was this crazy lightning storm that we all watched.
Ok so back to today. We woke up and packed all of our stuff then rode over to the church for breakfast. After breakfast we headed out. And to our surprise the city of Portales had a police escort for us out of the city. So for the first few miles we all rode out of town behind a police car. It was SO cool!
We had a tail wind all day which was amazing. It was also pretty flat which means that we flew. We made it to first lunch by 9:30. It was at an old abandoned bar along the side of the road. It was pretty much the only building we saw since we left in the morning.
The rest of the ride was beautiful. We passed through the desert and these awesome rolling hills. It really was nothing but us and the open road. Miles and miles of the open road. Every time I looked around it was just desert straight to the horizon.
At first lunch we finished tallying all of the flats that people had gotten so far on the trip. And as karma would have it I got another right after.
Second lunch was just on the side of the road, since there was nothing else around. We ate pretty quick and then headed out. We made it into town by 2 and just took a little tour of the city. We stopped at the library, the UFO museum, got a snack, and then finally went to the host site.
Everyone is staying at Eastern New Mexico University for the next 2 days. But my mom is coming to visit so I get a real bed, and a real shower!!!!
After we got into the host we all went swimming and then Megan’s parents took us out to dinner. We ate at this cute little Mexican place. After dinner this huge storm came through town. We waited it out at the restaurant. But when we did leave it was crazy. All of the streets were flooded, windows were broken, roofs were off of houses. Apparently they haven’t had a storm like this in forever, the wind got up to 80!
Mom and I headed back to the hotel and I fell right asleep!
Then some of us took a tour of the local habitat house that had just been finished. It was really nice, its cool to see the different types of houses as we move farther west. On our way back to the host there was this crazy lightning storm that we all watched.
Ok so back to today. We woke up and packed all of our stuff then rode over to the church for breakfast. After breakfast we headed out. And to our surprise the city of Portales had a police escort for us out of the city. So for the first few miles we all rode out of town behind a police car. It was SO cool!
We had a tail wind all day which was amazing. It was also pretty flat which means that we flew. We made it to first lunch by 9:30. It was at an old abandoned bar along the side of the road. It was pretty much the only building we saw since we left in the morning.
The rest of the ride was beautiful. We passed through the desert and these awesome rolling hills. It really was nothing but us and the open road. Miles and miles of the open road. Every time I looked around it was just desert straight to the horizon.
At first lunch we finished tallying all of the flats that people had gotten so far on the trip. And as karma would have it I got another right after.
Second lunch was just on the side of the road, since there was nothing else around. We ate pretty quick and then headed out. We made it into town by 2 and just took a little tour of the city. We stopped at the library, the UFO museum, got a snack, and then finally went to the host site.
Everyone is staying at Eastern New Mexico University for the next 2 days. But my mom is coming to visit so I get a real bed, and a real shower!!!!
After we got into the host we all went swimming and then Megan’s parents took us out to dinner. We ate at this cute little Mexican place. After dinner this huge storm came through town. We waited it out at the restaurant. But when we did leave it was crazy. All of the streets were flooded, windows were broken, roofs were off of houses. Apparently they haven’t had a storm like this in forever, the wind got up to 80!
Mom and I headed back to the hotel and I fell right asleep!
Wednesday, July 29, 2009
Hereford TX to Portales NM 77 miles
We all started the morning off a little sluggish since we were sore from dancing last night. But it wasn’t too hot out which was nice. So I thought it smelled when we rode into Hereford, but it was 10 times worse leaving. Those feed lots were awful...
We were on 60 again today and it was just as bumpy as yesterday. They pave the shoulder with gravel and oil which is not comfortable to ride on at all. Made it to first lunch at a gas station and hung around for a little.
About 10 miles after we left we hit New Mexico! We were all relieved that they pave their roads better. We took some pictures at a state signs and then stopped at a gas station for some energy drinks.
We hit the road again and then stopped at Joes Boot Shop on Rt 60. The sign said that they had 10,000 hats 16,000 boots and a lot of belts. Let me tell you that store was HUGE! We tried on cowboy boots and hats for a while. Then the owner’s grandson taught me how to rope a cow. I think I could cut it as a cow girl.
He also convinced me to buy a cowboy hat. After trying a bunch on he told me that I could get a custom one. So I picked my size and the hat maker hand bent my hat, it was so cool to watch.
After my hat was done a bunch of other riders came in with Joe the owner. Apparently he took them all out to lunch in his limo complete with bull horns on the hood.
After we all got over the fact that we missed out on the free Mexican food we headed off to second lunch. We didn’t stop to eat, I just threw my hat in the van. Brad and I made it the last 18 miles to the host in under an hour.
Tonight we are staying at Eastern New Mexico University. We are staying in the dorms which means BEDS!
Also big news, I saw a cactus today…..
We were on 60 again today and it was just as bumpy as yesterday. They pave the shoulder with gravel and oil which is not comfortable to ride on at all. Made it to first lunch at a gas station and hung around for a little.
About 10 miles after we left we hit New Mexico! We were all relieved that they pave their roads better. We took some pictures at a state signs and then stopped at a gas station for some energy drinks.
We hit the road again and then stopped at Joes Boot Shop on Rt 60. The sign said that they had 10,000 hats 16,000 boots and a lot of belts. Let me tell you that store was HUGE! We tried on cowboy boots and hats for a while. Then the owner’s grandson taught me how to rope a cow. I think I could cut it as a cow girl.
He also convinced me to buy a cowboy hat. After trying a bunch on he told me that I could get a custom one. So I picked my size and the hat maker hand bent my hat, it was so cool to watch.
After my hat was done a bunch of other riders came in with Joe the owner. Apparently he took them all out to lunch in his limo complete with bull horns on the hood.
After we all got over the fact that we missed out on the free Mexican food we headed off to second lunch. We didn’t stop to eat, I just threw my hat in the van. Brad and I made it the last 18 miles to the host in under an hour.
Tonight we are staying at Eastern New Mexico University. We are staying in the dorms which means BEDS!
Also big news, I saw a cactus today…..
Tuesday, July 28, 2009
Amarillo to Hereford 50 miles
Woke up at 6 and all took our time getting ready since it was such a short day. Finally headed out around 8:30.
We rode through the city for a while and then got out to what looked like the desert. There were all these cows in a pasture that only had one patch of grass. We rode down into this little canyon that was so cool looking. Then we rode out of it, I looked back and the view was amazing.
There was an optional 20 mile detour right after that to another canyon. It is the second largest canyon in the US. I opted out of it to give my legs a rest.
We had lunch at picnic area, but didn't stay for long. We were told the the last 10 miles into town we awful because of the smell. It is full of cattle feed lots which stink!
Last year a bunch of people got sick on the road because of the smell. I wore a bandana over my face to try and block the smell. But since it was cool out today it wasnt that bad.
Got into town pretty eat which was nice. Showered, cleaned my bike finally, and laid out my prom outfit then had dinner.
After dinner we all got ready for prom which was so much fun! We were able to get flowers and a moon bounce all donated. We danced the night away but will probably all be sore in the morning....
Interesting fact, Hereford is the beef capital of the world.
Monday, July 27, 2009
Build day in Amarillo TX
So it was sort of a late wakeup toady, 7:30. But we were all still really tired since we stayed out pretty late last night. Brando decided that he was going to take on the Big Texan challenge, 72 oz of steak in 1 hour. Along with mashed potatoes, salad, a roll, and shrimp cocktail. So of course we all had to got cheer him on! He got through everything but 7 oz of steak!
It was SO much fun! Even though he didn’t finish he got a sweet shirt. The Big Texan is actually a really famous restaurant that has been featured on the Food Network and a couple other channels. I helped orchestrate free limo service to and from the restaurant.
Back to today though. So we woke up and walked over to the Habitat site which was less then a ¼ mile away. There was just the shell of the house. So we put up all of the roof trusses. To put them up we had to balance on top of the framing for the walls. I did some serious work with the nail gun... It was so much fun and at the end of the day we were able to again step back and see that real progress had been made.
After building we all headed over to the Salvation Army to get outfits for prom. Yes prom, we a having a little B2SB prom tomorrow. Get pumped for some really really great outfits and a possible fro….
Came back to the host location and had an AMAZING BBQ! Annie’s parents drove all the way up here from Austin with their 2000 pound smoker and treated us to some real Texas BBQ. Probably going to clean my bike tonight, but the thought of a little extra sleep is tempting….
It was SO much fun! Even though he didn’t finish he got a sweet shirt. The Big Texan is actually a really famous restaurant that has been featured on the Food Network and a couple other channels. I helped orchestrate free limo service to and from the restaurant.
Back to today though. So we woke up and walked over to the Habitat site which was less then a ¼ mile away. There was just the shell of the house. So we put up all of the roof trusses. To put them up we had to balance on top of the framing for the walls. I did some serious work with the nail gun... It was so much fun and at the end of the day we were able to again step back and see that real progress had been made.
After building we all headed over to the Salvation Army to get outfits for prom. Yes prom, we a having a little B2SB prom tomorrow. Get pumped for some really really great outfits and a possible fro….
Came back to the host location and had an AMAZING BBQ! Annie’s parents drove all the way up here from Austin with their 2000 pound smoker and treated us to some real Texas BBQ. Probably going to clean my bike tonight, but the thought of a little extra sleep is tempting….
Wheeler to Amarillo 101 miles
Today rocked! So we were on the road by 6:30 and the sun wasn’t even up yet aka it was not hot out. We rode through the hills and farm country as the sun came up which was so pretty. I felt a little like a zombie for the first 10 miles since it was SO early in the morning.
We rode by a couple cattle feed lots which are so gross smelling. They basically pack in as many cows into one small area as they can. We rode by one that must have had well over a 1000 cows in an area the size of 2 football fields. They had no room to graze or even turn around.
And just my luck I got a flat right in the middle of one of them. So we had to change my flat while smelling all of these cows…. Once we were done I booked it so I didn’t have to smell the cows any more. After that it started raining a little but we didn’t even care at all. It was actually kind of refreshing.
We got to first lunch about 40 miles in, right next to this little motel. We all ate pretty quickly and hit the road again to try and beat the heat. Andrea, Brad, Alex, Lesley, Ravi, and I, all rode in a sweet pace line for the rest of the day. We did 1 mile pulls that way we could keep up a faster pace. We flew for the next 30 miles only stopping once to have a snack. The road that we were riding on was SO bumpy. Clearly Texas doesn’t care too much about their shoulders….
We had second lunch in Panhandle TX at a dairy queen. Everyone was in a great mood joking around and everything. After all it was noon and we had already ridden 70 miles.
Hit the road again and were happy to discover that it still wasn’t too hot out. Kept up that same pace line as before lunch. About 10 miles in by back tire went flat again. So we pulled over and I just pumped it up since I figured I could make it.
But then about 5 miles later it went flat again. So we pulled over and luckily I had picked up an extra tire at first lunch incase it was my tire. I ended up having to change my entire tire. This time my flat was right outside the Tyson plant, which smelled almost as bad as the feed farms. Surprisingly though I wasn’t mad about getting 3 flats. I just thought it was kinda funny where I got them!
We hauled the last couple miles into the host through the city. We got in and had only actually ridden 98 miles. But since Jodi had yet to have a century I told her that I would go ride around a little with her so she could officially have a century. So that made it 101 miles.
Build day tomorrow!
We rode by a couple cattle feed lots which are so gross smelling. They basically pack in as many cows into one small area as they can. We rode by one that must have had well over a 1000 cows in an area the size of 2 football fields. They had no room to graze or even turn around.
And just my luck I got a flat right in the middle of one of them. So we had to change my flat while smelling all of these cows…. Once we were done I booked it so I didn’t have to smell the cows any more. After that it started raining a little but we didn’t even care at all. It was actually kind of refreshing.
We got to first lunch about 40 miles in, right next to this little motel. We all ate pretty quickly and hit the road again to try and beat the heat. Andrea, Brad, Alex, Lesley, Ravi, and I, all rode in a sweet pace line for the rest of the day. We did 1 mile pulls that way we could keep up a faster pace. We flew for the next 30 miles only stopping once to have a snack. The road that we were riding on was SO bumpy. Clearly Texas doesn’t care too much about their shoulders….
We had second lunch in Panhandle TX at a dairy queen. Everyone was in a great mood joking around and everything. After all it was noon and we had already ridden 70 miles.
Hit the road again and were happy to discover that it still wasn’t too hot out. Kept up that same pace line as before lunch. About 10 miles in by back tire went flat again. So we pulled over and I just pumped it up since I figured I could make it.
But then about 5 miles later it went flat again. So we pulled over and luckily I had picked up an extra tire at first lunch incase it was my tire. I ended up having to change my entire tire. This time my flat was right outside the Tyson plant, which smelled almost as bad as the feed farms. Surprisingly though I wasn’t mad about getting 3 flats. I just thought it was kinda funny where I got them!
We hauled the last couple miles into the host through the city. We got in and had only actually ridden 98 miles. But since Jodi had yet to have a century I told her that I would go ride around a little with her so she could officially have a century. So that made it 101 miles.
Build day tomorrow!
Saturday, July 25, 2009
Cordell to Wheeler Texas 78 miles
Another early day to beat the heat. It's official we are in the mid west, we had breakfast burritos to start the day off.
We got back onto SR 152 right out of the church by the one and only stop light in town. The first 11 or so miles were pretty much all uphill. But it want too hot et which was nice!
The next 30 or so miles to first lunch are pretty much a blur. Just hills, cows, and open road. We did make it almost 40 miles to lunch by 9:30. First lunch was at a gas station pretty much in the first town that we saw from when we started.
Ate really quick and then headed back out to try and beat the heat. I didn’t feel very good at first lunch and the sun was starting to wear on me. We pulled over after about 15 miles and I ended up getting into the van. While I felt like I was giving up and really didn’t want to get in, I know that it really was the best thing for me.
We have a 100 mile day tomorrow and it was better that I rest a little before that instead of pushing myself too far today.
We set up second lunch at the Texas state line which was pretty cool. While I was bummed that I couldn’t ride over the state line I did at least get to walk over it. We were also exactly at the 100th meridian.
After everyone stopped and ate we packed up the van and drove to the host site.
A bunch of people swam at the pool down the street, and the rest of us napped in the wonderful air conditioning.
We had a great bbq dinner and now its time for bed since we have a 4:30 am wake up.
Another early day to beat the heat. It's official we are in the mid west, we had breakfast burritos to start the day off.
We got back onto SR 152 right out of the church by the one and only stop light in town. The first 11 or so miles were pretty much all uphill. But it want too hot et which was nice!
The next 30 or so miles to first lunch are pretty much a blur. Just hills, cows, and open road. We did make it almost 40 miles to lunch by 9:30. First lunch was at a gas station pretty much in the first town that we saw from when we started.
Ate really quick and then headed back out to try and beat the heat. I didn’t feel very good at first lunch and the sun was starting to wear on me. We pulled over after about 15 miles and I ended up getting into the van. While I felt like I was giving up and really didn’t want to get in, I know that it really was the best thing for me.
We have a 100 mile day tomorrow and it was better that I rest a little before that instead of pushing myself too far today.
We set up second lunch at the Texas state line which was pretty cool. While I was bummed that I couldn’t ride over the state line I did at least get to walk over it. We were also exactly at the 100th meridian.
After everyone stopped and ate we packed up the van and drove to the host site.
A bunch of people swam at the pool down the street, and the rest of us napped in the wonderful air conditioning.
We had a great bbq dinner and now its time for bed since we have a 4:30 am wake up.
Friday, July 24, 2009
Yukon to Cordell 83 miles
TODAY was hot! We woke up at 5 so that we could beat the heat. I woke up 20 minutes late and was still one of the first people to get my bag out to the trailer. When I walked outside though the stars were still out....
After breakfast we hit the road and it was a little chilly to be honest. But no worries that didn't last long!
We hit hills and head winds all day. I was pedaling downhill and only going 14 mph, it was so frustrating.
We had first lunch at an abandoned gas station, but didn't stay for long so that we could beat the heat.
As the day went on it got hotter and hotter. We stopped at this old abandoned house for a snack break. There was only shade under the porch so I decided to go over. But there was a wire fence in the way. As I reached down to move it out of the way I thought to myself I hope this isn't electrified. And just my luck, it was! It didn't really hurt, it just startled me.
We made it to second lunch about 10 miles later. Had a quick snack, refilled our water bottles and then headed off.
The road we were in was really straight, so at the tops of the hills you could see for miles and miles. We made it through the heat some how and as soon as we got to the host took cold showers.
Another 5 am wake up to beat the heat, Texas tomorrow!
Thursday, July 23, 2009
Chandler to Yukon 63 miles
It was a scorcher! So we woke up at 6 packed our bags and had breakfast. The chore group rotation started over so I am on trailer crew again. After we ate we went outside to load the trailer. We noticed that people’s bags have gotten a lot bigger and a LOT heavier since the first week of the trip!
Headed out around and you could feel the heat already. So remember that play about Oklahoma and the wind sweeping through the PLAINS? Well they lied. Oklahoma is in fact hilly! But they didn’t lie about the wind! To be honest though the hills weren’t too bad, we just thought we were going to have a flat ride.
About 25 miles in we stopped at this really cool Rt 66 museum. This guy turned his house into a Rt 66 landmark full of old memorabilia. It had a bunch of old cars, some were stuck in the ground, one was hanging out of the 2nd story of his house, and another that had flowers and peace sings painted all over it.
About 5 miles later we stopped at the famous round red barn. It is exactly what the name entails, this huge round red barn. Apparently it’s the only one in the state. It was pretty cool, round and all.
About 2 blocks later was our lunch stop. We had it at this famous Rt 66 restaurant called Pop. It is a soda fountain that has over 500 different flavors of soda! It was so cool looking inside. I had a grilled cheese and 2 sodas for lunch (gotta love that 5000 calorie diet!) I had the local favorite a red barn root beer and a Barack O Berry. Both were delicious.
After lunch we pedaled off very slowly, our stomachs still full of food.
This is when the wind set in. The terrain got a little bit more flat but the wind picked up and the temperature got up to 101 according to one sign. But we kept on going since we knew there was a pool near the host. About 5 miles away from the host we stopped at a Sonic for some water. In case you can’t tell we really like Sonic.
I made it in to the host by about 3 and immediately got my stuff for the pool. It was so refreshing! They had a water slide and diving board that we all had tons of fun on. But the kids at the pool were all laughing at our funny tan lines. T-shirt, short, sock, glove, and the best of all, the helmet strap tan line....
After swimming we headed back to the host, showered and ate dinner. Then the church performed a mini concert for us. They sang Christian rock songs, which were actually really good!
5 am wake up tomorrow to beat the heat!
PS mail drop toady, thanks for all of the packages!!!! Send me more...... and letters!
Headed out around and you could feel the heat already. So remember that play about Oklahoma and the wind sweeping through the PLAINS? Well they lied. Oklahoma is in fact hilly! But they didn’t lie about the wind! To be honest though the hills weren’t too bad, we just thought we were going to have a flat ride.
About 25 miles in we stopped at this really cool Rt 66 museum. This guy turned his house into a Rt 66 landmark full of old memorabilia. It had a bunch of old cars, some were stuck in the ground, one was hanging out of the 2nd story of his house, and another that had flowers and peace sings painted all over it.
About 5 miles later we stopped at the famous round red barn. It is exactly what the name entails, this huge round red barn. Apparently it’s the only one in the state. It was pretty cool, round and all.
About 2 blocks later was our lunch stop. We had it at this famous Rt 66 restaurant called Pop. It is a soda fountain that has over 500 different flavors of soda! It was so cool looking inside. I had a grilled cheese and 2 sodas for lunch (gotta love that 5000 calorie diet!) I had the local favorite a red barn root beer and a Barack O Berry. Both were delicious.
After lunch we pedaled off very slowly, our stomachs still full of food.
This is when the wind set in. The terrain got a little bit more flat but the wind picked up and the temperature got up to 101 according to one sign. But we kept on going since we knew there was a pool near the host. About 5 miles away from the host we stopped at a Sonic for some water. In case you can’t tell we really like Sonic.
I made it in to the host by about 3 and immediately got my stuff for the pool. It was so refreshing! They had a water slide and diving board that we all had tons of fun on. But the kids at the pool were all laughing at our funny tan lines. T-shirt, short, sock, glove, and the best of all, the helmet strap tan line....
After swimming we headed back to the host, showered and ate dinner. Then the church performed a mini concert for us. They sang Christian rock songs, which were actually really good!
5 am wake up tomorrow to beat the heat!
PS mail drop toady, thanks for all of the packages!!!! Send me more...... and letters!
Wednesday, July 22, 2009
Tulsa to Chandler 73 miles
Another short day which was nice. We were able to take our time a litttle and stop to see random slash cool stuff on the side of the road.
We got lost pretty early in the morning but it all ended up working out since rt 66 is a pretty noticeble slash famous road. We were on that for the entire day.
In the morning we cruised and made it 40 miles to lunch by 11. We had lunch in the parking lot of a school. I took a mini nap and felt so ready for the afternoon.
About 15 miles in we all stopped at this cute little rt 66 shop that had all this cool rt 66 stuff. I got some cool stickers for my bike and a bunch of post cards.
After that we just took our time getting to the host. It was nothing but corn fields and a few cows. While we were riding I saw a billboard for Sonic that had a picture of a glass of cold lemonade that looked so good! About a mile later we saw a Soncic and I convinced the group to stop. It was a very good decision!
We hung out there for about and hour and then rode to the host. It was only like a mile away so it didnt take us long. We showered at the football stadium and a beauty parlor. Yes parlor, it was so crazy this old building done up all western inside. They had a gym, beauty shop, office, and a shower. I ended up falling asleep waiting for a shower, it was a great nap.
Took a shower, had dinner, wrote some postcards, and listened to a concert that some of the church kids performed for us.
Forgot to mention this yesterday but everyone was getting hair cuts and mohawks so I decided to get one too... A hair cut people not a mohawk don't worry! Then we. Played ring toss with spare tires be me as the target, hopefully someone will post a video.
Tuesday, July 21, 2009
Build day in Tulsa
So we woke up at 7 and they shuttled us over to the build site. Todays house was brand new an is going to be dedicated next week. Most of the big projects were already done, so we took care of the odds and ends.
Andrea and I started off cleaning the bathroom. It hadn't been used yet but the tub was full of building materials and there was paint on it. It was spotless when we finished though. While we were in there cleaning, they were prepping the floor for the tile and we ended up stuck in the bathroom while the floor dried. But I was playing some jams on my phone an we had a little sing along to pass the time while we cleaned.
Then we began tiling. We were able to get the entire house tiled in a couple hours. While most of us were tiling a group of us built a shed in the backyard.
We had some great BBQ for lunch. Then we sodded the entire front and back yard. Today was awesome because we were finally able to get stuff done that you could really see in the end. When we got there it was just a concrete floor and a muddy yard. But when we left the entire house was tiled and had a great new lawn.
We were all so muddy by the end of the day and showered as soon as we got back. Dinner in a few then off to clean my bike!
Monday, July 20, 2009
Vinita to Tulsa 64 miles
So the day started off great. Instead of bagles we had biscuts and gravy for breakfast which were so good!
It was pretty overcast when we left, which made it nice and cool out. We got on rt 66 pretty much right out of the church and stayed on It all day.
About 15 miles in we stopped at this little store on 66 called the rt 66 mall. There were series of murals on the wall all rt 66 themed. The inside was this cool little thrift store. They had the huge cactus made out of horsehoes that was awesome looking. I bought a hood ornament for my bike, which is a little horseshoe with a map of Oklahoma in the middle.
About halfway through the day we stopped for lunch at this ice cream place. The van took a wrong turn so we ended up just buying lunch.
After lunch we rode by some cool attractions. One was this huge blue whale on this little pond. You used to be able to swim in the pond but the water looked pretty dirty when we stopped.
We flew for the last 20 miles. The terrain was pretty flat but it was so hot out so that made it a little harder.
After talking with some locals at the host site we were informed that it's actually cold out. The average for this time is in the 100's and it was only in the low 90's.
Sunday, July 19, 2009
Joplin MO to Vinita OK 60 miles
60 miles, today was a pretty short day! And a good thing because we all needed a little bit of a mental break. Had a great breakfast at the church and then pedaled off. The terrain was pretty much flat for most of the day, with a couple hills here and there. But nothing that anyone really struggled with.
We hit Kansas after about 5 miles. Then after about 10 miles we were out. I guess you could say where not in Kansas anymore! Then off to Oklahoma.In the few miles that we spent there we did notice that it smelled a little funny....
The next 20 or so miles to lunch flew by. We had lunch in a truck stop/parking lot/ abandoned lot. We took our time though since it was only 11 and all we had left was 25 miles. We rode for 5 miles and then stopped for popsicles and soda at a gas station.... classy.
The last 20 miles were through farm country. I think most of them were cattle farms. I knew this because 1 I could smell it and 2 there were a bunch of signs that said "eat beef". Once we got into town we asked couple of kids if there was a pool because we were so HOT. We found it but decided to go to the host to get our bathing suits first.
When we got to the host they told us that they had already reserved the pool for us from 4-6. But it was only 2 so we went and got ice cream while we waited. Hard life right? After ice cream we headed off the the pool swam and showered.
The church we are staying at threw us this great BBQ complete with tons of desserts! Then we gave a presentation about B&B and opened the floor up to questions from them. After that we had an affordable housing presentation.
I'm off to explore the town a little and then clean my bike.
We hit Kansas after about 5 miles. Then after about 10 miles we were out. I guess you could say where not in Kansas anymore! Then off to Oklahoma.In the few miles that we spent there we did notice that it smelled a little funny....
The next 20 or so miles to lunch flew by. We had lunch in a truck stop/parking lot/ abandoned lot. We took our time though since it was only 11 and all we had left was 25 miles. We rode for 5 miles and then stopped for popsicles and soda at a gas station.... classy.
The last 20 miles were through farm country. I think most of them were cattle farms. I knew this because 1 I could smell it and 2 there were a bunch of signs that said "eat beef". Once we got into town we asked couple of kids if there was a pool because we were so HOT. We found it but decided to go to the host to get our bathing suits first.
When we got to the host they told us that they had already reserved the pool for us from 4-6. But it was only 2 so we went and got ice cream while we waited. Hard life right? After ice cream we headed off the the pool swam and showered.
The church we are staying at threw us this great BBQ complete with tons of desserts! Then we gave a presentation about B&B and opened the floor up to questions from them. After that we had an affordable housing presentation.
I'm off to explore the town a little and then clean my bike.
Saturday, July 18, 2009
Springfield to Joplin 81 miles
Today was awesome, such a short ride compared to the last few days. The terrain wasn't really that hard. Mostly just rolling hills and flat. The wind started to pick up a little bit but it wasn't too bad.
About 30 miles into the ride we rode by a tractor show. Yes a tractor show, what else would people be doing on a Saturday morning? So we decided to stop and I ended up participating in some of the events. They had tractors pushing an empty barrel through a course and Caroline and I got on our bikes and did it. We ended up actually beating some of their times!
After some pictures we rode off to lunch which was bout 10 miles down the road. We had lunch at a Harold's tree nursery. We talked with Harold and his wife for a while and then hit the road again.
When we left lunch this french guy on a bike started riding with us. Turns out he is going from Chicago to California. But didn't really speak that much english... We stopped at Wendy's about 15 miles out to get some shade.
Once we got to the host I helped make a make shift slip and slide and we all had so much fun cooling off. We are staying at a Methodist Church tonight that is so big! They a couple computers that we can use which is awesome.
As we enter the west my cell phone reception is going to start to dwindle so I may not post as much. But I will do my best!!!
Springfield Build Day
We slept in all the way until 9!!!! That is 4 hours more sleep then I normally get!
The build site was pretty close so we all just walked over. Instead of building a brand new house the local Habitat took a house that had been foreclosed and are gutting it and redoing it. I helped clean out some stuff in the house and then did a little bit of landscaping. Then we had lunch in the park.
I had a great conversation with one of the Habitat guys and found out that they were doing an Extreme Home Makeover (the show on ABC) about 10 miles away. It was really interesting to hear the point of view of someone who helped out on the show and gave us kind of a behind the scenes perspective.
After lunch we headed back to the build site and loaded a truck with branches. Then I went over to another one of their houses and helped load all of the wood from the demo into a dumpster. It was a pretty low key day since there are so many of us and not always tons of work to go around.
A bunch of us took and trip to the bike store and CVS where I was finally able to get my pictures off of my camera! Came back had dinner, cleaned my bike, had a family meeting and then headed off to bed!
Houston to Springfield 106 miles
Few, so this was only supposed to be about a 95 mile day. However we all took a wrong turn which lead us on a 12 mile detour.
The morning was so pretty when we were riding. It was foggy and so quiet on the road. The first 15 or so miles were pretty much down hill. Then we hit a gravel road which lasted a good 3 miles. It did a number on all of our bikes, however I didn't get a flat!
Then we hit a patch of road which they were re-taring. When you rode over it little rocks would shoot up from your tires and I may or may not have hit myself in the face... a couple times. By the end of the road my bike was also covered in tar.
We had first lunch in the parking lot of a grocery store. Then we took one wrong turn out of the parking lot which lead us in the wrong direction. After talking to a bunch of locals we finally figured out which way to go. It was a very hilly detour. But surprisingly I wasn't that tired. We passed a few Amish houses and they were mowing their lawns with horse drawn mowers...
We climbed to the top of this one hill and waited there for a while cheering people on as they came up. By then we were at about mile 70 and all a little hungry. So we stopped at a subway and had second lunch. After we left we saw this huge black cloud in front of us, we figured that we could beat the storm. But about a mile away from the real second lunch the temperature suddenly dropped 20 degrees and the wind started gusting. So we pulled into a gas station and waited out the storm
About 30 minutes later we hit the road again. We swung by second lunch really quickly and then headed out. We flew through the last 30 miles. There were these HUGE rolling hills at the end which we just crushed. If i would have hit those hills when I was training I don't think that I would have been able to do them at all.
We rode through Springfield into the church and we were all so excited to get there. But to be honest I felt so good, I wasnt really even that tired considering that I had just ridden almost 110 miles!!
Potosi to Houston 92 miles
So we hit the edge of the Ozark mountains today. They weren't that bad though. About 15 miles into the ride we stopped to stretch and this little puppy came out and played with us. It was a little beagle that was probably only 3 months old, so cute!
We had first lunch at a gas station, which was apparently the only one for the next 26 miles. It was really nice and had a deli with a sitting area inside of an old railroad car.
I wasn't feeling very well so I decided to get into the van for the rest of the day. Something I ate the day before didn't settle so well with my stomach.
The van ride was fun but I was sad that I wasn't riding. Except for when we saw this HUGE storm cloud in front of us. We pulled over for a second to talk to a rider and the sky just opened up. It was hailing and the wind was blowing so hard!
So we decided just to stay there and set up second lunch. After the storm passed another beagle puppy showed up and we played with him too.
We stayed at a little church in town and the parishioners were all so nice! They took us to their houses to shower. We were all really tired so we pretty much went right to bed.
Ps Houston is in Missouri, but it is in The county of Texas. Confused? Yep me too.
St. Louis to Potosi 92 miles
Sorry about the last post there is something wrong with the way my phone posts updates.
So we stared off riding through the city and we all got a chance to see the arch again. We didn't stop though, we just rode by.
Then we rode by the Budwiser brewery. It was huge and you could smell the beer in the air from about a 1/2 a mile away. But I do have to admit that it smelled a little like stale beer the morning after a party.
The next 30 or so miles were pretty boring. Just hills and a few strip malls. We had first lunch in the parking lot of a hardware store, you know the usual pb&j.
After lunch we hit more hills. When we were going down one hill they had these reflectors in the ground that we had to weave in and out of. Slalom biking... One biking tip, when going down hills refrain from yawning or keeping your moth open. Bugs will fly in and you will swallow the, and people will laugh. True story.
We got to second lunch which was at a gas station. To mix it up I had a little pb and frosting sandwich. It's a bike and build invention.
After lunch we biked about 10 miles into the "city" of Potosi. I stopped with Jenna at a local doctor so she could get her stitches taken out.
After 30 minutes in a wonderful air conditioned waiting room we headed out for the last 10 miles of the day.
We are staying at a summer camp tonight. Right when we got in I headed over to the lake and went swimming. Then we had hamburgers and hotdogs for dinner. We all came back to our air conditioned cabins (these campers aren't kidding around). Most of us cleaned our bikes and then we set off some fireworks.
Day Off in St. Louis
So for those of you who are unaware it just so happens to be all-star week here. Which means lots and lots of baseball fans!
I woke up at 8:30 which now days is really sleeping in. Took the metro downtown to Delmar St were we had breakfast at this cute little cafe. The food was so good. But I have to say it was a little weird being able to order exactly what I wanted off of a menu.
Then I took the metro to the mall. I hung out at the Apple store for a long long time, but I finally got my phone fixed!!!!!! I felt so lost for the past week and a half without a phone. It is like my only connection back to the real world.
Then I took the metro back downtown to the stadium where the all-star game slash home run derby was. We all hung out at the fan fest outside of the park. We got tons of free food and stuff! After that we went and got something to eat (yes we ate again).
We were all walking back to the metro and you could see the arch behind some buildings. It didn't look that far and it is what St. Louis is famous for so a couple of us decided to check it out. It was huge and so cool looking!It wasn't really what I expected at all, but I'm not really sure what I expected so..... On our walk back to the stadium the derby was just starting up and the fighter jets flew right over our heads.
Took the metro again back to the University of Missouri where we are staying. Had dinner, cleaned my bike, and thats pretty much it.
Also I just wanted to say thanks to everyone who reads my blog. It means a lot to me that people are checking it and don't mind reading my awful writing! So sorry for my horrible spelling, I'm doing it all on my phone and there is not spell check soooooo.
Sunday, July 12, 2009
Salem IL to St. Louis Missouri 89 miles
Today rocked. We woke up at 5 and were on the road biking before 7:30. It was flat with a tail wind. We made it 40 miles to lunch before 10 am . Crazy! We had lunch at a baseball field. There was a little league game going on and we sat and ate PB&J watching the game.
After lunch we just cruised through farm land and this cute little town named Lebanon. It was kinda funny, one side of the street was all houses like any normal neighborhood. Then on the other side of the curb was just miles and miles of farm land, as far as you could see.
We stopped for our second lunch at a burger and frozen custard place. As soon as we left we could see a storm in the distance, but we figured that we would beat it. The clouds were so cool looking in the distance. About 5 miles later it started to rain. We got to a little clearing on the road and you could see the storm setting in. Once it started to rain we stopped for a second. The rain was literally going horizontal.
Another group caught up with us when we stopped and we all just sang in the rain for a little. The rain let up a little so we started up again. We all got a little lost looking for the bridge to cross the Mississippi. Finally we found it. Well what we thought was it. We crossed the river and then came to another bridge that actually crossed the Mississippi. Apparently there was another river along side the Mississippi.
The state line sign for Missouri was really cool. It was a RT 66 sign that was also a bike rack. (in the middle of the bridge) Once we got over the second bridge we hit hills again. We were on this one road for about 6 miles that was just huge rolling hills.
Tonight we are staying at the University of Missouri in their sports complex. We had dinner at a friend of the Webbers house. Home cooked food, SO GOOD. Day off tomorrow. 3 things to do, sleep in, get my phone fixed FINALLY, go see the Arch.
Lawrenceville to Salem Illinois 72 miles
So it was a long long day. Started off the morning with a flat tire before we even left. Then while I was changing it I looked at the radar image of the weather along the route. The storm was the largest in the country at the moment and spanned from our current host site to the next…. And it was moving towards us. As we rolled out it started raining.
We took a wrong turn out of the host site and ended up lost about 5 minutes later. We got back on route and about 10 miles later I got another flat. We stopped on a porch to get out of the rain so we would at least be a little dry while changing it. Once I finally got it changed and patched the hole with a dollar we headed out again.
Rode for about 15 miles and stopped for a break. We were all a little wet and hungry. Then 2 miles from lunch I got ANOTHER flat. There was a huge gash in my tire that I just couldn’t patch so they had to bring me my extra tire from the trailer.
Changed my tire and my flat issues were over for the day. After lunch we hit a major major head wind. We were pedaling like we should have been going 25 mph but we were only going 12. We were all so tired but still somehow made it to the host site. We stayed at a local community center.
We had dinner sort of donated from a local taco place. We all ate so much then headed back to the host site. There was a wedding going on while we were at the host site and the bride and groom walked through a couple times. It was so funny.
Friday, July 10, 2009
Bloomington to Lawerenceville IL 83 miles
So it took me a good 15 miles to actually wake up. The terrain was pretty much flat with a few rolling hills. We all took it pretty slow. Andrea and I rode together and she did great on her first day back! We went through this little deserted town.
About 2 miles away from lunch we saw this fountain that someone had put soap in. It was full of bubbles. I was hot so I decided what the hell... I kicked off my shoes and jumped in! We got some great pics.
We had lunch in the parking lot of a middle school. It had this huge field next to it with a little covered patio that we all sat under. After lunch we took it easy... again. Like 5 minutes after we started we ran into some train tracks. The lights started flashing and we thought that we were going to have to wait 20 minutes for it to pass. But then it turned onto another set of tracks right before. We were all so relieved because it was SO long!
Andrea, Brad, Ravi, and I all rode in a pace line through miles and miles of corn fields. No Amish this time though!
We stopped at a McDonald's for a little coffee because I was literaly falling asleep on my bike. I felt myself doing some head nods and decided that caffeine was in store. When we stopped we ended up running into about 6 other B&Bers who also needed a little pick me up. After our coffee break we all felt energized and hauled for the next 15 miles.
Brad got a flat so we all stopped to help, him and Ravi got it changed in record time. Put a few dollar bills inside (to patch the holes) and we were off again.
The corn fields went on forever! But we were all talking so it made it that much better. Finally we got into a town and saw people! After we went through the town we went back in time! Literaly. We got into Illinois which is an hour behind. That makes 8 states so far.
When I got in we were all bussed to the showers at a local high school. As soon as I got back I took my first real nap of the trip... it was amazing! We all ate dinner at Hardy's, a fast food place that told us to order what ever we wanted for free. A couple of the guys added it up and ate 5000 calories for dinner.
When we got back Brad found a frog costume and dressed up in it and jumped out and scared people. It was so funny!
About 2 miles away from lunch we saw this fountain that someone had put soap in. It was full of bubbles. I was hot so I decided what the hell... I kicked off my shoes and jumped in! We got some great pics.
We had lunch in the parking lot of a middle school. It had this huge field next to it with a little covered patio that we all sat under. After lunch we took it easy... again. Like 5 minutes after we started we ran into some train tracks. The lights started flashing and we thought that we were going to have to wait 20 minutes for it to pass. But then it turned onto another set of tracks right before. We were all so relieved because it was SO long!
Andrea, Brad, Ravi, and I all rode in a pace line through miles and miles of corn fields. No Amish this time though!
We stopped at a McDonald's for a little coffee because I was literaly falling asleep on my bike. I felt myself doing some head nods and decided that caffeine was in store. When we stopped we ended up running into about 6 other B&Bers who also needed a little pick me up. After our coffee break we all felt energized and hauled for the next 15 miles.
Brad got a flat so we all stopped to help, him and Ravi got it changed in record time. Put a few dollar bills inside (to patch the holes) and we were off again.
The corn fields went on forever! But we were all talking so it made it that much better. Finally we got into a town and saw people! After we went through the town we went back in time! Literaly. We got into Illinois which is an hour behind. That makes 8 states so far.
When I got in we were all bussed to the showers at a local high school. As soon as I got back I took my first real nap of the trip... it was amazing! We all ate dinner at Hardy's, a fast food place that told us to order what ever we wanted for free. A couple of the guys added it up and ate 5000 calories for dinner.
When we got back Brad found a frog costume and dressed up in it and jumped out and scared people. It was so funny!
Thursday, July 9, 2009
Bloomington Build Day
So since there are 32 of us we can’t always all fit at the build sites at once. So today we split up into 4 groups. 2 morning groups and afternoon groups. I was in the morning group that went to the Habitat Restore, instead of the build site. The Restore is basically a warehouse where people donate building materials like furniture, doors, sinks, etc. Then they sell all of the items and the proceeds all go to Habitat.
I spent the day measuring doors and taking nails out boards. Since I was done at noon I headed over to the AT&T store to try and get my phone fixed. But they were no help at all. He said he didn’t know what was wrong with my phone, he couldn’t fix it, and no one had any iPhones in stock to replace it. After explaining my situation, they told me that I can come back in 2 weeks to pick up one that they can order for me…. Uhhhhh not helpful.
His next option was for me to put my SIM card into one of the extra phones that people brought on the trip….. uhhh again not helpful. Looks like I will have to wait until St Louis where they have an Apple store. So posting may be a little bit hard. Bare with me! If you need to get in contact with me you can email me.
Also we got mail today so I now have a charger for my camera and I will try my hardest to post some pictures. But you can check other peoples out on the Bike and Build Website or facebook!
Thanks for the mail everybody!!!
I spent the day measuring doors and taking nails out boards. Since I was done at noon I headed over to the AT&T store to try and get my phone fixed. But they were no help at all. He said he didn’t know what was wrong with my phone, he couldn’t fix it, and no one had any iPhones in stock to replace it. After explaining my situation, they told me that I can come back in 2 weeks to pick up one that they can order for me…. Uhhhhh not helpful.
His next option was for me to put my SIM card into one of the extra phones that people brought on the trip….. uhhh again not helpful. Looks like I will have to wait until St Louis where they have an Apple store. So posting may be a little bit hard. Bare with me! If you need to get in contact with me you can email me.
Also we got mail today so I now have a charger for my camera and I will try my hardest to post some pictures. But you can check other peoples out on the Bike and Build Website or facebook!
Thanks for the mail everybody!!!
Rushville to Bloomington 85 miles
The Church cooked us an amazing breakfast. Pancakes, eggs, fruit, bacon, bagels, you name it!
The hills weren’t too bad in the morning and we made it to lunch at mile 50 so fast! It was pretty much farm after farm and rolling hills. We came up to a dog that started chasing us. But there was a fence so we weren’t too scared. Then we noticed that the fence ended so someone screamed pedal faster! So we all started going as fast as we could and I pulled out my water bottle to try and ward him away. I ended up just getting everyone soaking wet though.
When we all looked back we realized that his owner had called him back and he wasn’t even chasing us. We almost had to stop because we were laughing so hard!
Right before lunch we passed Newton St. We had lunch in Columbus Indiana in this really cool art park. Columbus apparently is really famous for its modern architecture. The bathrooms were like a maze to get into.
There were a couple of hills after lunch into this town called Nashville. It was really cute and we stopped and had these old timey photos where you dress up in cowboy attire. As a tribute to the bad Amish candy that I had I was an Amish woman.
About 10 miles later we made it into the host town. The Church is SO nice. They have elevators (saves the knees), a pool table, a ping pong table, tv’s, couches, and more!
The hills weren’t too bad in the morning and we made it to lunch at mile 50 so fast! It was pretty much farm after farm and rolling hills. We came up to a dog that started chasing us. But there was a fence so we weren’t too scared. Then we noticed that the fence ended so someone screamed pedal faster! So we all started going as fast as we could and I pulled out my water bottle to try and ward him away. I ended up just getting everyone soaking wet though.
When we all looked back we realized that his owner had called him back and he wasn’t even chasing us. We almost had to stop because we were laughing so hard!
Right before lunch we passed Newton St. We had lunch in Columbus Indiana in this really cool art park. Columbus apparently is really famous for its modern architecture. The bathrooms were like a maze to get into.
There were a couple of hills after lunch into this town called Nashville. It was really cute and we stopped and had these old timey photos where you dress up in cowboy attire. As a tribute to the bad Amish candy that I had I was an Amish woman.
About 10 miles later we made it into the host town. The Church is SO nice. They have elevators (saves the knees), a pool table, a ping pong table, tv’s, couches, and more!
Yellow Springs to Rushville Indiana 104 miles
Few another century! I rode 104 miles today… on a BIKE. I felt really good in the morning. We started the day on a shaded bike path. No cars, flat, and in the shade… a bikers paradise. We had so much fun singing the entire time.
We stopped for our 1st lunch in Blue Ball Ohio. Enough said. I pace lined most of the next 20 or so miles, then it started to get a little hilly. We thought we missed the sign for Indiana so we stopped and asked this elderly woman who was mowing her lawn where Indiana was. She looked at us kinda funny then pointed to a sign about 30 feet away.
Since there was no sign for Ohio we all turned around and took a picture with the sign that was facing the other way. Then we took a picture with the Indiana state line. Their sign was pretty weak. Just a small green sign that says “state line”. Almost as bad as the one for Jersey.
There was the awkward space in between the Ohio and Indiana state lines. So we decided that it would be called Christinaville.
About 300 feet after we left the Indiana line we saw the real sign… which was much better then the one we took pictures with.
Second lunch was about 5 miles later in a parking lot. We left lunch and then the hills began again. Thanks a lot Indiana. But they weren’t so bad after about 10 miles. Once they ended I felt really good, not tired at all. So I b-lined it to the host site. I rode for about 12 miles by myself through flat farm land. I was going about 20 mph singing Baby got Back whole time. Which was pretty good considering that I had already ridden 90 miles. (not the song but the pace)
Once I got to the Church they had Gatorade and cookies waiting for us. SO AMAZING. The church was really nice and they food was so good! The town was tiny but really cool.
We stopped for our 1st lunch in Blue Ball Ohio. Enough said. I pace lined most of the next 20 or so miles, then it started to get a little hilly. We thought we missed the sign for Indiana so we stopped and asked this elderly woman who was mowing her lawn where Indiana was. She looked at us kinda funny then pointed to a sign about 30 feet away.
Since there was no sign for Ohio we all turned around and took a picture with the sign that was facing the other way. Then we took a picture with the Indiana state line. Their sign was pretty weak. Just a small green sign that says “state line”. Almost as bad as the one for Jersey.
There was the awkward space in between the Ohio and Indiana state lines. So we decided that it would be called Christinaville.
About 300 feet after we left the Indiana line we saw the real sign… which was much better then the one we took pictures with.
Second lunch was about 5 miles later in a parking lot. We left lunch and then the hills began again. Thanks a lot Indiana. But they weren’t so bad after about 10 miles. Once they ended I felt really good, not tired at all. So I b-lined it to the host site. I rode for about 12 miles by myself through flat farm land. I was going about 20 mph singing Baby got Back whole time. Which was pretty good considering that I had already ridden 90 miles. (not the song but the pace)
Once I got to the Church they had Gatorade and cookies waiting for us. SO AMAZING. The church was really nice and they food was so good! The town was tiny but really cool.
Wednesday, July 8, 2009
Columbus to Yellow Springs 60 miles
Finally the flat Ohio that we have all been waiting for! I felt really good this morning and we hauled all the way to lunch. The road was very flat and pretty much straight through corn and soy bean fields for about 10 miles. Then we hit a bike path which was awesome because there were no cars.
We had lunch along the bike path under this covered pavilion. A couple of the riders who were from the Columbus area had there parents bring food, which meant that we had more then just PB&J! Might not sound like a big deal…. But to us it rocks!
The next 25 miles were all on the bike path…. Again awesome. But it did get a little bit hot. The last 5 miles were on country roads into town. I was one of the first people into the host site, once we got there the hosts shuttled us to their houses to shower. It was probably the best shower in forever. Clean, hot, a fluffy towel, and they even had snacks for us after!
The town was really cute. Sorta stuck in the 60’s. After dinner they took us to Youngs Dairy Bar, a really famous ice cream place. They have their own cows and make everything in house. After ice cream I had to do laundry. Put on my new tires then off to bed!
We had lunch along the bike path under this covered pavilion. A couple of the riders who were from the Columbus area had there parents bring food, which meant that we had more then just PB&J! Might not sound like a big deal…. But to us it rocks!
The next 25 miles were all on the bike path…. Again awesome. But it did get a little bit hot. The last 5 miles were on country roads into town. I was one of the first people into the host site, once we got there the hosts shuttled us to their houses to shower. It was probably the best shower in forever. Clean, hot, a fluffy towel, and they even had snacks for us after!
The town was really cute. Sorta stuck in the 60’s. After dinner they took us to Youngs Dairy Bar, a really famous ice cream place. They have their own cows and make everything in house. After ice cream I had to do laundry. Put on my new tires then off to bed!
Monday, July 6, 2009
Coshocton to Columbus 79 miles
So I lied... there are still hills in Ohio, and we hit them all. We started off the day with a huge climb and they just kept coming. But we all just stuck it out and actually had a lot of fun. I got another flat because I ran over a piece of glass. So I am going to invest in some new tires.
We were going up one of the hills and I dropped my water bottle. It started rolling down the hill and when i went to step off of my bike i forgot to clip out.... so i just fell over. Very very slowly. we were all laughing so hard that it took me a couple minutes to get back up.
We stopped for lunch at this truck stop thing, but it was a quick break. About 10 miles after lunch we ran into a state fair. So we stopped and walked around for a while. We ended up getting free lemonade and funnel cakes, DONATION MAGIC!
I played a couple games and won a stuffed animal. Then we headed off again. About 10 miles out from the city you could start to see the sky line because the road that we were on was so straight.
We were feeling a little hungry like usual (6000 calorie diet means we have to eat all the time). So we stopped at White Castle. It was my first time ever and it was so good! The ride after that was great, all down hill. We were just cruising into the city.
Once we got into the city the church ended up not having showers for us. So we went to the college behind the church and after explaining Bike and Build to them were able to finagle some showers!
There are 5 kids from Ohio so they took us around the city at night which was so pretty!
My phone broke yesterday so I may not be posting for a while!
We were going up one of the hills and I dropped my water bottle. It started rolling down the hill and when i went to step off of my bike i forgot to clip out.... so i just fell over. Very very slowly. we were all laughing so hard that it took me a couple minutes to get back up.
We stopped for lunch at this truck stop thing, but it was a quick break. About 10 miles after lunch we ran into a state fair. So we stopped and walked around for a while. We ended up getting free lemonade and funnel cakes, DONATION MAGIC!
I played a couple games and won a stuffed animal. Then we headed off again. About 10 miles out from the city you could start to see the sky line because the road that we were on was so straight.
We were feeling a little hungry like usual (6000 calorie diet means we have to eat all the time). So we stopped at White Castle. It was my first time ever and it was so good! The ride after that was great, all down hill. We were just cruising into the city.
Once we got into the city the church ended up not having showers for us. So we went to the college behind the church and after explaining Bike and Build to them were able to finagle some showers!
There are 5 kids from Ohio so they took us around the city at night which was so pretty!
My phone broke yesterday so I may not be posting for a while!
Sunday, July 5, 2009
Cadiz to Coshocton 62 miles
In honor of July 4th I put a flag in my backpack and rode with it all day. So about 2 miles outside of Cadiz we got what we have all been waiting for..... No more hills!!!
The great state of Ohio proved to actually be flat! The next 10 or so miles were along this really pretty lake which was full of boats. It was so pretty, there were tons of people fishing and water skiing.
We were on that road for a good 25 miles and then stopped for lunch shortly after.
After we left lunch we stopped at this huge inflated eagle to take some pictures. A couple showed up and asked if they could take our picture. After we chatted for a bit and told them about bike and build to told us about the fair right by us.
So we headed over and they had tons of really cool old cars. Then a women came up to us and too us that the couple that had taken our picture gave her money to buy us all lunch.
Everyone at the fair was so nice and they all just wanted to keep talking to us. They were all so excited that we were doing this and it really made me feel proud. Ohio for sure has the nicest people so far!
About an hour later we headed out again. The road as long and sorts boring but we played games again which helped to pass the time.
We are staying at sportsplex, sleeping on the turf fields. We were able to watch the fireworks from our host site which was really cool.
Friday, July 3, 2009
Pittsburgh PA to Cadiz OH 69 miles
So I went through 3 states today! We started off in Pa then rode through West Virginia for about 3 miles and finally made it to Ohio.
We stopped for for lunch at this park that had all these airplanes and tanks on display. They were blasting music and we all started dancing.... While eating Pb&J.
32 people in spandex dancing to 80's music in a park was probably pretty funny looking to the locals.
Then right after lunch we rode over the Ohio river into Ohio. But there was no sign welcoming us!
We were all told that Ohio is flat. Buuuuuut so far it has Been hilly.
We played word games while riding which made the time pass really quickly.
After riding through a couple small towns, we made it into Cadiz. It is tiny! We are stating at a state park called Sally Buffalo Park. We aren't camping though, we are staying at the lodge.
Thursday, July 2, 2009
Day off in Pittsburgh
We all went out last night, which was tons of fun! Today, I slept in until 11.... Amazing.
After breakfast slash lunch we walked over to Pirates stadium and went to the Mets Pirates game. Don't worry j still cheered for the sox.
As usual it stared to rain.... The game finally started but then 2 batters in It started to rain again. After a second rain delay the sun came out and they finally played!
After the game we walked around and got so many donations for breakfast. Almost all of our meals are donated but sometimes we have to go out and find the donations. So I went around to bakeries and collected all of the leftover stuff they were going to throw away.
Then we went to dinner at Primantis. Which is this awesome sandwhich shop that puts fries and coleslaw in the sandwhich.... Sounds wierd but it's soooooo good!
Came back to the church and cleaned my bike, now it's time for bed.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)
