We left West Yellowstone and started cycling through Yellowstone national Park. Yellowstone is certainly a national treasure and the team took their time to go through the park and enjoy the scenery and wildlife. I took some great pictures, and once I get a camera cord, I’m going to upload them all. We saw a wolf, bald eagles, bison, elk, and old faithful erupt. It was pretty amazing, and I was glad to be on the Trans America team and cycling through Yellowstone with such a great group of guys. Cycling was definitely the best way to see Yellowstone, and we crossed the continental divide three times on our bike. At night we had dinner at a pasta buffet on Lake Yellowstone and we stayed at a hotel in the park.
Although we did not have a friendship visit we spread more awareness about people with disabilities than all the other days of the trip combined. It was great to talk to people about the Journey of Hope from all around the country and the world. We even had an alumni from the delta chapter at Furman randomly come up at one of our crew stops. He emptied out his wallet and donated it to Push America. It was pretty awesome.
The next day we woke up and racked through some construction until the exit of Yellowstone. The southern exit of Yellowstone borders Grand Teton National Park, and it was truly amazing. I could not believe how amazing the Teton mountain range was, and I truly considered myself lucky to have the ability to cycle there. We cruised the entire day to Jackson WY, where we had an arrival in the city square.
The arrival was really special because we had a special Olympic athlete with sever autism cycle into the park with us. At the park the mayor of Jackson made a proclamation and thanked us for what we were doing. We then rode about a mile to a ski resort where we did alpine sliding with a group of kids with disabilities. It was a lot of fun.
After that our day got even better. We racked our bikes and drove to Twin Creeks Ranch. Twin Creeks Ranch is pretty much the most amazing place I’ve ever been. One of Eta Gamma chapter’s alumni, Peter Cushman, invited us to his family ranch, and we were treated like kings. The art in some of the house was worth more than most houses, and it was quite a site to see.
The next day we woke up and ate an amazing breakfast prepared by some Eta Gamma chapter alumni, and then we had “activities.” I went horseback riding and golfing. It was insane, and I think the pictures will do it well once I can post them. It was nice to have my own bed to sleep in too. Hopefully I’ll be well rested for the century tomorrow
Friday, June 27, 2008
Thursday, June 26, 2008
Day 13: Bozeman to West Yellowstone
Today was rather uneventful. We slept in today, and had to rack through about 40 miles of the original ninety miles of riding we had planned since the roads were unsafe.
Today we entered Yellowstone National Park and it’s definitely a national treasure. The place is beautiful and the cycling is good. We rode into town around 2, and we’re staying in the local middle school’s cafeteria.
Our dinner sponsor fell through for tonight so we’re all being given a per diem for dinner. I think a good amount of the team is going for Chinese food, which should be a good change of pace from burgers and pizza.
Today we entered Yellowstone National Park and it’s definitely a national treasure. The place is beautiful and the cycling is good. We rode into town around 2, and we’re staying in the local middle school’s cafeteria.
Our dinner sponsor fell through for tonight so we’re all being given a per diem for dinner. I think a good amount of the team is going for Chinese food, which should be a good change of pace from burgers and pizza.
Day 12: Butte to Bozeman
Today we woke up for a century ride. Actually we would be riding just over 100 miles today, and I think most of the team was pretty excited. Everyday we dedicate our ride to someone. Almost always we dedicate the day to someone we have met at a friendship visit. Today we dedicated the day to a guy name Hawk.
The team met Hawk at the friendship visit last night. He is a native american living at a group home off the reservation of his tribe. Apparently, he is from a poor tribe and they started a bit of a legal battle to get his trust fund. Currently, that money belongs to him and goes to BSW Inc since they are his care takers, but they were going to tribal court today to demtermine if the tribe can take control of the money and then simply put him in a nursing home on the reservation. It was a bad situation that the team was hoping would work out for the best.
It was somewhat appropriate that we saw a hawk flying around at lunch time, and we stayed at a high school whose mascot is tha hawk.
We had dinner at a place called eaglemount that started in the 80s by providing ski instruction to people with disabilities. It now includes, swimming, therapeutic horse riding, cycling, skiing, and a variety of other program for people with disabilities. At the end of dinner we took a tour of the facility, and the whole team was impressed with the great things Eaglemount was doing for people with disabilities. They really focus on abilities rather than disabilities.
We also provided a grant to Eaglemount and it was good to see our fundraising go to good use.
Andrew Green, a pi kapp from Truman is in Bozeman this summer so he also came out to dinner with us at Eaglemount, and we were able to head out a little bit before bed.
So far we've traveled 800 miles, and in celebraton we're sleeping in tomorrow since we don't have much planned!
The team met Hawk at the friendship visit last night. He is a native american living at a group home off the reservation of his tribe. Apparently, he is from a poor tribe and they started a bit of a legal battle to get his trust fund. Currently, that money belongs to him and goes to BSW Inc since they are his care takers, but they were going to tribal court today to demtermine if the tribe can take control of the money and then simply put him in a nursing home on the reservation. It was a bad situation that the team was hoping would work out for the best.
It was somewhat appropriate that we saw a hawk flying around at lunch time, and we stayed at a high school whose mascot is tha hawk.
We had dinner at a place called eaglemount that started in the 80s by providing ski instruction to people with disabilities. It now includes, swimming, therapeutic horse riding, cycling, skiing, and a variety of other program for people with disabilities. At the end of dinner we took a tour of the facility, and the whole team was impressed with the great things Eaglemount was doing for people with disabilities. They really focus on abilities rather than disabilities.
We also provided a grant to Eaglemount and it was good to see our fundraising go to good use.
Andrew Green, a pi kapp from Truman is in Bozeman this summer so he also came out to dinner with us at Eaglemount, and we were able to head out a little bit before bed.
So far we've traveled 800 miles, and in celebraton we're sleeping in tomorrow since we don't have much planned!
Tuesday, June 24, 2008
Philipsburg to Butte: 60 miles
The team woke up today at 6:00, and we were on the road by 6:30. While we were packing up the vans we saw some lightening and it rained a bit, but as soon as we got on the bikes, there was no more rain.
The day started with a climb through a beautiful mountain pass. When we got to the top we took pictures of the snow capped mountains on the other side of Georgetown Lake. It was beautiful. After resting for about 20 minutes after the climb and grabbing some cliff bars, we continued towards butte.
Between Butte and Philipsburg there was a mining town called Anoconda. Anaconda is home of the largest free standing brick structure, which is a giant tower left over from mining operations. It really towered over the entire landscape. Most of the ride was uneventful, except for cycling on I-90. Our Project Manager Jay is trying to keep us off the Interstates as much as possible, but today it was unavoidable. Hopefully, we won’t be doing much more of that anytime soon.
We arrived in Butter by 11:30 and had cold cuts prepared by our crew chief Jesse. After lunch we relaxed in the hot tub and pool at the YMCA where we are staying. I also iced down my knee in hopes that it would feel better tomorrow.
For dinner we had a friendship visit with BSW INC. I spent most of my time talking to a guy named Jermey. He was pretty funny, and kept talking about conspiracy theories and the presidents. He was definitely into the history of our presidents, but he had some out their opinions about some things. He claimed to be writing a book about the presidents, but he hadn’t started because he was making sure his facts were straight... I’ve found that some of the people we work with have large plans of grandeur in the future, and I’m not really sure what causes them to think these things, but it is certainly an interesting aspect of some developmental disabilities, that I’ve come to understand.
We have a 5:15 wake-up tomorrow, so I’ll probably go to bed tonight before it’s dark out. Oh well, I have to be rested for tomorrow’s 105 mile day.
The day started with a climb through a beautiful mountain pass. When we got to the top we took pictures of the snow capped mountains on the other side of Georgetown Lake. It was beautiful. After resting for about 20 minutes after the climb and grabbing some cliff bars, we continued towards butte.
Between Butte and Philipsburg there was a mining town called Anoconda. Anaconda is home of the largest free standing brick structure, which is a giant tower left over from mining operations. It really towered over the entire landscape. Most of the ride was uneventful, except for cycling on I-90. Our Project Manager Jay is trying to keep us off the Interstates as much as possible, but today it was unavoidable. Hopefully, we won’t be doing much more of that anytime soon.
We arrived in Butter by 11:30 and had cold cuts prepared by our crew chief Jesse. After lunch we relaxed in the hot tub and pool at the YMCA where we are staying. I also iced down my knee in hopes that it would feel better tomorrow.
For dinner we had a friendship visit with BSW INC. I spent most of my time talking to a guy named Jermey. He was pretty funny, and kept talking about conspiracy theories and the presidents. He was definitely into the history of our presidents, but he had some out their opinions about some things. He claimed to be writing a book about the presidents, but he hadn’t started because he was making sure his facts were straight... I’ve found that some of the people we work with have large plans of grandeur in the future, and I’m not really sure what causes them to think these things, but it is certainly an interesting aspect of some developmental disabilities, that I’ve come to understand.
We have a 5:15 wake-up tomorrow, so I’ll probably go to bed tonight before it’s dark out. Oh well, I have to be rested for tomorrow’s 105 mile day.
Saturday, June 21, 2008
Day 11: Missoula to P-burg
After a day off, the team was up and ready to go at 5:30 AM. After a delicious breakfast consisting of one pop-tart, half a bagel, and a bowl of cereal, the team was off to the old mining town of Philipsburg Montana.
The ride today was 80 miles, and we made great time. The scenery was beautiful. As we rode into town today, a panoramic of snow capped mountains greeted us in the distance. They’re beautiful for now, but we have to climb them in a couple of days….
We did not have a friendship visit today, but the Philipsburg rotary club sponsored our dinner. We had a delicious lasagna dinner, and I was able to try Huckleberry ice cream. The president of the rotary club talked to us about some of the work they do in town. Right now they are building an ice rink and accompanying changing/warm house. It sounds like they do a real good thing for the community.
After that, the owner of the old fashioned soda fountain treated us to ice cream. It was great. People are generally impressed about what we are doing, and it nice to talk to people about the Journey of Hope and people with disabilities, even though we didn’t have any friendship visits.
I’m really having a great time, and I really do believe that with our media events, friendship visits, and advocacy presentations we are really having a positive impact in the northwest so far this summer.
The ride today was 80 miles, and we made great time. The scenery was beautiful. As we rode into town today, a panoramic of snow capped mountains greeted us in the distance. They’re beautiful for now, but we have to climb them in a couple of days….
We did not have a friendship visit today, but the Philipsburg rotary club sponsored our dinner. We had a delicious lasagna dinner, and I was able to try Huckleberry ice cream. The president of the rotary club talked to us about some of the work they do in town. Right now they are building an ice rink and accompanying changing/warm house. It sounds like they do a real good thing for the community.
After that, the owner of the old fashioned soda fountain treated us to ice cream. It was great. People are generally impressed about what we are doing, and it nice to talk to people about the Journey of Hope and people with disabilities, even though we didn’t have any friendship visits.
I’m really having a great time, and I really do believe that with our media events, friendship visits, and advocacy presentations we are really having a positive impact in the northwest so far this summer.
Day 10: Day off in Missoula
Check out the pictures that have been taken by our historian max. They're sorted by the day!
http://www.flickr.com/photos/pushamerica/collections/72157604901121186/
http://www.flickr.com/photos/pushamerica/collections/72157604901121186/
Day 9: Paradise to Hellgate
Today we left Paradise Montana for Missoula Montana. Most of the team got a kick out of the fact that we were staying at a place called Hellgate highschool. I guess it was named after some Indian treaty.
We started riding at 6:30 this morning, and It was freezing. I wished I had worn my winter gloves, and not my cycling gloves. Especially since we were riding through a valley for the first half of the day, it took a long time for the sun to start shining on the road. Once it did warm up though, the weather was great for the rest of the day.
After yesterday’s 105 mile ride, there were a lot of people in pain. My knee was killing me most of the day, but I pushed through the pain. Having a headwind while going up hills was certainly not fun, but the pay off was at the top of the mountain when we started going downhill towards Missoula. I didn’t know if I was going to make it through the day, but we dedicated our ride to a guy we met at a friendship visit named Jack, and I kept reminding myself why we were doing this trip, and that we were doing the ride today for Jack. We arrived safely and did an arrival at Adventure Cycling. They were also kind enough to provide us with lunch.
Adventure cycling is a not for profit that promotes recreational and race cycling across the United States. Their founder first started promoting cycling with a ride from Alaska to the tip of South America. A few years later in 1976 they did the bikecentenial, to promote cycling and the bicentennial of the United States. The original bikecentenial route is now called the Trans America route, and is close to the route we follow today. Currently Adventure cycling publishes a monthly magazine as well as sells bike maps for numerous routes across the country.
After lunch and a tour of adventure cycling we went to lodging at the infamous Hellgate High School. We showered up, rested a bit, and then headed to our friendship visit. This was set up by Truman State’s own and former Build America teammate Lukin Murphy. We had another BBQ dinner, and I spent some time with a woman named Judy and a guy named Dan.
Dan was in a wheel chair, and was hard to understand. He had to repeat himself numerous times, and I was rather impressed that he did not get frustrated. At one point he asked for all of our autographs, so Alex ran out to his van and got a Thank You card we had all signed. He then wanted to give me his autograph, so now I have an autograph I’ll be holding onto the rest of the trip.
I really enjoyed this friendship visits, and the whole team was impressive in the way we all immediately interacted with everyone. Often times we have to step out of our comfort zone at friendship visits, and the whole team is doing great.
Tomorrow is a complete day off with nothing planned. I won’t be doing a journal entry about it, but I’ll go ahead and post some pictures instead one I get the chance for tomorrow’s entry.
We started riding at 6:30 this morning, and It was freezing. I wished I had worn my winter gloves, and not my cycling gloves. Especially since we were riding through a valley for the first half of the day, it took a long time for the sun to start shining on the road. Once it did warm up though, the weather was great for the rest of the day.
After yesterday’s 105 mile ride, there were a lot of people in pain. My knee was killing me most of the day, but I pushed through the pain. Having a headwind while going up hills was certainly not fun, but the pay off was at the top of the mountain when we started going downhill towards Missoula. I didn’t know if I was going to make it through the day, but we dedicated our ride to a guy we met at a friendship visit named Jack, and I kept reminding myself why we were doing this trip, and that we were doing the ride today for Jack. We arrived safely and did an arrival at Adventure Cycling. They were also kind enough to provide us with lunch.
Adventure cycling is a not for profit that promotes recreational and race cycling across the United States. Their founder first started promoting cycling with a ride from Alaska to the tip of South America. A few years later in 1976 they did the bikecentenial, to promote cycling and the bicentennial of the United States. The original bikecentenial route is now called the Trans America route, and is close to the route we follow today. Currently Adventure cycling publishes a monthly magazine as well as sells bike maps for numerous routes across the country.
After lunch and a tour of adventure cycling we went to lodging at the infamous Hellgate High School. We showered up, rested a bit, and then headed to our friendship visit. This was set up by Truman State’s own and former Build America teammate Lukin Murphy. We had another BBQ dinner, and I spent some time with a woman named Judy and a guy named Dan.
Dan was in a wheel chair, and was hard to understand. He had to repeat himself numerous times, and I was rather impressed that he did not get frustrated. At one point he asked for all of our autographs, so Alex ran out to his van and got a Thank You card we had all signed. He then wanted to give me his autograph, so now I have an autograph I’ll be holding onto the rest of the trip.
I really enjoyed this friendship visits, and the whole team was impressive in the way we all immediately interacted with everyone. Often times we have to step out of our comfort zone at friendship visits, and the whole team is doing great.
Tomorrow is a complete day off with nothing planned. I won’t be doing a journal entry about it, but I’ll go ahead and post some pictures instead one I get the chance for tomorrow’s entry.
Wednesday, June 18, 2008
Day 8: Kellog to Paradise Montanta
That's right, today we went to Paradise. To get their though we had to climb and go down two mountains as well as ride 105 miles. It was crazy intense. All in al we climbed over 4,000 ft, and we were all exhausted at the end of the day. I was impressed though that the team did really well with such a tough ride. This was the day the North and South route climbed Kirkwood Mountain, which is a big deal for them. They can have it though, because we all know out day was tougher. :)
Once we FINALLY arrived in Paradise, we went to the resort that was giving us free rooms and passes to hot springs and mineral springs. It was a much needed relaxation. tomorrow we got to Missoula, and have a friendship visit. Frankly, it's about time we start having some more friendship visits. I can't wait to spend some more time with the people we are serving and to start handing out grants from the money we raised!
Once we FINALLY arrived in Paradise, we went to the resort that was giving us free rooms and passes to hot springs and mineral springs. It was a much needed relaxation. tomorrow we got to Missoula, and have a friendship visit. Frankly, it's about time we start having some more friendship visits. I can't wait to spend some more time with the people we are serving and to start handing out grants from the money we raised!
Day 7: Cour d'alene to Kellog ID
So today was racked our bikes to the starting point since most of the bike path we were planning on using was under water from flooding. The road out of lodging were unsafe so this was the best option. Cycling today was great, and it was much shorter than expected. We are staying at the local highschool, and a sleeping arrangement that is climate controlled will be welcomed after last night.
I decided I would help out project manager, Jay Holley, out with some of his crew duties tonight, and I went with him to scout the route since Journey of Hope has never been through this part of Idaho before. The first road we took was a shady road, and we had to move a tree out of the way. When we got to a point where snow was blocking the road we turned around. Then we got a flat tire. Van 1 has now had more flats than some of the cyclists. After repairing the flat we went to dinner at the Broken Wheel for a great steak dinner.
After dinner and the nightly trip to the loca ice cream joint, I decided to go out and help scout the route again, since we still hadn't found a good way for the cyclists to get to Montana tomorrow. On the trip we saw two moose (one of which we chased down a road b/c it would not get off the road) and a bear. It was also beautiful scenery. I can't wait to post some pictures soon. Needless to say scouting the route was a lot of fun, but we didn't get back to lodging until midnight. We have over 100 miles tomorrow, so I went straight to bed.
Proud to be a Pi Kapp!
I decided I would help out project manager, Jay Holley, out with some of his crew duties tonight, and I went with him to scout the route since Journey of Hope has never been through this part of Idaho before. The first road we took was a shady road, and we had to move a tree out of the way. When we got to a point where snow was blocking the road we turned around. Then we got a flat tire. Van 1 has now had more flats than some of the cyclists. After repairing the flat we went to dinner at the Broken Wheel for a great steak dinner.
After dinner and the nightly trip to the loca ice cream joint, I decided to go out and help scout the route again, since we still hadn't found a good way for the cyclists to get to Montana tomorrow. On the trip we saw two moose (one of which we chased down a road b/c it would not get off the road) and a bear. It was also beautiful scenery. I can't wait to post some pictures soon. Needless to say scouting the route was a lot of fun, but we didn't get back to lodging until midnight. We have over 100 miles tomorrow, so I went straight to bed.
Proud to be a Pi Kapp!
Day 6: Spokane to Cour d'alene
Today we left Spokane after some much needed R&R, and started cycling for Cour d'alene. The ride was really short and was on a bike path most of the time.
We stayed at Camp Swaylanka. The campers at this camp do not have disabilities for the most part, and we were quite disappointed. All in all, we didn't have a friendship visit like planned because staff training was still going on, and we essentially camped out for the evening. It was sort of a surreal afternoon/evening, but spirits are still high. We're staying positive, and we keep thinking about why we are doing Journey of Hope.
We stayed at Camp Swaylanka. The campers at this camp do not have disabilities for the most part, and we were quite disappointed. All in all, we didn't have a friendship visit like planned because staff training was still going on, and we essentially camped out for the evening. It was sort of a surreal afternoon/evening, but spirits are still high. We're staying positive, and we keep thinking about why we are doing Journey of Hope.
Day 5: Day off in Spokane
Not much to talk about today. We had a day off, and a great friendship visit with the MD family.
This group was started by a mother who thought that her son, who has muscular dystrophy deserved and opportunity to socialize with other kids with MD. It was a great friendship visit, and we played some carnival games with the kids, and also did a kids of the block performance.
Kids on the block is an innovative puppet show that teaches kids to understand the abilities of people with disabilities. The team members who were the puppeteers really made it funny and entertaining as well as educational. It's a great program, and it's fun for the team as well as the kids who watch it.
This group was started by a mother who thought that her son, who has muscular dystrophy deserved and opportunity to socialize with other kids with MD. It was a great friendship visit, and we played some carnival games with the kids, and also did a kids of the block performance.
Kids on the block is an innovative puppet show that teaches kids to understand the abilities of people with disabilities. The team members who were the puppeteers really made it funny and entertaining as well as educational. It's a great program, and it's fun for the team as well as the kids who watch it.
Sunday, June 15, 2008
Day 4: Coulee City to Spokane
Today we woke up bright and early, and got started on our first century day. We booked it out of lodging, and I wasn’t sure I was going to be able to keep the pace we were keeping, but after about 10 miles I warmed up and got going. A couple of times the guys who started with us wanted to drop back to a slower paceline, but we were sure to make sure the group that started with us today, finished with us.
Overall, the ride was rather uneventful. It was always tough to start after stopping—particularly after having a great sponsored lunch at Subway—but I was able to push it after about five minutes of straight cycling when everything went numb. The entire team made to Spokane on time, and no one had to rack on a van.
We didn’t have any friendship visits tonight, just a BBQ that was sponsored by some guys who rode the journey of few years ago. Tomorrow is a day off, and we have two friendship visits as well as a Kids on the Block presentation. We get to sleep until 11:00 though, so after today’s hard day, I’m going to go out, relax, and see what the town of Spokane has to offer.
So far the Journey of Hope is amazing.
Overall, the ride was rather uneventful. It was always tough to start after stopping—particularly after having a great sponsored lunch at Subway—but I was able to push it after about five minutes of straight cycling when everything went numb. The entire team made to Spokane on time, and no one had to rack on a van.
We didn’t have any friendship visits tonight, just a BBQ that was sponsored by some guys who rode the journey of few years ago. Tomorrow is a day off, and we have two friendship visits as well as a Kids on the Block presentation. We get to sleep until 11:00 though, so after today’s hard day, I’m going to go out, relax, and see what the town of Spokane has to offer.
So far the Journey of Hope is amazing.
Day 3: Wanatchee to Coulee City
Wheat fields and canyons: God’s country
This morning we woke up to music like we’re supposed to. I was happy that Jay got a working stereo. After filling up on a great sponsored breakfast we were off. At the start of the day we had another large climb. It was about 10 miles, but at least it was not cold. I can definitely say that I prepared enough for this trip after today.
When we got the top, there wasn’t much of downhill. I guess we’ve reached a plateau of sorts. Growing wheat could be seen everywhere, and it was swaying in the wind. It was quite beautiful, and I should be posting some pictures soon.
Today was rather uneventful. Coulee city is a small place, and we’re staying at the middle school gym. Dinner tonight was sponsored by the Cattlewomen. They brought us some BBQ beef sandwiches, and seemed thrilled to feed us. As always, after dinner we took a picture and made the two ladies who helped cook our dinner honorary team members of the Trans America route of Journey of Hope.
Tomorrow is our first 100 mile day to Spokane. I can’t wait until getting there. We have a day off Sunday, and we should have some great friendship visits lined up!
This morning we woke up to music like we’re supposed to. I was happy that Jay got a working stereo. After filling up on a great sponsored breakfast we were off. At the start of the day we had another large climb. It was about 10 miles, but at least it was not cold. I can definitely say that I prepared enough for this trip after today.
When we got the top, there wasn’t much of downhill. I guess we’ve reached a plateau of sorts. Growing wheat could be seen everywhere, and it was swaying in the wind. It was quite beautiful, and I should be posting some pictures soon.
Today was rather uneventful. Coulee city is a small place, and we’re staying at the middle school gym. Dinner tonight was sponsored by the Cattlewomen. They brought us some BBQ beef sandwiches, and seemed thrilled to feed us. As always, after dinner we took a picture and made the two ladies who helped cook our dinner honorary team members of the Trans America route of Journey of Hope.
Tomorrow is our first 100 mile day to Spokane. I can’t wait until getting there. We have a day off Sunday, and we should have some great friendship visits lined up!
Day 2: Skykomish to Wanatchee
Over the Cascades and into apple country.
Today we woke up to a cold gym and Jay’s voice. The stereo fell through so instead of a Push America tradition of waking up to music we woke up to Jay Holley yelling at us about how great of a day it was going to be. I wasn’t too ready to get up, but he was right about it being a great day. The group was a little slow getting out of lodging, but we were able to get out and have breakfast in the cold and cloudy weather. Shortly after breakfast we were on the road ready to climb the cascades.
The guy at the local deli and liquor store told us the night before that we had a large climb ahead of us, and I was a little worried some people might psych themselves out. Stephen, from the University of Kansas, and I were sweeping today, which meant we were always the last two men on the route. We were responsible for making sure everyone made it to the top, and although there were some slower guys, with a bit of encouragement we made it to the top of the thirteen mile climb and took pictures at Steven’s pass ski resort. It was amazing to be done with our first real climb of the trip. We didn’t see anything like this in Florida!
As we began our descent of the Cascade Mountains we started to see blue sky, and it got a lot warmer. Taking off all of our cold cycling gear was refreshing. The rest of the day was rather simple. Everyone made it to Wanatchee. We stayed at the local community center.
Tonight we had a friendship visit and dinner with Special Olympics athletes. It was a lot of fun talking to them about the sports they played, and they had a chance to show off their medals. I may be good on the bike, but I bet they would really give me a competition in basketball or track. It was a good friendship visit, and I was happy to be able to give them a chance to get out of their homes and have some social time.
Tomorrow’s climb shouldn’t be like today’s, but it’s not going to be an exceptionally easy ride. No friendship visits tomorrow though, so we should have all day to make it to Colee City.
Today we woke up to a cold gym and Jay’s voice. The stereo fell through so instead of a Push America tradition of waking up to music we woke up to Jay Holley yelling at us about how great of a day it was going to be. I wasn’t too ready to get up, but he was right about it being a great day. The group was a little slow getting out of lodging, but we were able to get out and have breakfast in the cold and cloudy weather. Shortly after breakfast we were on the road ready to climb the cascades.
The guy at the local deli and liquor store told us the night before that we had a large climb ahead of us, and I was a little worried some people might psych themselves out. Stephen, from the University of Kansas, and I were sweeping today, which meant we were always the last two men on the route. We were responsible for making sure everyone made it to the top, and although there were some slower guys, with a bit of encouragement we made it to the top of the thirteen mile climb and took pictures at Steven’s pass ski resort. It was amazing to be done with our first real climb of the trip. We didn’t see anything like this in Florida!
As we began our descent of the Cascade Mountains we started to see blue sky, and it got a lot warmer. Taking off all of our cold cycling gear was refreshing. The rest of the day was rather simple. Everyone made it to Wanatchee. We stayed at the local community center.
Tonight we had a friendship visit and dinner with Special Olympics athletes. It was a lot of fun talking to them about the sports they played, and they had a chance to show off their medals. I may be good on the bike, but I bet they would really give me a competition in basketball or track. It was a good friendship visit, and I was happy to be able to give them a chance to get out of their homes and have some social time.
Tomorrow’s climb shouldn’t be like today’s, but it’s not going to be an exceptionally easy ride. No friendship visits tomorrow though, so we should have all day to make it to Colee City.
Wednesday, June 11, 2008
Day 1: Seattle to Skykomish
The cycling was tough into the mountains, but our cycling coach Dean Petterson provided us with some great pointers as well as some help with fixing a few problems with out equipment. Overall, the team did great cycling, and we were able to arrive safely in beautiful
Our crew chief Jesse cooked us up a great dinner, and really got the team in a great mood after a long day of riding. It’s going to be a bit different sleeping as a team in a school gym instead of a hotel room, but after today’s ride those air mattresses are looking awfully comfortable.
I’m off to bed. I can’t wait until tomorrow, but I need my sleep!
Nathan Whelan
Sunday, June 8, 2008
Orientation
Journey of Hope 2008 has finally started. After arriving in Seattle after about 5 hours of flight, I met our crew and went to the airport. I have only known most of the team for about 24 hours now, but I know it's going to be a great summer.
Yesterday we went to the University of Washington's Pi Kapp house and had a team meeting where we went over the rules and procedures. Most of the this was review for me, but we have to do it so we can get to the fun stuff. The Pi Kapps fed us, and the meal was delicious. There's nothing quite like fresh salmon and clam chowder in rainy Seattle. I can definitely see why this is the most depressed city in the U.S. We have only seen the sun once, but our spirits are extremely high.
Today we woke up early and did a skills assesment in the parking lot of the space needle. We also went to a lookout point to get a team picture. It wasn't a very exciting morning, but tonight it our first friendship visit.
Of course, friendship visits are what Journey of Hope is all about, and I'm excited to spend some time with the people we are serving. I'm also looking forward to giving away some of the money we all raised :)
-Nathan
Yesterday we went to the University of Washington's Pi Kapp house and had a team meeting where we went over the rules and procedures. Most of the this was review for me, but we have to do it so we can get to the fun stuff. The Pi Kapps fed us, and the meal was delicious. There's nothing quite like fresh salmon and clam chowder in rainy Seattle. I can definitely see why this is the most depressed city in the U.S. We have only seen the sun once, but our spirits are extremely high.
Today we woke up early and did a skills assesment in the parking lot of the space needle. We also went to a lookout point to get a team picture. It wasn't a very exciting morning, but tonight it our first friendship visit.
Of course, friendship visits are what Journey of Hope is all about, and I'm excited to spend some time with the people we are serving. I'm also looking forward to giving away some of the money we all raised :)
-Nathan
Wednesday, June 4, 2008
Thank You!
I want to thank everyone who has supported me so far on this endeavour. On Saturday I will be flying to Seattle for JOH orientation, and on June 11th we will start cycling and serving people with disabilities. Journey of Hope could not be possible without donations from generous people. The money raised will allow the team to present many grants to various groups that serve people with disabilties throught this summer. Once again, thank you to all of my sponsers:
Bussinesses:
Dave Clark's Forever Endeavor cycles,
Selbert's Auto Body,
The Angel's Garden,
Steven Vincel Honda,
Truman State University Book Store
Macy's Foundation Matching Gift Program
Tyco Matching Gifts Program
Truman Club's and Civic Organizations:
Truman State Habitat for Humanity,
Tau Lambda Sigma,
Cardinal Key,
Eureka Lion's Club,
Kirksville Kiwanis,
Kirksville Optimist Club
Generous Individuals:
Alan Venneman
Albert & Gisela Baner
Andy Lambert
Andrew Lewis
Andy Nix
Andrew Greiner
Barbara Meitz
Bart DeLeve
Basil & Joyce Zarkadis
Bob & Molly Shaw
Carol McKee
Chandler Hight
Clayton Paul Solomon
Cliff & Deborah Van Ittersum
Cora Whelan
Dale & Lorraine Edgerley
David & Belva Fitzgerald
Dave Lusk
David & Nancy Hoffman
Dave Edsen
Father Dennis Zacheis
Doug & Marilyn Beck
Erica Rhomberg
Gerald & Cynthia Kulage
Homer Radford
James & Lisa Park
Jim Olshefski
Jason Comstock
John & Mary Wisdom
John & Bridget Challis
John Andrews
Joshua Haswell
Judy Holt
Kaitlyn Sullivan
Ken & Barb Reiter
Ken Kaltenbach
Kevin O'Grady
Kevin & Susan Snyders
Kurtis Werner
Larry & Barbara Schrum
Marc St Raymond
Marilyn Evans
Mark & Dianne Kiel
Mark & Mary Scott
Mary N. Clark
Matt Fuglie
Michael & Joann Wuller
Miguel & Pam Valdes
Mike Salmen
Nicholas Whelan
Nick Cloud
Nick Hart
Nick Leonard
Nick Cantoni
Ora Reyes
Patrick Bergin
Patrick & Joan Miller
Patrick Miller
Peter Rechtlich
Rachel Klem-Burger
Randy & Lisa Waddell
Raymond & Rhonda Brune
Robert Bergtholdt
Roger Festa
Ros & Willis Ranney
Ryan Goy
Scott Lesinski
Steve Vyn
Tim, Kristen, & Calvin Ricker
Vince & Dawn Zagarri
Wes & Dawn DeHaven
Whitey Holt
Wistar Holt
Bussinesses:
Dave Clark's Forever Endeavor cycles,
Selbert's Auto Body,
The Angel's Garden,
Steven Vincel Honda,
Truman State University Book Store
Macy's Foundation Matching Gift Program
Tyco Matching Gifts Program
Truman Club's and Civic Organizations:
Truman State Habitat for Humanity,
Tau Lambda Sigma,
Cardinal Key,
Eureka Lion's Club,
Kirksville Kiwanis,
Kirksville Optimist Club
Generous Individuals:
Alan Venneman
Albert & Gisela Baner
Andy Lambert
Andrew Lewis
Andy Nix
Andrew Greiner
Barbara Meitz
Bart DeLeve
Basil & Joyce Zarkadis
Bob & Molly Shaw
Carol McKee
Chandler Hight
Clayton Paul Solomon
Cliff & Deborah Van Ittersum
Cora Whelan
Dale & Lorraine Edgerley
David & Belva Fitzgerald
Dave Lusk
David & Nancy Hoffman
Dave Edsen
Father Dennis Zacheis
Doug & Marilyn Beck
Erica Rhomberg
Gerald & Cynthia Kulage
Homer Radford
James & Lisa Park
Jim Olshefski
Jason Comstock
John & Mary Wisdom
John & Bridget Challis
John Andrews
Joshua Haswell
Judy Holt
Kaitlyn Sullivan
Ken & Barb Reiter
Ken Kaltenbach
Kevin O'Grady
Kevin & Susan Snyders
Kurtis Werner
Larry & Barbara Schrum
Marc St Raymond
Marilyn Evans
Mark & Dianne Kiel
Mark & Mary Scott
Mary N. Clark
Matt Fuglie
Michael & Joann Wuller
Miguel & Pam Valdes
Mike Salmen
Nicholas Whelan
Nick Cloud
Nick Hart
Nick Leonard
Nick Cantoni
Ora Reyes
Patrick Bergin
Patrick & Joan Miller
Patrick Miller
Peter Rechtlich
Rachel Klem-Burger
Randy & Lisa Waddell
Raymond & Rhonda Brune
Robert Bergtholdt
Roger Festa
Ros & Willis Ranney
Ryan Goy
Scott Lesinski
Steve Vyn
Tim, Kristen, & Calvin Ricker
Vince & Dawn Zagarri
Wes & Dawn DeHaven
Whitey Holt
Wistar Holt
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