I am beside me on a bike
watching
there is a blue light nearby
and sunshine
I feel calm
and remain standing
while pedaling beyond
the light
It was necessary today to push back our start. The group is now all here now. And what a cool and varied group we are. I am really proud to be a part of it. We had a "shake down ride" today since we couldn't leave and it was amazing. We rode all over the beautiful outskirts of the city and ended in an amazing spot ,The Carillo National Monument. The hills were pretty tough --one in particular -- but when we all made it to the top Andy , our leader, said that we would not peddle up anything that steep on the trip ..it was an excrusiating grade. At one point my chain popped off because I was going in to such a low gear, but I was able to get it back on and re-start which to me was like a tiny minor miracle. My love of the sun is sure to be tested on this ride. Looking ahead the temperatures we are expecting in the next couple weeks could easily be in the 90's!!
So-- tomorrow is our start (the 24th)....and it is probably for the best...because one fellow did have trouble with the "Bob" he is pulling and will need the time to get that together. After today ,many are going thru their gear and sending yet another box home. These bikes get so heavy when they are loaded down. I sent home one box, but decided to give it more time before I "down load" even more of the sharp outfits I brought to ride in! I'm kidding -- actually this is just my style, we wear the same stuff over and over...it doesn't take much thought to plan the days "outfit". I wore my new riding shorts today for the first time --they were great. But the riding gloves (also first time to be worn) made me feel like my hands couldn't breath.
Last night we had our group meeting and discussed the trip and divided up the "group gear". We had to tell a little about ourselves...which I did fine with...and I even told them that my ride is dedicated to my son and I was fine... then someone asked what his name was...and I could not say it...the room was quiet and I looked around as if someone there might be able to help me. Finally I took a breath and I said Tyler. That speechless moment hung in time--it could of been a hour or a day.
What can I say -- I just needed to get that out --and that's really all that was said. The meeting went on, and I was fine. So--tomorrow we leave at 8AM for our 38 mile ride. And the next day is 58 miles. I am happy...and ready. Love to you all--Dee
I am beside me
on a bike-watching
there is a blue light nearby
and sunshine
I feel calm
and remain standing
while pedaling beyond
the light
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12 comments:
You know, Dee --
Your new friends are lucky to have you along. I'm very glad they know about Tyler. By the end of the trip, they will fully appreciate how wonderful he was.
Congrats on the bike repair! You go, girl. Though here's hoping the need for bike work happens infrequently.
We in Paoli (and Boston) are all thinking of you, and wishing you cooler weather and the wind at your back.
love,
Lauraungghvj
Dee Dee
I feel so close to you..I hang on every word. You seem to be in the right spot, whatever that means,to be at peace...you are awesome, girlfriend....I do think a ride on the Highland Fire Truck will be in order.... waving your hands to the cheering throngs. :>):>)
csk
Hey Mom! I'm thinking about you this morning, as you start your first official day of the trip. Stay strong and enjoy every sight and sound. Let the moment embrace you. I'm right there with you in my mind (even though I'm probably sitting in a lecture). You know I always had a chronic daydreaming condition...hahaha
I leave you with this quote from The Runaway Bunny:
'If you become a bird and fly away from me,' said his mother, 'I will be a tree that you come home to.'
We're your East coast forest. XO
Dear Dee,
Just wanted to write you a note to tell you how proud I am of you, not only because you are attempting something that the vast majority of us could never do, but because you are doing it with an open willingness and a joyful heart. What a testament to us all who grumble at our day-to-day tasks! Oh to greet the next poopy diaper or spilled juice with the grace you display! I am inspired. Thank you!
May God bless you and bring you back safely,
Joy
P.S. I was telling my 6 year-old, Laura, about your trip (she’s learning some geography in first grade) and my 2 ½ year-old, Michelle, said “Mom, I wanna ride too!” So, just say the word, and I’ll mail her to you.
DEE......You're awesome !!
Glad to hear that you made it safely and are on your way ...
"It's all about the journey" now...
Take care...Be safe.....and most of all enjoy all the scenery!
Luv Ya....
God Bless...
Joslyn
Dee--It's great reading about your trip. Think about you all the time. Have fun, enjoy the ride, stay safe--love you, Deb Deb
I knew you'd get the chain on without difficulty. I hope you don't have to use your tire changing skills. God bless you with a safe, wonderful, journey. Kathy H.
deb's father
You are an amazing woman.I hang onto every word you write.I fact you should turn your adventure into a book.
Hey Dee,
It's Mike and Sylvie, sharing the same time zone with you for a little while. For 23 years, you've graciously shared the highlights and devastating storms of your life with us, most often from great distances. It is so wonderful to have you share this special journey with us as well. Please enjoy your time on the bike...let yourself simply "be" with every push and pull of the peddle. Congratulations on peddling through day one. We love you, the Yukoners
Just Dance...
love you ...me
Dee,
You are such an inspiration. Ride on!!!----
Love and peace,
Evonne
Dear Dee,
The pictures Rob posted are great. So, you have bags on the front tires and back tires for all your gear, I wondered about that. You look tan already, hope you're using sunscreen!
I really miss your smiling face in the morning. Can't wait to hear all the stories when you get back. Mimi said when she gets tired during the day she thinks of you peddling a bike across the country and then she goes on. Everyone is so proud of you! I'm understanding better how you could even pull this off. Your husband and kids are as awesome as you are!!
So, stay strong, keep that wonderful spirit you have and enjoy every minute of your journey.
Love you, be safe
Linda T
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