In the midst of my movement there is stillness--

Our trip continues and our entry in to New Mexico was spectacular! Flying downhill from the high desert region of eastern Arizona to the pale yellow soft waving grasses, farms,pines,and horses of western New Mexico. It was like entering OZ -- it was breath taking! I continue to hold the group record for 7 flat tires -followed by Mattie with 6. Some have had none- which doesn't seem fair. I hate litter more than ever! That is what causes all our flats!

The constant climbing is still the toughest part for me.I am getting stronger and probably by the time I totally master 6-14 mile climbs (if that's possible) we will be in St Augustine! Today we arrived in Kingston, New Mexico. We are surrounded by the Gila National Forest which is the largest wild area protected in the southwest. It has thankfully been protected since 1899, and became the WORLD'S first "Wilderness Area" in 1924. It will not be long before there will be a hiking trail from Mexico to Canada that will connect with the Continental Divide Trail.We crossed the Continental Divide 2 days ago and it was amazing--big blue sky and high winds...Andy took my and Dave's picture at the sign as I was trying to catch my breath from the climb to it.

Wildlife in this area includes lions, fox, pronghorn antelope, and the javelina--and of course tons of cool birds! Much of the history of the 1800's in this area is about the "fever" for gold ,silver,and copper. Tha Apaches,originally a peaceful nomadic hunter/gathering tribe who later fought bravely to preserve their last stronghold in the Black Range, were run out and minors became instant millionaires.The famous outlaw, billy the Kid loved this Black Range area too --some of his best hideouts were in these hills.

You can imagine how excited we were to be reunited with Jeff and Kristina --our two missing riders --at the Black Range Lodge where we are staying! This is an incredible Bed and Breakfast--and the whole group instantly felt comfortable and at home! Last night the Inn keepers cooked us a turkey dinner! It was wonderful and just what we needed! Today is our "rest day" and we are all enjoying every moment of this time! Mostly we are reading, listening to music, fixing and cleaning bikes, laundry,looking at each other's photos and some are napping. I still have no handle on the art of the Nap--too much to see and neb in to! I would love to have a lodge like this in Ohiopyle--do you think Rob or Mary would be my partner??? Not if I go running off on bike tours huh!?? LOL...Again thanks for all your messages --I love hearing from you all! I feel safe. I am challenged beyond reason. And-I am happy for this day off my bike!

Mattie says his bike racing trainer once told him to ride with his head first (be safe) and then with his heart. My heart and head have always battled out this concept...but in general I am practiced at the "leap of faith"...and my heart and my head try to comprimise!

I guess I can't speak for every mother who has lost a child, but for me I have spent part of each day in the past 3 1/2 years looking for Ty. It is deep in the sub-conscious-but when it comes forth --I am looking. I see the slant of his young shoulders, or a boy trying to walk on his hands in the park, a BMX rider, a young paddler, a teenager showing off---It's a flash -it's brilliant--it's seconds. Louis Kahn, the poet wrote, Knowledge is a book that is incomplete. It will always be incomplete. and that Wonder is the forerunner of all knowing. So---I wonder, and I accept the brilliant flashes of finding-- and ride foreward.

In the Midst of my movement--there is stillness in a way I have longed for.
Love to you all--- Dee