I am in Bedford, Pennsylvania. I stopped in Berlin, Pennsylvania. Met a nine year old and a eleven year old...tall and smart for their age. Their grandpa is 62. Dad says "Hi" to them if they check this blog. They have mountain bikes.
Yesterday, I stayed in the Confluence Park. We rode a trail of crushed limestone...fairly decent trail, probably covered 35 miles on it yesterday...eventually it will end up in WA DC. Great ride cept it's a bit boring....there would be a great view if the trees weren't in the way. The hills of the regular roads break up the monotony. The doily is still not thick enough on the seat. We're still a bit sore. I'm off for dinner.
Tuesday, August 5, 2008
Saturday, August 2, 2008
Another update from Dad
We had a cool, nice day with rolling hills. Today was 58 miles and got in at around 1ish. We didn't have to leave until 8ish.We are in New Waterford, Ohio and are staying at the Lake Terrace Camp Ground.
We stopped at a check point and I was standing there waiting for a restroom cause I needed to rest and was reading a sign and sounded it out and said "Hey Aunt Mary used to make those." Now I can't remember what it was called...I bought a whole bunch for everyone" old age is setting in ...I can't think of it. Anyway, it was good.
I got a hair cut yesterday, first one since I left. No comb over!
Stopped for coffee and had a cinnamon roll that would rival Grandma Wandlers... Still having a great ride, can't believe the time is almost over.
We stopped at a check point and I was standing there waiting for a restroom cause I needed to rest and was reading a sign and sounded it out and said "Hey Aunt Mary used to make those." Now I can't remember what it was called...I bought a whole bunch for everyone" old age is setting in ...I can't think of it. Anyway, it was good.
I got a hair cut yesterday, first one since I left. No comb over!
Stopped for coffee and had a cinnamon roll that would rival Grandma Wandlers... Still having a great ride, can't believe the time is almost over.
Friday, August 1, 2008
A short chat with Dad!
Here's my phone conversation with Dad at around 5:40pm our time and 8:40pm their time....
The days have been good. Yesterday, can't remember where I was...the ride was 91 miles. We rode through town almost all day long. suburbs, city etc. for around 5 or 6 hours. These would be residential areas. Oh, the town was called Sandusky, a place famous for roller coaster rides in the world. Kathy tried them out. I went to bed.
It was interesting riding through downtown Cleveland. Rode along Lake Erie, what a beautiful lake. Came through Cleveland, rolled right by the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame and didn't even go in we just continued on to the camping area. It was suppose to be a 91 mile day but we rode so fast we put in 102 miles. We are sooooo fast!
Today, we're staying in Burton, Ohio. I slept in late, got up a quarter after seven. Got a haircut and ate and tried to send some email but it didn't work. We are camping in the fairgrounds, I'd say the name of the fair grounds but I'll spell it instead: Geauga County Fair Grounds.
Right now, I'm waiting for my mechanic to oil and clean my bicycle (Mechanic is Kathy *grin).
Everyday the white line stays the same...just gets longer. I'm going to bed early tonight. Goodnight Beth!
The days have been good. Yesterday, can't remember where I was...the ride was 91 miles. We rode through town almost all day long. suburbs, city etc. for around 5 or 6 hours. These would be residential areas. Oh, the town was called Sandusky, a place famous for roller coaster rides in the world. Kathy tried them out. I went to bed.
It was interesting riding through downtown Cleveland. Rode along Lake Erie, what a beautiful lake. Came through Cleveland, rolled right by the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame and didn't even go in we just continued on to the camping area. It was suppose to be a 91 mile day but we rode so fast we put in 102 miles. We are sooooo fast!
Today, we're staying in Burton, Ohio. I slept in late, got up a quarter after seven. Got a haircut and ate and tried to send some email but it didn't work. We are camping in the fairgrounds, I'd say the name of the fair grounds but I'll spell it instead: Geauga County Fair Grounds.
Right now, I'm waiting for my mechanic to oil and clean my bicycle (Mechanic is Kathy *grin).
Everyday the white line stays the same...just gets longer. I'm going to bed early tonight. Goodnight Beth!
Thursday, July 31, 2008
Finally an update by Beth!!!
So Dad has been calling in regularly...I just haven't been posting regularly...I haven't even updated my own personal blog. ARGH! *grin Anyway, sorry to keep you all waiting. Here goes...
The last time I spoke with Dad they were already sped through Indiana and were Ohio. Dad called because he was waiting for it to cool down enough to go to sleep. He's not complaining though...he feels they've had great weather all along.
One of Dad's favorite things to do is meet people along the way. He'll talk with restaurant owners, people in restaurants, campers, other bikers, etc. In fact, the other day he met a family that will be in DC at the same time they will, so they might hook up.
I would tell you more but the sheet of paper I have been using to take notes on has disappeared. I think it might have to do with my little tricycler who goes on a BIG RIDE every morning around the house and on the deck. "just like Grandpa!"
I think they have a rest day tomorrow, so I will be chatting with him and then will update.
Only 9 more days left. WOW!
The last time I spoke with Dad they were already sped through Indiana and were Ohio. Dad called because he was waiting for it to cool down enough to go to sleep. He's not complaining though...he feels they've had great weather all along.
One of Dad's favorite things to do is meet people along the way. He'll talk with restaurant owners, people in restaurants, campers, other bikers, etc. In fact, the other day he met a family that will be in DC at the same time they will, so they might hook up.
I would tell you more but the sheet of paper I have been using to take notes on has disappeared. I think it might have to do with my little tricycler who goes on a BIG RIDE every morning around the house and on the deck. "just like Grandpa!"
I think they have a rest day tomorrow, so I will be chatting with him and then will update.
Only 9 more days left. WOW!
Thursday, July 17, 2008
Half-Way!
The town of Huron was the half-way mark for the ride. Dad got a picture of himself by a street sign in that town. The street is called "Midway." Kathy told me what mile marker it was but I can't remember...either way, it was very exciting.
They said they have definitely seen the "amber waves of grain!" South Dakota has had some long riding days but they are enjoying themselves immensely!
They said they have definitely seen the "amber waves of grain!" South Dakota has had some long riding days but they are enjoying themselves immensely!
The Slow Group
Dad and Clifford are the "slow group." Kathy is in the group by default...she rides with them.
Anyway....here's a quick story:
Dad and Clifford were biking a long and they passed by a convenience store that had about 10-12 bicycles out front. Dad thought to himself "the slow goup caught up!" then just a bit further up the road Clifford says, "look who's ahead now!" They thought the same thing *grin
Just in case you were wondering...they arrived into camp that evening in their usual place!
Anyway....here's a quick story:
Dad and Clifford were biking a long and they passed by a convenience store that had about 10-12 bicycles out front. Dad thought to himself "the slow goup caught up!" then just a bit further up the road Clifford says, "look who's ahead now!" They thought the same thing *grin
Just in case you were wondering...they arrived into camp that evening in their usual place!
Kathy and the Silly Boys!
Kathy called this morning. They are in Brookings, SD right now enjoying lunch. She rode most of the morning with "the boys" (named by Dad). They ride "a bit" faster than Dad and Clifford. Anyway, the boys kept telling Kathy that the only reason she was keeping up was because she was drafting* off of them.
*Drafting or slipstreaming is a technique in sports racing where competitors align in a close group in order to reduce the overall effect of drag or fluid resistance of the group in a slipstream. Especially when high speeds are involved, drafting can significantly reduce the average energy expenditure required to maintain a certain speed.
That just caused her to speed up and pass them....those silly boys didn't get it...she was just being nice slowing down to bike with them....according to dad, Kathy's a way stronger rider.
Kathy must have been going so fast that she burned a hole in her tire...cause she got a flat (her first one!) That'll teach her to not stay back with the Slow Group.
*Drafting or slipstreaming is a technique in sports racing where competitors align in a close group in order to reduce the overall effect of drag or fluid resistance of the group in a slipstream. Especially when high speeds are involved, drafting can significantly reduce the average energy expenditure required to maintain a certain speed.
That just caused her to speed up and pass them....those silly boys didn't get it...she was just being nice slowing down to bike with them....according to dad, Kathy's a way stronger rider.
Kathy must have been going so fast that she burned a hole in her tire...cause she got a flat (her first one!) That'll teach her to not stay back with the Slow Group.
News from Mom!
Hi kids,
Day 21 (July 13th)
Dad called about 7pm. They had a 101 mile day and he was tired! Temp. in 80's a lovely day going through the Badlands National Park about 60 miles East of Rapid City. There was one long hill going into the park but fairly even terrain after that. They had covered 60 miles by noon! Then Bruce 's tire tread seperated and he didn't have his spare along, so they had to wait for the van to bring another one. He called Don and Lee to bring a couple of new tires out to him and they did, but he is too tired tonight to change anything. They got into camp about 5:30pm.
Day 21 (July 13th)
Dad called about 7pm. They had a 101 mile day and he was tired! Temp. in 80's a lovely day going through the Badlands National Park about 60 miles East of Rapid City. There was one long hill going into the park but fairly even terrain after that. They had covered 60 miles by noon! Then Bruce 's tire tread seperated and he didn't have his spare along, so they had to wait for the van to bring another one. He called Don and Lee to bring a couple of new tires out to him and they did, but he is too tired tonight to change anything. They got into camp about 5:30pm.
Day 22-24
Time is getting away from me and now the information from dad is jumbled in my mind! So this may be old news (correct) or new news (slightly twisted).
Dad called last night but since I was in the Issaquah Library confrence room, it was a brief visit. He was tired and just laying down to sleep. Things are going well. (I guess I had more news to share than he did!) But, as I recall, leaving Rapid City they had one day of 95 miles and 95 degree temp. and one day of 102 miles in mid 80's. With the humidity, things are feeling hotter. He's glad they get in to camp by mid afternoon, just because of the heat. They rode from Rapid City to Kadoka and then on to the capitol, Pierre, where they stayed at a city park and got to use a near by motel for showers.(owned by someone associated with the ride). Then last night in Miller and today (mid way point, Day 24!!) they arrive in DeSmet, SD. Tomorrow they will ride into Minnesota.
Time is getting away from me and now the information from dad is jumbled in my mind! So this may be old news (correct) or new news (slightly twisted).
Dad called last night but since I was in the Issaquah Library confrence room, it was a brief visit. He was tired and just laying down to sleep. Things are going well. (I guess I had more news to share than he did!) But, as I recall, leaving Rapid City they had one day of 95 miles and 95 degree temp. and one day of 102 miles in mid 80's. With the humidity, things are feeling hotter. He's glad they get in to camp by mid afternoon, just because of the heat. They rode from Rapid City to Kadoka and then on to the capitol, Pierre, where they stayed at a city park and got to use a near by motel for showers.(owned by someone associated with the ride). Then last night in Miller and today (mid way point, Day 24!!) they arrive in DeSmet, SD. Tomorrow they will ride into Minnesota.
Mom
Biking MATH
How does this all add up?
This morning, Dad, Clifford, and Kathy all left camp at the same time. Dad and Cliffort averaged 13 mph while Kathy averaged 15-16 mph. Yet they all arrived at their lunch spot at the same time. How does that work?
any guesses?
(answer: Kathy had her first flat!)
This morning, Dad, Clifford, and Kathy all left camp at the same time. Dad and Cliffort averaged 13 mph while Kathy averaged 15-16 mph. Yet they all arrived at their lunch spot at the same time. How does that work?
any guesses?
(answer: Kathy had her first flat!)
Friday, July 11, 2008
Thank you Samantha!
Dad and Kathy finally know where they are going. Samantha (3 year old grandchild) drew them a map and mailed it to them. I guess it is better detailed then the ones they get each morning from the association! *grin. Thanks Samantha...Grandpa loves it!
Rapid City! (I forgot to publish this a couple of days ago! (whoops!)
They will be at the half way mark in just a few days.
They did 80 miles today from Gillette, WY to Rapid City, SD. In the Custer state park they had a 10 mile coast. The weather was 70 degrees…very nice. If it had been hot they would have burnt to a crisp. (We're already guessing Dad is sporting a white t-shirt under his jerseys *grin) They did run into some wind in the Black Hills. The wind was out of the north at 25 miles an hour with gusts up to forty. They only had the headwind because they had to go North out of the park. When they arrived in Rapid City, Uncle Don met them at the School of Mines. Kathy and Dad had dinner with Uncle Don and Aunt Lee and some of their friends.
Aunty Sandy (Kathy's mom) and Cousin Val (Kathy's sister) met them at Uncle Don's. :) Sounds like they are having a good time.
They did 80 miles today from Gillette, WY to Rapid City, SD. In the Custer state park they had a 10 mile coast. The weather was 70 degrees…very nice. If it had been hot they would have burnt to a crisp. (We're already guessing Dad is sporting a white t-shirt under his jerseys *grin) They did run into some wind in the Black Hills. The wind was out of the north at 25 miles an hour with gusts up to forty. They only had the headwind because they had to go North out of the park. When they arrived in Rapid City, Uncle Don met them at the School of Mines. Kathy and Dad had dinner with Uncle Don and Aunt Lee and some of their friends.
Aunty Sandy (Kathy's mom) and Cousin Val (Kathy's sister) met them at Uncle Don's. :) Sounds like they are having a good time.
Dad and Kathy's Schedule (as far as we know it!)
Here is the schedule for the big ride my dad and cousin Kathy are on! These are the towns they stop in. I thought this might be interesting. . . sorry for the format...blogger won't let you insert tables.
Big Ride Schedule
Day Date Location
1 6/23 Easton, WA
2 6/24 Vantage, WA
3 6/25 Odessa, WA
4 6/26 Spokane, WA
5* 6/27 Spokane, WA
6 6/28 Sandpoint, ID
7 6/29 Thompson Falls, MT
8 6/30 Missoula, MT
9* 7/01 Missoula, MT
10 7/02 Avon, MT
11 7/03 Townsend, MT
12 7/04 Harlowton, MT
13 7/05 Billings, MT
14* 7/06 Billings, MT
15 7/07 Hardin, MT
16 7/08 Sheridan, WY
17 7/09 Gillette, WY
18 7/10 Newcastle, WY
19 7/11 Rapid City, SD
20* 7/12 Rapid City, SD
21 7/13 Kadoka, SD
22 7/14 Pierre, SD
23 7/15 Miller, SD
24 7/16 De Smet, SD
25 7/17 Tyler, MN
26 7/18 New Ulm, MN
27* 7/19 New Ulm, MN
28 7/20 Owatonna, MN
29 7/21 Winona, MN
30 7/22 Viroqua, WI
31 7/23 Madison, WI
32 7/24 Belvidere, IL
33 7/25 Morris, IL
34 7/26 Valparaiso, IN
35* 7/27 Valparaiso, IN
36 7/28 Kendalville, IN
37 7/29 Napoleon, OH
38 7/30 Sandusky, OH
39 7/31 Burton, OH
40* 8/01 Burton, OH
41 8/02 New Waterford, OH
42 8/03 Washington, PA
43 8/04 Confluence, PA
44 8/05 Bedford, PA
45 8/06 Gettysburg, PA
46* 8/07 Gettysburg, PA
47 8/08 Clarksburg, MD
48 8/09 Washington, DC
* = rest day
Big Ride Schedule
Day Date Location
1 6/23 Easton, WA
2 6/24 Vantage, WA
3 6/25 Odessa, WA
4 6/26 Spokane, WA
5* 6/27 Spokane, WA
6 6/28 Sandpoint, ID
7 6/29 Thompson Falls, MT
8 6/30 Missoula, MT
9* 7/01 Missoula, MT
10 7/02 Avon, MT
11 7/03 Townsend, MT
12 7/04 Harlowton, MT
13 7/05 Billings, MT
14* 7/06 Billings, MT
15 7/07 Hardin, MT
16 7/08 Sheridan, WY
17 7/09 Gillette, WY
18 7/10 Newcastle, WY
19 7/11 Rapid City, SD
20* 7/12 Rapid City, SD
21 7/13 Kadoka, SD
22 7/14 Pierre, SD
23 7/15 Miller, SD
24 7/16 De Smet, SD
25 7/17 Tyler, MN
26 7/18 New Ulm, MN
27* 7/19 New Ulm, MN
28 7/20 Owatonna, MN
29 7/21 Winona, MN
30 7/22 Viroqua, WI
31 7/23 Madison, WI
32 7/24 Belvidere, IL
33 7/25 Morris, IL
34 7/26 Valparaiso, IN
35* 7/27 Valparaiso, IN
36 7/28 Kendalville, IN
37 7/29 Napoleon, OH
38 7/30 Sandusky, OH
39 7/31 Burton, OH
40* 8/01 Burton, OH
41 8/02 New Waterford, OH
42 8/03 Washington, PA
43 8/04 Confluence, PA
44 8/05 Bedford, PA
45 8/06 Gettysburg, PA
46* 8/07 Gettysburg, PA
47 8/08 Clarksburg, MD
48 8/09 Washington, DC
* = rest day
Monday, July 7, 2008
phone call from Dad
Just talked to Dad last night...they passed the 1,000 mile mark between Billings and Hardin. (Montana). They will enter Wyoming tomorrow. The next couple of days will be tough...lots of miles to put in. They only did 50 miles today because otherwise they would have had to do 150 because that is how many miles between towns. Tomorrow will be 85 miles then the next day 112 and the following close to 100. The towns are Hardin, Sheridan, Gillete, New Castle, and then Rapid City where they will meet up with more family.
Just a quick fun story he told me:
On the way from Thompson to Missoula they couldn’t see the sign for their turn. So they stopped right next to a biker bar which had a sign out that said "No patches allowed" (I'm guessing that has to do with motorcycle gang wear) Anyway, they parked their bicycles and Dad went in to ask directions. When he walked in he told the lady at the bar, "I'm a biker." and she answered "NO, you're not!"
Just a quick fun story he told me:
On the way from Thompson to Missoula they couldn’t see the sign for their turn. So they stopped right next to a biker bar which had a sign out that said "No patches allowed" (I'm guessing that has to do with motorcycle gang wear) Anyway, they parked their bicycles and Dad went in to ask directions. When he walked in he told the lady at the bar, "I'm a biker." and she answered "NO, you're not!"
More Snippets from Mom (Days 11-13)
7-5-08
Hi girls,
Dad just called at 8:15pm our time. I think I told you about his time in Townsend. (Day 11) He did add that in the middle of that night they had a storm warning of high winds and rain there. They were all woken up by their ride leader and moved into the gym. Within 10 minutes the storm hit. Kathy's tent rain fly blew off and her sleeping bag and stuff got wet, but otherwise most were able to get back to their tents and he slept through the next front that came later on. They never got hail which was good. Dan S. had cooked the supper that night: Shrimp Fettuccini in a red sauce. Delicious! They are eating very well. They usually all take turns helping with set up and clean up for supper and bkfst. Breakfast is usually oatmeal, bagels and coffee, but someone brought carmel rolls and boy were they good!
Day 12
On July 4th they rode 101 miles to Harlowton from Townsend. It was overcast, but when the sun came out it was hot. They stayed at Chief Joseph Park and because of more storm warnings they didn't put up their tents but slept on their cots under the covered picnic areas with concrete floors. Bruce said there were fireworks that night but he slept through it all. He said they had a BBQ with hot dogs and hamburgers set up by the time they got to camp and he was hungry! They rode through a gulch today and had some rolling hills. (I think he mentioned that he and Uncle Bud rode their motorcycles on this stretch of road)
Day 13
Saturday July 5 was overcast and about a 98 mile trip to Billings. They had a tail wind which kept their average speed at 15 mph. Nice!! They are staying in the dorms at Montana State University-Billings. They had a wonderful catered supper of BBQ steak and fish with pasta salads. He and Kathy have finished doing their laundry. They still haven't found any internet connections yet. They will try the library tomorrow. It's been a real frustration to not be able to access their email or blog sites.
Dad has a roommate in Billings. A fella from Spokane. The earlier two dorm rooms he had to himself. Things are going well and he didn't sound as tired tonight, so I think the stamina in increasing.
*mom
Hi girls,
Dad just called at 8:15pm our time. I think I told you about his time in Townsend. (Day 11) He did add that in the middle of that night they had a storm warning of high winds and rain there. They were all woken up by their ride leader and moved into the gym. Within 10 minutes the storm hit. Kathy's tent rain fly blew off and her sleeping bag and stuff got wet, but otherwise most were able to get back to their tents and he slept through the next front that came later on. They never got hail which was good. Dan S. had cooked the supper that night: Shrimp Fettuccini in a red sauce. Delicious! They are eating very well. They usually all take turns helping with set up and clean up for supper and bkfst. Breakfast is usually oatmeal, bagels and coffee, but someone brought carmel rolls and boy were they good!
Day 12
On July 4th they rode 101 miles to Harlowton from Townsend. It was overcast, but when the sun came out it was hot. They stayed at Chief Joseph Park and because of more storm warnings they didn't put up their tents but slept on their cots under the covered picnic areas with concrete floors. Bruce said there were fireworks that night but he slept through it all. He said they had a BBQ with hot dogs and hamburgers set up by the time they got to camp and he was hungry! They rode through a gulch today and had some rolling hills. (I think he mentioned that he and Uncle Bud rode their motorcycles on this stretch of road)
Day 13
Saturday July 5 was overcast and about a 98 mile trip to Billings. They had a tail wind which kept their average speed at 15 mph. Nice!! They are staying in the dorms at Montana State University-Billings. They had a wonderful catered supper of BBQ steak and fish with pasta salads. He and Kathy have finished doing their laundry. They still haven't found any internet connections yet. They will try the library tomorrow. It's been a real frustration to not be able to access their email or blog sites.
Dad has a roommate in Billings. A fella from Spokane. The earlier two dorm rooms he had to himself. Things are going well and he didn't sound as tired tonight, so I think the stamina in increasing.
*mom
Townsend, MT (July 3)
Finally a picture of the riders! Thanks Reed for sending the pics to mom!
Kathy and Dad rode into Helena mid morning on the third of July and met up with mom's cousin (Reed). Reed actually drove out toward MacDonald pass looking for them but they must have passed each other without knowing it. I guess he parked somewhere on the way into Helena and then hollered at them as they rode by and so they stopped and chatted for a while. He then later met up with them at their campsite at the Townsend school and took some pictures.
Here is Kathy in front of her tent followed by a picture of dad's tent...he must have already left for the showers.
Thursday, July 3, 2008
Happy 37th Anniversary!
Today (July 3), 37 years ago, Bruce and Donna were married. A picture of them then will hopefully be posted later today. Either way....HAPPY ANNIVERSARY!
(Still waiting for a picture)
(Still waiting for a picture)
A Little About MacDonald Pass
This morning the Big Ride riders climbed MacDonald Pass. Dad said he was third from last to get to the top...Kathy went ahead :) Dad said his average speed was 5 mph which is really good for him. We don't know what Kathy's speed was...all we know is it was faster *grin.
For those of you who don't know...
MacDonald Pass (6,320 feet) is a mountain pass located in the Rocky Mountains in Montana. In comparison, Snoqualmie Pass here in WA is 3,022 feet. From what Dad shared, it sounds like the views are fabulous and they had fabulous weather so most likely good see for miles. I'm guessing you must feel like you are on top of the world. The pass is west of Helena, MT on U.S. Route 12. It is located on the Continental Divide.
Way to go!
For those of you who don't know...
MacDonald Pass (6,320 feet) is a mountain pass located in the Rocky Mountains in Montana. In comparison, Snoqualmie Pass here in WA is 3,022 feet. From what Dad shared, it sounds like the views are fabulous and they had fabulous weather so most likely good see for miles. I'm guessing you must feel like you are on top of the world. The pass is west of Helena, MT on U.S. Route 12. It is located on the Continental Divide.
Way to go!
From the Top!
Bruce just called to say Happy Anniversary (#37) from the top of McDonald Pass! Elevation 6,325 feet. That was the one remaining pass he had always wanted to cross. They had a beautiful day leaving Avon, which was only 11 miles from the pass on Highway 12. Temp. in the 70's and a slight tail wind going up (3-4 mph) They got to the top of the pass around 9Am (MST) The town of Avon consists of a bar and a hotel. (He didn't mention where they stayed the night!) Then there is the Last Chance Hotel 4 miles from the summit. It's been a beautiful ride so far. They have seen a variety of wildlife: deer, moose, bear (there was one bear near camp, but he didn't see it), lots of eagles, osprey and other birds too. They will stop at a bike shop in Helena today for one of their rest stops. Then continue on to Townsend where they will sleep inside the High School tonight.
Some Family and Friends will stop in to visit him tonight.
Donna
Some Family and Friends will stop in to visit him tonight.
Donna
Wednesday, July 2, 2008
Snippets from Days 7 & 8
Thompson Falls,MT.
They stayed at a school and because of the mosquitoes, they stayed inside in classrooms and the gym. Temps. upper 90's some think 103 degrees by the next days ride into Missoula. Sag wagons are stopping for water breaks every 10-15 miles now. Today's ride was longer...I think he said earlier it would be over 100 miles but I don't know if it was that or not. They are at the dorms at the University tonight. They got in about 6 or 7pm and the cafeterias were closed so they showered and went out to a restaurant. Dad and Kathy were going to do laundry tonight and they he was looking forward to sleeping in until 7AM! He's hoping to have a lazy day tomorrow and not do much.
*mom
They stayed at a school and because of the mosquitoes, they stayed inside in classrooms and the gym. Temps. upper 90's some think 103 degrees by the next days ride into Missoula. Sag wagons are stopping for water breaks every 10-15 miles now. Today's ride was longer...I think he said earlier it would be over 100 miles but I don't know if it was that or not. They are at the dorms at the University tonight. They got in about 6 or 7pm and the cafeterias were closed so they showered and went out to a restaurant. Dad and Kathy were going to do laundry tonight and they he was looking forward to sleeping in until 7AM! He's hoping to have a lazy day tomorrow and not do much.
*mom
Some Snippets from day 4 through day 6!
Dad is getting into camp and finding it hard to work on his blog...either the sun is too sunny or he's too tired or both! *grin Thus...though I am the favorite daughter...he is not calling me every night with information...only mom gets that "privilege!", I am not getting "info" to post. However, Mom has emailed us girls a few "snippets" of what Dad has shared on the phone...and a little snippet is better than no snippet...so I'm posting them!
Saturday June 28
Hi kids,
Thursday (day 4) Eileen called to say that Kathy had just called her during their lunch break. Things were going well and Kathy asked her call me too. Dad has had cell phone coverage problems at times. (T-Mobile doesn't cover as good as Verizon!) Bruce didn't call until about 11pm that evening from Spokane. They are staying in the dorms at Gonzaga University. He has a room by himself. They went out to dinner with some in the group and did laundry at the dorm. It was a big day.
Friday (day 5) I called him in the morning because Rose Heidt was calling wondering where he was! (He and Kathy were in the library trying to get internet access to check the emails and the blog.) They finally rode over in the afternoon to see Rose and she had arranged to have them stay for supper. So they ate with Rose and the two other ladies at her table (94 and 92 years old) They had a delightful time and ate chili over baked poatoes -lots! (compared to the dainty helpings of the others around them) The annual Hoop Shoot was going on in Spokane and that added about 60,000. more people and most of down town was blocked off, so trying to get to Roses assisted living near Sacred Heart Hospital was a real challenge. Dad was trying to get to bed early tonight because they have a 6AM meeting in the morning before breakfast.
Saturday (day 6 )Dad called about 4:30pm to tell about his day. My cell phone battery went dead so I call Porsche and Ginny to phone their dad...[P&B just getting back from Ocean Shores (Mircea was disapointed there were no bunnies!) G&S were in West Seattle looking at bicycles; B&T at Vertical Ranch]
Dads routine for the day: They hand out the map for the day and give instructions at the morning meeting and they have an easier ride today so start about 7:30AM traveling about 78 miles to Sandpoint in 95 degree temp. They are camped at the Sandpoint High School with showers available in the locker rooms...which are as far as you can get from their campsite. They get to camp about 3:30 and pick a campsite, drink water and go shower. Then they finish setting up camp and get cloths ready for the next day and wait for supper. Dad said they have had sufficient food on their regular sag wagon stops at 20 mile intervals that he has only had about 3 energy bars plus his sandwiches. It may change getting into Montana and more heat. They hope to get an early start tomorrow to avoidsome mid-afternoon heat.
Note: I was telling dad that I was referring to their position in the pack as the "cow catchers" ...but he informed me that they are dubbed "The SLOW Group! Anyway, there were a few more riders in their "GROUP" today! Dad said some are a bit stiff and sore from the amount of riding and the day off (he doesn't mention names!) But he did say the other "usual" rider is Clifford, from Arkansas. (He's a primary care doc. and a radiation oncologist. He's also the oldest rider on the trip: 69 years.) Dad says the conversation is interesting and enjoyable. (Let your imagination of reality set in!)
Saturday June 28
Hi kids,
Thursday (day 4) Eileen called to say that Kathy had just called her during their lunch break. Things were going well and Kathy asked her call me too. Dad has had cell phone coverage problems at times. (T-Mobile doesn't cover as good as Verizon!) Bruce didn't call until about 11pm that evening from Spokane. They are staying in the dorms at Gonzaga University. He has a room by himself. They went out to dinner with some in the group and did laundry at the dorm. It was a big day.
Friday (day 5) I called him in the morning because Rose Heidt was calling wondering where he was! (He and Kathy were in the library trying to get internet access to check the emails and the blog.) They finally rode over in the afternoon to see Rose and she had arranged to have them stay for supper. So they ate with Rose and the two other ladies at her table (94 and 92 years old) They had a delightful time and ate chili over baked poatoes -lots! (compared to the dainty helpings of the others around them) The annual Hoop Shoot was going on in Spokane and that added about 60,000. more people and most of down town was blocked off, so trying to get to Roses assisted living near Sacred Heart Hospital was a real challenge. Dad was trying to get to bed early tonight because they have a 6AM meeting in the morning before breakfast.
Saturday (day 6 )Dad called about 4:30pm to tell about his day. My cell phone battery went dead so I call Porsche and Ginny to phone their dad...[P&B just getting back from Ocean Shores (Mircea was disapointed there were no bunnies!) G&S were in West Seattle looking at bicycles; B&T at Vertical Ranch]
Dads routine for the day: They hand out the map for the day and give instructions at the morning meeting and they have an easier ride today so start about 7:30AM traveling about 78 miles to Sandpoint in 95 degree temp. They are camped at the Sandpoint High School with showers available in the locker rooms...which are as far as you can get from their campsite. They get to camp about 3:30 and pick a campsite, drink water and go shower. Then they finish setting up camp and get cloths ready for the next day and wait for supper. Dad said they have had sufficient food on their regular sag wagon stops at 20 mile intervals that he has only had about 3 energy bars plus his sandwiches. It may change getting into Montana and more heat. They hope to get an early start tomorrow to avoidsome mid-afternoon heat.
Note: I was telling dad that I was referring to their position in the pack as the "cow catchers" ...but he informed me that they are dubbed "The SLOW Group! Anyway, there were a few more riders in their "GROUP" today! Dad said some are a bit stiff and sore from the amount of riding and the day off (he doesn't mention names!) But he did say the other "usual" rider is Clifford, from Arkansas. (He's a primary care doc. and a radiation oncologist. He's also the oldest rider on the trip: 69 years.) Dad says the conversation is interesting and enjoyable. (Let your imagination of reality set in!)
Here they are!
Andy, a 2007 Big Ride rider sent us some pictures of Dad and Kathy on their first day of the ride. Look at the big grins...they aren't so tired yet! *smile
Thanks Andy for the pics!
My favorite is of the group riding!
Tuesday, June 24, 2008
Comments from the peanut gallery AKA Porsche
(Most of the obscure references below are explained in the "bike story" -Me and the Kids Bicycling the World with Uncle Bud. Copies are available WITHOUT request from Dad/Bruce. Great bedtime reading IF you have insomnia! This was an email Porsche sent out in regard to the first days of the Big Ride. ~Beth)
Hi,
The cots should be great, bry and i thought they were comfortable, and bry set them up for them, and kathy immediately loved them.
I think we told you all this already (except mom) but bry said when he saw them last night that all those younger than dad call him "uncle bruce". (I guess the older ones don't know about myrle calling uncle bud uncle bud!)
well being in the back really isn't much different than our bike rides! :) They should load him up with all their tools too! It will be interesting to see how the trip goes--as he will only get stronger and faster! as for dad learning new back roads--that is soooo true, he thinks all of us should go on the ride they took over the pass! --Of course it must have been perfect--i believe he called it a "steep uphill climb"--so what could be a better idea for us to all do than something steep and uphill!
hmmmm maybe we should send dad his bike story, so everyone can make sure they get a good nights sleep each night!--oh, i mean so everyone has a bed time story before they go to sleep.
Dad said the food should be great as long as they never serve that one particular stew! Both bry and i thought it sounded good as well. but they are having a varied menu which is good--they definitely are eating better than we are--i mean have any of you been to moms lately?!?! --the old lady with the bare cupboard rhyme is rather applicable! grin! she just might waste away with dad gone!--hmm or she will just use ginny's meal plan and visit beth! snicker!
anyway, we can always remind dad that even if he isn't the fastest, he obviously is the best dressed!--though i doubt the younger ones would feel to stylin in a faster papa faster shirt!--but then again, those are some very cute kids on it!
so mom are you wishing dad had learned about this ride say 15 years ago or more?!?! --then you could have had a summer off with all of us gone!
well cea was missing her papa today and thought she should call him--but i explained that papa was on his bicycle, and so she thought he should ride here! I told her that he wouldn't be able to come here--and it seemed that she was trying to explain to me that she had a bike helmet--which obviously meant--there should be no reason why he couldn't bike here--she was all prepared!
I still don't see why dad and kathy couldn't have taken the bike trailors!--they could switch off on who pulls the winchester and who pulls the burley--and i'm sure we would all call in periodically to check in with our kids.--oh well, we do have cea in swim lessons, so i guess it is good she didn't go!
Cheers Porsche
Hi,
The cots should be great, bry and i thought they were comfortable, and bry set them up for them, and kathy immediately loved them.
I think we told you all this already (except mom) but bry said when he saw them last night that all those younger than dad call him "uncle bruce". (I guess the older ones don't know about myrle calling uncle bud uncle bud!)
well being in the back really isn't much different than our bike rides! :) They should load him up with all their tools too! It will be interesting to see how the trip goes--as he will only get stronger and faster! as for dad learning new back roads--that is soooo true, he thinks all of us should go on the ride they took over the pass! --Of course it must have been perfect--i believe he called it a "steep uphill climb"--so what could be a better idea for us to all do than something steep and uphill!
hmmmm maybe we should send dad his bike story, so everyone can make sure they get a good nights sleep each night!--oh, i mean so everyone has a bed time story before they go to sleep.
Dad said the food should be great as long as they never serve that one particular stew! Both bry and i thought it sounded good as well. but they are having a varied menu which is good--they definitely are eating better than we are--i mean have any of you been to moms lately?!?! --the old lady with the bare cupboard rhyme is rather applicable! grin! she just might waste away with dad gone!--hmm or she will just use ginny's meal plan and visit beth! snicker!
anyway, we can always remind dad that even if he isn't the fastest, he obviously is the best dressed!--though i doubt the younger ones would feel to stylin in a faster papa faster shirt!--but then again, those are some very cute kids on it!
so mom are you wishing dad had learned about this ride say 15 years ago or more?!?! --then you could have had a summer off with all of us gone!
well cea was missing her papa today and thought she should call him--but i explained that papa was on his bicycle, and so she thought he should ride here! I told her that he wouldn't be able to come here--and it seemed that she was trying to explain to me that she had a bike helmet--which obviously meant--there should be no reason why he couldn't bike here--she was all prepared!
I still don't see why dad and kathy couldn't have taken the bike trailors!--they could switch off on who pulls the winchester and who pulls the burley--and i'm sure we would all call in periodically to check in with our kids.--oh well, we do have cea in swim lessons, so i guess it is good she didn't go!
Cheers Porsche
A different kind of bike.
Lucky for Kathy and Dad (Bruce), Bryan showed up with their new sleeping cots. He went over the pass a lot faster then they did! *grin
Monday, June 23, 2008
And they're off!
Monday, June 23rd, 2008
Porsche called Dad (Bruce) at 7am, Dad answered and Porsche said, "Why are you answering your phone you should be riding right now!"
But no, they(Kathy and Bruce) were busy getting interviewed by some TV Station about The Big Ride and Team Uncle Bud. Then they had some group photos. They weren't "off" until around 7:30ish!
Here they are being interviewed. 
Setting their speedometers back to zero! (in memory of Uncle Bud, may their milage never match up!)
Here is the group! They raised a lot of money for a good cause.
AND THEY'RE OFF!
Ginny, Steve, Samantha and Alex met them at Bothell Landing and bicycled along with them to Marymoor park where others were busy waiting!
How in the world can you be BUSY waiting? Just look below!Joe, Mircea and Carter make posters for Grandpa and Kathy.
Danny just hung out.
They finished the posters just in time cause who should come around the corner but...
The bike riders and the wannebes!
Only 3,280ish miles to go! Good luck!
Tuesday, June 17, 2008
Thursday, February 28, 2008
Big Ride Across America - ALAW
Bruce and Kathy are doing the BIG ride across America sponsored by the American Lung Association of Washington (ALAW). The ride begins June 23rd in Seattle and ends in Washington DC August 9th. 3300 miles in 48 days of bicycling bliss!
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