Day 6 and Finale - Oct. 3, 2013

Sorry for the delay in posting my finale.  It's been very emotional and surreal for me!!  I wanted to eat, get home and relax.

I covered 43 miles today for a total of 420 miles!!!  Lots of traffic today and some very bumpy roads and I had to stop for a train crossing but some beautiful scenery.  I ended my big ride at a place called Washington Crossing at the Delaware River and the border is actually in the middle of the river.  That's why the pictures below are on the bridge.  I can't explain all my feelings of joy and happiness.  With tears coming, my Dad says why are you so upset, I said they're tears of joy.  If I would have been allowed, I would have went swimming in the river.  I am just overwhelmed that I accomplished my goal and everything went so well.  God certainly gave me the strength to complete this journey because I am so tired and sore now, I am amazed I could continue everyday.  And again, the weather couldn't have been any better for my last day!

We ate a late lunch right there at the Bridge at the Washington Crossing Inn to celebrate and it was incredible.  Wonderful meal and beautiful place if you're ever in that area.  We got in the van to head home and I passed out within 15 min.  When I woke up, we were at King of Prussia so I asked my Dad if we could stop at a store that I like and we don't have in our area.  He patiently said he didn't mind.  While there, I forgot I was supposed to call the FRC radio to give them an update and they reminded me.  I called in while in the store then and just was so happy to tell them that I was able to complete my ride and hopefully raise awareness for "Faith, Marriage and Family" and the work they do. 

This whole journey has been such a BLESSING to me and I pray to many others!!!  I can't thank everyone enough for their support and prayers.  Especially my Father for giving up a week of his time to be there for me and his encouragement every day!  It would have been hard to do this without him.  You can still make donations on the site www.frc.org/acrosspenn.  There is still lots of work to be done and mountains to climb (or ride) for God and Family.  Let's stand together and do everything we can to love one another and make a positive difference!!!

Day 5 - Oct. 2, 2013

I know I am repeating myself but things just couldn't be going any better.  The weather was a little hot today but still very beautiful!!  And besides being a little sore, I really do feel good!

It was really nice to sleep in my own bed last night since I was so close to home:)  Today, I started at the Wrightsville Bridge in Columbia where I ended yesterday.  I do not like the city areas because of construction and bumpy roads. Drivers also have a lot to pay attention to so I just have my Dad drive behind me with hazards on just to be safe.  Headed down Columbia Ave., I passed WGAL and decided to stop in and ask if they would be interested in my ride and they interviewed me.  I was thrilled that they took the time.  It was really cool!!

Went further down Rt. 462 into King St. in Lancaster City and decided to stop in at Gibbel, Kraybill and Hess law firm on Orange St. (I used to work there) to say Hi and thank them for helping to sponsor my ride.  It was nice to see some friends that I haven't seen in awhile!!  I headed back out to King St., then Rt. 340 and eventually to Rt. 23.  I ran into the New Holland Fair which I didn't expect so I had to ride down the sidewalk because the street was packed at 12 noon.  There was a sidewalk that didn't have a "ramp" so I swerved to stop and I did bang up my leg a little with a nice big bump but I was fine.  My Dad and I stopped for lunch and I iced it right away. 

Going some back roads again, I ended up back on Rt. 23 for a long time thru Morgantown, then we ended up in Valley Forge.  Found a Hampton Inn 1/2 mile away which is awesome.  We got a AAA discount, free supper and free breakfast and the room actually smells good!!  Plus the check-in clerk was really nice and thought my ride was really cool.  I gave her a flier and she was excited!  It has just been so exciting to watch everything fall in to place so well, the people we have met and just to see God working!!  I rode 68 miles today and after recalculating my "map" mileage, I have about 44 miles left.  How Awesome!!!    I didn't stop to take any pictures today since it was mostly farm fields, horses and cows and of course the cities.   Check-in tomorrow for the finale!!

Day 4 - Oct. 1, 2013

I started off the day talking live on WJTL if anyone was able to listen.  I hope I sounded ok and got my message across ok.  I don't like doing that stuff but I was honored for the opportunity to try to get the message out!

I'm just going to continue to praise God for the awesome weather - it again was just perfect!  We did have a few black clouds today at one point but no rain and it ended up being very hot.  Well, I out did my expectation today, I made it 86 miles and stopped in Columbia after crossing the old Wrightsville Bridge.  It really was a good ride even though I'm sore.  When you look at some of the hills coming up, they look so steep but they weren't too bad. If it continues to go so well, I will ride for 2 more days which will be the 6 day total I had wanted to do.

I am just so grateful for making it this far already and especially not having any bike part issues too.  It just has been a wonderful experience and journey!!  I hope that many lives are touched in some way.  Let's all stand up and make a difference in God's name!!!

Day 3 - Sept. 30, 2013

Started off the day a little late because we visited with the lady (the husband went to work early) that we stayed with (John Gibbel's cousin).  She prayed for us, made us breakfast and we had some delightful fellowship!!  It was a great relaxing way to start the day especially when I had an idea of what I was in for today. 

Wow - HILLS - I think I'm passed the really nasty ones now but who knows.  Today was a challenge!! On a positive note, God has definitely blessed me with just beautiful weather!!!  I can't say enough about how perfect it's been.  I actually made good time today somehow and covered 74 miles to just down the mountain from Cowans Gap State Park Campground.  The park ranger directed us to a really cute little cottage on Rt. 75.  Very cozy and priced just right.  We were excited to see how everything worked out again today.  And the owners of the cottage are considering giving me a donation just like I received from the wonderful couple last night. 

So I am over half way at 222 miles and just thrilled to have accomplished all this in 3 days!!!  Continued prayer for strength and just hoping that my message is reaching many, many people!!!  Thanks to all for your support!!!  Enjoy the pictures!!

 Old Turnpike trail in Breezewood, PA (over mile long tunnel)

Me overlooking lake at Cowans Gap State Park

 Dad supporting me with window art (right side says "Chase Car").  He was having fun!!

Cute cottage we're staying at tonight and my Dad out front.

Day 2 - Sept. 29, 2013

Wow, God is certainly blessing me with some AWESOME weather!!!  I actually accomplished more today than I expected because of my knee and back pain and just being tired.  I got back on the trail in Ohiopyle.  It was beautiful with leaves falling and again chipmunks everywhere.  One blended in to the leaves so well I almost ran over him.  I will say after 42 miles yesterday on the trail and another 29 today, I'm glad it was broken up.  Even though it's flat, it's a sandy gravel base to ride on and you can't really pick up much speed.  I decided to just take my time and enjoy it because I had some great views! 

I passed a town called Confluence and ended the trail at Rockwood.  Cute little Bed & Breakfast at the end of the trail that looked nice if anyone is interested sometime. After riding through Rockwood, the "fun" really started when I entered Somerset, just hill after hill.  I wasn't sure how far I could go but I did really well.  I got some MapQuest directions around some really nasty hills on Rt. 31 but unfortunately MapQuest doesn't account for dirt roads so we hit a snag with one and had to get around it.  At that point about 3 pm I decided to stop riding and find a place to rest and just relax.  It didn't all go as planned time wise but we ended up driving to Everett, PA and we are staying with a very kind relative of John Gibbel.  I'm very glad John's suggestion to me worked out with my riding schedule and we're very grateful for their generosity!!  I ended today with about 55 miles!!

Tomorrow I will drive back to where I stopped and then I will end up on Rt. 30 (business and regular) a little and I know there will be some more nasty hills here and there to get to and passed Breezewood.  Thanks for all your prayers and please continue to share my donation site to anyone you meet. www.frc.org/acrosspenn            

The first picture is me ending yesterday in Ohiopyle, the next 2 are from the trail today and the last one is me starting my ride yesterday at the WV border.  (That's just the order the pictures posted in)      

Time to finish up some things and get to bed!!

Day 1 of the Big Ride - Sept. 28, 2013

Yesterday (Friday) didn't go as planned since we didn't reach the hotel in Triadelphia, WV until 8 pm and still had to get supper.  So I had some anxiousness for the night and to get started so I didn't sleep very well.  One great thing yesterday is that I was on the FRC radio program and that was fun to do to talk about my ride!

Morning - What a Gorgeous Day to ride so I was very thankful for that!!!!  Little trouble finding the first road at the PA border but got there ok. I wanted to take a picture with the Welcome to PA sign but the route I was on didn't have one so the first picture you see is me starting.  Lots of deer and chipmunks and some other animals along the way.  Western PA certainly has it's hills so the start was a little rough and some other places but the day went well because I tackled 96 MILES and made it to Ohiopyle, Hallelujah!!!!  Unfortunately you can't plan for detours and bridges out so we had to deal with that once and some other unmarked roads.  Two places I will recommend if you're ever in western PA is Mingo Creek State Park and the Allegheny Passage Trail.

I am very grateful to have my Dad with me to help.  He is very encouraging and we have 3 GPS's to work with and of course a paper map.  To go from West Newton to Ohiopyle, I was on the Allegheny Passage Trail and that was awesome.  It's mostly flat and that part was almost 43 miles along the River.  My Dad of course can't drive on the trail so he went ahead to secure a "hotel" and we got blessed. He found a lodge up on the mountain with a hot tub and fireplaces and an incredible view!! Plus they gave us a $40 discount because of my ride!!

I will be on the trail again in the morning for another 30 miles then shortly after I will reach Somerset, PA.  It's going to be tough so I know I will not go as many miles.  Please pray for continued good weather, endurance and my knee.  Thanks to all for your thoughts and prayers!!!!
Sorry PICTURES not working will try to post the tomorrow.

What a Beautiful Day for a 30 mile Ride - Sept. 24, 2013

It was a little cool to start at 40 degrees but just beautiful!!  I rode to Manheim for a nail appt. and my friend Karen put special stripes on my nails to match my bike. That was fun!  Then I headed over to Tropical Smoothie to meet another friend for lunch and prayers.  We sat outside in the sunshine and talked for over 2 hours catching up on everything.  It was great to sit and relax for a change.  I had already ridden 15 miles and wanted to put in 15 more.  I went out Oregon Rd. to Oregon Pike and back Landis Valley Rd. and around the airport.  It was a good ride and great for one of the last before I leave for the BIG ride! 

I'm pretty much packed - just trying to make sure I remember everything.  I got some names of people we can possibly stay with instead of hotels on my route too which I was excited about.  It just depends where I stop each night. The weather looks great at least for the first four days so I'm going to try to make good use of them. Only 3 days to go, God will sustain and protect!!!

Rec and Ride - Sept. 18, 2013

Busy doing stuff at home and packing for my trip, I decided I better get some mileage in.  It was such a beautiful day and perfect for riding.  I decided to go 25-30 miles and on the way back stop at the Rec Center to work on some weight machines. 

I enjoyed the ride weather-wise but was kind of sluggish feeling. I accomplished 26 miles and a 1/2 hr. workout at the Rec which went pretty good. I figured out later as I started to get a sore throat why I was sluggish - I was getting sick.  I couldn't believe it, what next.  I don't know how athletes in general keep in tip top shape and healthy all the time.  My son Avery is sick with a cold so I guess he passed it on to me.  I started taking echinacea and some other natural things.  They are actually working pretty good except for my energy, I feel exhausted.

I still went to the Rec on Thursday the 19th and my regular trainer session in Akron on Friday the 20th.  They were hard but I really have to stick with it now!!  Only a few days left and I have a full week of stuff, appointments and errands to get done before I go. 

Please keep in mind, that if you wish to donate by check, send that to me by Sept. 26 so I can mail them in before I leave.  The check gets made to "FRC" and my address is Donna Neff, 527 Royal Tern, Lititz, PA 17543.  Thanks so much!!!

Almost Here!!

I can't believe it's almost here!!   I have continued to train by working out my legs, running, lifting and riding.  Yesterday, Sept. 17, I actually hooked my bike up to my "trainer" inside and rode for over 25 miles.  Since my front wheel doesn't actually turn my computer isn't engaged so I'm not sure of the exact mileage.  It's definitely different inside but I thought it would be a good change since it was only 50 degrees outside.

I have gotten the rest of my spare supplies and extra clothing so I feel I'm pretty set now I just have to pack it all.  I need to get all my special food and drinks to carry on my bike and finish my cue sheets for my route.  The first nights hotel is booked so I don't have to stress. I sent out some more sponsor letters to try and get financial help with hotel costs, etc. 

My donations for Family Research Council are around $5,000 (with some checks that I still have to mail in) so I'm really excited that I'm half the way to my goal of $10,000.  Pass the word and let's work together to reach that goal and support "Faith, Marriage and Family".

If you have any suggestions or information you think could help me please feel free to email me at neffs@ptd.net.  Thanks so much!!!

Hot Day to Ride 31 miles - Sept. 11, 2013

Tough start to the day because I haven't been feeling well.  Monday and Tuesday (9th and 10th) I wasn't able to ride or workout because of feeling tired and sick.  Any day I don't actually ride, I do a workout concentrating on my legs which I've been doing great with except for those 2 days.

Wednesday the 11th, I got some work done during the morning then I got going on my bike about 3 pm and boy was it hot.  There was also a wind that was hard to peddle against and it didn't cool me off either. I took Clay Rd. into Clay and Stevens, then came back own the hill to Rt. 322.  I love riding on 322 because there is a big smooth shoulder to ride on.  I went back and forth and then to Woods Corner Rd., Middle Creek Rd. and all around.  Stopped at home for a protein shake and some new water and then headed downtown to church for praise band practice.

It was a good ride but definitely hot and I was glad to be done!!

Sept. 4 and Sept. 7, 2013 Rides

After getting the boys off to their first day of the school year on Wednesday the 4th, I got some phone calls done and work done then I got ready and hopped on my bike.  I rode over through Manheim and Route 72 and Fruitville Pike, down Temperance Hill and over to Doe Run Rd. then Newport Rd. until I covered 30 miles.  I felt good and it was a beautiful day.  And no pain in my right knee, alleluia!!

Saturday the 7th, I was excited to ride because the weather was supposed to be perfect.  I had to take my 15 yr. old son to Training in the morning for an hour then home. Then I left at 11:10 am and rode to Scooters for an early lunch appt. then rode out from there.  I headed down behind the airport, over to Landis Valley Rd., thru the back way to Eden Rd. then back to Oregon Pike. I then decided to stop in an see my almost one yr. old niece on my trek so I went over to Rt. 501 near Delp Rd.  It was a good day for her, she laughed and smiled the whole 1/2 hr. I was there and my sister-in-law was enjoying her.  I decided to go through Overlook, then a quick jolt on Fruitville Pike to Delp Rd. then Rt. 72.  I went up the hill and over to Temperance Hill again.  This time I headed to Lexington Rd. and took that the whole way to Rt. 501.  Lexington Rd. in that direction is a little hilly but I needed to tackle some hills at this point.  Ended up on Pine Hill Rd. to pass John Beck School and then just kept riding around until I hit 40 miles.  My knee was bothering me some and it had been a long day.  I can only pray for the weather on my big ride to be as nice as this week.  I really enjoyed coming home to find my 17 yr. old son washing my mini van too.  We got pizza and had a good evening!!!   

Only 3 weeks to go!!!!!

Labor Day Weekend Riding and Scouting My Route

My initial thought for the weekend was to ride part of my route in Western PA so I booked 2 different hotels for Friday and Saturday nights.  I went to Ohiopyle Friday afternoon to check out part of the Allegheny trail I will be on and to check out a new helmet at the Outfitter store.  Love that store!  They gave me the information I needed and I walked to the trail connection so I understood where I will be going.  Grabbed a salad at the local 'Firefly' restaurant and then went to the Lodge at Chalk Hill.  I rested and worked on my route and information I needed to go over.  

Next morning, I started out slow since I didn't have a set schedule.  Checked out and drove to find my route at the end of the Allegheny Trail where it connected with the regular roads.  I started on the west side of Somerset headed towards Breezewood.  Western PA is definitely much hillier than Eastern PA.  As I drove the route, I made notes on the route list I had already printed.  There was one section I did not like so I will be finding an alternate route.  I use MapQuest bike icon which I've found to be helpful.

I made it to Breezewood and checked into the second hotel.  I was going to ride some and it started storming so I decided to find something to eat since I hadn't eaten lunch.  I like to try different restaurants when I go away but I think Breezewood should be labeled the chain restaurant capital of the world.  I found one different truck stop type family restaurant which wasn't what I was looking for but I was just glad for a hot meal.  I went back to the hotel and searched the internet again and watched some tv.

The next morning was beautiful, I grabbed my free breakfast then headed to the "Old Turnpike Trail" located in Breezewood.  It was really cool because I got to ride thru 2 of the old tunnels.  I definitely could have used more light than what I had on my bike.  The  tunnels were very cool, misty, dark and eery.  I posted some pictures below.  That took 2 hours and I met some really nice people who gave me some helpful information.  I got back in the van and started driving the regular route again.  I was very thankful that the "Old Turnpike Trail" was there as an alternate route for that section.  I kept driving the route and making notes the whole way to Lancaster City and it was almost evening on Sunday so I decided to head home.

I was very thankful for having the time to drive part of my route and I felt more confident.  Thank you for following and reading about my journey:)  There's more to come!!!  I can't believe I have less than 4 weeks as of Labor Day Weekend.

Dealing with Tendonitis August 20, 2013

Went to lunch with my Dad and had to bend down and could barely stand back up.  The pain in my knee was really bad.  I was worried some but tried to stay positive.  I decided I better take a break from riding to rest my knee and talk to the chiropractor about it.  He gave me suggestions and did say to try and ride but take it easy, no big hills. 

Well, I went camping with my Mom and sister near Rickets Glen over the weekend and it was still really hurting.  We had beautiful weather so Sunday, Aug. 25 I decided to try to ride.  It did not go well.  I only went 6 miles and my knee was killing me the whole time.  We were in a bad area for easy riding also with lots of big hills and unpaved roads.  I decided I shouldn't push it.

Next full week, Aug. 26, my schedule was packed.  I only did work outs and then massaged, iced and heated my knee.  It was feeling a little better but certainly not where it needed to be.

Not having dealt with tendonitis before I wasn't sure what I was really in for. My chiropractor was very encouraging that it can heal before the big ride.  After he gave me things to do, so did my trainer.  I'm praying it gets worked out.

65 mile Covered Bridge Ride Sunday, August 18, 2013

After riding 95 miles on Friday, I was feeling good, just a little tired.  Up early and had to start my ride between 7-9 am from the HACC campus so I arrived about 7:20 am. However, I got delayed because I realized that my chain guard was broken which could create a problem while riding so I had to get that taken off. Needless to say, with 2500 riders, there were others with issues and I had to wait my turn. It fortunately wasn't too long and I got started about 8 am. 

There was a chance of isolated thunderstorms all day so I wasn't sure what the day would hold but I was ready. It actually started raining with a steady drizzle right after I started.  I think it was a really good route for the most part and we went through 6 covered bridges in 65 miles. I'm always amazed at how some of the roads connect and how we get back to the HACC campus. 

Lancaster Bicycle Club does a great job of organizing this and we get fed by Subway (subs) and Turkey Hill (drinks and ice cream) plus fruit, peanut butter and cookies.  Just over 1/2 way, we had a stop at a park pavilion for lunch and it was nice to talk some other riders. It rained pretty much the whole time except my 1/2 hour break for lunch.  Great time for it to stop!  I asked the one guy who has to wear regular glasses to invent little "windshield" wipers for rainy days, ha ha!! 

The only thing about organized rides with so many riders is the space on the roads.  We are supposed to be single file as much as possible but everyone rides at different paces and speeds and some ride with groups.  When passing others, it can be a little challenging, especially if we're on a busier traffic road or we get stuck at a traffic light.  One thing I thought was really cool was a family riding together, the Mother and daughter on a double bike and the Dad and son on a double bike. How Awesome!!

Even though I was drenched and dirty when done; I was happy that I completed the ride, felt good and increased my pace.  I couldn't wait to get home to take a warm shower!!!

95 mile ride to the cabin in the Poconos!!! August 16, 2013, Friday

Wow what a day and what a ride!!! I made it 95 miles and I was so elated I had to shed tears of joy!!
I was so thankful for an absolutely beautiful day - it was pretty much perfect!!!

I had found a route for bikes very last minute on MapQuest which thrilled me.  I didn't know that existed and I was a little paniced about the initial route I thought I was going on.  After searching the addresses, I printed the directions then made my cue sheet to fit on my bike.  MapQuest however doesn't list unpaved roads or detours so just like when driving, you never quite know what adventure you could get in.

I got started from my home in Lititz about 7:15 am with full determination to complete this ride no matter what.  You always worry a little bit about popping a tire and of course crazy drivers.  The ride went pretty smooth over all.  And as you can see by the picture above, I did get to see some wildlife. I saw deer, hawks, herons, a chipmunk, squirrels and the cute turtle above.  I hit some bad road on Rt. 61, a detour (which thanks to my phone compass I figured a way around it) and I had to walk my bike down an unpaved road which was very steep and covered with small stones.  The main challenge was actually close to the cabin after riding 82 miles, I turned left to see the Penn's Peak hill.  For those of you who are familiar with this hill, it's plain nasty and has a hard curve in it.  To make matters worse, they just tarred and cindered this lovely hill.  There was no way I was going to make it the whole way up, my tires would pretty much just spin.  I had to walk up the hill in my new bike shoes so the cinders were bad whether I was riding or walking.  That whole walk delayed my arrival also but I didn't care at that point.  I was almost there.

I stopped a few times to stretch, eat a little, and refresh my drinks at a convenience store.  I also had to empty my bladder twice and one time was in a Christmas tree field, that was funny. I arrived about 5:15 pm and couldn't wait to eat. My son Avery was driving my mini van there so we could drive home the next day. He had hit some traffic so he didn't get there until about 5:50 pm. It was a JOYOUS day for me.  This is the longest ride I have done so far and the accomplishment made me feel like I just won the gold medal!!!  

Thanks for following my blog and for your prayers!!  I ask for your prayers now more than ever, I apparently have tendonitis in my right knee which is causing problems so I'm praying for healing and doing everything the doctor and my trainer are telling me to do to help it heal.  Thru God's healing touch and his strength, we will prevail!!! 

Aug. 14 Ride to the Jigger Shop in Mt. Gretna

What a beautiful day and a beautiful ride!  It was exactly 16 miles up Rt. 501 and 322 to the Jigger Shop.  I thankfully left later than I expected in the morning because when I arrived at the Jigger Shop I found out they don't open for lunch until 12 noon and I got there at 11:40 am.  I was hungry and decided to wait.  I grabbed a quick bite enjoying the deck and the serene surroundings even though the breeze was a little cool sitting still.  I love that area and riding the rolling hills in the coolness of the trees is just to tranquil.

I wanted to ride between 40-50 miles so I headed down Rt. 322 towards Ephrata and went home on one of the back roads.  I covered 42 miles and felt good preparing for my longest ride on Friday.  Check back in to read about my big ride to the Poconos!!!

Monday, Aug. 12, 2013 Ride

Short one today at 26 miles but I have some big ones coming this week.  It was a beautiful day and if I would have had more time, I would have kept riding.  I started out in Lititz by going to the Chiropractor, then to the Susquehanna bank to make a deposit then through part of Manheim and around to Newport Road.  On my way home, I had to stop at Fulton Bank and take are of some things and I was tempted to ride my bike up to the drive-thru just for laughs but I had to go inside for what I needed.  It was a fun ride and I got some interesting looks walking into the banks:)

Last week I was swamped and didn't have time to really ride but I did do my weights and stretching so the 26 miles today was a good transition back. 

Riding in South Carolina on a Missions Trip

On July 20, 2013, Saturday our church youth group, including my two sons, left for South Carolina to participate in a missions work week run by an organization called REACH whose home office is in Colorado.  We stopped in Myrtle Beach to stay in a hotel to split up the 12 hr. drive.  We arrived in South Carolina around noon on Sunday and unloaded all our gear.  We stay in a school in the classrooms on our air mattresses to enjoy a full week of work helping to improve some homes in the area.  Some of the homes take quite a lot of work but it's well worth our effort.

Sunday the adults get paired up and find out their crews and the house we'll work on.  Then later that evening, all the kids find out their crews.  I was very blessed this year with a great group of kids who connected right from the start.  We were told we had 8 people total and my van only holds 7 so another crew was going to have to take one of the kids to and from the work site every day. I started thinking, I'm not going to have much time to ride and train this week because I did take my bike with me.  So - with the approval of the REACH staff, the other adult leader could drive my van and I would ride my bike to and from the site every day.  I was actually excited even though I knew I was going to be hot and tired during the week.  I was looking forward to it!

The ironic part on the first day - I looked at the picture of the house and the address and forgot to take my phone.  While riding trying to find the house, things just didn't seem right several times.  I stopped to asked 2 people for help and the crew passed me in the van and we thought we were on the right track at one point.  However, we found out the address that we were given didn't even exist.  As I was riding on the road that was listed I recognized the house but I kept riding to try and find my crew because I knew they were driving around on the same road.   I found my crew and we got to the house.  I figured out that REACH had transposed the house number by one number and the directions we were given were incorrect so if I hadn't ridden by on my bike and recognized the house from the picture, we wouldn't have found the house.  There's God for you!!  He knew how this needed to be worked out and it got accomplished!!

I ended up riding between 65-70 miles during the week and was thrilled!!  We had a great week and we all got a lot accomplished.  My sons made some great friends and really connected with their crews also.  We're actually talking about making plans for some trips.  It might be hard to fit in with Avery's senior year and Owen turning 16 too but we're going to try.

On our way home, we stopped in Richmond, VA on Saturday, July 27 to break up the 12 hour trip again.  I really needed the break, I was tired.  We returned home on Sunday the 28th at noon, safe and sound and then it was on to laundry and a nice long shower!!!

Headed to Stone Harbor, NJ

Typed on Monday, July 1, 2013

My sons, my father, and I headed out from Lititz, PA for the beach at Stone Harbor, NJ on Saturday, June 29, 2013 at 7:45 am.  The weather was really nice and we plowed through so we could beat the traffic, stopping only to grab breakfast at Subway in Gap, PA.

On the way, after reaching Route 55, we pulled over and I started my bike ride.  My son Avery took over driving the rest of the way. I made really good time while finishing 45 miles into Stone Harbor and reaching the house where we stay.  The weather was a little humid and hot but I felt pretty good.

The weather isn't supposed to be the greatest this week so I'll see what riding I get in.  I did run 2 miles this afternoon in between downpours.

70 mile ride

Sunday, June 23, 2013
Wow, I did it!!!  70 Miles all over Lancaster County visiting the local Rec Centers on a 90 degree day.  I only had a few hours sleep so I was not sure I'd make it but I was determined.  I was exhausted when I got home and literally took a shower and passed out.  I did have some neck and back pain and actually the route took me right passed my house so I stopped in and did some stretching.  I also took some ibuprofen and sprayed some pain spray and that all helped. 

As soon as I got back to Hempfield Rec at 2 pm and put my bike in the van, it started raining a little.  I think that would have actually felt great while riding since it was so hot. 

I was proud of myself for finishing and I thank God for the strength he gave me to do so.  This helps give me a guide for my October ride and how I will feel.  75 miles a day for 6 days will require a lot of strength and determination!!!

42 Mile Ride

Wednesday, June 19, 2013

I rode to Myerstown, PA taking Rt. 501 then came back and went down Rt. 322.  I stopped at Udder Choice to grab a sandwich for lunch, my favorite, a turkey club.  It was a beautiful day out and I enjoyed the ride.  I even saw a deer in one of the fields off 501.  I came back on Woodcorner Rd. off 322 which is one of my normal routes.  Eventually going down Millway Rd. to Newport Rd. and home.  I ended up riding 42 miles which was my longest ride so far.  I felt good that I accomplished that level. 

Trip to Ohippyle, PA

                     On the Allegheny Passage Trail overlooking the Youghiogheny River

               Riding back to the outfitter in Ohiopyle, PA with my son Owen taking pictures.


Owen and I were whitewater rafting at Ohiopyle, PA and we were supposed to get horrible weather; however, it ended up being awesome.  We rafted on Thursday, June 13, 2013 with our own guide and a deluxe lunch on the river with chicken breast sandwiches and shrimp no less.  We did the bike ride on Friday and it was beautiful out and we rode about 18 miles.  We were camping at Kentuck Campground up in the mountain which we upgraded to a wall tent because of the weather predictions.  We had some fun with some chipmunks and saw a fawn up close.  It was a great trip and I was excited that I got to ride on part of the bike route that I will be taking in October on my ride across PA.

Start of the bike ride for Faith, Marriage and Family journal

Hello to all those following me on my incredible journey.  This is my first official typed blog.

I have had some health issues so my bike training has been very limited.  Some of the weather hasn't helped either. I did ride last Tuesday for just over 36 miles and it went ok. I have my regular training session with my trainer Friday mornings which is cardio and weights. She always works me over quite hard but she's lots of fun. And how can you go wrong with a trainer named Angel:)

I rode on Sunday (June 9, 2013) in the evening and was able to get 25 miles in before dark.  It was one of the best rides I ever had.  One section was riding on Lakeview Dr. next to what used to be Speedwell Lake.  It's very disappointing not to have the lake there but riding through the woods, smelling all the honeysuckle was just wonderful.  I had a chipmunk run out in front of me which was funny.  And just feeling the coolness from the trees, it was just so relaxing and beautiful.  I then came out on Rt. 322 and headed towards Ephrata.  After I pass Esbenshade's Greenhouses, I get to go down the big hill at an exhilarating 35 mile per hour.  Since they repaved the road, it's so smooth.

On Wednesday (June 12), I leave for camping with my sons and we will be whitewater rafting on Thursday down the "Yough" at Ohiopyle, PA. I'm looking forward to it but not the predicted weather. I will be trying to get a bike ride in the trip somewhere.  Signing Off for Now:)

Bike Ride Flier

Hello everyone! After much work I have been able to upload the Bike ride flyer. Click on the link below to view it!


https://docs.google.com/document/d/1kcjlvLo0iAfypDTb0G0ccOMl4Xum3Y8Ngwrtmc5VNxY/edit?usp=sharing