I just had to write and share an amazing experience the boys and I had this past week. We had a young man by the name of Michael Galardi stay with us for two days. He found us through a website community I joined last fall called Couch Surfing (www.couchsurfing.com) and contacted me in early April through that site.

He said he was biking through the lower 48 and was hoping to crash at our house for a few days at the end of April on his way through Washington State. I checked out his website and told him we’d be glad to have him. He arrived on Wednesday and left Friday morning.

This is a truly amazing young man. He’s 26 years old and one of the most positive people I’ve ever met. Prior to this undertaking, he hiked the Appalachian trail 2800 miles from Georgia to Canada. His motto is “Control nothing and nothing controls you” and “If there is always a positive and negative side to any situation, then why would one not focus on the positive?” He spent countless hours visiting with my boys, answering their questions and just being present and respectful of who they were and what they had to say. He spent an hour mesmerizing Eli’s 5th grade class, and just generally won the hearts of everyone he met here in town. And being from the south, he was totally polite and charming and just very easy to have around. We were all three sad to see him ride away on Friday morning but we know we’ll keep in touch. We all agreed this was a truly special experience and one we’ll never forget.

If you have kids (and even if you don’t), you owe it to them (and yourself) to sit down with them and go to http://www.jollygreenicemachine.com. It’s Michael’s website and has not only lots of information about him, but also photos and a blog about his ride so far as well as an educational section for teachers to incorporate his experience into the daily learning in their classrooms. They can actually follow his progress through his blog posts and study the geography, weather, etc. His message to and about young people is really inspiring. Make sure you check out the “about” page on his site. It’s very well written and interesting.

Just wanted share this amazing experience with all of you.

Julie

P.S. Michael has no sponsorship but he does have a donation tab on his website if you’re interested in supporting him.

Make it a great day!

Julie Anne Jones

Aug 9th                                                           Princeton, NJ

I woke up to rain and asked if I could stay one more day. It was ok, so Blair and I had talked about a day at the movies, so we headed off to a  flick called “500 days of Summer “ which was a very cute story about thinking you have the one – only to realize that when trying to control love is like holding back the Mississippi River.  Over time it will tear you apart. Once again I am just set in my thinking that trying to control anything is human’s main downfall. That evening we had one last dinner and I planned to head for the coast for the Cape May ferry.

Aug 10th                                             Delaware

I left with all the family there and said goodbye. It was hard to leave them since they truly treat me like one of their own. I jokingly asked to sign the papers to become an official Lamb. I decided to use the shortest distance option on MapQuest and I was so pleased with the ride. New Jersey is highly underestimated in its beauty and I think because of its large cities people give it a bad name. Remember it is the Garden State and it lives up to that name. I went through the blueberry capital of the US and then the pine barrens which is a beach forest of endless pines. Even the coast was wonderful. By 4pm I had 107 miles under my belt and arrived at the ferry right on time. The ride was 80 minutes across the bay in to Lewis the first city in the first state of Delaware. It is just crazy how big this bay is and like the Mississippi River they let me walk on board first. The ride was a joy and I talked with many of the crew and guests. Once on the shore of a new coast I headed on waving good bye to my new friends. I made it an hour or so and camped in a new subdivision off the one heading north for Maryland. Delaware is nice because of its small size and its flatness.

Aug 11th                                              Maryland

If today was a golf tournament, mine would be over. I was just not into my game. It was not that it was a bad day – it has just been so hot. It is too bad having this type of weather at the end – like wearing a wet blanket all the time, but I say it allows me to appreciate all that I have had and I truly am having fun battling the elements. I would also say that I am eating like a girl that just got her heart broken. As I was just guessing my way into north Maryland I ate at several places. I truly think that it is just the overwhelmingness of the completion of my trip. It’s not that I am scared to be down, it is just hard to fathom the past and the future. Like my wise turtle said in “Kung Fu Panda” – yesterday is history and tomorrow is a mystery, but today is a gift so that is why it’s the present. It’s so true if one stays in the past too long it’s like a warm bath that soon goes cold – you can’t stay in forever. I must just love where I am and what I do. I did finally get the idea to MapQuest again at a library in Rising Sun because I really was just guessing roads and once again it did me right with an excellent right to the 11 which went into West Virginia. I made it to a big bay bridge after battling two dogs with my “water bottle sword”. It was two on one and I was not going to lose. I slept behind a sign and had some fishermen guests that were nice. I must say ever since passing through New York City I have noticed a thread of underlying rudeness. It’s not that people have been mean, but there is just a sense of hesitancy at my approach that I never experienced in the West or Midwest. I just think people live closer together and because of that, this sense of selfishness and accepting kindness is harder for the “East Side of the U.S. The kids have been more of a nuisance too. I have yet to put my finger on the issue but I will meditate on it till I do.

Aug 12th                                             West Virginia – Virginia

I headed back into the Appalachians once again crossing over the AT in the rain. The day was beautiful climbing mountains and heading into West Virginia. Wow! It is moving so fast and I am doing my biggest push without a host. No worries just a little physical challenge in the end is good for the soul. I loved my camp spot and slept well on the border of Virginia and West Virginia.

Aug 13th

Today was a day of true laziness. I slept in till about nine thirty and then went through a small town where I got a “gas station breakfast” and set up in a laundromat where I found out I was on camera when I changed clothes which is a nice present for whomever! Look out internet! After that I went and got more food for my long push – I am on and pounded the weirdest mix of food to date. I had two pounds of yogurt, a tub of hummus, and a half gallon of apple juice. It was not more than twenty minutes before I was stopped again paying for that meal. Still all in all I made it almost 100 miles and even in my camp spot I just went off the side of the road. I was not tired. I am getting a weird feeling in my gut to know that I am so close to completing my journey. I did sleep like a baby though.

Aug 14^th

Once again I slept in and continued my slower movement to the end. I was in the Shenandoah Valley which is amazingly beautiful and I cannot stop my unnecessary food buying so I got a smoothie and found out the kid was about to do the AT also. I talked to him for about an hour giving him advice. I love seeing other kids heading off into something I know will change their lives. That evening I also ate at a Waffle House which I had been craving for some time and talked to the locals for a while. When I left there I made a quick decision to go away from the 11 to the 221 and boy was that a crazy road with cars flying by on small roads. I figured it was night traffic so I camped out in the woods and looked for a different way and saw the Blue Ridge Parkway nearby.

Aug 15th

I started out to revisit my past trip when I pedaled the whole parkway with some friends and boy was today some serious climbing. Still it was beautiful and was nice to trade the cars in for a nice date with Mother Nature. I remember why it was the Appalachians since the Parkway was climb after climb, but I loved the descents because of it. Still I was having a hard time remembering where I was on my past trip during this time until I came across the 8 and saw the motel we stayed at on our trip. I decided I had to eat there and went in. Would you believe that in about a minute I realized my waitress was the same girl as when I was there with six friends in 07? She still had a drawing two friends and I gave to her. She said she had talked about us the day before I was there to another group of bikers. It was so crazy but since the cool experience had happened I felt memory lane was complete and decided to keep on the 8 which had a fun three mile descent up ahead. It was still a very hilly day but beautiful in the same and soon I was in Winston Salem, North Carolina. I was about to get a motel as a present for myself plus I was about a day away from Greenville, South Carolina anyway and needed some alone time. I went to a Marriott because I like their customer service. One time I left a wallet in a taxi and the hotel found it and went out of their way to find me and get it back in my hands, so please stay with them if you are ever looking. Robert, the door guy, told me the room was 90 dollars. This was way out of my price range. Still I asked nicely if I could use a computer and get directions to Greenville for my last map questing. I thanked him, headed out of town and stopped at a gas station for dinner. There was a couple there that asked what I was doing but even though they were very clean looking something was off. They asked if I wanted to stay with them but I was getting that gut feeling so I kind of blew them off. It is just weird to me if you are nicely dressed with a lot of cologne and are sweating something is up. Anyway, I found a great spot and slept well in my tarp where I am always safe.

Aug 16th                                             Greenville, SC

I awoke to another hot day but wanted to make Greenville. I had a mission but it was about 160 miles away. I rode all day stopping in a few spots to eat and slowly made South Carolina. It was some fun back roads and I was out with the motorcyclists. As I pounded 2 pounds of yogurt and five muffins I called my aunt, Camille and they wanted to meet me in Spartanburg for dinner. By seven I was there with 140 miles behind me - I am not sure where these miles went but I was booking it. I also knew I was in SC when I saw a family in a van selling samurai swords out of the back. I would have taken a picture but storms were all around. It reminded me of this crack head I knew in Atlanta that sold fruit baskets. It was too funny! I made it and not soon enough. My butt was about to quit – I had gone a week and almost 1000 miles since Princeton, NJ and was excited to be close to the border of Georgia and know I would see the family. If there is anything this trip has taught, which is a lot, is don’t worry. It has also made me really appreciate my own family. There is something special about the ones close that I knew but never clearly saw. Camille, Frank, Caroline, and Meredith Wingate and I had dinner and shared stories. It was an early night but then I watched bad TV till like 4 in the morning- something is wrong with me!

Aug 17th                                             Greenville, SC

This was a fun day with a blast from the past in many ways. The first thing I did was go get new socks because after almost 8 months my wool socks died and I was wearing cotton which smelled so bad (my aunt Camille insisted!). I have finally solved the problem of my smelly feet – it’s smelly cotton. So I needed to get something else. We went to a triathlon store and I picked up some awesomely ugly USA socks which will do great for my last seventy miles into Gainesville, Georgia for my pop’s (Bill Galardi) birthday. The next part of the day was when the revisiting of the past began and I was so excited. “Coconut Monkey”, one of my friends from the trail, came over to the Wingate’s. It was so good to see him – he brought his wife and cute kid. I could not believe the change. Well, not in him -he looks the same but in his life. We laughed, talked, and watched the little one act just like him and then he invited me to dinner later which I said yes. Then I was off to my second ghost of Christmas past when I went to Meredith’s high  school orientation. It was crazy being back in the high school crowd and I have to say they are looking “small” – does that mean I am getting old? It was fun though and I was impressed with the school and the kids. We are entering a strange time with kids in high school – they have all the open information which I think is great, but it is making them realize that the idea of a teenager is made up causing confusion in their heads when most parents will not let them grow up – leading to rebellion and bad behavior. It’s a cycle that is getting faster and scarier. After that and a pretty clear idea I would not do that chapter again. I was off to dinner for some more fun with the “monkey”. He wants me to do the PCT (Pacific Coast Trail) with him in 2012 or 13 and I must say I am into the idea. We talked some more over amazing bbq and then said good bye. I am also so amazed at the cuteness of Greenville and really like the town. I had no idea!

Aug 18th

Today was a simple day with relaxation and calmness around every corner. I did get to go see Meredith swim and check out the town out in the daylight which was nice. The bridge that is a suspension bridge on one side is great and the whole feel of Greenville reminded me of the west and its excellent clean up of the downtown area. I am having a family spaghetti night and then it’s time to head into Georgia and finish what I set out to do. I am a little nervous about going back but who am I kidding – there is no going back in life. We are like flowers and if you stop blooming you’re dying and I am not ready for that. Plus the end of a book must be the best part – the climax scene and this is only the beginning, so my life is destined for greater things.

Worrying about what those are now will only keep me from experiencing them and like “Motormouth” said in Florida in the beginning of this trip ( he was the homeless guy) .

I, Michael Galardi, am a Doer not a Trier and I have biked all 48 states. Thank everyone for what they have done for me and much love.

So it was time to move on once again. It’s weird as the trip gets further in; it gets harder to move on. I hung around till everyone was up and I could say good bye. This has become like a second home to me and I know I will see them all soon so it was not too hard to leave. The day was beautiful and I got into the swing of things pretty fast. I was headed for the Maine coast and just the scenery alone could keep a man on that bike forever. Before I knew it I was in the state and on the coast and was already back where we had driven the day before in New Hampshire. Soon I was in Massachusetts and I could not believe the ground I was covering. Before I knew it I realized that I was going to end up in Boston by nightfall and at this point in the trip can not afford a hotel anymore. I had to think on my feet and decided I was going to take a train into Boston from a few miles away then hit up the suburbs through another train. In Beverly I got on and just loved the ride. New England’s train system is brilliant and when I got off I rode through Boston with a smile on my face – the history and vibrancy surrounds you. It’s a cool town and always growing. I got to the south station and got a second ticket to Norwood to get out of the congestion of the city. I did not realize but it is getting night fall much sooner now and when I thought I had an hour to ride it was already dark in Norwood. So I was off to find a spot in this much smaller town and found some public land that I set up shop in. I was visible to everyone but I have yet to have a problem and felt comfortable.

Aug 4th Guilford, CT

I woke up to a dog wondering what I was doing there and so I left early. I made Rhode Island in no time and funny enough got more lost in the smallest state than any other before. New England streets are so confusing – it reminded me of Cali. What is it with the coastal states with the winding roads and the roads in the middle states being so straight. I could not believe how far I made it today. I rode the coast of Connecticut and thought about Dirty Dancing with all the polo fields, old money, and beautiful homes. It was very nice. There is a lot to see in this area and one day when I have money I will spend more time here. I also was honked at a lot not out of anger but just kids in traffic – but thought about hate for some reason. I came to the conclusion that everything comes from somewhere, therefore, when we hate something that comes from within. If that is the case which I know it is then when we hate, we hate something about ourselves. This made me conclude that the hardest lesson in life that I must always work on is to learn to truly love myself because if you truly love yourself then you cannot hate anything. This is a work in process but if you’re not growing your dying and everyday should be looked at as training for how to live. Days are lessons and the test only comes at the end  - this is why philosophers tell you to look at the journey and not the destination because it is the journey that is the magic. I also realized today thinking about luck – I am not lucky I am living and that if I was to get robbed or hurt then I would be lucky because the statistics on this is more uncommon than my success on the trip. I ended in Guilford, CT and slept next to a home donated to the fire department for practice. It was a great day and I felt good about everything.

Aug 5th Princeton, New Jersey

I awoke so excited to see my friends, the Lambs. For some reason my mind was moving as fast as the pace of the New England cities and as I got closer to the New York border one could see the congestion of the city ahead. I decided that since I had pedaled New York I would ride the train one last time into the city since I was helping Blair move to DC and needed to be in Princeton, New Jersey.  I would train there then pedal the state to the coast south and ferry to Delaware because I had not been on a ferry since New Orleans. I trained to Grand Central Station where I met the most interesting man named Steve. He walked up to me asking me what I had named my bike – which I have thought about but failed to get one I liked. As I told him what I was doing he broke into the fact that he had been biking the world and just traveling with whatever came his way. It was amazing and he gave me his blog of freewaysoul.blogspot.com. I then left to bike to Pennsylvania and as I waved good bye I could not believe I did not go to Central Park with him. The energy of that city made my head spin and I felt like my time clock was ticking away to death. I love to see that place but everything is about the individual and I do not agree that is how we should be. Even the billboards all made the statement that it was all about “you you you”. I made it to Penn station and must say the trains and the city was more tiring than the riding. I was glad to be headed to Princeton and slow my roll. It is getting close to the end and with 41 states down I will be sad to finish so the last run I want to really enjoy the ride. That night the Lambs came home and it really was as if I never left. We just laughed, ate, and talked about what we had been up to. It was a huge dinner and a short night, but we had plenty of time together. It’s hard to reflect on all I have done and can’t wait to see all the people that have made this trip what it is again.

Aug 6th Princeton, New Jersey

This was a day of nothingness and I loved every second. I walked around the city of Princeton after I drove Blair’s car in for the few blocks. I now I am really lazy – ha. I love Princeton and the campus is beautiful. NJ is a really beautiful state and even though many of the cities could use some cleaning up, it’s great. I laid around the rest of the day till everyone came home and then we were off to dinner. The Lambs have a cousin living with them named CK and we all had a fun visit. The waitress or cooks did forget a whole steak, but fixed the problem and it turned out well. Blair, CK, and I went out and had a ball running around the town. Blair and I danced around  and then ate the fridge clean that night.

Aug 7th                                               Washington, DC

I was so excited to see Trevor again and it really is amazing how quickly it feels like I never left and how close I feel to the Lambs as part of my family. We packed up a U- Haul for Blair and I was excited to go see DC where Blair was moving to for grad school.

Trevor and I took the truck and got to catch up which made the ride faster. We went to Delaware first and I got to see Amy, an old friend of Blair’s, which was nice then we were off to our country’s capital. We moved her in to the apartment and were starving. I have to be honest and say that we did nothing patriotic or “touristy” while we were there. We did eat well and play around the city till the morning. I only got in one friendly political battle and it ended well. I love DC and it was not as busy as I thought or remembered. The roads are crazy but all in all it was so much fun.

Aug 8th Princeton, New Jersey

We woke up and Trevor was tricked into unpacking Blair’s stuff so he told me to go back to bed which I did and was glad to do. We went to breakfast and then hit the road. The ride back was a little longer but it was nice to get some more time with Trevor. Blair took the train again and when we got back we all went to get sushi and once again all had a blast. I am going to miss these guys but I always make it back somehow and can’t wait to be here again. It’s on to the last leg of my trip and I try not to think about finishing. I look forward to everyday and much love to all and talk to you soon.

So it was finally time to leave Buffalo, New York and it was not too big of a deal since I was seeing them all again in four days for Jeremy’s birthday. There was still a sense of moving out. We had all gotten along so great and I will miss Sunita’s, Tom’s and my nightly philosophizing. I followed Jeremy to my turn and then it was back off to what I know the best – the unknown. The day was great – I was pedaling along singing bad songs and thinking of ideas for whatever I would do next when – pop! I hit a rock and just knew what was next. That cheap wheel I had to buy back in Sandusky had ripped. It was not too big a deal, but a nice gentleman stopped with a pump and I noticed the last bike shop stole my adaptor for American pumps. I thanked him anyway and pumped it myself because it was good for my arms. I traveled through the state running next to the Finger Lakes. Upstate New York is one hilly place with sharp inclines everywhere, but I had missed it since I was out west so I loved the burn. In Geneva I looked to the left and saw a sign for a bike shop so I pulled in. The store said that was the second time the sign had worked for them with cyclists, so I told them they had a winner. They were great and super kind – (we even chatted about other bike shops especially the last one I left called Ricks – because they just walked away not really wanting to help). In no time they changed my tire into what I needed – the Bomber (right up my alley) and found that my chain had stretched. I found out this place is rated one of the best bike shops in the country and we chatted for awhile then I was off again. I made it all the way through Auburn and rested well. The mosquitoes were out but not too bad and I slept really well.

July 28th Auburn, NY to Esperance, NY

I awoke to slugs everywhere and moisture all over the place. I set off around 8 and had a fun task of meeting one of Jeremy’s friends for lunch. Brad was meeting me near his home in Waterville and I was off to be there as soon as possible. The hills were like the Grand Tetons and I am sure I was going well over forty mph. It was intense and I was dripping in sweat. Finally, I was there but there were no restaurants around that were open so we went to Richfield Springs only to find a Subway which works for me. We chatted forever and I was glad to watch a few of those hills pass me by. I am also excited because Brad is moving to Hawaii and you better believe I am visiting soon. After that I went in to Esperance and slept between two farmer’s properties. This night was worse than all the others with bugs. I was attacked and could not leave. I awoke like the last time at 4am.

July 29th Esperance, NY to  Marlboro, VT

I slept very lightly and at four a.m. could not move fast enough to get out of there. I was going mad trying to kill as many mosquitos as I could and get moving but stopped at a Stewarts gas station where they make their own ice cream and got a little breakfast and coffee to calm down. I was all smiles in no time. I was off for Vermont and soon was in a terrible city of Troy. If there is a good part I missed it and even then I must say I saw a character from ”Family Guy” with his face upside down in real life. I was going to ask someone what happened but there can’t be sunlight without rain, so maybe it was a beauty I just missed. The hills were getting bigger and soon I was in Vermont where I decided to treat myself to a second breakfast just because I love Vermont maple syrup. I am not even sure who decided that regular maple syrup tasted like Vermont’s but they were way off. I talked with all the staff and was in heaven. As I left I noticed the town had a familiar scent to it and soon realized why. I crossed the Appalachian Trail a few miles up and remember the day I was there on the trail like yesterday. It was so cool – I remember I had had this hitch back to the trail from some hippy New Yorkers and had a blast. I also had the thought that looking at the past was like climbing into a warm bath. It is good for a little while but if you stay in it too long it will go cold. I love remembering but the present is all we will ever have and it is where my life will choose to stay. As I snapped out of that thought and into the mountain and climbing it, it began to rain and then poured. I was actually loving it and just kept booing it on screaming down the descents like a mad man surfing in a hurricane. I finally came to Marlboro, Vermont (like the cigarettes) when a guy named Vincent pulled over and got out in the downpour and offered me a bed. I said sure knowing it was not going to stop raining and this was a lot better than a bridge so we were loaded and off. Vincent had done a 2800 mile ride back four years ago and had so many people help him he had to throw out a helping hand. It was great and made me smile thinking about how many I will help in the years to come. He even made me a steak dinner and taught me about Moose Fargle which is a super complex role playing game that changes based on whether you choose a good or bad path. It made me think and I have now realized that the path to good or evil is the same path to controlling things and not controlling things. In life control seems like the better path but it tricks us much like the dark side in Star Wars. It even seems easier and safer but at some point no matter what – that bubble can and will pop and that is why even though it seems hard at first we must learn to let go. Control nothing and nothing can control you. Once we look and learn what nature teaches us – our life will become easier. I am living proof of this and will talk with anyone about it. If we act like water we will get to where we need to go. My eyes were getting heavy and I was going to make Raymond, New Hampshire on time for Jeremy’s birthday. I was even going to beat them. I was excited to meet more of the family and so I slept very deeply listening to the rain and knowing I was dry and out of it.

July 30th                                           Marlboro, VT to Raymond, NH

I got up a 5am and Vincent made some breakfast. It was still raining but I was not worried  – in the rain you are focused on riding because what else is there to do. I hit the road after thanking Vincent again and soon was in New Hampshire on my way to Raymond. By 9am the rain was done and the sun rose. I ate lunch at a doughnut shop just drinking their tea which I know sounds weird but the slushy I wanted was $4 and they’re not getting that from me. Within no time I was there and I laughed a lot at the signs because they have the old man’s face on their road signs and when I was hiking the AT I was in the town where this was and it had fallen off. It was national news and I just laughed because it is a perfect example of my control point made earlier. Now this poor town and the whole state has to deal with leftover souvenirs and signs of crap for something they should of just enjoyed and not tried to exploit. By 3: 30pm I made it in and just like Jeremy; Doris and Rick are great with two kids that are wonderful too. We ate and laughed.

July 31st Raymond, NH

We all awoke and it was like I never left Buffalo. It was so nice seeing everyone again and we laughed about my swift entry into New Hampshire. The day was once again very wet and all of us ate breakfast and got into the van and headed to Meredith Beach. We, of course, wanted a sunny day but you can’t yell at Mother Nature.  She has a much wiser plan and I learned what that was — we ate lunch and I won the top score of my favorite game Gallagher. That’s right – Mother Nature gives us all gifts and that was mine for the day. Skeet ball was fun too and Aunt Rosie was quite the player. We all left after Jeremy saw the beach was closed since he is such a fish – he wanted to swim even though the rain was making us all swim on our own. That night we all gathered around the table for some pizza and then got into a serious dice game called Moose Fargle. I lost but the fun made me feel like a winner anyway. That evening a few of us went for a moonlight walk and we were called “Raymond trash” – oh the silly boys that want to feel cool through their fears in life. It a shame to see but we all must learn on our own and I know that they have a very small shot of ever gathering the knowledge that we have. I was tired from all the excitement of the day and the amazing draining power of the rain earlier so I slept.

Aug 1st Raymond, NH

I am seven months in and I started this day by jumping onto Jeremy for a thirtieth birthday smash. We all gathered for a huge egg and maple bacon breakfast and then got our act together for a day at Hampton Beach for a day of sun and fun. Rosie, Doris, and Sunita decided to do their own thing but Jeremy, Lisa, Stacy, Tony and I gathered in the van and jammed our way to the beach. The day was a lot of fun and the beach was quite the site with just thousands of people everywhere. We even had to turn into a full lot just to try to find a spot and we did. It was weird seeing the Atlantic Ocean again and a flood of appreciation flooded me thinking about all I have done. It was just overwhelming to think how far I have come and where I have to go, but the present is all I have got so I decided it was time for a swim. The water in the north is just as cold as the Pacific. I was in for a while and then caught one wave on the board and was done. I tanned for the rest of the day and got a little burned on the belly but it will be fine. The necklace that Jeremy gave me of the native vine from Hawaii broke and I turned it into ankle bracelets. Then I was told a great line  - you must never cry – you just need to modify and I loved it. We had to head back for there was a comedy show to attend and I do love live comedy. We made it for a quick bite and headed to the bowling alley because that is the biggest venue in Raymond. There is nothing like the energy of a live comedy show and it is amazing to see what laughter can do for the soul. We had our own table and one of the biggest jokes was where the comedians careers were going playing in Raymond but they were all really funny. The best was the fact that Rosie was asked to jump on stage and help and I think she was already up there before the guy finished asking. I am so glad this great group of people allowed me to be a part of their lives and I cannot wait to continue to see them. We came back for one more game of Fargle and then it was off to bed. It was weird how both a day of rain and sun both can put you to sleep but the rest was in the stars.

Aug. 2nd Raymond, NH

We awoke to the smell of blueberry pancakes! I think I am gaining weight on this trip than losing. All the young people headed up the coast and I got to see where I would be riding tomorrow. We went to Portsmith, NH and shopped and played. I bought some stones for my ankle that brought me strength and forced negativity away since I need all the help I can get. The area is full of history and even in one battle during the American Revolution the locals stole gun powder from the English to defeat them. It is also a nuclear sub refill station. We met Steve who runs a marina and a towboat company and he showed us around a multimillion dollar boat. It was so fun. We ended with some seafood from Saunders in Rye Harbor that matches the food back in Pensacola, Florida. I am ready to ride but will miss this new extended family I have gained. This is what I am out to find and these people have made my trip. It just so happened that Brad was being too rushed and could not make the tool show in Manchester so I was very excited and got to take his ticket. The show was crazy and before it began Lisa and I made a new friend who ended up choking and head butting a kid that sat in his wife’s seat. I am not making this up and even though he should of just waited on his wife before he reacted he was in the right. They both were escorted out, but the big guy that did the fighting was booed. It just shows you how easy a group of people can be fooled by what they do not see. I knew the whole story and saw both sides but others did not and the one that was in the right was hated. It’s weird to think about how much this happens in our own lives. The show was quite the sight and all else went smoothly. We got home around 1 and found Brad sleeping in his car. Much love and peace.

I was so excited for today was the day I got to venture to the Motor City- Detroit, Michigan. Peggy and I picked up a few of her friends and we were off. I must note that one friend had a beautiful home her mom left her with artifacts of her world travels. The home was stunning but at the same time very claustrophobic thinking about all that would have to be moved.  It is just this freedom one gains by not having things – it allows movement. I just think about my simplicity and how it translates into our language. The word DO is so short and sweet but holds more meaning than any other word I can think of. We think we can “do” because of our stuff and releasing that burden releases your soul. It the feeling you get when you clean out your room or car – you are just lighter.

Sorry about that -back to Detroit. I was so excited to see this city just one week before the last major super market shut down. Much housing is ripped of its copper and empty — poverty is in the rise and the only time people are downtown is for a sports game or a casino visit. When we arrived this is what I saw – a city that looks like it is dying and it’s sad. I had not felt this way since I was in the Indian reservations. We even stopped through some of the worst parts of Detroit. Still a low heart pulse remains and the city lives –we went to the concerts of color which is just a small view on what Detroit could be. It was a connector of people from everywhere getting together to just hear music. It was an amazing time with music from around the globe. I even saw the man who wrote “Mustang Sally” perform his famous song. It was nice seeing a small part of a city in such need coming together in love and hope. After that long festival I was excited and ready to ride into Buffalo, New York to stay with Jeremy.

July 19th                                                         Toledo, OH to Sandusky, OH

Boy was I ready to hit the road -I left about ten and never looked back. My tire was low so I pumped it up and headed for a Kroger. After a purchase of a few dinners I noticed my wheel was flat again, so I changed the tire. All was well until I stopped in Sandusky for a water break and my tire was low again. I took a close look and my side wall of the tire was blown out. I asked Dan the attendant for a bike shop although it was Sunday. I thought about a motel but then it was only 5pm so I had plenty of sunlight to ask around for camping areas. I got some ice cream and then headed to the bike store to post up near there. Across the street was a diner called the Better HHalf Café. It was so cute being split into his side/her side. I sat and drank coffee just picking up conversations with locals wherever I could and finally talked with three people for about an hour. Luckily, they had a friend in the police department that told them I could sleep in the park. I was thrilled as they left and they told me where to get some good local fish –perch – so I headed out and ate where I was told. I finally got back to the park and it over looked Lake Erie.  The lake is stunning because of its unbelievable size. To my right was Cedar Point which is rated one of the best amusement parks in the world and I sat for hours just pondering and watching the sunset. I am amazed at my level of patience just sitting in silence. I crave silence now. My mind is at peace with all because the present is all we have. We live in this world that happens with or without us and all we have to do is participate and enjoy. The situations are there no matter what, but we get to choose how we react to them – good or bad. It was such a joy and as people left I rested and slept through the night.

July 20th                                             Sandusky, OH to North Perry, IN

I managed to sleep in the park without bother. I still left at about six in the morning as I saw walkers begin their daily exercise. I decided to take up the local’s advice and head to the Better Half Cafe for some breakfast. It was a wonderful place and Julie, my waitress, was just so bubbly that we chatted till 10:30 with locals chiming in here and there. Finally, it was time to get my tire changed and hit the road by about eleven. I went and hugged Julie and was off. The day was just like any day -my back was still stiff but I rode and rode till dusk. I also was stopped by the nicest cop who just loved my trip and talked to me till he got a call. I told him that he too should hit the road, but as usual many worry about the daily tasks and responsibilities in their lives – but this guy still gets out on the road every once and awhile for a few weeks which in my mind is great. We all should travel – it quiets the mind and cleanses the soul. From one day to a few months – it is all the same – the important thing is that we all find out who we really are through travel and I hope everyone can do it someday. I have to note though that I saw the most beautiful fox just watching me on a railroad track. I contemplated what that meant or if he was a spirit animal of mine but nothing came up other than my day was great. I camped by what I thought was a closed down dump site and slept great.

July 21st                                           North Perry, IN to Buffalo, NY

I woke up about 6:30am to rain slowly coming down. Now most the time in these situations I roll over and sleep, but today was different. Something told me to move on plus I could make Buffalo, New York today and I was excited about meeting Jeremy. As I quickly packed up in the rain, the closed down dump site was not that at all and a huge truck came out of the gates. I was like a deer in head lights but soon the driver told me “no worries and I had till nine” before the boss got there. I was on the road by seven and the rain lasted all day. I pedaled through Pennsylvania and then into New York hitting my 34th state – I was flying and I think the rained helped because what else is there to do in the rain. I had talked to Jeremy and as I was about 15 miles out of Buffalo, I suddenly saw a car that I took notice of coming over the hill. It was Jeremy yelling at me to stop which I did. We met and I have to say were friends in no time. He told me about some flooded roads and said he had to get me out of that and even skipped a meeting for me – a total stranger. We hit it off from the start with story after story. He got me some Chinese food and the next thing I knew I was watching him play indoor hockey eating a wonderful meal. I also was introduced to loganberry soda which had an amazing flavor. The game was so much fun to watch and even though they did not win, all I could think about was how one really learns best from failure. It is then important to learn how to succeed from that. That night we hung out with his two roommates, Tom  and Sunita. Tom is his cousin and an amazing carpenter and Sunita is an Indian going for her doctoral degree in education. I loved the story of how she came into the house because Jeremy had met her son out one day and a friendship was born. I also was told stories of Puerto Rico and already was asked to go down and stay whenever I liked. I really think if they go down in January, I would like to go and help them rebuild a house for which he was given charge for a great kindness he gave the lady that owns the land. I was told I could stay as long as I liked, so I accepted and really wanted to get my lower back feeling better before I headed out. We retired to bed because and I was so happy to be with a couch surfer that I truly enjoyed again.

July 22nd                                                                    Buffalo, NY

I woke up and was off for my day of touring the city solo. I started off with the shipyard that housed two warships and a submarine. The self guided tour rocked because it was at my own pace and I ended up going the wrong way. These boats were crazy and much like the air museum back in Pensacola I was amazed and saddened by the advanced technology that comes with warfare. It is just so crazy to think about the fact that technology is always 30 years ahead of what the public knows about and scary to think about where it is today with things moving so fast. I finished my tour and headed to city hall where I walked in and asked if I could go to the top. The man at the desk told me to run up there and I did.  To my surprise as I entered I was closed in by a red ribbon and some scissors. To my left was a podium with about 15 mikes set up and a large group of people all dressed up. I got in the back and listened and it was the grand reopening of the city hall tower. The mayor and his whole “team” were there with the TV crews and I just watched. I guess my amazement showed because after the ceremony a gentleman name David, who was the head of economic development, introduced himself and asked how long I had lived there. I told him the funny story and next thing I know I am meeting everyone and taking pictures with the mayor of the city. I got interviewed by NPR and even got an article in the Buffalo Rising. It was wild – the next thing I know David showed me the city and told me the amazing history of Buffalo making me realize how great and highly underrated this city really is. It’s rich in history and culture and working hard to be a progressive place for future generations. The experience put a smile on my face all day. I really just wandered the city checking out the art and culture for the rest of the day.  The day became really spectacular when we went to Niagara Falls. All I can say is “wow – they are just amazing”. It is hard to even wrap your head around the amount of water that falls every five minutes – I think it is almost a billion gallons. We then went down to the base of the falls onto hurricane deck where the water just blows you back with force. It was magical moving and a memory hard to forget. We were there so long night fell and then Canada blasted colored changing lights onto the falls making a spectacular show of colors. It is the type of place you almost get emotional about realizing the beauty in America. That night we retired home to a movie about surfing and I was so moved by this travel bug that I have I almost forgot about the boats at the beginning of this full day.

July 23rd                                             Buffalo, NY

I went to work with Jeremy who runs what I think is “like a model agency for construction workers”. He wanted me to talk to Real, who is a ghost writer, and we hit it off from the start. It was exciting to see all these doors open in such a short time and I was amazed at a story Jeremy told me about how the day he told friends he was biking the country I had e-mailed him. It’s just great to think about how we are a product of our situations and if you put positive things out there you will get positive things back. Real asked us to come to dinner because the people he was staying with did a “sea to sea” trip and Real was writing their book. The rest of the day I took Jeremy’s car and relaxed until that night when I picked him up and met his wonderful family for some fine wings and pizza. Later that night after playing, talking, and eating, we returned home to the best political talk I have had in a while. It is a scary time in our history but much like the idea that the world was flat, a new idea can be born and in the end I know I will be ok and I hope others follow in the same mind set. It is a time where we need to know that all we have is each other and as we were a country built on “WE THE PEOPLE” , we should come back to that by being kind to others and loving ourselves. I slept well and my back pain was still there but getting a little better.

July 24th                                            Buffalo, NY

I once again was able to use the car which was so nice of Jeremy  and I loved driving it. I have to remember though that it is against the law to talk on the cell phone, but that’s not too hard and I think a good law. I am helping Tom out by picking up a window and decided to go to this other bike store because the one I went into the other day was full of rude people and rude people make me not want to spend money. Bert’s Bike Shop was great and in a matter of seconds the whole crew and I were chatting it up having a grand old time. I went and got the window with success and then picked up Jeremy from work. We waited on Tom and loaded the kayaks into his truck. We were going to Real’s house for dinner to meet the biking Swedes. They were so kind and made a great Swedish meatball. The conversation was excellent and after dinner we loaded the kayaks and went for an hour long night ride on the Erie Canal. The water was like glass and blue herons flew everywhere. It is hard to believe this river like canal was all manmade. The paddle was very nice and to chat on such calm terrain was an experience in itself. We came back in and talked for awhile more. The day was full and fun. I cannot wait to read the story of their ride and see the differences. From our talk I already know there are a lot of differences. As we went home Jeremy and I got a second wind and decided to pick his brother up and go party. It was a fun time – telling people I was a pro surfer until I talked and could not keep the lie going. I feel secrets keep you sick but it was all in good fun. I even got kicked out of a place for not dressing right which cracked me up. We had a good old time and retired to a steak sandwich joint where some drunken kids took my picture as though I was Jesus for their face book picture. We came home about 4am and passed out.

July 25th                                             Buffalo, NY

This will be my last full day here. We slept in then went and got some breakfast. Jeremy is an amazing drummer and his skateboard company has a great look. I even am wearing his shirt and have been asked all about it. I guess blue is my color. We are going to go swimming in the Great Lakes and then go to the race track to bet on some horses. Tom cannot wait because he thinks my newness will bring him luck. I sure hope it brings all of us some. My stay has been so amazing that I am heading to New Hampshire next to stay with Jeremy again at his aunt’s house. I have made a brother on this trip and can’t wait for our next adventure.

We ended the evening going to Igor’s birthday party out at a local joint. We had a blast hanging out to two in the morning. The group was amazing and we had some good laughs about the current state of affairs in our government which is healthy when things get bad. It’s a way to cope especially in this day and age when we see problems that are scary. Anyway that night we ended once again at the local grease joint and then rested.

July 26th                                                         Buffalo, NY

I decided to stay one more day – the idea of strawberry pancakes with Jeremy’s aunt was too appealing! We sat and talked till about five and I came back to help clean up a bit. Jeremy has been the most amazing host and I will be heading to New Hampshire to stay with him again. Much love and peace.

I must say the universe must feel that it is time to let loose because good times have been the theme of the last few days and I must say the good times are not over. Festivals are in the air and I am now making them all instead of missing them like in the past. I finally had to leave my new home of Louisville and head out. I did not leave till noon but with these long days it was still light till nine so even leaving that late I got nine hours of riding in. I got chased by a dog again and this boxer snuck on me without a sound. I am sad to say that it might have had its voice box removed which has sadly been a theme with a few dogs I have seen lately. I can say with confidence and little concern for what you may think of me, but if you are into harming animals I feel your genetic code need to be erased from this planet and you can come tell me differently if you wish. But this funny little guy whom was fast as lighting got my new defense I picked up in Louisville. I armed myself with the water bottle and gave him a squirt in the face. It works like a champ – all I warn is that you make sure not to swerve into the road for you get a little off balance when you are concerned with something else. It is like talking on the cell phone while driving. One only has a 100 percent and when you do two things at once both activities lack the appropriate attention – it’s just math. I followed Hwy. 3 until dark and rested under a bridge. The ground was very soft from hard mud and I slept well.

July 15th Fort Wayne, IN

I must say I was reintroduced to rain – it was almost foreign to me since I hadn’t ridden in it in so long. I was fine in the weather and had an overwhelming joy for what my life is and was. All I could think about was how boredom is just a state of mind. Nothing in reality is boring – only how we perceive it. The same goes for a bad day; it is not the day that is bad – it is us. I appreciate all these moments so much it moves me deeply many times every day to think about all I have done and will do in my life.

The rain came to a stop like it was some test to make sure I was still having fun. I came to a tent where a man named Tim called me over. He worked for a company called Biking America that took people north and south and coast to coast on trips. They were really pricey like 8,000 dollars which is even way more than I will spend on my whole trip through all 48 states. They do carry your gear and set up places to stay, food to eat, and probably directions to the restroom, however. I see the fun in not worrying about the little things and if I shelled out that much cash some other things I would want included, but I love the way I travel and would have it no other way. I have learned so much about this country and made so many friends, but most importantly I know who I am and what I want to be and that happiness is my choice not my luxury. I could not trade that for anything. I was going to camp but realized that I was getting really close to Fort Wayne, Indiana and Brian had offered me a place to stay so why not. I was just outside the city when I called him and he loaded his car and was off to meet me. It is so cool to see all these people just want to help and the idea of paying it forward is now a part of who I am and I love it. Much like one day in Louisville when I asked Cindy to stop so I could push this car off the road because it had stalled.

Brian finally found me and we headed in. He was a professional temp and traveler and had been for 15 years – oh boy, this guy was cool. He had just taken odd jobs everywhere and any story I had he had done something in the field – I loved it. He helped me with tons of travel ideas and when I hit up Europe and Asia I will be ready. I was also a big fan of this local farming program where he paid 20 bucks to have a farmer deliver seasonal vegetables and fruit. They all were so nice and I now even eat tomatoes like apples – which is new thing. That night we biked the town. Fort Wayne has tons of famous diners and one would never know. We biked to the Three Rivers Festival where I gave the carneys the cash they strive to get out of us all. Brian let me know about his time with the carneys and suggested I work with them for their views on the world. We also went to this great hands-on science center that was so much fun. It is where our education needs to go – one of the many roads our education needs to go instead of the inefficient highway it is on now. It was nice to see the city with a guide of such knowledge, but I had to leave the next day because I needed some forward progress.

July 16th OHIO at Hwy. crossing 49 and 20

I left about nine and I kept heading north for Michigan and even though the wind was bad I knew at some point it would be in my favor. I also must state two things: one, not having a biking computer has taken any ill thought I had about wind away, and secondly, that the fact I have made it as far as I have without these new bike shorts is a feat in its own. I am so comfortable now its great and good times are following my good spirits. I stopped in a bike shop in Michigan knowing that I needed to route my tires for the back was getting thin. I also could not get into my biggest ring because I think the last shop moved some cables around. Phil was the guy’s name at the shop and he was nice to do it all for free. He even tried to cut a few miles off for me but I was not comfortable in going on the country roads, so I still went my way. It was that whole multiple choice test theory where your first thought is usually right. I was glad with my choice and made it into Ohio my 32nd state. I stopped at a cross road at 49 and 20 and slept next to a cemetery for I was ready for some real good rest. I thought about sleeping under the stars but something told me to set my tarp up and boy was I glad.

July 17th Toledo, OH

It poured all night but my tarp worked great and the lighting was beautiful. I slept like a baby but by now my back was in full seas mode. I slept nine because of the rain and when I started moving around I could barely kick my leg over the back – all movements were calculated and I was glad to be getting into Toledo, Ohio that day. Peggy was waiting on me and was nice to take me in even though I was early which I was glad about because I could not sit on that bike much longer. We went to her home which is where her kids were and just got to know each other. Soon we were all off to a Lebanese restaurant that is world famous and had fed actors and politicians from all over. The food was great and I admired Peggy’s daughter for being only 13 years old and already a five year vegetarian – I was amazed. We dropped the kids off and got a massage chair and then we went to Peggy’s apartment. I love this place – it is an old Victorian home in the art district and she has filled it with color and collectables. Toledo is the city of glass and I must say has an amazing art collection. The museum is to die for and the culture and park systems ranks as one of the best. I would have never guessed, but the people and art proved me wrong. That night we met a group of her friends and was off to the oddest mix of music ever. We started in a Irish pub listening to slow Celtic music that even Peggy, who is a Celtic dancer, did not approve. I imagined it is the music they play at five in the morning to slow down the drunks- making them sway themselves to sleep with bad chants. After we all had had enough we switched gears to a dj of techno and dance. It was a 180 but we all had a ball. I talked to so many people I could not keep it straight and once again I had one of Peggy’s friends who worked on the Great Lakes tell me I should race because there is nothing funnier than having someone who looks like a hippie beat professional trained riders. All in all the night was grand and at about one we retired to sleep. I must say that the Great Lakes are so overwhelming. They are huge and it moves me more than the oceans do. I look forward to riding the coast and I am off to Detroit for a festival with Peggy tomorrow which I will share next time. I love this life and hope everyone loves theirs – if not please start and much love peace.

It was time to move on up the road. I had breakfast and a lovely morning chat with Gabrielle and her mom till about 10:30. It was hard to leave but I knew it was time. I hit the road at a nice pace and the wind was almost not even a bother factor. I am at peace with all things to do with weather and I just moved forward. It is my only mission and I have come too far to fail. I must say that the spin class cracked me up a bunch throughout the day and the instructor’s form just did not help me in my ride. I also love not having the obsession of looking at the mileage computer – it really takes away checking that stupid little machine and that no matter what it says, it does not change what I am doing.

I rode until the sun began to set and got some water in Trezevant. I hung out there for a short break and must say there is just a blanket of water that is in the air making the heat just a little more unbearable. I am fine but the humidity is something to note about the states east of the Mississippi. I began to talk to the people in the gas station and soon was talking to the Chief of Police named David. He was very nice and without any warning asked if I would like to stay in his garage ten miles north in McKenzie, TN. I was shocked and, of course, said yes. Even before my response he was on the phone with his daughter and she was blowing up the air mattress. I was happy with the surprise and honored that he had read me so well and thrown so much trust into me since he would be on duty all night. I made his place and his daughter fixed me some leftovers which were great and I retired to bed with a smile of how great this land of ours is. I slept very well and must throw it in there that the coozie wallet was a success and works great. Plus I must say very stylish in my world since I wear pajama pants, skirts, and other things that make me look so sophisticated.

July 7th McKenzie, TN to Russellville, KY

I could not get up and forced myself around 8:30 to move out because even though I had not seen David or his daughter I did not want to overstay my welcome. I wrote a note of thanks and moved out into what was already the heat of the day. I had a lady give me some literature on Jesus today which cracked me up. If we could only put more time into Jesus thoughts and show that same kindness to others we would be in such a better place than wasting a precious tree on stuff I throw away at my first rest stop. It was hotter today and for the first time in months I began to cramp. I did not want a repeat of Texas, so I drank some Gatorade and added salt to everything. I was in the mood to talk to everyone and had so many conversations with gas attendants it was funny. This was because I wanted out of that hot sun. A guy named Michael was one I talked to and we had a ball over my lunch break just sharing thoughts. I made it into Kentucky and stopped on the northeast side of Russellville. It was a long day and the sun was setting. I finally had to set up my tarp for the first time in a long, long time. I almost was stumped for a second but did just fine. My legs still felt like they might cramp, but I was fine and healthy and slept like a baby. The moon was also beautiful – an orange glow and I fell to sleep with a smile of the beauty that surrounded me – like always on this trip.

July 8th Louisville, KY

I was not sure if I was going to make Louisville, but I left about 7am to give it my best shot. Kentucky is a beautiful place but truly feels like a wet blanket this time of year. I just keep moving though and finally called Cindy to tell her I would be super close but not make it in. She was so kind and said that I was going to get there and for me to just get to a safe spot and after her meetings she would drive over and pick me up. I crossed the eastern time zone and was excited about that accomplishment – it is just overwhelming to look at my atlas and see how far I have come. I made it into Fort Knox, KY and called Cindy. The name of the city was so unreal that I had to double check I was really in the right place but then over the hill there it was. One of the oldest and most secure places in America. I stopped to take a picture and I swear guards on the roof already had me in their sight. I could see sensors in the ground and all sorts of security devices. It was intense but the fort looked like it was under construction throughout the base. I stopped in a good spot and waited for Cindy and was so glad for the surprise pick up. After 8,000 plus road miles, it is a real treat to have this happen. It was so good to see her and it made me miss her wonderful daughter and my best friend, Dawn. I gave her a hug and we were already laughing. I got into her home and Kelly, her husband, is a great guy. He shook my hand and I could tell he was an old- school American. Soon I found out he was the builder of this country and was a true iron worker. With him was his friend, Dean, who was also in the same field but also a racing cyclist that was ready with some questions. We chatted into the night and I already had my day planned and was staying for a few more which was nice. One more thing was that I had a package sent to me with some real bike shorts. That’s right I have made it 29 states with bike shorts that rub and have half the padding of these new ones. I had no idea but I am really happy with the change. I guess it is nice to know that my body has the ability to regenerate so fast and is strong enough to have made it on what I had. I also got some mosquito bands that I can not wait to test and I also got my video camera back which will be fun to have back.

July 9th Louisville, KY

Dean told me to call around noon and we had a day around town planned. He picked me and my bike up and we headed out. His daughter was with him and she put up with our talks all day. Dean is a lucky man and has a beautiful family with both daughters being great people and the one I met has quite the resume being an excellent athlete and a nurse grad from Chicago. We started out dropping my bike off at the cycle place he goes and got lunch there. The burritos were great and I ended up meeting some national champions in racing. To my surprise there are some real riders here in Louisville! I just have to say I am not much for competition, but I think I could hang. We then dropped his daughter off after some ice cream which I crave more and more and we went around town. Louisville has an amazing park system. The parks are beautiful and Dean showed me the race course where he trains. We then got to meet some real Americans – the iron workers – what a group of amazing men. The closest thing I have met to these types are riggers at music concerts, but iron workers would put them to shame. We went on to the Papa John’s Stadium and saw Kelly at work. Dean would be there to, but he was taking it easy with some recovery time. There are often injuries in the field of iron working. These guys are really tough and it is said they inhale some much metal that detectors can go off. These are the men who build our country and I am now glad to have known them and would stand by them in anything. We left there and headed to Churchhill Downs where the Kentucky Derby is run. I am so glad to now know people there and maybe get to go next year. It is a beautiful arena and just being in the area you can feel the energy of the races and excitement of the event. We were able to see the horses that stay there being groomed and walked and I learned a few stories behind the place. Dean even helped build the museum that stands to the left of the place today. Dean dropped me off and Cindy came home. It was time for Dean to go on a group ride – I almost joined and we were off to a motorcycle gathering at the Texas Roadhouse. It was a blast with over a hundred bikes, music, and good energy everywhere. We listened till nightfall then went in for dinner. That place has some amazing food and Kelly informed me that Cindy once worked for them. It was such a full day and I had a blast. We retired to bed full from a great meal.

July 10th

Oh, what a day! I laid around till about 2pm when I knew Dean was going to get me on a real bike. I was excited and wanted to see what it was all about. We went on a 25 mile ride through parts of Louisville you would never think were there. It was like I was back on the road, but Dean kept pointing out his home only a few miles over a hill. It was like we were in another world. I have to say the bike was so light I had trouble riding it with out falling over when I stood. There was so much speed in it and on climbs I had to stay settled for I would sway too much. Riding with a group is different to me – I have yet to figure out drafting and pedaling with high cadence and not force. Still it was so much fun and I thanked him. That night we had dinner from Cindy’s restaurant which was amazing J’s gumbos is a Louisiana style food to die for. The fact it is not in my home town just seems like an opening. We had jambalaya and samples of all the other plates. I remember New Orleans well and stories from the bayou. That night Kelly and I stayed up till the morning just talking about life. I have so much respect for iron workers because they work hard and have a good head on their shoulders. Failure is not an option and preparation is key. I was just floored by the range of topics we covered. He is a great guy and we see eye to eye on many things. I like what he said was his most important quote which is: “All we have is each other”and the loyalty behind being an iron worker moves me. If we could all just live a little like this we would all be in a better place. They are doers and the walk is what matters not the talk. We are in a state of words and the picture is getting lost – I think we both agree and hope that the painters come back out and begin on what once was a beautiful mural. Our country was and is a beautiful place but if we do not start growing again we will perish. Through selfishness one can achieve selflessness and as long as we are trying to save those that are drowning without learning to swim ourselves we will all be lost. I salute those that are the builders of this land and that many take for granted – where would we be without them.

July 11th and 12th Louisville, KY

Well, I must say I have thrown these two together because that is pretty much what happened with them both. I met up with Erin and MK for one of, if not the most fun weekend to date at the Forecastle Festival where we saw two nights of Widespread Panic. It was amazing – these fans of theirs are like a sea of waves. The fans flow with the band are almost the life force of wsp. I got tickets for one night but had so much fun meeting everyone bouncing around hotel rooms after the show and seeing all the madness and chaos that is a wsp show. There were hoola-hoops and costumes. Balloons were every where. The festival is something that is almost so crazy words cannot begin to describe the event. I went back the second night too and it was just more fun. I met more people that I will remember forever and finally made it back to the hotel that Erin and Mike let me stay in and got breakfast. I will never forget this fun and hope that you ask me about it one day, so I can try to begin and describe the fun one has at a wsp show.

July 13th Louisville, KY

We woke up late almost as if the festival was just a dream. MK was nice and took me back to Cindy’s who was most likely wondering when I was coming back. I am using this day to piece together all that I need to and get ready to get back on the bike in the morning and continue on. I must say the last two weeks here and in Memphis will be some of the most lasting memories of the trip. It was almost like a “over halfway” celebration but I am ready to bite the bullet and get serious again on my ride. I must say with all the fun it will be hard, but I know I will again see many people that I have met and it will just be better next time. I am off to Fort Wayne, Indiana next. Looking forward to it and can’t wait for the next hurdle. Much love to all and talk to you soon.

It is a beautiful day and the weather is great, but the heat is rising. I really have not minded too much though – it just reminds me of Atlanta. I was ready to go and headed off to some slightly strong wind. The wind really does not bother me anymore either – I just think of it as a way Mother Nature talks to me. The ride was great and before I knew it I was in Chester the home of Popeye and the end of Illinois. I went over the Mississippi River which always puts me in awe at it size and power. It was getting dark and right after a popcorn factory in McBride, MO I was camping under a bridge relaxed as ever.

June 29th                                McBride, MO to Wardell, MO

I slept in a little and left about nine. The weather was the same and I was excited to get through Missouri. I have to say that it was this day that I had to end the use of the mileage computer on my wheels. It is weird how you just are bound to what that computer says and how many times I look at it in a day for it to tell me what I already know. It is like looking at an elevation map for a hike in hopes that the mountain coming up will change. In no way does it change my reality ahead – it just makes me doubt my abilities to complete the upcoming task. I was through and the computer is dead to me. It was turned to the side after not working for the last time and I have to say it was the happiest move I made in awhile. Missouri was a beautiful ride. My ideas of the people was neutral, but most were really nice. I had my second mad trucker give me a hand gesture, but as I always say at the end of the day I get to go to sleep and wake up as me and him the same and I would not trade that for the world. I made it to Wardell, MO because the great American River Road 61 that I was on ended into a freeway for a while and I had to take old farm roads that had letters instead of numbers as names to get around it. I found the park with the help of the gas station attendant and set up shop for the night. I knew there were bugs, but I had no Idea to what extent. It was the worst yet. Mosquitoes were everywhere. I rolled and tossed – they were going through my clothes and making me sweat, so I had to get out of my sleeping bag. Then they would bite through the liner. It felt as if they were under my back to the floor.

June 30th                                Wardell, MO to Arkansas to Memphis, TN

I had had it at like midnight. I was going to ride out. The deet which I will never use again did nothing but make my lips numb. I had to leave for a night ride or I was going to lose it. I rode for an hour just looking at the stars. I rode in the dark because it was just so breath taking and the flatness of the land let me see cars coming for miles. I love the stars and the noise in the dark. I saw constellations and shooting stars. It was so nice and the air was cool. I finally saw some church stairs and thought that would be a good place. I stopped and waited for a mosquito to bite and there was nothing, but as I laid down this time with just my bag because I did not want to pack again I heard the buzzing in my ear like someone was drilling in my head. They were once again everywhere like they awoke as my breath filled their sleeping areas. I was through and caconded my body I n the bag -sweat or not. I awoke at 4:00 am and just left – the sun had almost broken and my lip was swollen from bites. It was crazy that they could even get through my facial hair – what kind of prehistoric monster are these guys! Still I was laughing about the whole thing. It was now behind me and I was fine and smiling. I did get into Arkansas earlier and I was going to be in Memphis sooner so that was nice. I was staying with a friend of a few friends named Sam and his girl, Kelly. I could not wait especially after that morning. I stopped at McDonald’s for breakfast and rode like the wind. I am so free without this computer I cannot believe I kept it this long. Mileage is harder now and way off but for my sanity and peace of mind it is worth it. (The internet mileage calculators will make the mileage close) So sorry to all you mileage hounds though – my trip is off the books, but very fulfilling and may I make a suggestion to not live your life through data that is often unimportant in the first place. No matter how far I go it does not make where I am going any shorter. I stopped at a gas station near Tennessee. I learned or at least reconfirmed the lesson never to judge a book by its cover. There was a man with no teeth who I bet was forty but looked sixty five who just ran up to me asking questions. Now I was very kind and answered all the questions of course, but I was putting him in categories in my head as I answered. Then out of the blue he just pulls out cash and hands me ten bucks saying you need it more than me. It was touching and sweet. My jaw dropped and it shattered all I thought I knew. I was so happy by the generous act – it moved me and made me want more than ever to make this a mission and help whoever I can. I was finally at the border of Memphis, TN with just the Mississippi River to go but there was one issue. The bridges were two of the fastest interstates I have seen since Cali on I-10. I was not risking this plus I was where both were splitting and needed the left bridge. I was going to hitch over and made a sign but before I could use it, a car stopped which was amazing. Damian Gates was a very generous man. He had that Memphis draw and said “man” at the end of everything. We only rode for like ten minutes, but we laughed so hard. He was just floored at the craziness of white people and I was just glad to be with black people again. It is refreshing to see their humor and rational side to everything plus it cracks me up how crazy he thought I was! It felt weird being in the south again – I felt so close to home. Damien dropped me off in the perfect spot and said good bye. I wished him the best in everything. I was so happy to be in Memphis and feel it is so silly some people’s view of this amazing wonderful town. All I hear from outsiders is the danger, but may I say to you that waking up each day anywhere is just as dangerous and this city is as rich in culture as the dark corners of New Orleans.

I went to meet Sam and locked the bike up at a house Kelly was watching. We were off to go swimming and I jumped in the shower and borrowed a suit. When we arrived though we were asked to leave which was weird, but I soon found out why. They had had friends over that had dumped the chairs into the pool and this crazy attendant (who watches her cameras all day) denied them swimming privileges for the rest of the year. I laughed for awhile on this one and tried to tell Kelly it was cool. I cannot believe the punishment was so harsh and it is sad to know there are people out there that hate themselves so much they must control others whenever they can. Let me take a moment and ask everyone that reads this to go and look in a mirror and with true conviction tell yourself you love you and mean it. If this is hard or too funny for you to do in private then please look at your life and at least find happiness. Well, after the swimming fiasco we went back to the house where they were house-sitting and had a few friends over. We watched “Amateurs” and then rested – it was great to be with friends and have 28 states down – so I slept well.

July 1st                                    Memphis, TN

It was a new day and a new month. We rested for awhile but Kelly went to work. I was excited bc that night we were going to rendezvous my fav ribs in the world and Sam new a waiter there. Before though We went to sams mom’s house and boy was she the sweetest lady in the world plus she had a key to my heart when I saw her four refrigerators. She just feed me with more and more and I ate till I was going out the door. I even had food in bags with me as I left. We got Kelly and after a few hours of chilling it was time for dinner. I was in heaven and ate like a king with a full rack and then a sandwich plus parts of two appetizers. We then met up with matt a guy that was letting us use his place for the fourth which I might stay for. We then had to go to bardogs a bar my good friend and manger Mark at smiths old bars brother in law owned. He was great and got us more food =even though my belly was going to exploded. luckily matt was with us and he helped me out. I wanted to stay but we had a poker game to attend and we were already late. I must say this did not go as well as my game in La but it was fun and everyone I met was the best. I managed to not lose all that I put in but I did not win even close. I did get some good laughs though and in the end that’s worth all the money in the world. We retired to the home and that was that.

July2nd                                   Memphis, TN

So this was a nice day to rest – I helped Sam throw out a couch that had been an eye sore in Kelly’s apartment and then got all my computer work done for the day. I need to find a new place to crash, so I got to work and luckily Gabrielle came through, who was the sweetest girl and it was funny that I had stayed with her sister, Rachel, in New Orleans. That night we were off for a fun time going to pick up her cousin, who I adored spending time with, and headed reluctantly to a country concert in the square near Beale Street. It was a guy named Todd’s birthday, but as soon as we got there it was time to go (thankfully). We moved the party to a blues club which was amazing. Kelly’s cousin had to go to work the next day, so sadly we had to drop her off as fast as we met her and headed home where we rocked out to 311 DVD concert till like 4.

July 3rd                                               Memphis, TN

I was going to Gabrielle’s but did not awake till like noon, so Kelly, who had a day off, and I decided to go check out the Imax and saw the one on the Grand Canyon. The place was packed and people were stealing parking spaces from everyone including us who were asking people and following them to their cars. Finally, we got in as the show was starting and it was a little cheesy but great – it even choked me up for a second as suddenly as there was flood of memories of my past locations and their beauty. After the show it was time for me to go and see Gabrielle. I was so happy to see her since the last time was in Atlanta at a Widespread Panic show. Her mother was so kind too and opened her doors right away. She is the spitting image of Rachel. As I got there though it was time to run out because I told Gab I wanted to do the spin class she was in to see how much harder it was than what I did. I have to say it was crazy and nothing like how I ride. The best part was the guy teaching it came around and  corrected my form. It was hilarious – I had no idea I was not biking right ( ya right) but I told you before – cyclists are a different breed and I just do not fit in I guess. Of course, I never said anything because I didn’t want it to seem like I was bragging, but it is a great story and I did wonder how many miles he rides in a day. We returned home, chatted, and then it was time to go out and Gabriella showed me the time of my life. We started off first having an amazing dinner cooked by her mom who can do anything. We then headed to the Half Shell which may have the best oysters I have had to date. We then went to the deli which was a local joint – Sam and Kelly were even there. I am starting to see that Memphis is a big city with a small town mentality. Everyone knew everyone. Sam, Kelly, Gabriella, and I then went to Wild Bills, an original jute joint place. The energy and music were powerful. They sold forties and wings and the lighting was set so all you could register was red and smoke, but the music just moved you. There was even a guy from Japan that was there that comes every year to play with them. He could not sing for his life but could whale on the guitar. I even danced once again. It may be my favorite spot in Memphis yet. After Sam and Kelly went home, Gab and I headed to Alex’s to eat a killer hamburger. This place is a bar that may never close and funny enough got crowded when you thought it would be dead at 4 in the morning as we were leaving.

July 4th                                               Memphis, TN

I awoke about ten to a puppy and Gab’s nephew who kept me busy all day. We put together three puzzles, played tons of games, and just as I thought I had him napping, he was up for more. I must say I have to appreciate these situations for it keeps me from having one of my own right now and this might have taken a year off my life! Ha!

I soon found out to that Gab’s mother was very crafty and when I asked her to sew my wrist wallet that was once again ripping we ended in a whirl wind of ideas. We came up with a new wallet made out of koozies which I wish I had my own. The thing was made out of two koozies and even has buttons. It is pretty cool and is being stretched. I was just amazed at how good she was at doing it.

That night we went and met up with Gab’s friends from work, who are nurses who work on the hospital transplant floor. We then picked up Ricky, a guy I met the night before, and headed to the roof where Sam and Kelly were watching a friend’s apartment. We, of course, missed the fireworks but I must say that they were the most disappointing I had ever seen through the buildings and only 15 minutes long. It was nice to just hang though and then we were off early to bed because Gab had to be up by five for work.

July 5th                                               Memphis, TN

I am staying one more day just because it’s cloudy and why not take a slow day to finish everything up. I must say I am antsy to get on the road for some small fear I will not finish, but fears are just the locks on our doors of opportunity in life and I will not have any. I am healthy, happy, and ready to bike so bring it on. Much love and peace.

June 24th Madison, WI to Freeport, IL

I set off in some intense heat. I started late from Carolyn’s because we just had so many great conversations I could not stop. I think maybe I was supposed to go into the art world and failed to see my calling because her job has an amazingly open view about what is and is not. At about ten though it was time and she had a meeting anyway. I was off and knew the way, but from the beginning my bike was really acting up – here we go again. I made it to the border of Illinois and Wisconsin and found a bike shop to call in Freeport, IL owned by a guy named Joe. I was riding into Freeport and about ten miles before I got there, a red truck just pulled over with a man waving me down. Chip was trying to point out a bike path I could take which was very kind, but it was dirt and I was not about to change my path. I told him the issue and he knew Joe so he gave me a lift into Freeport. We talked and informed me of Freeport’s amazing history with the Lincoln debates. I even got to go see the location. It made me really understand how with such limited press in those days some one could become larger than life with just a few strong stories in the biggest papers. Chip dropped me off at Joe’s and said good bye. He was so nice and Joe then got to work on my bike. He had a confidence about him that made me feel good about his work and noticed the new derailleur cable was stretched. When he finished though he found a bigger problem in my bearings where one of the cones had rubbed raw. Do not worry – I also have no idea what that means but I was told it was bad. He did not have a spare part but looked up and without even knowing it was 5pm. I was going to ride out, but after some great conversation Joe asked if I wanted to stay for a cookout and I really did. We had a blast with his brother and friends and I must say that family knows how to cook. Joe was so into it he had an outdoor kitchen that he built. We ate like kings and his friends were all great and different. From an amateur down hill skater to town clerk to a couple of old school hippies that trained horses and had great stories to tell – Joe and his brother were also renaissance men dabbling in everything. It was just too much fun and the next day was even better.

June 25th Freeport, IL to Bradford, IL

We both got up at 7:00 am and headed to McDonalds for breakfast – I would eat there everyday if they served that all the time. We chatted with some locals that I could have listened to forever. It is just magic the knowledge and insight you can gain from our community’s elders if you just listen. We then went to the coffee house because Shannon who was there last night wanted to say goodbye plus this was the main hang out it seemed. There I met a legend, Tyger Johnson, one of the most famous recumbent bikers in the world. He is 73 now and still kills the competition – all of this you would never now though because he is also the best example of humility I have ever seen. He and all his friends just chatted and we had a ball. As I thought it was time to go, I was told to stay because the news paper was going to do an article on me. I answered questions and then took a photo and was off. I told Joe thank you and he sent me off with some zip ties I am sure will be useful. I hit the road at about 10:30am. I rode in the hot weather for 96 miles. There was a detour and luckily I talked to a girl that knew the fastest way around that when I ended up in Bradford, IL at the Casey General gas station with Michael Collins and Kelly. I must note that I was sweating so much that I ringed my shirt out for five minutes with water just pooling at my feet. Michael and Kelly were great and fed me pizza and donuts. I had so much fun that I left and then saw a picnic table that I came back to and chilled into the night. We had a ball and I am sure the customers were very confused. I finally headed to my covered picnic table at nightfall because there were a lot of kids walking the streets and I wanted to rest not chat the night away.

June 26th Bradford, IL to Springfield, IL

I popped up at 5:30am ready for the day plus I was told I had a long way to go into Springfield, but I wanted to just ride so I was not too worried. I found a travel center and asked how to get to Hwy 29 and found the route over the Illinois River. To my surprise what I thought was going to be a hundred miles was only 60 miles into Springfield. I was so happy and just flew in. I got there around 2:30 and decided to go to the bike shop I had called about the wheel problem. I really did not want to have to rebuild the wheel because it is pricey, but luckily Robert may be one of the best mechanics yet. He found spare parts and even had my highest and lowest gears working which no one had been able to do since the beginning. Todd, the owner, was really cool also so R and M Cyclery is now forever a part of my trip – they are even the first sticker on the new frame. After that I was off over Lake Springfield to Janet’s who opened her home to me without even a blink of an eye. I covered 130 miles and it was only 4pm and I am jawed by that because I was at the shop for an hour and rested at the Chilly Bear outside of town for awhile. I am just so happy with my physical abilities. Andy, who is Janet’s son took me out to meet his friends and they all were too kind. They were really funny because they all wanted pictures with me. Then we went to see Transformers 2 which was amazing but super long. Funny story though is that I found out they refilled slushies for free and had four of them before the movie began. We were out at 12:30 and went to bed – I was so tired.

June 27th Springfield, IL to

I am taking today off but then heading out tomorrow because even though it is super hot the weather is perfect. Today is all about relaxing and I might even go to a remote control airplane show. Everyone I have met in Springfield is great and if you ever wanted to know anything about Abraham Lincoln – it’s the place to be. It has also been interesting to see the growth of the city and how it is expanding like Atlanta, Georgia. All is well and life is good. I have now stated and am sticking to “I think happy therefore I am happy”. So the model airplanes did not work out, but the day was full of many good things – one being rest which was my favorite. I even got a few cat naps in. We then went to Lincoln’s house which was pretty amazing and was the only home he owned and he even remodeled it two times. His kids were interesting in the fact that there was no discipline used on them and the stories were endless. To my surprise his bed and desk were very small. They have preserved the home well. After the history lesson we moved on to a deli in Springfield called Horseshoe. It was a heart attack waiting to happen and my stomach laughed at the challenge - it was great. It is Texas toast with meat, cheese and fries with all sorts of stuff all mixed together. I cleaned house after a nice meal and we met Andy’s sister and husband and some friends – one being crazy Zack and we did a little storm chasing. The lightning was beautiful and strong. Then we went and played pool till midnight. I was not as sharp as the last time but held my own and the fun was what really mattered. I hope the rain stops soon. We will eat breakfast and then I am off while they go to church. I look forward to the ride. Peace.

Article III. Michael Galardi of Atlanta made a stop in Freeport Thursday during his quest to bicycle all 48 contiguous states. Having logged approximately 7,400 miles biking, Illinois is his 25th state.

Like the shape of an “M,” Michael Galardi of Atlanta, Georgia, crisscrosses the lower 48 contiguous states with one mission in mind — education. Galardi made a stop in Freeport for 24-hours starting Wednesday when his bike broke down, and while his visit to the Pretzel City was brief, he has one more lesson for his “Jolly Geography” trip.

Galardi, 26, began his trek across America on Jan. 1. in Key West, Fla. To date he has logged 7,400 miles. Illinois is his 25th state to visit and while Freeport was not a planned trip, a bicycle break down necessitated a call to Joe Dadez, manager of Freeport Bicycle Company, to help repair a minor problem. Dadez put Galardi up for the night, and said he is impressed by Garlardi’s efforts to bicycle his way across the states.

“That’s a lot of riding this guy does — logging almost 150 miles a day, Dadez said. “He’s doing a pretty great thing and I think that’s great, but I still think he’s a little nuts. But in a good way.”

Geography Mission

Galardi sat down for a cup of coffee Thursday at 9 East Coffee in Freeport to relay his story of life on the road. He has a love for the outdoors, which helps as he spends many nights sleeping under a bridge to rest and take shelter.

This is not the first time Galardi has made a trek. In 2005, he walked from Georgia to Canada and along the way, he spent six months hiking the Appalachian Trail. He is not a vagabond, but a free spirit, with a mission — educate kids about life on the road.

“The ‘Jolly Geography’ project is an educational tool for children. It was after I started to talk to young kids, I realized they didn’t know life outside their immediate borders, so through a Web site I have, I am able to show kids the geography of their country,” Galardi said. “After I finished hiking the Appalachian Trail, I knew I wanted to do more.”

The Web site to follow Galardi and his journey is www.jollygreenicemachine.com. This Web site tells the story of his life, where he has been and a documentation of his trip. He updates it as much as he can and along the way. He had made stops to visit students in other schools in California, Texas, and Wyoming.

“I believe through a healthy imagination, a healthy reality is born,” he said. “I want to show kids that whatever they dream, they can accomplish.”

Mission Accomplished

Galardi logs 80 to 150 miles per day and hopes to finish his trek by Nov. 1. He said he thought the trip would take a year, but plans to speed things up. He has seen his share of snow, sleet and rain and considers rain to be a free shower.

He left Freeport Thursday on his way to Arkansas. He travels the country in the shape of an “M” and plans to hit all the states on his touring bike. He has learned to travel light and prefers to take refuge under a bridge to camp each night.

“I follow the program of education — it is like dipping fruit into chocolate, because the child needs the fruit, but loves the chocolate — only to discover they truly loved both,” Galardi said.