Lisa & Ted's East To West Trans America Bike Ride May-Aug 2009

Mission Accomplished

2009-08-11T17:09:00.001-10:00

2009-08-09T17:42:00.018-10:00

Eugene Oregon

2009-08-09T17:29:00.002-10:00

Aloha,
Well we are in Eugene Oregon just about 65 miles from our final destination and the dipping of the front tire in the Pacific Ocean. Amazing I am pretty much speechless and can't really give you any words right now but they will come.
So, this past week was tough I had a few moments of why did I torture myself. Eastern Oregon is a desert with Mountains way off in the distance we knew we had to climb through and around those mountains and they were spectacular. We have put in alot of miles in the last week trying to stay on our schedule we are on schedule.
Yesterday we had our last climb of the ride over Mckenzie Pass at 5300 some odd feet, it was a slow progression of about 16 miles. We left out of Sisters Oregon not knowing if we could get through the pass as the road was closed to all traffic when you get to the top and want to continue west. I told Ted let's just go! We did and we saw some other bikers they liked this road as not much car traffic and no cars at all after mile 9 to the top. They are doing major road construction. We cruised along and had a steady climb, I just kept thinking this is it no more climbing after this one. We got to the top and were stopped by the road construction guy and he said do you want to go over the top yes was my answer he said you can't I told him we would wait until you guys were done because I was not going back down and around the other way. He said ok, then go over there and wait with those other boys you will see those other boys in my pictures. We did and what an amazing area it was like being on the Big Island all mixed in with the Lava rock. We thought we were going to have to wait until 5pm to go down the other side but the sag wagon for the boys showed up on top with an escort vehicle, the Mom of one of the boys got a report that her sons bike was broken, but I think it was a ploy to get them down. so I went over and said if they are going we are going to, and he let us know that he could not say Yes as the road is closed and advised us to go back the other way. So we all left and had a most beautiful ride down about 11 miles of pure virgin forest of Oregon. What a ride! We made 89 miles last night and found a place to eat and sleep. We got up this morning and only had to ride 30 miles Ted and I were both happy about this as we are a little tired. Then all of a sudden a Van passed us and it was Fabian and his wife, telling us to pull over. We did and we met them for lunch. Fabian is the Guy who rode with us in the beginning and then his knee went bad. It was so fun to catch up with him and to meet his wife amber. We are now holed up in a hotel room here in Eugene resting and preparing for our last 65 miles tomorrow. It's Florence or Bust! So I will write again when we are finished.
So until then keep the rubber side down and enjoy the Ride,
Lisa

Montana Idaho Oregon Pictures

2009-08-04T09:18:00.019-10:00

State #10 Oregon, we are so excited to be here!

Anyone for a little climbing?

This is what you get after the climb

One Cow

Ok, so maybe you would prefer to go down hill?

Pete and Rita riding up the first climb of the day, it was a long day 80 miles.

A waterfall right off the side of the road

Riggins Idaho, How this for a perfect camping spot?

Dirk and Nancy

A Little more character building.

the Bikes are up to no good while we have breakfast.

Chris from Adventure cycling dawning his mojo beads prior to our big climb of the day.

Just the river, but I liked the way the sun came in.

More pretty Idaho scenery.

The bridge
Lochsa River in Idaho

Cruising along the Lochsa River 87 miles of this can you imagine?

Went through Idaho and are in Oregon State #10

2009-08-04T09:07:00.002-10:00

Aloha Everyone,
My apologies for not keeping up so great with the blog but you know how I am. Ted's blog is fantastic so check it out if you can.
We went through Idaho which is absolutely beautiful and the water is so awesome. Had some road construction to cruise around which worked out really well as we bicyclists got to set the pace for the pilot car so the others had to follow us, then we would have about a half hour in between without any cars bothering us. The Idaho land is stunning, we went through the whitewater capital of Idaho and saw the rafters have a blast, someday I will be back here to enjoy the land for a longer period of time. We got to go 87 miles down hill you talk about fun, Ted says he was getting alittle bored but I wasn't, it was so nice not to have to worry about saving my energy for the hills just floating along and enjoying the scenery. Ted and I met up with Dirk and Nancy they are my previous Bosses and second family, we always say I am their middle daughter. They spoiled us with Salmon and Steak mmmm it was so delicious, we got our laundry done and had a bed to sleep in, then in the morning they actually took us the whole route. Thanks Dirk and Nancy you are Da Bombs! We got to visit and I got to see all of their animals they are so cute. On Sunday we crossed into Oregon our 10th and final state of this trip by tomorrow we will cross over 4000 miles on our bicycles, I can't believe it. I am having a hard time grasping next week this time I won't have to ride my bicycle. I have so enjoyed this journey of a lifetime, I have met so many wonderful people along the way. It has been really neat to come across other cyclists and hear their stories of where they are going and why. I do have a special empathy for those college graduates who have no money and are forced to camp everynight. But hey they are young, me I Love the creature comforts of having dry clothes and a nice warm bed to sleep in with a coffee maker at my disposal. After a few nights like 4 or 5 I am ready for the motel. I have said enough for now I will give you some pictures to look at.
Until next time keep the rubber side down and enjoy the ride,
Lisa

We are in Montana The Treasure State

2009-07-26T17:26:00.010-10:00

Aloha Everyone,
I'm here I'm here, it's been a tough week trying to find internet access or just having enough energy to actually write something. The scenery is gorgeous some of the prettiest places I have ever witnessed. The Tetons, Yellowstone and Bitteroot area of Montana. Everyday last week we had atleast one climb to do with most days having 2 climbs, these mountains really take a toll on the legs along with the wind. The reward is worth every moment of suffering. There is alot of land out here in the middle of nowhere and people leave their sprinklers on all the time so water is plentiful. I'm sure they leave the water running while brushing their teeth. I had an encounter with a big mean and ugly pit bull. 2 pit bulls came charging out at us and one of them bit into my shoe but he did not draw blood or break through my shoe. I am so thankful. We spent the night is Wisdom and I woke up feeling much wiser and alot colder. We have crossed over 3500 miles. It is starting to feel a little bitter sweet wanting to reach or goal and yet knowing this will be the end of one of those life time adventures. I think it was yesterday my legs were feeling really tired as we were climbing at 4.5 mph and this beautiful soft gentle breeze came up from behind us and gave just the perfect amount of push to make the climb a little easier and I broke out in tears, tears of joy and thanks. We only have 3 more maps to accomplish. tonight we are in Missoula and tomorrow we will go to Adventure cycling headquarters and get out picture taken, they are the ones who made the route possible and they will add us to their wall of fame. Trans America 2009 Ted and Lisa.
It's almost 10pm so I gotta go to bed, but until next time keep the rubber side down and enjoy the ride.
Lisa

Wyoming

2009-07-17T02:30:00.002-10:00

We are off to see the Wizard, Oh wait we are not in Kansas anymore. I'm pretty sure I would cry if we were still in Kansas. Wyoming is the Real Wild West. this place is rugged and unforgiving. There is alot of scenery beautiful, green, red, and brown mountains everywhere. The winds here make Kansas look like a kindergardener. I can just imagine if you got stranded out here it would not be long for the vultures to start circling you and the cowboy would walk up to you and look at you without a lot of mercy, like how could you be so dumb to actually ride your bicycle across wyoming don't you know this place is Wild. We can see the Tetons out in front of us, tomorrow we will be doing our second highest climb 10, 000 plus feet. Today we are climbing just under 4000 feet and it's gonna be hot. So if you want to know this isn't vacation. I have been suffering at times but loving the whole journey. I have always been one to push limits in my own suttle way. With that being said I would much rather go to the spa today I am just trying to put off the 77 miles we are doing today. Are any of you available to pick us up in the next 20 minutes, ok ok maybe just keep us in your thoughts and send a little energy our way and safety too.
Until then enjoy the ride and keep the rubber side down,'
Lisa

Another day in Wyoming

2009-07-16T12:46:00.010-10:00

these Mountains had green dirt

Red Rocks just like Arizona

Brenn showed us around the property and let us take pictures of the baby goats and cows.

More Mountains

He was going off, he wanted his bottle.

Momma Jersey cow used for milk

The LONG and Winding Road

Continental Divide crossing #4 of 11

Wyoming

2009-07-14T11:06:00.002-10:00

Aloha Everyone,
We made it to wyoming state number 7 and the end of section 6 map we only have 5 more sections to complete. We are approaching 3000 miles and my tires are holding up great I highly recommend the Schwalbe Marathon tires they are da bomb. I thought Molokai was windy but Wyoming is windier. We are in Rawlins Wyoming and so far we have seen a whole lot of wildlife, I spotted a bear sitting on a rock the other morning Ted got a good picture of him you can see it on his blog page which is accessible through the links on my home page. Tons of Pronghorns, they are so cute they have white fluffy butts, they are big deers. Bald Eagle, cows, horses and I guess we are in Rattlesnake country but haven't seen one of those. Today we are resting as tomorrow we are staying in a real Ghost Town, Jeffrey City it went bust after Cherlynobl incident, they were mining uranium went from 8000 people to under 100. We hear there is amotel in the town and one restaurant and maybe a Baptist church where we can sleep. So you probably will not hear from us for a day or two as we are really going out to the middle of Nowhere, we have prepared today stocking up on food to carry us over if need be and it sounds like we will have access to water. We are leaving super early in the morning hopefully by 5:30am as this is the only time the wind is not at gale force the only part is at that hour it is only about 47 degrees so many decisions:-) Wyoming has alot of bust towns we went through Sinclair yesterday all that is left is the refinery still operating. We also had to ride on I-80 for 13 miles with people driving 80-90 miles an hour it was a little scary but atleast we had a big shoulder to ride on with a lot of rubber tires and glass and general road debris. When we left the highway the flags on our bikes were blowing and we had a headwind for the rest of the ride, I got real hungry all of a sudden and had to stop and eat a cliff bar and drink some water. The folks here in Wyoming don't seem to like to move over for us bikers when traveling on their roads. We will make the Tetons by this weekend I can't wait we have another big climb but I hear the scenery is fantastic.
So until then keep the rubber side down and enjoy the ride

Wyoming State #7

2009-07-14T03:25:00.006-10:00

Pretty Wyoming Horses

Can you see where we came from

These cattle got lose on the highway but the dogs drove them back in.

Pronghorns

Hello Wyoming

2009-07-11T13:24:00.009-10:00

The Motorcycles atleast 20 them this particular time

Barbara from Germany, she went wizzing by on the down hill from the pass

the Germans Barbara and Matt

Colorado Scenery

The Continental Divide

Awesome Rock formation, I think this is where the great wall of china got their ideas.

Pass number 2 Willow springs also Continental Divide crossing #2

Somebody put a scarecrow with a pipe in the police car this was one of those Steven King neighborhoods

Ted as seen in my rearview mirror

Hot Sulphur Springs to Walden Colorado

2009-07-11T13:16:00.002-10:00

Aloha Everyone,
Let's see we did about 63 miles today and a good little bit of climbing to go with that. We crossed the Continental Divide again today #2 at 9635 ft. When we woke this morning it was so cold I did not want to get started we had to wait until 7am to find a breakfast place open, and it was warm and toasty inside. By 8:30am it had warmed up alot and we were on our way. Cruising along enjoying the Colorado scenery, if any of you ever need suggestions for a scenic route through this state I would be more than happy to share this route with you. For us biking sometimes we have a shoulder to ride on and sometimes we don't this morning we did. Then when we went on 125 North we thought for a second it was a gravel road and were like oh no.. but this was the road to the landfill and ours was paved. As soon as we headed North we started climbing at a gradual pace for quite a while. We passed the Colorado River and just really enjoyed the scenery. We stopped for an energy bar and kept climbing. We reached the top of our second pass after about 31 miles into our day and it wasn't too bad. There were some motorcyclists there so we talked for a while and cruised on into Rand hoping for a place to eat but there was not but there was a cute store and he had drinks and snacks, I got popcorn that looked like corn on the cob and a coke, this gave me a sugar rushed which was good because we had a nice headwind for the last 22 miles of the ride. We pulled into Walden and are relaxing now before doing a little laundry and finding a place to eat.
So until next time keep the rubber side down and enjoy the ride,
Lisa

colorado pictures

2009-07-10T14:57:00.016-10:00

Rocky Mountain High Colorado

2009-07-10T14:49:00.002-10:00

Aloha Everyone,

It has been a wonderful week the riding has been pretty instense but beautfiul, one day I climbed over 5000ft, I wasn't sure if I could do that or not but I did. WEEE.......... The altitude has taken some getting use to you feel like you asthma or something a pressure when you try to breath. I have consumed a lot of water and not eaten too much to help adjust up here in the high country. We did our highest climb on the Trans am trail Hoosier Pass 11,542 feet. We did most of the climbing the day before we hit the top of the pass and on this day I was exhausted between climbing up and down and a bit of a headwind it was intense. The day of the climb we only had 1600 or so feet left to go I just took it slow and easy and knew it would not take me more than one hour to reach the top. I cannot explain how beautiful it is, we were at our first continental divide crossing of the trip. Then it was a fun downhill ride to Breckenridge were we had lunch and continued onto Dillion in the afternoon. Today we are in Hot Sulphur Springs home to 22 hot pools. It is really beautiful country I can't help it I keep saying this but it is true. At every corner coming down the pass I wanted to stop and take a pciture. Also we are at the start of the Colorado River which runs into the Grand Canyon it is pretty small so far.
Ok enough blah blah blah from me let me load the pictures. We will be in Wyoming by Sunday Yeee Haw I hear it's high but flat. I will let you know.
Until then Keep the rubber side down and enjoy the ride.
Lisa

Colorado pictures

2009-07-06T09:54:00.010-10:00

Welcome to Colorado

Eads Colorado Sunset over Town

Colorado Railroad

Contemplating the finer things in life. Peeing in the Cattle Guard

Dinner of champions; Beer and Popcorn for appetizer, Ceasar salad main course, and Dortitoes and Diet Coke for Dessert. This is what you get from a gas station mini mart.

Storm Rolling in 10 minutes after our arrival in Fowler Colorado.

This line of train cars went on for over 11 miles. Lots of Urban Art painted on them

Pueblo Colorado

2009-07-06T09:46:00.002-10:00

Aloha Everyone,
Yes, we saw the mountains today we will start the real climbing tomorrow it will be slow but I am so ready for a change of scenery. It is really amazing how every afternoon the storms are starting to roll in. We have been advised to make sure we have finished our climbs around noon time and have started to descent as the weather is stormy in the afternoon. We were riding with Chase the other day and he was takingit slow and actually got stuck in the storm and he took cover in the ditch that's how ominous these things look. It is Thundering outside right now.
We are starting to see a change in flora and fauns, and the mammals too. We are seeing rabbits, prarie dogs, and of course the cows and horses, oh and a few snakes too.
Pueblo is a big town so I think it will be a movie night, can't wait I want popcorn.
Tonight I will pull out my cold weather gear as there are reports of 36 degree temps, brrrrrrr. Going up you get hot and coming down you get cold. Also, up here you don't really sweat as it is so dry but you do get alot thirstier atleast I do. I can feel the difference in altitude already I had a small climb this morning and I could feel my heart pounding a little harder than usual. But slow and easy is the motto.

Happy 4th of July

2009-07-04T12:22:00.002-10:00

Aloha Everyone,

We made Colorado yesterday, yeah, yippee. Now the fun starts again according to others journals they all are saying after doing the Appalachians, and Kentucky the rest of the trip is not as bad. We shall see first hand real soon.
I am real glad to get out of Kansas it is flat and hot. The scenery was getting pretty dull too. It was just miles and miles of wheat, a few cows, and more wheat. The wheat harvest was prety cool. It is a hot time for the Kansas folks this makes or breaks pretty much their whole year, minus the milo and maybe soybean.
We have seen alot of East Bounders passing us. We had a couple of days of pretty strong headwinds. the winds really start to mess with your mind after a time. It is like time is standing still and we are only going 8 miles an hour.
I have a couple of photos to share with everyone, so until next time keep the rubber side down and enjoy the ride.
Sorry no pictures yet, the internet connection is not the greatest so please be patient and I will show photos soon.
Lisa

Larned Kansas to Ness City

2009-06-30T15:35:00.005-10:00

Kansas is the Sunflower State

All of these box cars are waiting to be loaded with wheat, guessing over a mile long.

The behind my back while riding shot of Ted

The Fort Larned

Aloha Everyone,
Today we pulled out of Larned this morning a little later than usual as we had 66 miles to go. I think we were afraid to leave afraid of the wind. We had a continental breakfast at the hotel. We took the scenic route out of town and Ted said he enjoyed that, good cause I did not realize until it was too late that we could of gone straight out of town instead of going back tracking atleast we got to see the prison. Then before you know it we are at the Old Fort Larned, the military stationed here were to protect the Santa Fe Trail from the Indians. The wind was not too bad. We got 30 miles down and pulled into Alexander in time for the lunch crowd at Effies place. I have never had so many french fries for one order before. When I went to pay for lunch the waitress got this look on her face and I thought I was going to get scoldings so I was thinking what have I done. She goes you know that lady who left with the pig tales, I said no I'm sorry I don't well she wanted to pay for your lunch but she only had $3.00 so she donated her $3.00 for your lunch, I was so humbled and I said where did she go and she said you will never meet her. So I had to be happy with never being able to thank her verbally, but I did let the waitress know how gracious complete strangers have been to us, it really is amazing. And told her if you know who she is please tell her thank you so much what a special gift. Upon leaving the restaurant we headed to the gas staion in hopes of gatorade but no such luck so we just got water and Ted noticed he had a flat tire on his bob trailer, so he changed out tube and tire we rolled on and the last 33 miles were pretty good, we did stop at a rest area and I did my usual soaking of myself only after walking in on a lady in the bathroom but her response was Oh honey that's ok. We made it to Ness City about 5pm showered gathered our dirty clothes, washed the laundry found the taco place for $4.50 all you can eat tacos and now I'm just chillin. We passed the 2000 miles mark yesterday I can't believe it.
So as the saying goes until next time keep the rubber side down and enjoy the ride.
Lisa

2009-06-29T16:02:00.007-10:00

The Land of Oz

2009-06-29T15:48:00.002-10:00

Aloha Everyone,
We are making our way through Kansas. Ted's family came to visit and took us out to chinese buffet. Was so delicious wish I could of taken a to go container for later. We rolled out of Newton Sunday morning not being in a big hurry as the temperature was great for a change and we only had flat riding ahead of us. There are very few places to stop and fuel up along the way especially as we make our way west. Well Yesterday was sunday so it was even tougher. We stopped in Hesston at a stop light and met Bob who was out cruising and during this time James came out and gave us each gatorade for later wow that was sweet. Then we got to the gas station and they had air for no charge yipee I topped off my tires and we rolled on. We made our way to Buher just in time for lunch but oh oh. Nothng is open it is sunday in this small town and no body opens. We thought ok well we have a few items in our handle bar bags and we can get a soda outside the gas station so as we were turning around a car came up and asked if we were looking for lunch we smiled and said yeah but nothing is open. They said well we just came from church and we had a bake potato and cake session after church would you like some of that and I said sure where do we go and he pulled over and his wife handed us a bag of baked potatos, fritoes and about 6 pieces of various cakes, we were so grateful and thanked them huge amounts, they said if they were not on their way out of town they would of invited to their house. Thanks. As we settled down for our lunch another guy stopped me and told me if we needed water to come to his house behind the post office I said great we will be there shortly. We got our water and talked story for a short while and we were off again. Wow those people were so kind to us strangers. We rolled into nickerson and were so thankful the quik stop was open 24 hours we got a cold drink and headed to the park for the night. We met a couple guys staying at the park from sweeden. This morning we rolled out of town under near perfect conditions weather wise. Saw alot of wildlife today. Birds, Birds and more birds. The road was so straight if we could of we could of pedaled with our eyes closed. Then the wind came in and it got real hot again. We could not find any shade to have lunch so we kept moving as there were not any facilities for 58 miles today. We reahed Larned Kansas I told Ted I think this has been the longest 20 miles of my life. We stopped at the department store and got cold drinks out front then we found the Best Western for the night. AAAAAA Nice cold air conditioning................. Sleep well everyone,
Till next time, keep the rubber side down and enjoy the ride.
Lisa

Clean pictures

2009-06-26T12:45:00.002-10:00

We thought we should take clean pictures of ourselves so everyone can see we really do clean up half way decent. We are trying to decide if we have the energy to go to the movies

Newton Kansas

2009-06-26T12:08:00.009-10:00

The sun coming up this morning.

Another cute Cow she stood still till I snapped the photo

This photo is from last week Ted climbing one of the last hills in Missouri

Teri this photo is for you. I thought you were the master packer but I see this Man has you beat. ;-)

Daisies or Weeds I'm not sure which

Sending My Aloha to Everyone.

Aloha,
Wow we are here after 74 hot hot hot miles. Our first town the store didn't open till 11am and it was only 9am so we pushed on to the next town hoping for food. We found a wonderful bbq buffett in Cassoday Kansas the Prairie chicken captital of the World. After lunch it was before noon for us we had 38 miles to go. We mounted our steeds and rode with the sun. We had nice riding conditions easy traffic good to clear your head. We came upon this Mennonite church with a water spigot outside so I had to do my ritual of soaking myself, I swear I saw steam coming off my skin. I refilled my water bottles and felt like a new person. 26 more miles nothing to do but keep going. No shade really. So we rolled into Newton about 4 pm and were thankful to find our hotel was right here off the route. Yeah............ Ted's family is coming from Topeka tomorrow so we get to rest our bodies and replace our fluids. I am amazed at how my clothes are covered with salt form my sweat. I'm use to a little bit but not this much. We passed a total of 8 Eastbound riders today and it was nice to see other towing a bob trailer like us.
Until next time ,
Lisa

Kansas Pictures

2009-06-24T09:22:00.012-10:00

I don't know if you can read this sign. but it says Masons of the Fidelity Lodge. I wonder if the folks at the Infidelity Lodge have more fun?

Can you see the End?

Me Myself and I

Here she is the one who kept giving me the Tail

Midnight at the Oasis

One Horse Town Toronto Kansas
I thought this was the shower.

I would of taken a dip too except they poop in there.

The Shamrock Gas station. Cold Water

Kansas the Sunflower State

2009-06-24T08:52:00.004-10:00

Aloha Everyone,

Well today is like a half day of school for us. We are slowing down so we can meet up with Teds Family in Newton Kansas on Saturday. We are currently only 70 miles from Newton here in Eureka Kansas, so we are spending 2 nights here in Eureka and will leave at 5:30am Friday morning and do the 70 miles to Newton. Kansas has proved itself with her only little set of challenges mainly the Heat. Riding into Toronto Kansas yesterday afternoon we had lunch and then went to the libraby to cool off and one little girl told me her thermometer at home read 110 degrees I believe. The heat really zaps any energy you may of thought about keeping. Nope gone nada bon voyage hasta lavista baby. I cooled off for 2 hours and then made my way to the state park to set up my tent. Our site was right on the lake which was real cool, we found a shady spot. For dinner I had some doritoes and 2 granola bars. Really had no appetite but knew I had to eat something. I managed to get 2 showers in before finally going to bed. The inside of the tent was like a furnace until about 4am this morning when a nice cool breeze came in. AAAAAAA nice. We got up and moving early so we could keep the heat at bay as much as possible, rode to the store and had biscuits and gravy for $2.50 met the cutest dog inside name Nicki. On my way out the door the local kitty cat was making her way over saying where is my breakfast I know you were in there feeding that DOG so give me some too. I think I will buy some cat treats for in the future. She was so cute and playing hard to get I was trying to take her picture but she kept flipping me her backside. We cruised out of town and met up with a couple other guys heading East. Then we started seeing all these other guys going real fast with no gear heading east. We finally figuered out it was the Race Across America, they do this trip real fast the funny part is one guy rode past us and I'm giving him the peace sign and zoom he never even knew we were there.

Some Statistics I just thought about during today's ride

Women drive faster than Men. It's because we are multi tasking
Men wave more often or should I say Gawk. Sorry guys you know it's true.
I think Ted has been drafting me the entire trip:-)
Some signs don't make any sense at all.
Big trucks pass close by because they know it makes my shirt go up.
Melissa Etheridge song says Work, Eat, Sleep it should say Ride, Eat,Sleep
Can I remove the Hills from the Flint Hills?
Cows should be kept as Pets, they are smart and cute.
Don't look in your rearview mirror and expect to keep going straight cause you won't
Bowling alleys and theaters are tough to come by
Wear dirty clothes after 10 minutes youwill smell bad and be dirty so who cares
You know you have entered a big town when you are approaching 150th st.
All small towns have a main, cherry, and 1st street.
All dogs love a good run, cats are too sophisticated to act like that
Everyone is talking about the weather

Ok, It's Hot outside I am waiting for the sun to drift a little more westerly so I can go for a swim in the pool. So as you can see from above my mind is alive and well, I had more but I can't remember them.
Take care Ya'll and know how much I appreciate your cheers.
Till next time Keep the rubber side down and enjoy the ride,
Lisa

goodbye Missouri Hello Kansas

2009-06-21T06:39:00.002-10:00

What do you say out of the fire into the frying pan. Hello Kansas Flat lands and winds. Be careful what you ask for as you just might get it. We wanted flat land and we got it along with a little added wind to stir things up.
Ok Ok, done with my soapbox.
We are here in Pittsburgh Kansas and saw a sign on farm on the way in that said This is only for you Doug Harms "Nebraska Corn Huskers" thought of you and also thought wow they are brave displaying this in Kansas.
We rolled through Missouri with some pretty tough going. It was Hot and Humid which I remember from my growing up years and working at the swimming pool, hence the word swimming pool being able to cool off every 15 minutes, not so on a bicycle. It is tough to find a tree to sit under for a while. Our water bottles were almost boiling. On our way to Ash Grove after meeting the sweetest dog along side the road and Ted taking a wrong turn as he out ran me and the dog and continued on. I left him a message to let him know he went the wrong way, I am the navigator and knew he missed the turn because after a while I did not see him.. The Hills were none stop, do I sound like a broken record? Anyways I realized Ted is riding behind me which is normal but he is normally right behind me keeping me going. He kept falling further back. When we stopped I realized he was not doing so well and he said the heat is killing him and he is having cramps. I knew this was serious we had to get somewhere pretty soon. Pretty soon was about 2 more hours, we arrived in Ash Grove and I went for a swim in the local pool and Ted sat out at the picnic table. I told him we would go to the store and get him some Peidalyte for the electrolytes and bananas for potassium and we will drink lots of water tonight. I told him he should be peeing every 2 hours and it should be clear. Well he wasn't. So in the morning he was feeling better and we had over cast skies for the first part of the day and then hello heat and humidity. We found a few spots of relief and Ted is doing OK. Just have to consume so much liquid and food to keep us going it is really incredible. Imagine having Thanksgiving dinner everyday. Thats what we feel like, it is so hard to eat this much. I thought I would enjoy the eating but I really don't. It hard to eat when it is soooooo Hot outside. But last night I had a Sierra Nevada Brew and it was delicious! I called Teri and pretended to need help and finally had to confess it was me on the phone because I didn't want her to continue giving me directions any longer or should I say her pretending to know where she actually is. Inside joke for any of you that don't know Teri she can't find her way out of a tuna can. :-) So don't believe her directions under any circumstances...............Today we are resting and catching up on our domestic things like laundry but not till after 5pm as it is too hot outside. I will post pictures as soon as I can. Love to you all, and as always we are advancing West

Alley Springs Missouri Ozarks

2009-06-17T14:07:00.011-10:00

Ted climbed to the top of the Forest Fire Look out Tower

Alley Springs 81 Billion Gallons a Day

Alley Springs

Ted at Jacks Fork River Bridge

Jacks Fork Put in For Paddlers

You can click on these pictures to make them bigger Hummingbirds

Golden Rule Tourist Sign Gotta Agree with Them!

Hotel Calico Kitty she was so Sweet and a Mommy too!

Eminence Missouri to Houston Missouri

2009-06-17T13:52:00.002-10:00

Aloha Everyone,
Let's see we spent a couple of nights in Eminence Missouri hoping to do a float trip but the weather never cooperated with us to get on the river. Thats ok because I got to float in my own way. We had a good rest day, paying bills, catching up with rest. I sat and watched the rain for awhile and talked to another guy named Sam going East they are almost done. They are traveling with a sag wagon so they have someone picking out what they eat where they do their laundry and where they will sleep for the night all they do is ride 100 plus miles per day. I really enjoy our whole experience of finding food, shelter, and laundry when needed it's all part of the unknown adventure. It is really tough to totally rely on your own legs or bicycle to take you where you need to go infact tonight I am thinking about skipping dinner because I am too tired to find something to eat. I did my laundry in the bathtub. We are in a hotel tonight because the price is right. Today we left Eminence and headed 5 miles up up up to Alley Springs what a fabulous place the water is crystal clear and cold. It's an Old Grist Mill really neat area. The canoe buses and vans were passing us with tourists floating the river if it weren't for them our road would of been almost empty. Today I had to flip someone off because they were just too close for comfort. Just so you know I am not mad or anything just giving them my opinion. When we stopped for a beverage I had an old guy come and ask which way are you going I said West he said good. Why Oh my dogs are back aways I said are they black and brown yep thats them I said oh they did chase us. He says they are coyote killers I told him they were no harm and if they would of been bad they would get the pepper spray. The hummingbirds were out in force and they are so cute I watched them for a good ten minutes before moving on. After Alley Springs we had a huge hill to climb and my thoughts were focused on getting me over the Mountain. It was getting real Hot outside about 94 but feels like 101 with the humidity. I told Ted I have never had so much sweat coming from my body. Literally running out of every pore and running down my legs. We pulled up for lunch with 23 miles still to for the day, I had a sandwich and salad. The waitress brought us 2 pitchers of water so we could refill our water bottles before leaving. Leaving we werer greeted with much smaller hills I can't tell you how happy I was for this as my core temperature was runing hot and I was afraid my legs were going to give out. As another journal writer wrote These hills are demoralizing. But, coming into Houston Missouri we stopped at a coffee bar to get a cold drink, when going to pay you refused our money and said bikers get free drinks Wow, what a gift at this hour we were so thankful. I had an Iced Mocha Latte with Vanilla and Chocolate or something. MMMM Good. Ok, keep the rubber side down and I do think we are done with the Ozark Mountains.
Pictures to Follow,
Lisa

Missouri pictures and a few of Illinois

2009-06-15T15:46:00.019-10:00

Black River Missour

This is one of those Hills that just drops off

Corn and Hills

Coal Train Loading station

looking through my rearview mirror

Hello Missouri crossing the Mighty Mississippi

Protected Water of Missouri

Self Portrait right before all Hell broke loose

My sister Maryann

Current River Missouri

Storm Damage Twin Rivers Missouri

Home sweet Home My fire

this was the view from my tent

My Home away from Home

Johnson Shut Ins Granite Art Bobcat

Mom and Dad

June 15th Missouri and stuff

2009-06-15T15:28:00.002-10:00

Aloha Everyone,
Wow, it's been a busy couple of days. Meeting up with my Mom and Dad in Farmington Missouri and then my sister. We are in the heart of Ozark country and it is so beautiful. When Ted and I made our first stop in Missouri I made sure we went to a campground I had stayed at 30 years ago it was a little different from what I remember but the river was the same. Crisp clean and cold. After setting up my tent I went down to the river and started by removing my shoes and just soaking my feet and looking at the beautiful rocks. But, this was not good enough so I put my shoes back on because I said I won't wear my new shoes until I can get to missouri and put my old shoes in the river. So I laced up my old shoes and fully dressed jumped right in and floated down river about 100 yards and walked back and did this 3 or 4 more times. It was so refreshing. A little girl was on the bank watching me and wondering what is that woman doing. It was fantastic. I think Ted thought I was a little cooky. Then it was time to shower and get ready for our dinner of cup o noodle soup and oreo cookies for dessert. I could not resist not making a fire so I put it all together and had one match and got the fire going. I sat and tended the fire for a good 3 hours until I was sleepy and full and fell asleep to the sound of the crickets chirping. This is the Life. Got up Sunday expecting big hills but they weren't too bad just a stedy uphill. Stopped in Centerville and met with my sister, got the laundry done, talked story went to dinner and then it was time for bed already. In the middle of the night a big storm rolled in I could hear the thunder and was just so happy to be sleeping inside. We got up to stormy skies and waited out the storm warnings and decided we should contnue west. Starting out was decent no sun but no rain either. The cars around here really don't give us too much room. I cuss most of them out and if they turn around they are going to get a blast of my pepper spray. The going today was quite a bit hillier with a few steep sections, I had to walk one section cause I looked in my mirror and all I could see was a truck coming at me. Shew I tell you, Man I wish they would move over. Then the rain started and I put on my first rain coat, then the sky just opened up and poured rain, I stopped had a drink under a tree and watched the lightening and put on my big rain coat and said a little mantra and continued west. With my bliky light going and the rain falling I really started to wonder why this is so much fun. Then I came around the corner and I saw flashing lights and thought Oh no I hope Ted is ok cause he is in front of me. I approached with caution asked what happened a truck run off the road oh ok, can I pass. I passed and had 3 miles to go. I met up with Ted and he asked if I saw the truck yes, I said. He tole me the story of what happened and I said oh that's why they all gave me stink eye. Apparently those crazy buses running paddlers to and from their canoeing expeditions went our around Ted and proceeded to run another truck off the road. Wow, scary. Ted did stop and the guy was ok so he went on. So I did not know this when I went by and could not figure out why they were all looking at me real mean and of course what did I say except Nice day for a bike ride huh? I'm just glad no one was hurt. Even the Sheriff would not speak a word to me he just noded his head. So we are here in Eminence Missouri waiting out the storm and hoping to do a little paddling tomorrow if the weather is better. So my friends thaks so much for all of your well wishes I really enjoying hearing from all of you. Until next time keep the rubber side down,

Love to yall.
Lisa

2009-06-10T03:00:00.019-10:00

Devils Kitchen Lake

Geez After 1200 Miles Thanks for the Warning!

Hilly Terrain with Ted out there somewhere

We met these Guys Lewis and Clark they are going West Too.

Illinois here we come crossing the Ohio River

Cave in Rock where the Bad Guys Hide out to Pirate the Ohio River traffic

Ferry Boat crossing to Illinois

Share the Road
Ted
Pretty Little Pond kentucky

Cute Goat
Look at the color of the pond must in Kentucky where this color?

My cockpit, new friend Fordy found him along the road in Fordsville Kentucky

Nancy Lincoln Cabins Where Abraham Lincoln was born
Our cabin Nancy Lincoln Cabins Hodgenville Kentucky

Horse Camp Illinois

Turtle he was friendly
Are these Longhorns? They were very mellow.

On to Illinois State Number 3

2009-06-10T02:37:00.003-10:00

Aloha Everyone,
We made 1000 miles a few days back so I think we are closer to 1200 now. I can't believe it! Really there were a few days when I thought about getting off my bike and not going forward so to all of you offering me your support MAHALO it really really helps keep me strong. We stopped at a gas station a few days ago and this old guy struck up conversation with us about why all the big trucks are here and what they are doing. The trucks were leaving this day been here since February a big storm knocked over all of these huge trees, we did wonder why everyone would trim those huge branches and now we know why. He did tell us Illinois is flat flat flat. I do need to talk to him about that everywhere we stop I talk to the locals and tell them I heard Southern Illinois is flat and they wan to know who told me that. It is not flat it's hard to capture this in pictures so I will do a verbal for you. Riding along and you come over this ridge and you look down and go ok maybe I can get going fast enough to carry myself over the next one. I get going being mindful that my bob trailer is only suppose to go 25 miles an hour I stand up on my pedals and grip my bar leaning a little forward gaining speed grinning, and then nothing. Nope too steep to carry me up so now sit down drop those gears down to little ring and grind it out. One day I decided to sing 100 bottles of beer on the wall which I don't recommend doing in a dry county cause all it does is make you thirsty. One hill I got to 48 bottles of beer on the wall I don't remember ever singing that song to 48. so I decided to sing one little two little three little indians you get the feeling yet. Good now do this all day long with occassional stops to pee in the bushes covered with ticks. But, I must say I am having the time of my life out here. All of the people we have met have been so nice it's almost hard to believe. We stayed in a bed and breakfast in Utica Kentuky, Ted went in and the man said they were full and felt bad so offered for us to sleep in the living room for free. Great, then he remembered he had a little room in the back people just checked out but we could sleep in the other 2 beds in the room that weren't used and get fresh towels to bathe. Excellent and he only charged us $5.00 a piece. It was better than the Ritz. The next night we came into Eddyville this was a tough day and it was hot outside. There is a camp located 2 miles off route which makes 4 more miles to our already long day. As we are leaving the gas station I see a sign for a horse camp ask Ted if he wants to try this out and say yeah let's go. It wa so cool, People bring their horses on vacation and go to horse camp. Everyone pretty much knows everyone. The owners weren't in but another lady got us settled. She even brought me a cold beer whle I was putting up my tent. The tavern was about a mile away. Then as we were finishing up our camp another lady came over with 1,2, 3 bread and invited us to bullshit with them tonight. The bread is one can of beer, 2 cups of sugar and 3 cups of flour. Her husband made it on the grill. It was delicious so for all of you who like to experiment that's it the recipe above. Good Luck and call me when it's done. We really did not get a real dinner this night as a huge storm came in the most thunder and lightening I have seen in a long time. Luckily we were able to hide out inside this concrete building and wait out the storm finally at 11pm I could not stand it any longer I had to go to bed we ventured back to camp and had to cross a small river that appeared as a result of the rain. I felt really bad for all the horses I think they were scared they all got real quiet. The next day we were off to Carbondale where we are now and it was a good day, nice Pleasant Hills as I like to call them either that or I am finally in good enough shape to handle them without feeling like I am going to die. We are at the comfort Inn and next to the chinese restaurant. Today we are going to the bike shop to remove a couple pounds of coal dust and get adjustments made to our Iron Horses. The weather is not good. I do hope we start to see some sunnier days not thtat they are bad it's just we need to dry our tents. Does anyone know if you can wash your tent?
Until next time keep the rubber side down and a smile on your face.
Lisa

Deep in the heart of Kentucky

2009-06-01T14:26:00.002-10:00

Aloha everyone,
I am borrowing Teds computer so I can do a little updating I am having problems with mine. We have been riding steadily Since Friday. The weather has been pretty good. The hills are pretty big too. Each climb is about 1.3 miles and our longest one to date was about 4 miles. I am so glad to have these behind us each day is getting a little flatter and we seem to be making good time. Summer is sneaking up on us and the nights are not as cold so we have been camping pretty regularly. I will post pictures when I can hopefully soon. I think we are taking a rest day on Wednesday and hoping for internet connection. We will be in Bardstown Kentucky Wednesday for our rest day. Then I am thinking about 2 more days and then we will be into Illinois and soon to be Missouri.
Ok just wanted to touch base please look at ted blogs for the latest update look in my links to see his page.
Love to You all,
Lisa

Kentucky Days

2009-05-29T14:07:00.006-10:00

Beautiful winding roads

Climbing

Ted and I named this cat Morris Can you believe
Ted is petting the cat?

This is my caffeinated Girl!

Kentucky Horses

Running Water Cliff Side

Kentucky Coal Miners country

2009-05-29T13:57:00.003-10:00

Aloha Everyone,
After not being able to connect to the internet I went and did laundry and tried again with success. Boy the last couple of days has been rough. The weather has been thunderstorms for three days not all day but last night it stormed heavily. We had to camp at a gas station because we could not make our destination before dark. So Ted at the BP station said we could camp in the yard next door and he would leave the bathrooms open for us. Then after dinner with Leigh and Margaret they camped with us too we went back to the gas station and another man came up and said he owned the land we were camping on but said no problem we could camp there and pee in the woods as he had a nice path cut. Somehow the bathroom door got locked so we were without a toilet till 6am. It stormed like mad last night this morning everything was wet! We have been doing some killer climbs like 10% to I'm not sure but possibly 14%. They look straight up and keep going. We had to ride on the highway this afternoon as well which was tough, big hills to climb with the coat trucks flying past us. This part of Kentucky is really sad, garbage in the rivers and roads and most of the people don't care. Yesterday I stopped counting after 8 dogs had come out after us only the first one really scared me as he was a huge German Shephard and he was running down the hill towards us. I rode for probably 20 miles with the pepper spray in my hands. Most of the dogs though just want to run along side and bark and carry on. We thought things were going to get easier once into Kentucky but this place is equally hard. Everything I own is wet. I have taken up to peeing on the side of the road because ticks are a major problem around here and I don't want any ticks where the sun doesn't shine so I just do it! These folks pump gas while smoking a cigarette even saw one guy leave his truck running and smoking while pumping can you imagine? We have a couple more big climbs tomorrow but having this nice bed to sleep in tonight should help my morale. I will try to post some pictures.

Keep the Rubber side down,
Lisa

2009-05-26T12:01:00.005-10:00

Many Days from Friday to Tuesday

2009-05-26T11:06:00.003-10:00

Aloha everyone,

So sorry I have not been able to update for awhile I wrote a real nice summary in txt but cannot post for some reason so I hope you all have been reading teds blog you can link to teds blog from my page on the right hand side. So with that said I will try to catch up to date before we go to dinner.

Friday Christiansburg to Wytheville
We left this morning with traffic not too bad considering we are riding in a big town for us. Up and down started again but alot of good riding.

Saturday Wytheville to Troutdale
Had a great day for riding and lots of ups and downs. We stayed at the Baptist Church Hostel which was great. The applachian through hikers were staying too. They are going fromGeoriga to Maine by hiking this trail those guys are nuts. Jerry kitchen is where the grinds are. We had a wonderful dinner and breakfast. I think Ted is really starting like biscuits and gravy, I told him he could even get gravy on his dinner if he wants too. Rode past a young lady to day and I said hi and she responded with Howdy!

Sunday Troutdale to Damascus
We loaded up with our stuff and stopped on the way out of town for our breakfast of biscuits and gravy, eggs, potatoes, coffee. The hills were still pretty steep and just today we saw a couple who had the elevation profiles and Wow we did some climbing and my legs can tell. We got to Damascus early as planned so we ould get our laundry done and check out the town. It was a little rainy when we got in but not too bad. We stayed at the Methodist church Hostel which was pretty dirty.

Damascus to Council Not all Sunday drivers are alike.
Today the people were anxious for a Holiday Sunday. I had one guy yell at me and another lady got up along side of me and honked at me. I told Ted I was going to find her and give her a piece of my mind. I did see her in town but kept my mouth closed.
Today was good we rolled out pretty early in the morning and had biscuits and gravy you know the routine. The sky was looking a little rainy and we did get rain towards the end of the day. Man today was tough we had a constant 4 mile climb I called it to heaven. Wow we stopped halfway up for lunch. Then on again and then the rain started but not before we did some more ups and downs. We stopped in town and talked to a young. Sorry got side tracked a big lightening bolt just zapped outside the window. Wow...... Anyways this young man told us only 2 more hills to council man was I glad but he was mistaken not only was it raining and traffic like crazy cars and trucks zooming by we had more than 2 hills to go. I told Ted to please stop me from ever asking a local person how many more hills to the top. We got to the park and no one was around and the pool was closed so we found a nice picnic shelter located by the bathrooms and set up camp thinking someone would be by to take care of us but no one ever showed up. So we had a good nights sleep under the picnic shelter.

Council to Breaks Interstate Park Day 14
Got up and had oatmeal for breakfast as we were out in the middle of nowhere and thought there was a store about a mile up ahead. We had to climb to get out of the park, ugh as my legs were tired from yesterday. There was no store but we were good anyways. Further down we happened upon a gas station and got Bacon Cheeseburgers the kind you microwave and gatorade and for me a diet coke. All set we took off through really nice countryside and said good morning to the cows and sheep as we passed by. The day was going well we pulled into Haysi and found a subway sandwich shop so we picked up sandwiches and had a coke. Oh my leaving town was a surprise this was the steepest part so far I had to walk as I was not prepared for this section and the coal trucks were zooming by and really scary. We decided to get off our bikes when we hear them coming as they are so loud you can't mistake them. We continued on for a good 4 miles and decided to stop for lunch alongside the road we sat our butts right down on the dirt we did not care at this point we just needed a break. I told Ted I thought today was the first time on our trip that I actually thought I was going to throw up, it was the chugging of the coke when we got our sandwiches but I didn't. After lunch we continued our climb and saw a scenic rest stop ahead so we pulled over and some young guys on motorcyles engaged us in conversation and let us know to go out about 300 yards to the lookout we did and it was beautfiul. THEN the Rain started we heard the thunder boomers coming over our shoulders we waited out the rain for the most part and took off for our destination which was fairly close we pulled into Breaks Intersate Park paid the lady and continued uphill to the Lodge we are staying here inside and I am so happy about that because the sky poured rain. This area is considered the Grand Canyon of the East I wish someone would of told me that before we climbed for 8 miles. Not really I think it's better not to know it is stunning. Reminds me alot of Waimea canyon on kauai except more green.
We met another couple from Alaska who missed the rain but I now if they stayed here to camp they are wet now. Ok
Keep the Rubber Side down,
Lisa

Various Photos from the Road

2009-05-21T12:24:00.005-10:00

Blue Ridge Park way Virginia

Ted with the Cookie Lady Afton Viriginia

Aloha,
Thursday May 21st Day 10
Today we are having a rest day in Christiansburg Virginia. Ted friend Paula came up from South Carolina to visit. We went to Dinner at Outback Steak House and then today we went to the movies and the mall. Please enjoy the photos I hope to keep up better with my blog but on my main page you can link to Ted's blog which more current and alot nicer pictures than mine.

These guys were playing all tough and barking and kinda running towards us. I just showed them the pepper spray can and they put on the brakes.

Many days and pictures

2009-05-21T12:00:00.006-10:00

Day 5 charlottesville Virginia Rest Day number 1
This morning we had to move out of our motel as it was full for the University off Virginia Graduation. We moved to the Alexander House across town it is a hostel run by Brad. It was perfect we shared a room with a couple one from Oregon and one from Hawaii how is that for ironic. Fabian got the single room because it was his birthday otherwise I would of pulled my cards by being the female. Ted and I went and cruised downtown area very nice. They had a really cool cat store but I could not buy anything. We went out to dinner at a place called Beer Run they had 300 plus kinds of beer I sampled a few they were good and had black bean nachos for dinner. Then we had to run to our hostel because the sky opened up into a huge thunderstorm. I do miss the thunder and lightening. Off to bed as we had a big day on Sunday. We also met a couple of ladies from Arizona Tricia and Sarah from Washington D.c. Tricia gave me a button for my bike and talked story for awhile. They are going to follow our blog.

Day 6 Charlottesville to Afton Virginia 35 miles.
We meandered through town Sunday morning a little rainy but not complaining. We had to go through the University of Virginia and through 450000 people trying to get to graduation. Wow it was crazy. We went to breakfast at the little diner we had dinner at before. I had another huge breakfast and we were ready to roll by about 10am. Leaving Charlottesville it was cold Ted and I were bundled up like little snow people. We had some nice climbs and soon we were sweating and wanting to remove all the clothes we had on but Ted said we should keep them on beacause the downhills will make us cold. BRRRR. We had a lunch stop at another famous gas station. We bought peanut butter and jelly and bread as there were not any other stops along the way and we were going to the cookie lady. There were some big hills going to the cookie lady the last one in particular was a 3 mile climb and here place was right about the 2 mile section. We pulled up the the cookie lady house and her cousin renee helped us and opened the door. Wow, I was almost in tears to actually be here standing in her living museum. We logged our names in the register and got ready for dinner. Cup of Noodles and sandwiches. The house was freezing cold but Ted was the only brave one to take a cold shower outside in the mountains. I could not do that so I went to bed dirty and cold underneath 4 blankets.

Day 7 Afton Virginia to 10 miles Outside Vesuvius 44 miles

The thermometer read 42 degrees this morning. Heated up some coffee on the stove top had a danish and went to meet June Curry the Cookie Lady. She was expecting us when we walked up she was feeding her Rooster and wild Black Cat. She is 88 years old and is truly a living legend so sweet. We talked story for a good hour. She told us how she became the cookie lady all the way up to today and what is going on. We had our picture taken and it will become part of the cookie lady legend. She has a helper recording everyone who has come through. We stalled long enough it was time to get moving up the rest of the hill. I was in the lowest possible gear and made it up very slowly but I made it. Yeah Yippee I am so happy. Fabian has been having trouble with his knee so we split at this point and he is on his way to Waynesboro to see a Dr. and decide what to do. Ted and I pushed on and entered the Blue Ridge Parkway. We stopped at the entrance and decided he would be Clark and I will be Lewis silly I know but who cares. The Parkway is stunning and all uphill we climbed just in the parkway 2810 Feet. We stopped at most of the overlooks to stretch and take in the scenery. We had to pack everything we needed for the next 30 miles as there are no services in the parkway. We stopped at the Visitor center and had peanut butter sandwiches. Pat and Virgnia caught up to us and had lunch on our rock. As we were leaving a really nice family stopped and asked what we were doing and wanted to take our picture. Off again to do some more climbing needing to take it slowly but not having to walk my bike that makes me smile. It was really cold up there we went up to 3200 feet at one point. The Mountains were incredible. A lot of motorycycle tourists came flying by us. We got off the Parkway about 5pm and had to go down the Mountain to Vesuvius. This is by far the steepest scariest thing I have ever done on a fully loaded bicycle. Wow 4 miles of adrenaline pumping excitement. We had to feather our brakes to keep them from blowing out our tires as the rims get so hot they burst the rubber. We stopped a couple of times. We pulled into Getites Store and got dinner which consisted of sandwiches and crackers with military cheese. Gertie let us sign the wall in the store because we were from hawaii. She gave us a postcard of the store and asked us to mail a card to her when we get home. The people out here are so kind. Each time we approach another small town I get out my pepper spray because it goes without saying some little or big dog is going to come after us. A lot of people do have the invisible fence around there yard which is good. The invisible fence worked really well when a HUGE Rottweiller came charging after me and he stopped on a dime at his designated fence underground. Thank goodness because I was thinking I don't have enough pepper spray for this guy. Most of the dogs see the can and retreat back to their yard as if to say oh ok you have that stuff never mind. We cruised to our Hostel at Mallard Duck and met up with Virginia and Pat and met another guy named James. We showered with Hot water “yes” and relaxed until 9pm and then we all had lights out. It was the end of the toughest day I think really ever for me. The ride out of Vesiuvius was very beautiful the river ran right along side of us and the railroad track was on the other side now thats's what I call riding.

Day 8 Mallard Duck to Troutville Virginia 54 miles

1.When we woke this morning Pat's thermometer read 34 degrees. It was really hard to get moving and so we stalled until almost 10am as the temp was almost 50 by then. We were bundled up. The river was next to us this morning and was so beautfiul we even saw a few guys out there fishing. We stopped at the gas station for breakfast and were outside eating when Chuck and Matt pulled in. They just met up to do this ride Matt is from Neatherlands and Chuck is from California. Matt is totally Gung Ho riding like 18 miles and hour so they agree on a spot to catch up with one another. We rode Through Lexington hoping to find a Macdonalds or Taco Bell but no luck so we continued on. The hills were not bad today and if I had to choose my favorite day so far this would be it. I really like riding next to the river. It did warm up and we removed our outer garmets and enjoyed the sunshine. We passed up going to see one of the Seven Wonders of the World at Natural Bridge beacause it is tooo touristy. We stopped at the gas station for more fuel and continued on through doing a little more climbing and getting a little turned around since Fabian is not with us it's up to Ted and I to figure out where we are going and since I don't have an odometer I have to ask Ted to track the mileage and it gets a little confusing but all is good. We came into Buchanon and I spotted the Burger King so we stopped and picked up our dinner for this evening. Then it was off to Troutville 14 miles away, the afternoon was warm and sunny doing a little more climbing sometimes I think all we do is travel uphill. My Legs are sore. We pulled into Troutville and found the park and Lee and Lynn flagged us in and showed us where to set up and we talked story with them for a while. They said Cecil would be by later to have us sign the guest book. We ate our dinner and then I went across the street to the fire station and had a hot shower. Cecil came by and we talked for a while and then I got to work at writing this journal we have been without internet but I can atleast type and then cut and paste. It is after 10pm so I must stop for now because I need my rest. Ok everyone thanks for reading and until next time Keep the Rubber side down,
2.Lisa

Day 4 Mineral to Charlottesville Virginia

2009-05-16T03:05:00.005-10:00

Aloha Everyone,

This is where we camped in Mineral at the Fire Station and you see the train how close it is Thank Goodness for Ear Plugs! I think the train came through 2times and then we had a thunderstorm and it rained real hard for a while. This was our first night camping. Then we got to use the showers in the fire station. OUr day to charlottesville was another long one we clocked 58 miles. Getting stronger but it was tough we had some good hills to climb and I almost had to walk for the first time. It feels like my legs are on fire or just too heavy to move. We had alot of traffic in parts of this day. We went 30 miles without any services so we prepared for that. We met Claudia and Missy at Kents Store post office and they were very energetic and fun. Please check out Teds Post by going to the right of my page I have a link to his journal. Also, I will put Fabians Link on there too. They have the really good cameras and alot more stories than me. We had lunch at this hitchin Post in Palmyra. We made Charlottesville just before 8pm we are at the Budget Inn across from this awesome Diner. On the road we met Danny who is going towards California and has to be back by mid july. I must go for now. Gotta get the laundry done before we head out.

Keep the Rubber side down,
Lisa

Day 3 Mechanicsville to Mineral virginia

2009-05-16T02:45:00.007-10:00

Aloha Everyone,

First off I am so excited to be getting this done and thanks for your patience. Leaving Mechanicsville was beautiful scenery as all of this part of Virginia is. We meandered along the countryside and had lunch in Ashland. We lunched at some hippie coffee bar with a lot of college students from Randolph Macon college. Ted and I had Panini's cause he did not know what else to order:-) On our way we started to climb a few hills and it was pretty quiet. It is so nice to travel without any cars. My legs were starting to get tired as this was our first 60 mile day. Woohoo. Pulling into Mineral we had to climb a hill so we rested in someone's driveway and he came out and asked if we were ok and to let us know we were close to the fire station. Hallelujah! We pulled into the fire station and unloaded our gear and put up our tents and went promptly to the gas station for Beer. Then we went across the street and I had pizza and a brownie. Can yo imagine the guilt I feel with consuming these calories only to wake up hungry in the middle of the night. So far to date I think I have eaten 3 homemade brownies, a piece of carrot cake, hot dog, hamburger, pizza, beer, bagels, chips, jolly ranchers and other crap I'm sure I'm I can't remember right now. I have also had salad and tons of bananas. I find I have to be careful what I eat for lunch because it has a tendancy to come back at me on the first climb out of town so I have consumed all of my tums. My body is getting stronger everyday and we are all a little worried about what's up ahead. But One day at a time. enjoy the photos.
Until Then,

Keep the Rubber side down,

Lisa

Day 1 photo

2009-05-16T02:38:00.002-10:00

Aloha Everyone,

I have been having several delays in getting my blog done mostly being too tired at the end of the day. Here are a few photos to enjoy The top one is how I officially dipped my tire in the Atlantic Ocean, I did not want to get my rims wet with salt water. Next almost right off the bat Virginia and her Dad Pat started having bike problems. Pat ended up going to Washington D.C. that evening with his wife who is sagging for them and getting a new bike. What a start for them. Here is Kevin who is from Hawaii came out and rode with us for the day and then made homemade Musubi for us. MMMM boy that was the best Spam I have ever eaten. Gatorade too. The last picture is where we stayed the first night River Rest Marina in Outside of Charles City.

I hope you all enjoy the photos.

Day 2 Charles City to Mechanicsville Virginia

2009-05-14T01:33:00.005-10:00

Aloha Everyone,

We left Charles City River Rest Marina about 9am and meandered through beautiful countryside. We saw bunches of Eagles flying low looking for breakfast and hoping we were not it. We stopped about 10 miles in at a little gas station/store and had breakfast sitting outside watching all the local traffic prepare for their days. Ted made a comment about how slow these people move. I thought that was funny since we live on Molokai which is pretty slow already. Then he says I notice these people always say How Ya-all Doing? So I did have a couple of good laughs. Riding on through the beautiful countryside we were amazed at how courteous most drivers were. Only a couple of crazy trucks came whizzing by. The afternoon saw Heavy traffic coming into Mechanicville and we decided to stop and get a hotel as it is real cold in the morning when we wake up. Had a great dinner at Ruby Tuesday then I was off to do laundry next door so when I got back I was too tired to write my log or upload pictures so here is short version for now. Enjoy

Day 1 Yorktown to Chalres City Virginia

2009-05-14T01:25:00.005-10:00

Day 1 May 12, 2009

We left the hotel about 9:00am and went to 7-11 to get air in my tires. We started riding towards the victory monument in Yorktown to do the official picture taking and dipping of the tires in the Atlantic ocean. Before we arrived at the monument we were peddaling along and all of a sudden bang not more than 20 feet from Ted and I two cars smashed into one another, talk about an adrenaline rush to an already nervous feeling as we are just starting our journey across america. We were all a little shuck up we stopped to make sure everyone was ok and only one of the drivers was a little shocky and the police arrived so we went on our way. My thought was good we got that out of the way.
We did the dipping and photoing and went on our way to Williamsburg and was looking out for Kevin to come and meet us from the opposite direction. Not more than 5 miles down the road Pat and his daughter virignia were pulled over and having problems and needed a special wrench we did not have it so we went on as his wife was sagging for them and would be by shortly. Kevin met up with us and we ventured into Williamsburg which is really neat and authentic so much so we could not find a fast food restaurant so we ate at the Wawa market. I had a hot dog, pretzel and fig newtons. On our way again to Jamestowne were Kevin had left his car and we had musubi and gatorade there went to bathroom. Then we got to ride on the Capitol Trail which was perfect as not motor vehicles are allowed. When this ended we had to go onScenic route 5 wwhich is really narrow and no shoulder. We called ahead to River Rest Marina and booked a room for $65.00 and then went straight to the restaurant for a couple of beers while Ted took his shower and did his laundry. I was next with the Shower followed by Fabian. We then had bagels, chips and salsa for dinner with coffee. Fabian says we burned approximately 3500 calories today.
Here tonight loading up pictures and relaxing as the night is turning dark and a little cold. There are Bald Eagles all over the place and a lot of fishermen, they are catching catfish. Sure wish I could have some of that.
Ok, I'm done.

Keep The Rubber Side Down,
Lisa
42 miles and smiling.

Hours and Counting

2009-05-11T16:34:00.003-10:00

Aloha Everyone,

We are down to a few precious hours until the official start. My bags are packed but as I look over I see Ted's bed is still covered with stuff. We had to turn the heat on tonight as we are freezing. Crystal and Anthony came and took us to the Laundromat and out to dinner. We also stopped by the local bike shop and picked up flags, vests and couple other items. Then we went to GI Joes and we purchased our pepper spray, I got a baclava for my face and a hat. So take a look at the photo below and let me know if you recognize this guy and if you do would you be afraid of him on a bicycle cause I am. He reminds me of Anthony Hopkins in Silence of the Lambs I told to stay away from me as I am loaded with pepper spray.

One question I have is why do we use pepper spray on the dogs and ring a little bell on our bikes to keep the Bears away? Seems a little odd to me.

We meet Fabian at 7am and we go to breakfast then it's off to Yorktown for official dipping of the rear tire in the Atlantic Ocean.

I'm not sure when we will have internet access again so until then Keep the Rubber side down,

Lisa

YorkTown Virginia Hotel

2009-05-10T15:12:00.001-10:00

Aloha,

This is a picture of our room in YorkTown Virginia it looks like a housekeepers nightmare but it's not. Do you think we have enough stuff? I do :-)

Today we met a guy named Fabian who is also starting the transam on Tueday so I think we might all start together or at least kinda keep up with each other during our trip. He is from Portland Oregon.

Crystal and Anthony came and got us today we went to Wal-Mart for our last minute stuff. Ted put our bikes together and everything seems to be working nicely. Yeah, thanks Ted your da bomb.
Today was warm and sunny. PS, there are ticks and mosquitos here.

Keep the Rubber Side Down,

Lisa

Planes Planes every where a plane.

2009-05-09T11:27:00.008-10:00

Aloha Everyone,
I left Molokai onThursday and spent the night in Oahu for the night. My adventure started right off the bat with my first flight. It took us almost 1 hour to get to Oahu. I don't know where we went but we did take the long way. I finally mentioned to my seat mate sitting with me at the exit row as to why we had been in the air for so long as I had seen the land like 10 minutes ago and her response was did the landing gear come down and for all of you who know me my heart started racing and I wanted off this plane. I said now that you mention it no it did not come down. She says let me look out the window, by this time I am beside myself and I jokinly tell her she has to go sit in the back of plane because now I am scared. She apologized and informed me she had been a flight attendant for 17 years and so I told her to stay right here as I might need her to open the emergency door. Finally we landed and still don't have any idea what was going on. Took the bus to Waikiki and enjoyed my time there and then boarded the bus the next morning and headed back to the airport. I took United flight 2 from Oahu changed planes in Chicago and arrived in 'charlotte North Carolina changed planes again and arrived in New Port News Viriginia just after lunch. Teds daughter Crystal and her friend Anthony came to town and we all went to lunch and to the verizon store to get Ted a telephone. We are in the room now and trying to figure out where the Wal mart store is. As soon as I get batteries for my camera I will have some pictures. Ok I am signing out and going to try and get some rest for now. Everything seems very surreal at the moment. Ted noticed there are no shoulders on these roads. HMM.

Keep the rubber side down,
Lisa

Sushi Sale

2009-05-06T20:52:00.002-10:00

Aloha,
Well here I am the night before my departure for Oahu uploading more music for my ipod and cleaning house.
This week has been flying by so far.

Monday Marcel and family put on a sushi sale for Ted and I. Bless her Heart Marcel got up at 3:30am to prepare all of the sushi for our sale. This is the second time she has been so generous and hosted a sushi sale. We owe her big time! It was a success.

Tuesday we went to the school and gave a presentation of the trans America bike trail. The kids were really quite impressed with the presentation and have asked us to come back after our trip and show them our modern day photos. Anna brought her slides from 1979-80 from when she did the bike trail and the slide projector was an interesting topic as the teacher had never seen such an antique. They use all digital equipment these days. It was pretty funny. So thanks to Anna she had the pictures for all of us to see.

Wednesday was my last day of work. Liz the Fed ex driver came and picked up my boxes of personal stuff, it will be there waiting for me in Virginia. 50lbs can you believe it? I can't.
Teri brought over Chili Verde for dinner mmmm very good. So at this point my house is clean and ready for my departure. I have turned over all the keys and responsibilities to Fern.

Ok, I gotta run it's time to change cd's

Keep The Rubber Side Down,
Lisa

Feeling a Little Whimsical Today

2009-04-28T12:42:00.002-10:00

Aloha,

What a beautiful day in paradise. I was looking through some web photos and came across this really neat picture so I thought I would share it with you all. I feel alot like this picture looks when I am riding.

Packing up the Bikes

2009-04-26T19:21:00.002-10:00

Aloha,

A big Mahalo to Ted for packing up our Bicycles and the Bob trailers. Now I will call Fed ex and prepare them for pick up on May 1st. I have been riding a borrowed bike, I am very thankful for the use of this bike as it is so different from my own. This bike is really working my legs. I have all of my personal effects packed up and ready to ship as well. I was going to carry on with me but too much trouble as I change planes 3 different times in route and don't want to get to my final destination without my stuff. Here is a picture of our bikes and trailers waiting ever so patiently for their destination Yorktown Virginia.

Riding from Dixie Maru

2009-04-15T08:35:00.003-10:00

Aloha.

Here are a couple of photos from my Birthday Ride. we are returning from Dixie Maru Beach.

Enjoy

Happy Days

2009-04-14T08:31:00.002-10:00

Aloha,

Wanted to let you all know I am still alive. I have been logging in over 200 miles a week in the past couple of weeks. So as you can imagine after working and riding I don't have a whole lot of time left to write. I am waiting on some pictures from my birthday bike ride. Ted and I loaded up the trailers and off we went to Dixie Maru Beach. We actually stayed at the Hamamoto house. The Hamamoto's allowed us to set up out tents in there yard. Had a great time. Fern made Tacos for us and Teri came and brought enchiladas. What else Brownies and Ice Cream for Dessert. Then on Monday Ted went fishing and brought back 3 keepers. I gave him a bit of a bad time about bringing the fish back alive. Sorry Ted, I hope I didn't upset you. I believe he is thinking I don't want to eat the fish we catch during our trip, that's not true I just don't want to clean the fish. Not that I can't, I just don't want too. When I was young and Dad and I would go fishing I always helped with the cleaning of the fish. My job was to oh never mind you don't want to know the details.
Humane Society Fund Raising Project. I have gathered almost $1200.00 worth of pledges. Thanks everyone! :-) I saw there is an article in the Molokai Dispatch and they did a little plug for me too about raising pledges for the Molokai Humane Society.

Please stand by for new pictures.

Keep the Rubber Side down,

Lisa

The Transamerica Bike Trail

2009-04-04T15:40:00.003-10:00

Aloha Everyone,

Well as you can see we are getting closer and closer to D Day. I am feeling really good about our ride. I am most excited about being able to raise money for the Molokai Humane Society. I really believe they are one of the most deserving organizations around. How many Vets do you know who operate without running water and electricity? Don't get me wrong they do have water it comes from a water canteen, and the power supply is generator. They also have an outhouse on site "Thank Goodness " Otherwise those hard working folks would have to go in the bushes. Whew, so I am hoping to raise some money for them to supplement what they get from the county. :-0

The reason for my post today is to show you on the map where we are going.

We are starting in Yorktown Virginia, and ending in Astoria, Oregon. The states we travel in all together are,Virginia, Kentucky, Illinois, Missouri, Kansas, Colorado, Wyoming, Montana, Idaho, and Oregon. The map below gives you a general idea of how we are going. 4247.50 Miles. Ted says it will be more like 5000 after all is said and done. Great!
Keep the Rubber side down.
until next time.

Razoo is a better way to donate to charity. Find great organizations, make free and secure donations, and manage your giving portfolio.

2009-03-29T18:04:00.002-10:00

Razoo is a better way to donate to charity. Find great organizations, make free and secure donations, and manage your giving portfolio.

Posted using ShareThis

Ted at the top of Kalua Koi Road

2009-03-29T09:51:00.000-10:00

2009-03-29T09:41:00.003-10:00

Aloha Everyone,

Ted just sent me a copy of our route from this past week. Check it out we rode a total of 76.4 miels right here at home. Also, I am trying to upload a picture of Ted.

You can click on the map to enlarge the area.

Me at the top of Kalua Koi Road

2009-03-28T17:14:00.003-10:00

Aloha Everyone,

wow, we had a great time this past couple of days. We rode our bikes from my place on the West End of Molokai to the East End of Molokai just past the neighborhood store. We set up camp at our friends place. We had a lot of wind on the way out. It took us a long time to get to our destination. We stopped in town for pizza mmmm good stuff. Then continued East and stopped at the neighborhood store for 50cl of Hinano Beer. I earned that. Fern and Ted had some juice drink, which we found out is all High fructose corn syrup disguised as strawberry and watermelon. We had pasta for dinner. Got up the next morning and had coffee. Then we packed up and discussed Ted bringing too many clothes, he needs to lighten his load. So he will be using my equipment list to get it right. We stopped at neighborhood store and Fern and Ted ordered breakfast and I had cold pizza. I think they think I'm a little strange for eating cold pizza. I Love Cold Pizza in the morning. then the wind pushed us to town. We made it to town in about 1 hour twice as fast as the day before due to the tailwinds. We sat outside the library and had the gas stations version of the mocha mama. Then we were off to climb the first of 2 hills going back. I was climbing and all of a sudden I saw someone hanging out of a white van it was Fern, billy her neighbor picked her up halfway through the hill as she had had enough bike riding. Good job Fern for the time you did put in. Ted and I were going to stop at the Humane Society and take pictures, but I could not stop I was moving along so well I kept going. We will get pictures soon. We stopped at the bottom of the mountain for a little water break and Ted needed to remove his shoes as he is still breaking them in. Up the Mountain we went. When we came back to the turn off to Kalua Koi Road we had a break and Ted gave me a compliment. He followed me up the Mountain and said the pace was perfect, as he did not feel the need to pass me at all but to just pace with me. Thanks Ted. Homeward Bound. We arrived back at my place and said our Goodbyes. We are not sure if we will be able to get another long ride in like this one before our trip.

Keep the Rubber side down,
Lisa

Molokai Humane Society

2009-03-23T18:04:00.003-10:00

Well,
It looks like tomorrow I go to the Molokai Humane Society meeting. I believe they are going to use our bike ride as their fund raising project, Fantastic. I am so excited to be able to help them out. As you all know I have a thing for Cats. REALLY. So far my friend Jack says he will donate 5 cents per mile so you do the math 5x 4247 miles wow. Thanks Jack your Da Bomb. Hopefully alot of people will sponsor and the Humane Society will make some money. Our Humane Society would not survive without public support. Check out their website at molokaihumanesociety.org

What I am bringing Transamerica bike ride

2009-03-22T18:55:00.006-10:00

Aloha,

Well we are getting down to the wire and I thought I would let you all know what I am bringing with me.

Handlebar Bag
computer
GPS
cell phone and charger
maps
gum, candy,fig newtons
ipod and charger
camera
journal
pen
extra batteries

BOB Trailer
Rain gear Pants and jacket
fleece pants
beanie
helmet
bike shorts x 3
jerseys x 3
underwear x 3
socks x 3
swimsuit 1
3days emergency food
first aide kit
extra tire for bike
tubes x3
tools small park tool kit
towel
pot and pan
folding plate,bowl,cup x 2 one for Ted too.
silverware knife,fork,spoon x 1
toiletries
extra shoes should say slippers
shorts and t-shirt for going out this is going to be what I wear on the airplane too
leg warmers
arm warmers
long finger gloves
extra short finger gloves
clothesline
flashlight
tent
sleeping pad
sleeping bag
travel pillow
tarp
tire pump
water bottles 4
camelback 100 ounces
stove and matches
headlight and charger

dog spray Halt they say Kentucky has some pretty mean dogs????

additional items
cyclometer
clothespins

I am doing this from memory so hopefully I got it all.

Keep the Rubber Side down

2009-03-13T13:30:00.004-10:00

Aloha Everyone,

Only 56 more days and Ted and I will out on the East Coast assembling our bicycles and doing last minute work to start our ride. We will start in Yorktown Virginia. For the first 3 nights we are staying at the Yorktown Motor Lodge which is a ground floor place which is good so we won't have to haul all of our gear up any stairs.

Things I still need to get list
Rain Pants
Clothesline
something else but I can't remember right now.

Muffin

2008-12-06T16:51:00.001-10:00

She is not very lady like, but she is cute!

My Furry Friends, I will miss them while Riding

2008-11-15T13:00:00.001-10:00

Molokai Sunset

2008-11-13T09:03:00.001-10:00

Momomi Molokai August 2008

2008-11-11T16:34:00.001-10:00

Aloha,

This was our first official ride together. We rode the red dirt roads of MoMomi to a
beautiful beach, can't remember the name. It was a easy ride. This ride was to familiarize me once again with my bike. Pokahu came along too, he mostly just ran beside Ted and was excited to be outside in the fresh air. Fern and I brought up the rear while Ted and the dog pulled the Bob trailer with all of our snacks and drinks to share after riding together. You can click the pictures to make them bigger if you want to.
May the wind be at your back

Tahiti

2008-11-10T18:05:00.001-10:00

Tahiti Sunset 2008

2008-11-10T17:39:00.000-10:00

Here is my very first post. It only took me 3 hours to figure out the photo upload. Finally had to download Picasa software. Yippee.

Tahiti July 2008

2008-11-10T17:38:00.000-10:00