Day 61: Dalton to Sussex 132 Km Uphill 6857 ft Downhill 7356 ft

We’ve been told that today’s ride will be difficult. Nine weeks ago we started off with a difficult climb (Day 2 up Steven’s Pass) so it is only fitting that the second last day be somewhat the same. Todays climb of 6857ft is the most we’ve ever climbed in one single day. To say that people are a bit uptight is putting it lightly. We’ve heard talk of rain and that would make the descents tricky.

My alarm went off at 4:50 a.m. (a record for me). Since I’m on sweep today, my goal was to pack up my tent and be ready to set out breakfast by 5:45. Thankfully I was excused from packing up the gear truck and was able to leave with the gang at 6:50.

Whoa, the climbing continued where we left off yesterday. Someone had an elevation button on their watch and most of the climbs where between 10-12% with a few at 14%. The saving grace was that the climbs are short and for a lot of them you can power down and coast quite a ways up before you start to downshift. We had a gap in our pace line but met up with each other at SAG stops or restaurants along the way.

First stop was Julie's. She was handing out pototo chips….mmm salt is always good. Oh I should mention that just before Julie’s SAG we had to make a quick left hand turn. We where going downhill and didn’t see the marker till it was too late. We stopped our bikes and turn them facing the right direction. The only problem was that it was on a rather steep incline so when I went to start my left foot was clipped in but I didn’t get the right foot clipped in on time so down I went. Just a scrape to my right ankle and a possible bruise on my left hip but I could still continue on. My second attempt to get started was much better. The guys held up my bike and gave me push to get me going. Talk about being humbled, thank goodness no one got that on video!

Second breakfast was just past the 60km marker. Waffles with strawberry sauce and icing sugar. Very good. The coffee hit the spot and we were ready to tackle some more hills. Lots of dairy farms today.

Walters SAG was next. He is still trying to unload ‘waltermelon’ but in honor of the second last day he was handing out chocolates. They weren’t dark chocolate but I still enjoyed them. After Walters the route wasn’t as difficult, just one rolling hill after another.

Just before the last major climb of the day we stopped in Portjervis. It was decided that an ice coffee was in order to help power us up. McDonalds to the rescue. When we were ready to leave Jake stepped outside and to his surprise there was his wife and his brother and sister in law. He wasn’t expecting them till tomorrow so now Jake is on a mission….get in as soon as possible.

No sooner on our bikes and there was the Welcome into New Jersey. Photo op.

Climbing High Point wasn’t as hard as I expected. I found that you would do some climbing and then you’d have a bit of break before the climbing started again. At the top of the summit I was greeted by Grandma Rose and her 3 grandchildren that were manning the booth. ‘Would I like lemonade, or water? Chips, cookies, or nuts?' Cory also had a SAG set up, but he wasn’t doing a lot of business. Too much competition.

When we left this stop there was a sign stating…. ‘It’s all downhill from here’. Not quite true but I’ll let it go. One last brutal climb up to Sussex Christian School. The gear truck was unpacked and several volunteers were on hand to shuttle us to the showers, show us where to set up our tents, direct us to the computer lab, etc, etc. Very well organized.

I had just finished setting up my tent to dry when my husband Ralph and our youngest daughter Jo arrived. My sister, Betty-Anne Werkema and her youngest daughter Cassy also came along to share the last days of the tour with me. My plan was to stay in a motel with them but I’ve since learned that the motel is an hour away and with an early start time tomorrow its best if I just stay in camp. Barb to the rescue. She had signed me up for a billet (hosting) but crossed me off when she saw Ralph. Now she has uncrossed me and I’m staying at a lovely home with Barb, being hosted by Rob and Carol Dekker. Thank you soooo much. No wet tent to take down tomorrow morning.

Supper was served by the Sussex and Goshen CRC community. So much food. They’ve even invited our families to join us for supper….that’s a total of over 500 for supper. It was fantastic. Thanks again for all the work these two communities did to make our stay at Sussex as enjoyable as possible.

Peloton tonight was all about saying thank you. The cooks, support staff, Jen, Ed, Cory, and the chaplins were thanked. Ed went over the route. We are actually being escorted by 3 different police vehicles (different jurisdictions) over a 10 mile ride. This will be slow going. Pray for safety as we finish off this journey.

Total km 133.7 for the day. Max speed of 69.8km Time on the bike 6:11:43

Way past my bed time. Till tomorrow, Cynthia
P.S. Not too many photos. I guess like Jake, I just wanted to get in.

Day 60: Binghamton to Dalton 93km Uphill 3245 ft Downhill 3154 ft

Every evening before I zip up my tent and call it a night I ask John what time we’re leaving in the morning. John’s reply is, ‘don’t worry, take your time’. But you’d think I’d know by now that by 6:30 a.m. there is John, helmet on, sitting on his bike just doing circles in the parking lot waiting for me. To be quite frank, this morning I stalled John because Barb wasn’t quite ready. Anything for a friend.

The morning started off cool. Most cyclists had leg and arm warmers on. I haven’t used the leg warmers yet. I’m trying to stay tough.

Pete is on sweep today so I started off with John, Jake, Barb, Gerry, Andy, and Louie. The first 20km were okay but then I had a breathing problem. Just couldn’t catch my breath. I blame it on emotions. I was fifth from the back of the pace line with John and Louie behind me but I couldn’t see what was on the road in front of me and we were clicking along at a good pace. I knew that if the pavement became rough or that if there was a piece of debris on the road that I would have a hard time missing it simply because the further down the line the less reaction time. So I panicked. The solution to the problem was to break up the pace line, which the guys did quite willingly. I finished the reminder of the day biking with Andy, Jake and Gerry. No more panic attack, thank goodness. My cadence is back to normal (around 90 revolutions pr minute) and I can keep up with the guys on the flats. They still beat me up on the hills but I think guys are just naturally stronger and they have more power at their disposal than most women.

Today was a short day. Last evening during peloton Ed told us that the elevation chart was not correct…not as many climbs as were indicated in the Shifting Gears book.

Our first SAG was being manned by Julie. She was at the border sign welcoming us into Pennsylvania. We told her we would stay at her SAG if she wanted to go for a coffee. We even suggested that she just put out the water jugs and chips and hang up a sign…. ‘Be back in 5 minutes’ and join us for a coffee. But Julie is too devoted to her duties that she couldn’t be persuaded. We thanked her to all she does for us and continued along to find a coffee stop.
We had a few rolling hills early this morning but by the time we stopped for a coffee at 8:30ish we were mainly going downhill. Gerry had left Julie’s SAG just before us and in the next town we saw his biked leaned against this sport bar building. We have a rule, never let a cyclists have a coffee alone, so in we went. As always we handed out cards. When we asked if they had any pastries the owner said. ‘no’, but then a little while later he came back with two platters of timbits that he had purchased for us. Cyclists kept coming in and when it came time to pay the owner said it was on the house. Such random acts of kindness are always appreciated.
We stopped at this cement bridge to take photos and to peel down. The temperature outside is heating up so it’s time to lose the arm warmers and jackets. Walters RV was our next SAG stop. I’m not sure when we reached the town of Nicholson, probably around 11ish. At this point we only have around 10km to go. The gear truck won’t be in camp for another hour, so we figured why not stop for another breakfast. The town of Nicholson is pretty desolate. We decided to eat at Nicole’s diner; good food and great coffee. After breakfast we investigated a few of the shops. The one shop still had Easter candy out. Gerry was trying to get Andy to purchase this Halloween witch that laughed whenever you walk by it. He thought Andy’s wife would loooooove it. Andy knew better….no laughing witch for you, Siska. Empty handed we went back on our bikes and continued on our way.

Now heres where the ride became interesting. With only 6km to go we faced some terrific climbs. On the way up the first climb (I’ve heard some talk that it was a 12% grade) Gerry’s chain snapped in two. Jake didn’t noticed what happened and he continued to sail down the hill, leaving Andy and I with Gerry at the top of the hill. Now Gerry has a bit of everything in his bag (just like John) and he had the tools to fix it. I took a few pictures of the guys working away and then decided to remove my helmet and sunglasses to cool off. Jake waited at the bottom of the hill for around 15 minutes and then decided that he should go back and check out what was taking us so long. Up the hill he goes, just as he comes to the top we are getting on our bikes ready to head down the hill. We did say he was a good friend to go to come back for us.


When we sailed to the bottom of the hill I noticed that I didn’t have my sunglasses on (I had left them on the side of the road. You guessed it; they were at the top of the hill. Gerry decided it was his fault because he had the broken chain and went back to the top to find my glasses. Later on I told Gerry that I wish he had been the man in the Garden of Eden because then Eve wouldn’t been blamed for anything! Andy told me never to take those glasses off ever again.

The last couple kms where nasty. I think I know what tomorrow will be like; very difficult but hopefully manageable…one pedal stroke at a time is my motto. I guess we are cycling thru the Pocono’s tomorrow.

Tonight we are staying at Lackawanna State Park. The rain has held off and we are optimistically hoping that our clothes will dry.

This is the last supper that our cooks are preparing for us. Below are a few photos of the cooks in action.

The last few evening Peloton has been devoted to 'life after the tour'. One evening those who where going to school were asked to go to the front and a prayer was said for them. The next evening concentrated on the ones that had jobs to go home to or know what they are doing (retirement). Wednesday evening we prayed for those that either quite there jobs for the tour or do not know what they are going to do. Last evening several people spoke on what the tour has meant to them and how they view life now after the experience of the tour. We also formed a circle and shared communion . Another meaningful worship.

Just as I retired for the evening, the rain started coming down. I'm glad, that means there's less to fall tomorrow during the ride. Good night one and all. Cynthia

Time on the bike 3:41:06 Max speed 62.7km Total km biked 91.4km (first time on record that we are actually under the kms for the day).

Day 59: Romulus to Binghamton 122km Uphill 3676 ft Downhill 3362 ft

Decided to set my alarm for 5:25 a.m. It’s suppose to be foggy out so I figured the guys would leave a bit later. Surprise, no fog so I had to quickly finish getting ready so I wouldn’t keep them waiting to long. Not too much dew on the tent, so packing up was a pleasure.

I believe we set out just before 7. Cory Nyhuis is biking today (no pulling the porta potty, instead he gets to experience the tour from the seat of a bike) so we split up the pace line and set out. Cory is biking with Barb, John, and Louie. I’m biking with Andy, Pete, Jake and Gerry.

Cynthia, John, Barb, Pete, Cory, Gerry, Louie, Jake and Andy all set to go

The ride today was fairly hilly. The only thing good about climbing is that you get to go down again. We started looking for a coffee shop around 8:45. In fact when we came to Walter’s sag we told him we wouldn’t stay long because we were ‘dying’ for a coffee. We didn’t locate one till 9:30ish. At that time we looked at our accumulated kms for the day and realized we were already at 70km so we had finished the ‘big’ climb. It was in three parts, first 600ft then 200ft and it finished off with another 200ft. I managed it quite well. Hooray.

The remainder of the day was still rolling. The Valley CRC had a water spot close to the end of the day. We came upon this sign welcoming us into the community of Chenango Forks. The young people created this sign and hung it on a silo so that we couldn’t miss it. The CRC is close to the Chenango Forks School. They had water, doughnuts, and chips for us. After a refreshing stop (and sufficient time to make sure the gear truck was almost unpacked) we headed over to the school. The guys still helped to unload the gear bags but I’ve decided not to lug any extra weight…biking is enough for now.

My tent is up, I’ve showered and then I went back into the school to plug my computer in and blog; wouldn’t you know it……I got an internet connection!!!!! So happy. The school is under some major construction and the tech guy set up an internet site for the contractors to use. So put a hard hat on me, I’m blogging!

We are being served supper by the Valley Christian Reformed church. They are serving us a locally known dish called spedie. This is a chicken dish that is marinated in garlic and lemon served on a kobab. Can't wait, I’m hungry.

They’re calling for a possibility of rain on Thursday and Friday. No sense worrying about it till it happens.

P.S. If my Mom is reading this, I promised that I would call her on Monday (2 days ago) and let her know if I was going to continue to with the tour. Guess what, Mom….I’m continuing! Pay phones are difficult to find and I still don’t have a calling card. So, sorry about that. I promise to call you when I’m home next Monday.

Time on the bike 5:10:42 Total of 125.3kms

Till tomorrow, Cynthia

Day 58: Bryon to Romulus 122km Uphill 2889 ft Downhill 2991 ft

It’s amazing what one forgets; like what its like to pack up a wet, wet tent….unpleasant sums it up pretty good.

I should back track and add that last evening we were treated to some wonderful music. Some people that were staying in the RV camp belong to a 4 piece band and they just happen to have their instruments with them plus an extra violin for Vonda to use. Since the campground had already donated a bucket full of free firewood they thought why not add a sing-a-long. Small groups were cancelled and instead we enjoyed a variety of gospel (or should I say, gossip) music. They also played some lively tunes that made you want to get up and move around. The kitchen staff had purchased enough supplies for smores for everyone. So it was a true campfire experience. I went to sleep with the sound of music still playing in my mind.

As I stated earlier, it was a wet this morning. I managed to have everything packed up and ready to go on the bike shortly before 7a.m. The guys were already hanging over their handbars asking what took me sooooo long. Not to fear, as it turned out we waited around 4 minutes for Louie ……miscommunication as to where we were too meet. Oh well, better Louie than me!

We split up the pace line for safety reasons, so today I started out with Andy, Jake and Rick D from Hamilton. Barb, John, Gerry and Pete were always in our sight. Lunch is being served along the route by the East Palmyra CRC members, but it doesn’t start till 10 a.m. So we killed some time at a gas station drinking some coffee.

The route for the first part of the day was up and down. Wonderful to ride the hills down and then coast up the majority of the way up. It wasn’t difficult and I thoroughly enjoyed every minute of it. We are seeing a lot of dairy farms on our route today. Someone also mentioned that this area has a lot of high tech industry as well.

We were the first group in for lunch. What a spread! Coffee, cold drinks, sloppy joes on a bun, baked beans (not great when you’re at the back of the line….if you get my drift!). They also had a lettuce salad, pasta salad, fresh fruit and a ton of baked goods. We took a good bite out of the cherry cheese cake pan, everything tasted great. It was also good to visit with the people gathered there to support, cheer and feed us. I should add that some women started to talk to John Vandersteen and pretty soon I think they had come up with a way that they were related. Go figure, dutch bingo at it’s best! When we left the lunch spot it was Andy, Rick and I but we lost Rick when we stopped to talk to Andy’s son Chris and his wife (Amanda) with their two children. They stayed in the RV camp last evening and are traveling to the State park that we are staying at tonight. Julian is excited. He’s three and he has promised to set up Andy’s tent.

We caught up with the gang at a sag stop with under 15km to go. Andy, Pete and I started off before the rest because we said that they would catch up with us. I wish they had….instead we ended up missing the turn onto Lake Rd E and traveled to the town of Seneca Falls. We received several directions as to how to head back onto the right track. One got us onto a side road that started out paved and turned into gravel; very bumpy and slow going. We ended up flagging down a woman in a yellow mustang. Her was name Kathy Felis and she was very familiar with the area. She gave us great directions and told us a bit of history about the park that we are staying at. It used to be a military base and her dad actually bought one of the barracks and dismantled it for wood. Not too worry we only added an additional 30km to todays route. That translates to 153.3km and a total time of 5:47:22 on the bike. We weren't the only ones that did a bit extra mileage. Here the bikers are waiting for the gear truck and kitchen truck that got lost. The kitchen staff is busy peeling eggs for tomorrows egg salad that will available for us to pack in our lunches.

We are staying at Sampson State park. Lots of trees, a grassy site and an enclosed picnic shelter to eat in. It will probably get cool tonight, so great for sleeping. The tour technical support has told us that we will probably not have internet serviced for the remaining of the tour, very sad news for those of us who regularly blog. I’m feeling really good. The biking is not too much of a problem. After 4 hours it does get uncomfortable in the seat so tomorrow I’ll try to look out for those orange arrows that mark the route and maybe I should pull out my map once or twice rather than relying on the guys to get me there. Currently I’m sitting on an ice pack. The kitchen staff is generously allowing me to store it in their freezer so it’s ready to use whenever I need it.

Now it’s time to collect my laundry and make sure everything is set to go in my tent. Last evening when I went into my tent it was very dark so I put on my head lamp only to discover that the batteries had died. I hadn’t used it since my crash. It was very interesting smearing face cream on my face (was it really face cream or some form of butt butter?)

P.S. Marti DP (a cyclists) and her husband (he has been marking the route for the past couple of weeks) became Canadian citizens yesterday. Tonight they served cake to everyone. They also hung up that t-shirt that I quoted from in yesterday’s blog. It’s great to see how happy they are to be Canadians.

Till later, Cynthia

Day 57 St. Catherines to Bryon 124km Uphill 2026 ft Downhill 1692 ft

Breakfast was served at the school from 6 – 7 a.m. Ed W wants us to have everything in the gear truck by 8 a.m. so that the trucks can cross over the border asap. We have been asked to carry our passports and meet by a designated parking lot close to the border by 9:30.

Barb is on sweep so we set out in two groups. First line: John, Pete, Jake and then 50 ft back we formed another line: Andy, Louie, Gerry and myself. We figure this is the safer way to travel. John knows the area (one of the many places he has lived in his life) so he biked us by the Floral clock but unlike Saturday evening no one was around, so we could take some great pictures. (Opps the person taking the photo for me didn't quite take it, so I cannot share this photo with you).

Next stop, the Falls Next stop, Tim Hortons. I don’t have the photo on my camera but Pete has a picture of Gerry K with a Timmies coffee in one hand and a doughnut in the other. He can say that he has experienced what it means to be a ‘true Canadian’.

When we were touring Niagara on the Lake I came upon the following script and I would like to share it with you. If any of you caught Barb Mellema’s blog the day before we crossed into Canada you would have read that she wondered where all the igloos where. So I thought I would enlighten any US citizens that have been reading my blog. Here goes………

I, Cynthia Aukema do not travel by dogsled
A loonie is a dollar not a relative
I live in the second largest country in the world
Winter only lasts one season
I live in a house not an igloo
I do not know your second cousin John in Saskatoon
Our currency was not based on Monopoly money
The Parliament buildings are not made of ice
The maple leaf is our national symbol
We are the BEST hockey players in the world
I AM CANADAIN

Anyways, back to the blog.

All the cyclists were at the designated meeting place by 9:30. We followed Billy Den Harder (the guy on the motorcycle) to the Rainbow Bridge. I have never experienced an easier crossing. They opened 3 lanes up for us and just let us cycle across. We didn’t even have to show our passports. I’m not too sure what Ed did in advance but it sure was sweet.

We had been warned to say in groups of 3 or more because of the rough neigbourhood just as we passed over the bridge. I didn’t really notice that much (I’m used to Detroit).

The remainder of the day was very smooth. Great shoulders to ride on. We had some side wind and Louie generously allowed me to use him as a wind break. For most of the ride it was a tail ride. Barb bumped into us at a snack shack around 30 km from the end. She expressed surprise and then asked where we had turned wrong! We had to admit that we were heading in the right direction but then Billy D came by on his motorcycle and said that we were going the wrong way so to follow him. Which we did……WRONG move. After 7 ½ km we came upon Billy and he said ,’opps, I think this is the wrong route’. We asked some locals how to get back on the route. So instead of a 123.1km day we did 138.9km. The upside is that the route was very flat so the extra km weren’t too hard on my body. Time on the bike 5:36:22

Tonight we are staying at Southwoods RV park. It’s a great place. We have a nice grassy site. We can log on to the parks internet (fantastic), and the camp has also donated free firewood for us to burn tonight. The downside is that our tents are parked downwind from the campfire…oh well, life goes on.

Tomorrow is 123km day with a few shorts climb. It will get very cool tonight so a great evening for sleeping. Till tomorrow, Cynthia

Sunday, August 24, 2008

Oh how I wish my body could sleep past 6 a.m. This morning breakfast wasn’t being served till 8 a.m. and there I was wide awake wondering how to kill 2 hours. I decided to hit the computer lab and finish typing out yesterdays blog. Next a shower and then wouldn’t you know it, it was 8 a.m. breakfast time.

This morning we worshipped across the road at Maranatha CRC. The service was led by Pastor Ken VanDyk. His sermon, ‘Christ’s Ambassadors’ tied in beautifully with our Sea to Sea theme. The singing was phenomenal. During the singing of ‘How Great Thou Art’ I’m almost certain that the ceiling rafters lifted up a tad. Fantastic! When we walked out of church we were greeted by Ralph’s brother and his wife; Flo & Shirley Aukema. They came early to spend some time with us and with several other people that they knew on the tour.

Lunch was served at the school by the church folk. They have generously feed many of our visiting family as well. This goes beyond our expectations and again, thank you.

Rain was threatening so we hightailed it to the nearest Starbucks so that I could post yesterday’s blog using their internet. This means I didn’t pirate the internet from anyone (like I alluded to in yesterday’s blog) but actually did the right thing and paid to get connected…so no crime was committed. It started to rain buckets while we were in Starbucks. We checked the weather network and it verified that the system would last several hours, so with umbrella and rain jackets we headed off to Queenston Heights Park in Niagara Falls.

Ralph plugged in directions to the park…big mistake. The fastest route was the QEW but somehow we didn’t hear the correct instruction because before we knew it we where in a long line trying to cross into the States (and I’m not suppose to be going across till tomorrow!) Quick call to my family that we were meeting at the service to inform them of our dilemma and no sooner had Ralph finished the call when Flo noticed a way out. Quick U-turn and within 5 minutes our GPS informed us that ‘we have arrived’.

It is still raining so everyone is seeking shelter under the pavilion. First two people I saw where John & Betty-Anne Werkema (my sister) with some of their children…. Michael (and Carolyn Kuipers) and Cassy. Next I saw my uncle and aunt, Harm and Margaret Bremer from Aylmer. He generously prints off my blogs for my parents to read and if I understand correctly he also keeps the people who live at Heritage Place informed of my process. Aylmer CRC was the church my family worshipped at for many years until Tillsonburg CRC started. Then because it was closer to were we lived we became part of the original families that founded Tillsonburg CRC. Cynthia, Aunt Margaret, Uncle Harm and Barb Mellema

Kees & Liz Vreugendel with their daughter Helen gave me a hug. George Douma found me (a Chathammite and friend) and told me where his wife was located but I never got around to her……..sorry Hilda and I could continue on with the dutch bingo but it’s suffice to say that it was another great day of seeing familiar faces, receiving hugs and generally feeling loved.

At 4 p.m. the rain stopped, the sun came out and the service started. God is good. David Raakman was our worship leader and the main speaker was Brian Walsh. He gave a powerful message on the fruits of the spirit; challenging and providing us with much to think on. Alida Van Dijk a cyclists from the beginning of the tour and a ‘St. Catherine’s’ native shared her perspective of the tour. She represented us well, thanks Alida. The service ended with some songs and then the cyclists and support staff was asked to come up to the front for a blessing. Wow, to look out at all the people sitting on the hill side was amazing. I couldn’t see the end of the crowd, and I’m not going to speculate on how many people attended because I’m bound to be wrong. When the service ended the local CRC community started feeding the cyclists. We decided to go out for dinner with our visiting families. It was nice to sit and talk about the plans that everyone has for the fall.

We made it back to the camp in time for Andrew to say good bye to his friends. I packed up a bag because I’m being billeted tonight at Henrietta Hunse’s home (Ralph is bringing the 5th wheel back to Chatham….good bye bed, good bye Ralph). Barb M and our head cook, Lavonne K stayed at Henrietta’s home last evening and there was one extra single bed so they’ve graciously allowed me to use it.

It was difficult saying good bye to Andrew. He leaves on Tuesday to attend Regent College in Vancouver. He plans to be out west for at least 2 years, maybe more. While I’m excited for him it means that we’ve officially cut the apron strings. He’s starting his own life and that’s the way it should be. So now Jolene will get our undivided attention (lucky Jo!).

After peloton we went to Henrietta’s home. She is a very welcoming host and quickly made me feel at home. She also shared that she will be married in 6 weeks and we got a sneak peek at the dress she is designing. She will make a beautiful bride and we wish Jim and her many years of wedded bliss. Henrietta also showed us some of the wonderful fabrics she has taken home from Mila when she worked for CRWRC. It was a pleasant evening and bed time came all too soon.

Tomorrow we cross the border. Six more biking days. Later, Cynthia

Day 55: Hamilton to St. Catherines approx 74km (I don't have the map anymore)

Another picture perfect biking day.

Today I got to sleep in till 5:50 a.m. because I’m sleeping in the camper so no tent to pack up and breakfast wasn’t being served till 6 a.m. When I arrived at the dining hall there was Andy, John, Gerry, Jake and Louie. Pete & Lynda and Barb showed up shortly afterwards. Mike is on sweep duty today so he will not be biking with us. John, Barb and Louie are signed up for a service project so they want to be into St. Catherines by 11 a.m. I’m biking with Andy, Gerry, Pete and Jake today.

The kitchen staff at Redeemer did a great job on supper last evening and also on breakfast. Lots of variety and we could get thru the food line quickly. I think they’ve done this before! I also wanted to mention that last evening I met a former teacher from my LDCSS days, Herman Proper. He also acted as principle at our Christian High in Chatham. Just as I was standing there shooting the breeze with him, Marsha (Batterink) came and said hi. She has spent countless hours in our home many years ago babysitting our children. She did feel slightly older when I introduced her to Andrew. Sorry Marsha, I know you are married to Jim but I’m uncertain as to what your married name it. Helen Vreugdenhil also looked me up at Redeemer to say ‘Hi’. Good to see so many faces from the past.

Started out on the bike at 7a.m. Pete has a band-aid on his left elbow and knee and he also put a matching white wrap on this left handlebars (and they say guys aren’t vain!) We had no sooner left the college when we past a gentleman raking the front of the church lawn, without so much as a warning Pete did a U-turn and told us to carry on without him. Pete caught up with us ½ an hour later and explained that this gentleman had taken him to the bike shop yesterday and Pete wanted to thank him.

Today’s route was like a pattern of the last few days; many people cheering on the side of the roads, handing out baked goods and we noticed a lot of homemade signs welcoming and encouraging us. We’ve been told that we have around 5 planned stops.

The first stop was by the Scenic lookout…..freezers

Second stop…Was by the top of the escarpment. A stand was just being set out by the Fruitland CRC. Since it wasn’t quite up and running we waved and cycled on.

Third stop, ‘The Dutch Shop’. One of our C2C cyclists works here. We thanked them for giving Eritia Smit the summer off and told them how lucky they were to have such a fine employee. Eritia, I think you can ask for a raise when you get back; we really ‘talked’ you up!

Fourth stop, Shalom Manor…a retirement and assisted living facility. We walked into the dining hall just as someone was on the ‘mike’ telling them that we were stopping by. Great timing. We waved and carried on for a few block till we reached the Mountainview CRC in Grimsby our fifth stop. Coffee, doughnuts, fresh peaches and ice cream were some of the food they had set out for us. We’ve vowed to pace ourselves on the food, so just a cup of peaches and ice cream, then we had to tear Jake away from the pulpit (I think he’s missing his Sunday duties) before we headed out to the sixth stop. Sixth stop..Providence CRC in Beamsville. We reached this stop just after 10 a.m. They had a lunch spread out that would make your eyes pop. So much food and again people cheering and wanting to talk to us. We obliged them on both counts. Seventh stop was being manned by Pieter Pereboom's parents. The temperature outside is heating up so the freezers that they handed out at this stop were much appreciated.

Seventh stop Jubilee CRC. Again more people to talk to and this time we had cups of fruit salad.

The area we traveled thru today had a few dairy farms, a lot of fruit farms and wineries.

A view of the grapes

Ten km to go before we hit our destination for the day. I wanted to get in rather early because I’ve heard they’re offering pedicures, massages and haircuts. I plan to take them up on two of the three. Several hours later I’m sitting in the truck blogging away. I’ve had my shower, pedicure and massage. Three local CRC are serving us supper. Oh, I met my cousin, Ed DeVries today. I haven’t seen him or his wife Michelle and their two children for…well lasts just say that it’s been awhile.

After a fantastic supper Ralph, Andrew, Gerry K and I took a scenic drive to see a few sights. Some of the things we saw were:

The flower clock :
The town of Niagara on the Lake; beautiful flower beds and many quaint shops to wander thru .

The mighty Niagara Falls :So that’s my day. St. Catherines has opened their computer lab for us and many people are taking advantage of it….but you can’t connect to the internet on our laptops so now Ralph and I will drive around the neighbourhood in hopes that someone has an unprotected internet connection that I ‘borrow’ in order to send this blog (and on a Sunday, no less).

P.S. It’s official. I’m going to stay on and attempt the last week. I’m not sure if I can actually do all the climbs but I don’t want to live with the regret of giving up before I’ve even attempted it…so here’s to next week. May all the cyclists have what they stand in need of, both physically and mentally. Till later, Cynthia

Day 54: London to Hamilton 121 km (actually 126.5km...but who's counting).

Uphill 2592 ft Downhill 2626 ft

Two words sum up the day….rollers and food.

Our day started a bit later than usual. . I think we were off by 7 a.m. We said goodbye to familiar faces but we know that we will see them again on Sunday or in my case, tonight. No need for arm warmers, I just wore a sleeveless jersey and shorts. It was a great day for biking, only getting warm (90F) by the end of the day.

The pace line...Pete, Cynthia, Gerry, John, Jake, Louie, Andy, Mike and Barb

John led us out of London and before long we were cycling along country roads. For those not familiar with the area, Southern Ontario is home to a lot of agriculture. Dairy farms, chicken and hog operations, vegetables and we even went past a few tobacco farms (the tobacco industry has taken a huge hit in the last number of years and you see less and less of these farms). Large trees lined both sides of the road and provided us with a great cover throughout most of the day.

When we weren’t cycling we were eating. I think we had 5 planned stops and this isn’t counting the people and children standing at the end of their drivesways offering cold water, etc. It was almost overwhelming. I’ve said it before but it bears repeating…. Canadians rock in the hospitality category. The support you’ve shown us is phenomenal. I won’t list all the churches and communities for fear that I’ll forget one. An interesting bike stand

I need to mention that I was impressed by the Porta Johns in Woodstock. I’ve never been in one that you can actually flush and then press down on a foot pump for fresh water to wash your hands in a sink. Awesome! Now thats what Cory should have been pulling along behind him for the entire tour.

I’ve also seen a lot of familiar faces but again I’ll refrain from listing them because if I forget to mention someone they may feel slighted which is not my intent at all. To the many people that came up to me and offered me encouragement, thank you, I appreciate your words and well wishes.

As I mentioned early in this blog, we’d no sooner go up one hill and then the next one would be before us. We did have a relatively flat area after Woodstock but that was only for a few kms and then we were back at it again. Our pace line was 10 people long so after Ingersol we split up for the safety factor. I biked the remainder of the day with John, Barb, Mike and Louie (he was busy talking in Woodstock so we left without him, but he did his own 40km time trail bike race and met up with us in Brantford…the sweat was just pouring down his face. You’re welcome Louie for leaving you behind, now you know how fast you can bike.)

Tonight we are staying at Redeemer College. Again people greeted us as we came in. Volunteers were quick to sign us up for billets, or pedicures. If we were still in need of food we could go down the bike path where another church had refreshments set out. Since we had stopped at all the other places we felt compiled to go. Supper could prove to be a challenge tonight.

Before we headed into the shower, they had someone behind a desk handing out fresh towels for us to use (no need to get ours wet). They’ve opened their library up and we have access to computer and wireless internet. I see a lot of happy cyclists busy blogging away and checking their emails. Oh happy day. The kitchen staff is off tonight, Redeemer cooks are preparing our meal.

Tomorrow evening I need to make the decision if I’m going to stay for the last week. I don’t want to hold up the pace line, but I may have to change my strategy and bow out of the pace line. When I’m at the back of the pace line going downhill, the first person is usually pedaling away but because I have less resistance I tend to go faster and in order not to pass the person in front of me I have to slow down and apply the brakes. So that’s mean when I’m at the bottom of a hill I have no speed left to go up. If I’m not in a paceline I can pick up speed going down and use that to propel me up. The guys usually still pass me because they are stronger but this second scenario is easier on my body.

The ride today went fairly well. I was glad to get in and again am sitting on a ice pack. Better get this posted because it’s almost supper time. Till tomorrow, Cynthia

P.S. Pete went down today. He brushed tires with Gerry. His favorite shorts are ripped and he has some skin off on his elbow and knee, but he still biked in.

Time on the bike 5:06:43 Average speed of 24.7 Top speed 57km

DaY 53: Chatham to London 118.3km Uphill 1817ft Downhill 1566ft

So there is a 5:10 in the morning.

Lynda had gotten up at 4:30 a.m. to put the breakfast casserole in the oven (thanks Lynda. She prepared it for me last evening and now cannot even taste it because she is on kitchen duty back at the Kinsman.) I set out breakfast (help yourself) plus some items for them to pack in their bags. We don’t have to pack an actual lunch because Mount Brydges (and Strathroy?) is providing this for us. Pete hadn’t returned back to our home when we set out but we had full confidence that both Pete & Andy could catch us somewhere along the route and they didn’t disappoint.

I’ve been told that the wind is suppose to be on our back hence the departing from the west coast and going east. Someone ought to tell the wind….it was in our face for most of the day. We did have a great pace line going. I never had to take a turn at the front. The guys would bike 5km and then switch off. We clipped along at a good speed, averaging between 26-27km. I think I’m going to play my ‘sick card’ for all I can, it’s sweet just tagging along!

We pulled into the CRC church in Mount Brydges (P.S. if this is spelled wrong it's Randy's fault, he just told me the correct spelling..but I think it still looks wrong!) just after 10 a.m. Wow, beef on a bun, salads, fresh fruit, juice, coffee. Someone asked if we had eaten breakfast. I think they were shocked to see how full our plates were.

I should mention that cyclists could sign up for a 40km time trail race. They left the start point at 9 a.m. The winner would receive a ‘texas size cinnabun’. Second prize, a day old cinnabon and third prize….left over baked goods from Sombra. I might not have all the prizes correct, but you get the gist. Not too sure who won, but my bet is Rueben Vyn. .

My sister, Betty-Anne Werkema met me at the entrance of the bike path into Storybook Gardens. She joined me for the last 14km of the day, nice to visit as we biked. This is a great biking path. London had set up a booth on the path and they were handing out ice cubes and watermelon.

John receiving a 'heros' welcome into his own home town

We received a great welcome into London District Christian Highschool. Again so much food. My sister gave me a tour…it’s been a number of years since I graduated from this facility and things have changed. Go figure!

We’ve parked the 5th wheel at John & Irene Vandersteen’s home. Ralph and Jolene will return home to Chatham tomorrow (someone has to work) and then Ralph will pick up the 5th wheel and deliver it to Hamilton Friday evening. Andrew will be joining the tour for the next two days…he’s not biking with me. He believes that no one should be up and about before 7 a.m. I wonder who put that idea in his head!

Oh, how did I do today? Actually pretty good. I’m slower going up the hills and my acceleration time is not up to par. I did find an ice pack in the Vandersteens freezer and sat on that for a while till the ‘sit bone’ was numb. Feels much better……actually it’s so frozen that I don’t feel anything. Yahoo! It’s a go for tomorrow. Till later, Cynthia

Day 52: Sombra to Chatham, Ontario 60km

I’m a day late with this blog but I have a good excuse. Does 9 cyclists staying at ones home qualify as a reason not to blog?

Yesterday started out earlier than usual for me. My father-in-law picked my bike and I up at 8 a.m. From here we headed out to Sombra to meet the cyclists as the came into Canada. What a lot of excitement in Sombra. Many, many spectators and well-wishers. Looking across the river we could see all the yellow cycling vests (they’re pretty reflective!). When I seen the Kitchen and Gear truck I knew that they would be crossing soon. First ones off the ferry where cyclists from the area….Christina, Matt, Paul & Teresa, Jake K, etc. We cheered enthusiastically for each cyclists. Someone was plastering Canadian stickers on the cyclists’ jerseys, their faces or arms. Tim Hortons coffee was poured out for many, and if they wanted to eat; well there was an array of food to choose from. You could have a cupcake decorated with edible Canadian flags, a timbit, fruit, baked goods and the list just goes on. No one walked away hungry. The American cyclists were very impressed by the reception that the Sarnia and Wallaceburg churches put on (I hope I’m giving credit to the correct source). As Canadian we said, ‘this is only the beginning….welcome to Canada!’

As the paceline assembles I’m introduced to Mike from St. Thomas. He joined the tour in Grand Rapids and now is a member of the paceline. He’s great to draft behind and the guy can pull. Welcome aboard. So there we are…John, Pete, Louie, Jake, Mike, Barb, your’s truly and Gerry pulling up the rear. When ever someone tries to latch on to our line, Barb quickly asks them to either pass or pull away. They are calling our every bump and trying to protect me as much as possible. A group of three riders did try to join and Barb had just given them ‘the speech’, so two of the three passed us and then we heard an awful crack behind us. John DePotter (who helped organize the Sombra crossing and he was joining us for the day) his front fork snapped and down he went. Barb called out to his two friends to come back because John was down. Cyclists were already coming to his aid so we continued. Apparently he was taken to the hospital and he has a broken nose, a deep cut below his lip to this chin and his face is rather scratched and cut up. Thank goodness for a helmet….it could have been a very different story. John we are remembering you in our prayers.

The rest of the ride into Chatham was uneventful. We stopped for a photo op by the Chatham sign, wave to Dave Noordhoff who was busy clicking away with his camera and then headed to the Kinsman.

Again, you guys are amazing. What a reception Chatham gave! It was wonderful to see all the support from the churches and community. It took me two hours to make it home from the Kinsman (and I’m only two blocks way!) People cheering as we came in, wonderful food and ice cream bars.

The birthday girl, Barb and I

The 'tea gang' plus Shirley Singor and Wilma's sister, Flo

Many people volunteered their pools, or shuttled cyclists to the bike store, bank, drug store, Laundromat. As I mentioned earlier in my blog Barb, Gerry, John, Pete & Lynda, Louie, Randy and Fred, and Josh stayed over last evening. We (Ralph) had set up the camper in our driveway and this is where we spent the night. No big sacrifice as there is a queen size bed in the camper.

I also wanted to host a number of people for supper. We had enough food for 14…so that meant we could have 11 extra’s. Janessa prepared several of the salads for me, Ralph bbq’d and when Siska (Andy’s wife) and Ann (Bert Steenbergens wife) noticed that I was tired they promptly kicked me out of my own kitchen and took over the final preparation. We had plenty of food and Ann makes a great apple pie and coconut cream pie (no offence Mom, but it was good).

I heard that the area churches provided plenty of food for the cyclists at the Kinsman. Thanks again for showing your support in this very vital way.

We did head back to camp for the peloton, again…so many visitors. The big surprise was that today was Barb’s birthday. Happy Birthday, Barg. She didn’t mention it to anyone, but Dordt College had sent 3 cakes to be shared by all for this very special occasion. It’s great to know that you can render Barb speechless at times!

10 pm was the time I headed to bed. I’ve heard a nasty rumour that it’s a 6:30 bike start tomorrow morning, so that would mean I have to up by 5:10. How badly do I really want bike??? Till later, Cynthia

Sunday, August 17, 2008 Grand Rapids, Michigan

This is my FREE plug for the Prince Conference Centre. If you ever have the opportunity to visit Calvin and need a place to stay consider the Prince Conference Centre, it’s right on the campus. Nice, clean rooms and the continental breakfast is great. More food than you can eat. My favorite…the 1” thick waffles. Many cyclists and their extended families took advantage of our discounted rate….thanks for everything, Calvin. Sleeping in wasn’t a problem since I’m not on the cyclists schedule anymore…is there really a 5 a.m.? We indulged in the terrific breakfast, washed everything down with a few coffees and then set about packing up our bikes (Andrew’s and mine) into the truck. By the time all was said and done it was around 11:30 and both Andrew and the pregnant one (Janessa) were complaining of hunger pains so we set about finding a place to eat for lunch to keep them quiet.

With full stomachs we headed to the Fifth Third Ball Park were the celebration rally is to be held. All the cyclists gathered in one area and watched as 1,000s of people filed into the park….my estimate is around 5,000 but I could be off by one or two. During our theme song, Do Something Beautiful all the cyclists and support team filed into the stadium.

The four cyclists that had to leave the tour because of injuries were all present at this rally and it was noted that even with our injuries none where so serious that we couldn’t attend the rally (thanks be to God for this). Tyler Buitenwerf gave a moving testimony and summed up what the goal of the tour is all about. Thanks Tyler, your words moved many and you represtented those injured very well.

Shane Claiborne was our main speaker. He has written several books, ‘Jesus for Presdient’, ‘The Irresistible Revolution’ and ‘Living as an Ordinary Radical’. He entertained and challenged us all at the same time. His life style may not suit the ‘average’ person but one should sit down and evaluate from time to time the questions…are you following your calling?’ ‘How can your light shine in today’s world?’ If you read any of his books you’ll get a good idea as to where he’s at.

One of my highlights was hearing our fellow cyclists, Kyle Meyerink from Halfmoon Bay, BC perform his original song that he wrote on the tour, ‘Hear Our Cry’. Kyle, you’ve been keeping this talent of yours hidden, so glad you decided to share your gifts with us today. It was a blessing.

We decided to forgo the dinner and peloton meeting tonight and instead our heading home to Canada (I’m writing this as we travel so I can post it as soon as we arrive home). Personally I’ve walked more and stood more in the last two days then I’ve done in the last 2 ½ weeks. So it’s time to get home and rest up. Wednesday will come soon enough.

Till then, take care, Cynthia

Day 48 Grand Haven to Grand Rapids 72km

Yesterday our family (husband; Ralph, daughter; Janessa and son; Andrew) arrived in Grand Haven mid afternoon. The CRC Conference Grounds was a buzz of activity with many visitors checking out the gear and kitchen truck. How wonderful to be greeted and greet fellow cyclists. It’s good to be back.

We located my bike and I found a quiet, out of sight area where I could take my bike out for a short spin. Clipping in will not be a problem so it looks like everything is set to go for tomorrow.

The cyclists and visitors where treated to a wonderful steak supper by a team of volunteers from Home Mission. We had plenty of food and it was all tasted great. After the meal we had our regular peloton meeting and then each of the 10 cyclists that will leave the tour tomorrow said their goodbyes. Communion was then shared by all before everyone called it a night.

Saturday, Aug 16th
Last evening ‘the guys’ asked if I would be joining them for the ride today. I told them that they best go on without me because I would slow them down and also I’m a bit uneasy in a large pace line at this time. Gerry said he would gladly join Andrew and I so that we could take advantage of his map reading skills. We took him up on his offer on the promise that he wouldn’t add any ‘bonus’ miles to the ride.

One hundred and thirty additional riders are joining us today so I wanted to get an early start before things got too busy. Andrew was rolling out of his tent when we pulled into the campground this morning so we started closer to 7:30 a.m. than 7.

What a gorgeous biking day. Temperatures started off mid 50’s and quickly rose to the mid 70’s. We traveled on a few roads where the trees formed a canopy for us to bike under. Beautiful houses and how thrilling to see the groups of spectators gathered on the side of the roads with their, ‘Welcome Sea to Sea’ signs. Several churches also played host to us setting out baked goods, fruit, bagels, gatorade and water.

Since I’ve missed some of the welcome to certain States signs we decided to take advantage of the entering Grand Rapids City limits sign.

Tyler Buitenwerf and Arnie Issette set up a SAG where they served snacks to the cyclists. Earlier in the week I was asked to participate at this stop (it was to be manned by the injured cyclists). It was bittersweet to bike in. I was excited to bike but I felt for both Tyler and Arnie who would have loved to switch places with me.

All the cyclists gathered at a local school by 12:30pm from here we formed a peloton to bike the remaining 1mile into Calvin together. It was a sea of yellow and blue jersey’s. People cheered and clapped as we biked by. I wish I had the courage to take my hands off the handlebars because you, the people deserve the clapping. You’ve offered us your financial support, you’ve encouraged us thru replies made on our blogs, emails or in some cases thru the old fashion way….the mailed letter. You’ve cooked for us or for our families back home and most importantly you’ve remembered us in your daily prayers…so yes, I applaud you and all you do for us. We truly could not have undertaken this ride without all of your support. Thank you.

Oh, in case you are wondering, yes, I rode the entire 72km. My ‘sit bone’ is somewhat sore but I made it, something that I didn’t think was possible a week ago. Average speed of 24km. Thanks Andrew and Gerry for your protection over me today and also thanks to the other ‘pace line buddies’ for giving me the room I needed today. I’m confident we’ll be biking together again…you may have to slow down a tad but I’ll be there!

My plan still remains the same. I will return home to Chatham on Sunday evening and then join the tour on Wednesday when they cross the Ferry into Sombra. From this point on it’s anyone guess as to how much I can bike. I’ll take one day at a time…but wouldn’t it be cool to actually bike to the end?!? Ralph and I

Later, Cynthia

Wednesday, August 13, 2008 ~ The Road to Recovery

Wow, it’s been 2 ½ weeks since my accident so I thought I’d give you a bit of an update on my status.

As I’ve stated in my last blog entry, our family has been overwhelmed by the prayers, meals, cards and visits. They’ve nourished and encouraged us. Thanks sooooo much.

To back up a tad. Ralph and I arrived home Wednesday, July 30. At this time I was using two crutches and still on meds (oh happy day, feeling no pain!). By Saturday I was down to one crutch and very few meds. My left side was still very, very sore. In particular my left knee was swollen and giving me some significant problems. Getting up and out of a chair or bed was proving to be quite the challenge.

On Sunday it was good to experience the communion of the body of believers. The morning service was so uplifting that we decided to return again in the evening…double the pleasure. Trust me, I’m not spottem here (p.s. Jake Janssens helped me with the spelling of spotten so if it’s wrong…email him!)

On Tuesday, Aug 5 I received a lymph node drainage treatment. What a difference this made. My knee returned to normal size and the pain was considerable less. By Friday, Aug 8th I had cast my crutches aside and was limping around on my own steam. Hooray! My sister and her husband came over for dinner and I actually helped prepare some of the food. (Now mind you, I could probably have done more, but when I can fill my days with napping and knitting….why would I want to take on other duties!). Oh, I have taken over the laundry…hanging it up, taking it in, etc….just to let my family know that I’m not quite ready to be ‘put out to pasture’.

So to sum it all up. Basically I’ve just been recuperating. In the morning I generally read the paper and then start off in this chair in the livingroom.

I check the blogs (why aren’t they posting…don’t they know people back home are waiting!!!!) . Then I check over my emails and knit. What am I knitting? As some of you are aware we are expecting our first grandchild in October and so I’ve embarked on an ambitious project of knitting the baptismal gown. I say ambitious because I usually end up knitting 5 rows, notice a mistake and then I’m down 2 rows.. I joked with Janessa and Sean that we may just be pinning the front panel to the Babes undershirt and we’ll just wrap a blanket around the back so no one will know that I never finished the project!

After I tire of sitting in this chair I either limp to the front of the house….
Or the back of the house….. Or the family room.......
Here is what I’ve finished on the baptismal gown

This past Sunday evening as I was reading over the blogs, Melissa Kloostra’s commented that my baskets where being stored in a safe place and that she now had my shelf. This proved to be all the motivation I needed to get back on my bike. Now, I have no problem with Sea to Sea storing my supplies but when they give away my shelf (prime location on the gear truck…..close to the ramp, middle shelf so you don’t have to bend down or reach up) it felt like they were giving up on me. So with a new resolve (translate to a very, very stubborn streak) I mentioned to my family that I would like to try to get on a bike. After all, my shelf is at stake here!

So on Monday when Andrew returned from work he set up the trainer in the garage and placed my trek on the trainer. He lowered the seat a notch to make it easier for me to reach the gear shifters. Low and behold I could cycle. Victory cheer! After supper with much fear and trepidation I put on two tri suits (all my bike shorts on still stored ‘safely’ on the gear truck), clipped on the new helmet, slide into my running shoes (I have cages, not clips on my trek bike at home) and Andrew and I went out for a ride. One hour and 20km later we came home.

Andrew and I

I admit to being somewhat stiff on the bike. My reaction time isn’t up to snuff. I need time to slow down and apply the brakes and my cadence is around 70 not 90 reps pr minute. Still it felt good. On Tuesday evening we biked for 30km, my average speed was around 24km and the cadence was higher than the previous evening.

How to describe the feeling of being back on the bike? Relief, scared, delighted, over joyed…….just too many emotions. I’ve asked so many people to pray that I would be able to rejoin the tour (not because of selfish reasons but it’s something I started and I would really like to fulfill my commitment if at all possible) and now it looks like it is a very real possibility.

Am I still in pain? Yes, sitting on the saddle is a challenge and this is my one big area of concern. The pelvic fracture is not entirely healed (although the doctor did say I can do what ever feels right because I cannot damage it any more). I also found out that my concussion was only for 30 seconds, so hopefully another fall wouldn’t result in me being spoon fed for the remainder of my life. So with Andrew by my side I hope to cycle from Grand Haven to Grand Rapids (78km) on Saturday, August 16th. Can I sit in the saddle for that length of time…..this remains to be seen, but I won’t know until I try.

P.S. Andrew thinks I should be sitting on this saddle during the next couple days...he says, 'good training'. I think, 'not'.

Will I remain with the tour? The plan is to return home to Chatham on Sunday evening, because the following Tuesday is a 154km day and I know this is way too much to put my body thru. Instead, if I return home then I hope to take advantage of two days of rest before meeting the group in Sombra and then I may be able to bike the remaining 60km into Chatham and hopefully continue to complete the reminder of the week with the tour in Southern Ontario.

It will be a busy weekend in Grand Rapids. I look forward to reuniting with the cyclists and support crew and also in participating in the celebration service.

Sixty new cyclists start on Monday. Please continue to pray for the safety of the group especially as they near the end of the tour. Also remember those who are still recovering from injuries as they have to watch from the sidelines as others continue their journey, a journey that they would love to be on.

May God grant us all what we stand in need of. To Him be the glory! Cynthia