Thursday, June 26, 2008

6/26/2008 Day 20: Fort Collins, CO to Laramie, WY 65 miles



Mikey trying to get down from some rocks he was napping on at a rest stop.



Peter is clearly upset about the rumble strips. Although they are great when you are running off the road and they make drivers aware of it they are not pleasant when you are on a bike. the area we where in had rumble strips all the way across the shoulder...there was no escaping them. Luckliy the sign was wrong and they lasted for less than a mile.




Todays ride was difficult, we climbed about 2000 feet with hills that lasted for several miles. Just when you thought you were reaching the crest there would be more. Most of the hills were long and gradual but lasted for the first 40 miles of the ride. As soon as we crossed the state border into Wyoming the road was pretty flat but wind was awful. My host, Janice has told me that the winds are constant in WY...something none of the team is looking forward to.

Stella and I are staying with Janice. She made us homemade ground buffalo and veggie lasagna which was amazing. We had a large variety for our salads and a boston cream cake with cherries on top. We were able to do laundry, take a long shower and talk with an amazing person. Janice has much knowledge and insight on life and Stella and I truly enjoyed spending time in her home.

Today I rode for a man I met this morning in Fort Collins Tim Ricketts. He was diagnosed with pancreatic cancer five years ago and had just gotten back from MD Anderson last night. He also just found out that yesterday was his last chemo treatment. His story is amazing, he inspired everyone on the team that was able to hear his story.

3 comments:

Chris Wallace said...

Kasaundra,
I just looked over your blog and I am truly in awe of what you and your teammates are doing. I know you must feel joyous in this contribution you are making as you go through the dedications each day for the people you have known with cancer, as I see it has really touched your family. I am glad that you are getting to enjoy the beautiful sights of this country as you go about this trip and are getting to stay with some wonderful and generous people along the way. I wish you good luck, good health and a safe trip. I'll be watching.
Chris Wallace from Dr. Hunsucker's office

mike said...

Hi K2, just checking in with you as the weekend begins. Yes, you are in "God's Country" the most beautiful scenery ever. I love the mountains and wouldn't mind being there most all of the time. We are watching you each day. Grandpa is marking the US Atlas with your route as you go along. Has the weather been good to you so far? Talked to Billl and Mary Jo after your visit with them. They probably had a better time than you did. It will be fun to see where else you may encounter some "new" and "good friends" along the way. You mentioned you had a home stay and that is neat , neat, too. Stay focused and rest well each night, we are with you in prayer. Hugs and Love, nana and Grandpa

mike said...

Happy 4th of July, K2!!! You've been on a grueling bike ride for the last few days. Thinking of you daily and watching where you are going. Dad keeps us posted when he hears from you. How beautiful is Yellowstone? Grandpa and I have never been there and we keep talking about going. Now that you've been there maybe we will get the chance to go too. Say "hi" to your team for us and has Michael left to join his son yet? Love you and we're looking forward to a visit after your return to the Lower US....Keep up the good work and enjoy every minute of every day... there are always rainbows to see. Hugs and Love, Nana and Grandpa