If all goes according to schedule, I should reach Bar Harbor, Maine and the Atlantic shore sometime TOMORROW! So, enjoy a random collection of stories from the journey (starting with a few and adding more as I think of them).
Oh, the places you'll go...
A super sweet waitress was intrigued by this whole biking across the country thing and had a million questions for us. After we had paid, she approached us and said "I just have one more questions, if you don't mind. Where do you go to the bathroom...do you just go at every wayside restroom (aka rest area)?" Bahahaha. "Well, yes and no. I go at wayside restrooms and gas stations, in cornfields, behind hay bails, trees, and guard rails (as a last resort)." Yep, just marking my territory. :)
Driving Awards
The Best Drivers Award goes to the states of Minnesota, Wisconsin, and New Hampshire! Very much appreciated. It was a pleasure traveling with you. The Worst Drivers Award goes to the state of Michigan. Sorry, guys. It is legal to move over (even just a little bit) when you pass a cyclist. Better luck next time. On the professional side, the Best Driving Award goes to our US Postal Service drivers. They are coureous and friendly. Solid performance! And the worst or scariest groups are the logging truck and oil truck drivers. Seriously, people. Is is possible to get splinters from a passing log truck?
Friday, October 22, 2010
Wednesday, October 20, 2010
Last State!!!
We are officially in Maine! maine, MAINE! For anybody that completely failed US geography, Maine is a coastal state and the LAST STATE before the sweet sight of the Atlantic Ocean. I was hoping Maine would feel like a giant victory lap, but there is still over 200 miles of work to be completed. And the backroads of Maine are STEEP, Jiminy Cricket!
I honestly don't even know how to prepare for the end...will I laugh, will I cry, will I jump up and down with excitement? At this point, I am excited to complete this enormous personal challenge and excited for what the future holds. I am immensely grateful for the opportunity to embark upon the venture and all the life lessons learned along the way. It has been one crazy adventure after the next--the good with the bad, the ups with the downs, the laughter alongside the tears. Here's to the last state in this solo, supported cross-country bike ride! Cheers!
I honestly don't even know how to prepare for the end...will I laugh, will I cry, will I jump up and down with excitement? At this point, I am excited to complete this enormous personal challenge and excited for what the future holds. I am immensely grateful for the opportunity to embark upon the venture and all the life lessons learned along the way. It has been one crazy adventure after the next--the good with the bad, the ups with the downs, the laughter alongside the tears. Here's to the last state in this solo, supported cross-country bike ride! Cheers!
Tuesday, October 19, 2010
Appalachian Mountains
Thanks to every cyclist familiar with this route for warning me that New Hampshire contained some of the steepest climbs of the entire journey. GREAT...because I am still not a climber. Was biking across the plains and "rolling" hills supposed to somehow prepare me to spend miles upon miles climbing a MOUNTAIN? Well thanks to everyone for putting the fear in me and thanks to the past 2 months of training, becuase I just DOMINATED the last climb in the Appalachian Mountians. BAM! Adirondacks of New York...check. Green Mountains of Vermont...check. White Mountains of New Hampshireof ...check, check, check. It's all downhill from here, right?
Monday, October 18, 2010
They're Back
Headwind and hills...stopped riding as it started raining.
Nor'easter--day off
Nor'easter--day off
Headwind, rain, and mountains.
Headwind and mountains.
This is the weather/terrain combinations of the past five days. And this is the first nor'easter of the season. Aren't we just the luckiest bunch of wayward travelers? It was after a few days of similar dreariness that I may have posted that this (the bike ride) was the hardest thing I have ever done. Well, today, I officially revert that statement. I can't say as though this is the HARDEST thing I have every done...but I will confirm that this is one intense emotional rollercoaster.
Let's have Jesuit consolation/desolation reflection moment...
Sunshine brings me consolation.
Clouds and rain bring me desolation.
Tailwind brings me consolation.
Headwind brings me desolation.
Riding over a snowy mountain pass brings me some very cold hands and feet...over the pass (consolation), frozen phalanges (desolation).
Well, apparently my current limit of tolerance to rain and wind is four days. Yep, today was the fifth...riding uphill into very cold northern headwind. After twenty-five miles of riding with legs full of lead (or sand, hmmm, maybe I do believe in the Sandman), I reached the limit again...though this time with much more poise and class. Mom pulled over next to me, rolled down her window, and with one look and one statement, she knew...I was frustrated, exhausted, and deflated. Any guess on the one statement? "Mom, the tears are back." And I rode on.
Nor'easter--day off
Nor'easter--day off
Headwind, rain, and mountains.
Headwind and mountains.
This is the weather/terrain combinations of the past five days. And this is the first nor'easter of the season. Aren't we just the luckiest bunch of wayward travelers? It was after a few days of similar dreariness that I may have posted that this (the bike ride) was the hardest thing I have ever done. Well, today, I officially revert that statement. I can't say as though this is the HARDEST thing I have every done...but I will confirm that this is one intense emotional rollercoaster.
Let's have Jesuit consolation/desolation reflection moment...
Sunshine brings me consolation.
Clouds and rain bring me desolation.
Tailwind brings me consolation.
Headwind brings me desolation.
Riding over a snowy mountain pass brings me some very cold hands and feet...over the pass (consolation), frozen phalanges (desolation).
Well, apparently my current limit of tolerance to rain and wind is four days. Yep, today was the fifth...riding uphill into very cold northern headwind. After twenty-five miles of riding with legs full of lead (or sand, hmmm, maybe I do believe in the Sandman), I reached the limit again...though this time with much more poise and class. Mom pulled over next to me, rolled down her window, and with one look and one statement, she knew...I was frustrated, exhausted, and deflated. Any guess on the one statement? "Mom, the tears are back." And I rode on.
Sunday, October 17, 2010
Vermont
Two comments about Vermont...
Home of Vermont White Cheddar Cheese and Ben & Jerry's Ice Cream...mmm...this state can be very proud of its dairy farmers.
Home by preference of poet Robert Frost. Way back in the days of 5th grade, I chose Robert Frost as the subject for my 5th Grade English Fair project. Well, today, I am in his home by preference state, passing through his hometown, and chosing between two roads in a yellow wood. How ironical! Still recited mostly from memory...with a check for clarification.
The Road Not Taken
By: Robert Frost
Two road diverged in a yellow wood
And sorry I could not travel both
But be one traveler, long I stood
And looked down one as far as I could
To where it bent in the undergrowth.
Then took the other, as just as fair,
And having perhaps the better claim,
Because it was grassy and wanted wear;
Though as for that the passing there
Had worn them really about the same.
And both that morning equally lay
In leaves no step had trodden black.
Oh, I kept the first for another day!
Yet knowing how way leads on to way
I doubted if I should ever come back.
I shall be telling this with a sigh
Somewhere ages and ages hence:
Two roads diverged in a wood, and I--
I took the one less traveled by,
And that has made all the difference.
Home of Vermont White Cheddar Cheese and Ben & Jerry's Ice Cream...mmm...this state can be very proud of its dairy farmers.
Home by preference of poet Robert Frost. Way back in the days of 5th grade, I chose Robert Frost as the subject for my 5th Grade English Fair project. Well, today, I am in his home by preference state, passing through his hometown, and chosing between two roads in a yellow wood. How ironical! Still recited mostly from memory...with a check for clarification.
The Road Not Taken
By: Robert Frost
Two road diverged in a yellow wood
And sorry I could not travel both
But be one traveler, long I stood
And looked down one as far as I could
To where it bent in the undergrowth.
Then took the other, as just as fair,
And having perhaps the better claim,
Because it was grassy and wanted wear;
Though as for that the passing there
Had worn them really about the same.
And both that morning equally lay
In leaves no step had trodden black.
Oh, I kept the first for another day!
Yet knowing how way leads on to way
I doubted if I should ever come back.
I shall be telling this with a sigh
Somewhere ages and ages hence:
Two roads diverged in a wood, and I--
I took the one less traveled by,
And that has made all the difference.
Wednesday, October 13, 2010
A message from Ellen
A Day in the Journey...
Four years ago, two girls walk into a bike shop, mention they are going to ride from Pittsburgh, PA to Washington D.C., and oh yeah, they need bikes too. M&E express maiden voyage.
Today one of those girls is turning that ambition up a couple notches. I'm talking about a solo supported bike ride across the United States. Some may say she's crazy, some would say she's an inspiration. I'd say she's amazing!
I've known Mary for four years, and in those four years, she has brought out some of the best qualities in me. Mary is the friend that everyone wants to have. She has the capability of helping you find and live your passion. As a physical therapist, Mary also strives to bring out the best in her patients through her creativity combined with a smile or a joke.
Is it any surprise that this cross country trek isn't only about Mary? (There's something about Mary...) NO! This journey is also about young adults living with or survivors of cancer. Those that have followed Mary know that with each pedal stroke she is fighting for people in our age bracket to have the opportunity to set their worries aside and conquer fears of extreme outdoor sports thanks to First Descents.
This past weekend right outside Niagara Falls, the M&E express was in full force once again. I joined Mary for a weekend of great weather, great conversation and great riding. Century ride day/night one well into the cold night along the Erie Canal (thanks Mama Hughes for choosing a B&B for a warm evening!) P.S. I believe that may have been the first successful century ride for the M&E express. Day 2 included a beautiful day along Lake Ontario camping at the shore in Fair Haven, NY. Onward to Day 3...ending in Fulton, NY. Here my parents met us at the end of my journey with Mary. First impressions are everything, Mary I'm glad you wore spandex :)
I leave this weekend with great memories, as Team Hughes continues on to conquer the end of the trail...less than 600 miles to go!
You have my endless support!
Ellen
Four years ago, two girls walk into a bike shop, mention they are going to ride from Pittsburgh, PA to Washington D.C., and oh yeah, they need bikes too. M&E express maiden voyage.
Today one of those girls is turning that ambition up a couple notches. I'm talking about a solo supported bike ride across the United States. Some may say she's crazy, some would say she's an inspiration. I'd say she's amazing!
I've known Mary for four years, and in those four years, she has brought out some of the best qualities in me. Mary is the friend that everyone wants to have. She has the capability of helping you find and live your passion. As a physical therapist, Mary also strives to bring out the best in her patients through her creativity combined with a smile or a joke.
Is it any surprise that this cross country trek isn't only about Mary? (There's something about Mary...) NO! This journey is also about young adults living with or survivors of cancer. Those that have followed Mary know that with each pedal stroke she is fighting for people in our age bracket to have the opportunity to set their worries aside and conquer fears of extreme outdoor sports thanks to First Descents.
This past weekend right outside Niagara Falls, the M&E express was in full force once again. I joined Mary for a weekend of great weather, great conversation and great riding. Century ride day/night one well into the cold night along the Erie Canal (thanks Mama Hughes for choosing a B&B for a warm evening!) P.S. I believe that may have been the first successful century ride for the M&E express. Day 2 included a beautiful day along Lake Ontario camping at the shore in Fair Haven, NY. Onward to Day 3...ending in Fulton, NY. Here my parents met us at the end of my journey with Mary. First impressions are everything, Mary I'm glad you wore spandex :)
I leave this weekend with great memories, as Team Hughes continues on to conquer the end of the trail...less than 600 miles to go!
You have my endless support!
Ellen
Monday, October 11, 2010
More Visitors!
Ellen Wilson, a friend from the Pittsburgh days, came to join the journey for the weekend! A riding buddy! Yippee! Thanks, Ella, for coming to play and the friendly competition.
It was four years ago this summer that Ellen and I bought our first adult bikes and set out to ride from Pittsburgh to Washington, DC via a rails to trails bike path. Ha, we didn’t know what we were getting into and it was one “hot mess” of a trip from beginning to end—including camping in the mountains with a sheet (no sleeping bags, only a sheet), a sprained wrist from an unfortunately hilarious wipeout, showering with a garden hose in a parking lot, etc. But we survived and still laugh about how naïve and ridiculous we were.
Well, back then we may have been naïve. Now, we are just bull-headed and competitive. Hmmm, I can’t say as though one is better than the other. Ellen arrived on Friday night and looking at the map, we decided we would be completing a century on Saturday. Thank goodness for the rest day on Friday or my body would have nothing to do with another century. But anyways, we had 15-20 miles to ride to a bike path and then would be riding on a bike path for 85 miles. 85 miles of a bike path! Easy ride, easy century, done and done. Ehhh, WRONG! The clerk at the gas station told a big, fat lie when he said the trail was newly paved and in great condition…ehhh, wrong again. The bike path wasn’t paved at all…it was a dirt path. Yes, 85 miles of dirt on road bikes. Debbie Downer, but doable.
Overall, it was an enjoyable day…warm and sunny with a gentle headwind. Did I mention that we are now bull-headed and competitive? Yes. Well, we didn’t start riding until noon or a little later and admittedly should have called it quits when the sun went down…but we said we were going to complete a century…so, headlights on and the ride continued into the dark. When we finally completed the century, it was pitch black and 41 degrees. Yep, we were frfrfrfrozen in shorts and short sleeves. Crazy girls...someday we will learn our lesson.
The next two days proved to be fabulous riding days. Her parent met us on the third day to pick her up and return her to the "real" world. Quote of Monday morning...(Mary)"hey, Ellen, have I ever met your parents?"...(Ellen) "Nope, first impressions are everything"..."(Mary) "Well, in that case, I better wear spandex." hehe
It was wonderful to have a companion on the journey. I am quite sure that the ridiculousness of Mary and Ellen has yet to come into full fruition. Here’s to the future and to making wiser decisions!
It was four years ago this summer that Ellen and I bought our first adult bikes and set out to ride from Pittsburgh to Washington, DC via a rails to trails bike path. Ha, we didn’t know what we were getting into and it was one “hot mess” of a trip from beginning to end—including camping in the mountains with a sheet (no sleeping bags, only a sheet), a sprained wrist from an unfortunately hilarious wipeout, showering with a garden hose in a parking lot, etc. But we survived and still laugh about how naïve and ridiculous we were.
Well, back then we may have been naïve. Now, we are just bull-headed and competitive. Hmmm, I can’t say as though one is better than the other. Ellen arrived on Friday night and looking at the map, we decided we would be completing a century on Saturday. Thank goodness for the rest day on Friday or my body would have nothing to do with another century. But anyways, we had 15-20 miles to ride to a bike path and then would be riding on a bike path for 85 miles. 85 miles of a bike path! Easy ride, easy century, done and done. Ehhh, WRONG! The clerk at the gas station told a big, fat lie when he said the trail was newly paved and in great condition…ehhh, wrong again. The bike path wasn’t paved at all…it was a dirt path. Yes, 85 miles of dirt on road bikes. Debbie Downer, but doable.
Overall, it was an enjoyable day…warm and sunny with a gentle headwind. Did I mention that we are now bull-headed and competitive? Yes. Well, we didn’t start riding until noon or a little later and admittedly should have called it quits when the sun went down…but we said we were going to complete a century…so, headlights on and the ride continued into the dark. When we finally completed the century, it was pitch black and 41 degrees. Yep, we were frfrfrfrozen in shorts and short sleeves. Crazy girls...someday we will learn our lesson.
The next two days proved to be fabulous riding days. Her parent met us on the third day to pick her up and return her to the "real" world. Quote of Monday morning...(Mary)"hey, Ellen, have I ever met your parents?"...(Ellen) "Nope, first impressions are everything"..."(Mary) "Well, in that case, I better wear spandex." hehe
It was wonderful to have a companion on the journey. I am quite sure that the ridiculousness of Mary and Ellen has yet to come into full fruition. Here’s to the future and to making wiser decisions!
Friday, October 8, 2010
Niagara Falls
Another day off! Niagara Falls!!! Mom has been looking forward to this moment for the past 60(ish) years and 3,400 miles. She was here at the age of 4, but who remembers family vacation from when you were 4 years old? Anyway, this is the one destination on the journey that Mom was looking forward to and it is very exciting to share this moment with her. :) We spent a night and a morning on the Canadian side, then crossed to the American side for the afternoon. It still takes my breath away…so beautiful! Thanks for sharing this journey with me, Mom!
Wednesday, October 6, 2010
Ontario, Canada
It's a place to live,
And a place to grow,
Ontari-ari-ario.
Yes, we are in Canada. This is no longer a cross-country journey, but a cross-continental journey. Sounds impressive, huh?!? Because we opted for the longer route up and over the northern part of Lake Michigan, it really only makes sense that we would stay on the northern shores of Lake Erie. And, Ontario seems a bit more interesting than the Indiana/Ohio combination. Did you know that because of the lake effect from Lake Erie, the southernmost part of Ontario has similar climate to the Carolinas? Must admit I was a bit surprised when I say tobacco fields growing and smoke houses. Only later to learn that they also have magnolia trees and fields of tomatoes, brussel sprouts, peppers, potatoes...pretty much, you name it, they grow it. And a million thank yous for the innumerable wind breaks to block the Lake Erie winds...it made for much calmer riding conditions. :)
And a place to grow,
Ontari-ari-ario.
Yes, we are in Canada. This is no longer a cross-country journey, but a cross-continental journey. Sounds impressive, huh?!? Because we opted for the longer route up and over the northern part of Lake Michigan, it really only makes sense that we would stay on the northern shores of Lake Erie. And, Ontario seems a bit more interesting than the Indiana/Ohio combination. Did you know that because of the lake effect from Lake Erie, the southernmost part of Ontario has similar climate to the Carolinas? Must admit I was a bit surprised when I say tobacco fields growing and smoke houses. Only later to learn that they also have magnolia trees and fields of tomatoes, brussel sprouts, peppers, potatoes...pretty much, you name it, they grow it. And a million thank yous for the innumerable wind breaks to block the Lake Erie winds...it made for much calmer riding conditions. :)
Monday, October 4, 2010
1000 TO GO for First Descents
1000 miles to go! Only 1000 miles left to the Atlantic Ocean. Well, I guess it is all a matter of perspective “only 1000 miles to go” or “geez, still 1000 miles.” Irregardless, 3200 miles logged thus far and 1000 miles remaining in this cross-country journey. Phew!
To publicly answer the most commonly asked question, “So, do you have cancer?” Nope. I do not have cancer. I am not a cancer warrior or survivor. So, why First Descents? Why young adults with cancer? Why outdoor adventure therapy?
-Because I am a young adult.
-Because I am a health care provider.
-Because I live and breathe and love the outdoors.
-Because I believe that resistance and challenges and new experiences lead to personal growth.
-Because companionship and friendship make the journey bearable, memorable, and enjoyable.
For all these reasons and a million more, I decided to ride across the country for First Descents. One of the greatest things I appreciate about First Descents is that they refer to camp as "outdoor adventure therapy." As a physical therapist, it is no wonder that I support other forms of "therapy." But it isn't that simple. When I think about First Descents, I think about my patients and the life lessons they have bestowed upon me. I think about the struggles we have overcome, the tears we have shed, the immeasureable amounts of laughter, the walks, the talks, the hugs. I am truly blessed everyday.
Over the course of my career, I have worked in settings spanning from the ICU to the professional sports arena. Yet, irregardless of the setting, the focus of therapy is on restoring "quality of life," considering that "quality of life" is a growing spectrum or a moving continuum. If you too believe that we are continually growing, changing, and evolving, then so is our definition of "quality of life." Thus it seems extremely natural for me to support an organization that challenges young adults to push their limits, to challenge themselves, to expand their continuum for "quality of life." I ride for First Descents in support of their mission and philosophy and in appreciation for the positive impact they have on the health care system through personal empowerment and advocacy. Additionally, I ride for my patients who continually bless and strengthen my life. It is in their honor that I wear the breast cancer bandana/scarf and carry an Irish Blessing prayer card--thanks, guys, you know who you are!
An Irish Blessing
May God grant you always...
A sunbeam to warm you,
A moonbeam to charm you,
A sheltering Angel so nothing can harm you.
Laughter to cheer you.
Faithful friends near you.
And whenever you pray,
Heaven to hear you.
To publicly answer the most commonly asked question, “So, do you have cancer?” Nope. I do not have cancer. I am not a cancer warrior or survivor. So, why First Descents? Why young adults with cancer? Why outdoor adventure therapy?
-Because I am a young adult.
-Because I am a health care provider.
-Because I live and breathe and love the outdoors.
-Because I believe that resistance and challenges and new experiences lead to personal growth.
-Because companionship and friendship make the journey bearable, memorable, and enjoyable.
For all these reasons and a million more, I decided to ride across the country for First Descents. One of the greatest things I appreciate about First Descents is that they refer to camp as "outdoor adventure therapy." As a physical therapist, it is no wonder that I support other forms of "therapy." But it isn't that simple. When I think about First Descents, I think about my patients and the life lessons they have bestowed upon me. I think about the struggles we have overcome, the tears we have shed, the immeasureable amounts of laughter, the walks, the talks, the hugs. I am truly blessed everyday.
Over the course of my career, I have worked in settings spanning from the ICU to the professional sports arena. Yet, irregardless of the setting, the focus of therapy is on restoring "quality of life," considering that "quality of life" is a growing spectrum or a moving continuum. If you too believe that we are continually growing, changing, and evolving, then so is our definition of "quality of life." Thus it seems extremely natural for me to support an organization that challenges young adults to push their limits, to challenge themselves, to expand their continuum for "quality of life." I ride for First Descents in support of their mission and philosophy and in appreciation for the positive impact they have on the health care system through personal empowerment and advocacy. Additionally, I ride for my patients who continually bless and strengthen my life. It is in their honor that I wear the breast cancer bandana/scarf and carry an Irish Blessing prayer card--thanks, guys, you know who you are!
An Irish Blessing
May God grant you always...
A sunbeam to warm you,
A moonbeam to charm you,
A sheltering Angel so nothing can harm you.
Laughter to cheer you.
Faithful friends near you.
And whenever you pray,
Heaven to hear you.
Friday, October 1, 2010
Chicago Weekend
Cross-country bike ride TIMEOUT! We are off to Chicago for the weekend for a friend’s wedding. Biking will resume on Monday morning after a brief re-entry into the “real” world. As of today, we have 1,040 miles to go to the Atlantic Ocean. Thus, sometime on Monday, we will cross the 1,000 miles to go mark. How exciting!
Thursday, September 30, 2010
Get Lost
Michigan. Done and done. Thank goodness! There is not one road in Michigan that follows a straight path (or at least not one that we have seen) resulting in a million directions and turns to make it across the state. Well, not all roads are signed and some roads change names and for whatever number of reasons, we found ourselves lost a handful of times. Somehow, we made it from Washington through Wisconsin without any difficulty, but managed to get lost in Michigan five times. So, thankfully we have made it to the Michigan/Canada border together. Amidst the chaos, my friend emailed me an insert from one of our favorite reflections. This reflection is one small section from the reflection book provided to the physical therapy group in the Dominican Republic in 2009 composed by Father Patrick Malone. Thanks, Fr. Pat, you are such an inspiration!
"So get out of your zone; go where you are uncomfortable; get lost. It is there you may learn. What is certain is that you will fail. You may discover that others do not notice your sacrifice; they may not care about your wildest dreams, your crushing disappointments. That is as it should be; the point of going is to discover your strongest resolve, your most honest prayer, your deepest sense of gratitude. It is here we discover our desire to love without bounds, to be generous without reason, to be courageous without self-preservation. Here, and only here, where we do not feel safe or protected, we risk getting rid of the timidity, self-absorption, and the overly frequent self-judgments that have enclosed us."
"So get out of your zone; go where you are uncomfortable; get lost. It is there you may learn. What is certain is that you will fail. You may discover that others do not notice your sacrifice; they may not care about your wildest dreams, your crushing disappointments. That is as it should be; the point of going is to discover your strongest resolve, your most honest prayer, your deepest sense of gratitude. It is here we discover our desire to love without bounds, to be generous without reason, to be courageous without self-preservation. Here, and only here, where we do not feel safe or protected, we risk getting rid of the timidity, self-absorption, and the overly frequent self-judgments that have enclosed us."
Tuesday, September 28, 2010
Sunshine!!!
Thank goodness for sunshine!!! Everything is much better now that the sun has decided to come out and play. This is no longer the hardest thing I have ever done…this is soo much fun! And yes, I may have an ounce of ADHD…ooh, shiny penny, ooh, sunshine…the crazy cloudy, dreary, rainy, gloomy days are a thing of the past. My thoughts and feelings are best described in a (should’ve been made for TV movie) ultra-cheesy 1995 blockbuster, “The Brady Bunch Movie.”
“I think I’ll go for a walk outside now
The summer sun’s callin my name
(I hear ya now)
I just can’t stay inside all day
I gotta get out get me some of those rays
Everybody’s smilin
Sunshine day
Everybody’s laughin
Sunshine day
Everybody seems so happy today
It's a sunshine day."
Currently, we are up to three days of sunshine and more is on the way. AND it was in the 70s today for the first time since Montana. WOW!
“I think I’ll go for a walk outside now
The summer sun’s callin my name
(I hear ya now)
I just can’t stay inside all day
I gotta get out get me some of those rays
Everybody’s smilin
Sunshine day
Everybody’s laughin
Sunshine day
Everybody seems so happy today
It's a sunshine day."
Currently, we are up to three days of sunshine and more is on the way. AND it was in the 70s today for the first time since Montana. WOW!
Saturday, September 25, 2010
The Honest Truth
This is hard! This is really hard! This is officially the hardest thing I have ever done in my life!!!
After this week, I am mentally exhausted and homesick. Having my sister here was super awesome, but it did make me homesick...for my family (all but Mom, of course), for my friends, for a bed, for a nice shower, for the certainty of a warm place to be every night, for jeans and fleece and scarves instead of spandex. Okay, not so much the last one. We all secretly love spandex. But don't go crazy, America...spandex is a privilege, not a right. Haha!
I digress...ah yes, this week could be classified as complete mental breakdown week. At this point, me completing a cross-country bike trip is no longer a question of physical strength, power, and/or endurance. It is entirely a mental game. It's convincing myself to get out of a warm sleeping bag, wearily trudge to the bathroom, don another round of oh-so-flattering spandex, pack up camp (by this point, I am frozen), get on my bike, and pedal teetering the line between pedaling fast enough to warm-up, but not too fast to freeze in the wind.
You may have guessed by now...the most mentally exhausting portion of this journey is the weather. Did you know that literally EVERY town we have stayed in since Cut Bank, MT is having an "unseasonably" cold or wet or cold and wet week/summer/year? Take that combined with the tropical storms changing the wind patterns and I am having an "unseasonably" difficult ride. In the past eight days (since the halfway point), we have had two days of sunshine with temps in the 60s and six days of clouds, rain, and temps in the low 50s. Three days ago, I took a forced rest break due to rain...and by rain, I mean 6.5-7 inches in 24 hours in the Upper Peninsula of Michigan! It is insane or shall we say "unseasonable."
At least amidst the mental exhaustion/mental breakdown, I am still riding well. I am currently in St. Ignace, MI and will be crossing from the Upper Peninsula to the Lower Peninsula of Michigan first thing in the morning. We detoured to Mackinac Island this morning for breakfast, sightseeing, and SHOPPING! Yea for end of season sales on winter apparel when in the rest of the country it isn't even winter yet!!! Shopping makes me happy! :) New coats make me happy too! Sunshine will make me even happier...come on Mother Nature, we are all cheering for you!
My favorite quote of today from Mackinac Island: One surry driver (aka horse drawn carriage driver) said to another surry driver, "Have you ever considered peeing yourself just to warm up?" Yep, that pretty much captures the attitude towards the "unseasonably" cold, damp air.
After this week, I am mentally exhausted and homesick. Having my sister here was super awesome, but it did make me homesick...for my family (all but Mom, of course), for my friends, for a bed, for a nice shower, for the certainty of a warm place to be every night, for jeans and fleece and scarves instead of spandex. Okay, not so much the last one. We all secretly love spandex. But don't go crazy, America...spandex is a privilege, not a right. Haha!
I digress...ah yes, this week could be classified as complete mental breakdown week. At this point, me completing a cross-country bike trip is no longer a question of physical strength, power, and/or endurance. It is entirely a mental game. It's convincing myself to get out of a warm sleeping bag, wearily trudge to the bathroom, don another round of oh-so-flattering spandex, pack up camp (by this point, I am frozen), get on my bike, and pedal teetering the line between pedaling fast enough to warm-up, but not too fast to freeze in the wind.
You may have guessed by now...the most mentally exhausting portion of this journey is the weather. Did you know that literally EVERY town we have stayed in since Cut Bank, MT is having an "unseasonably" cold or wet or cold and wet week/summer/year? Take that combined with the tropical storms changing the wind patterns and I am having an "unseasonably" difficult ride. In the past eight days (since the halfway point), we have had two days of sunshine with temps in the 60s and six days of clouds, rain, and temps in the low 50s. Three days ago, I took a forced rest break due to rain...and by rain, I mean 6.5-7 inches in 24 hours in the Upper Peninsula of Michigan! It is insane or shall we say "unseasonable."
At least amidst the mental exhaustion/mental breakdown, I am still riding well. I am currently in St. Ignace, MI and will be crossing from the Upper Peninsula to the Lower Peninsula of Michigan first thing in the morning. We detoured to Mackinac Island this morning for breakfast, sightseeing, and SHOPPING! Yea for end of season sales on winter apparel when in the rest of the country it isn't even winter yet!!! Shopping makes me happy! :) New coats make me happy too! Sunshine will make me even happier...come on Mother Nature, we are all cheering for you!
My favorite quote of today from Mackinac Island: One surry driver (aka horse drawn carriage driver) said to another surry driver, "Have you ever considered peeing yourself just to warm up?" Yep, that pretty much captures the attitude towards the "unseasonably" cold, damp air.
Wednesday, September 22, 2010
Visitors!!!
Yep! This week, we had visitors! My sister (Diane) and nephews (Joseph, Andrew, and Thomas) came to visit. They arrived on Saturday evening (yay!) and left this afternoon (tear!).
It was so wonderful to have visitors! We stayed at a really nice KOA kampground for two days...so, while I was off biking...they were jumping on the jumping pillow, playing miniature golf, and playing on the playground (yes, I was a bit jealous). But at the end of the day, it was a treat to come back to a camp of stories and excitement about the days activities and then back to the jumping pillow we would go...your legs can never be too tired for the jumping pillow. Haha. For the next two nights, we stayed with friends of theirs at a YMCA camp. Oh my goodness, a huge thank you to the Grover family. You have no idea how amazing it is to be indoors and in a bed for two nights in a row. Ahhh, a little taste of heaven right there! The food was fantastic and served around a real table with real plates and silverware. Welcome back to normalcy! Then, the nights rounded out with a game of UNO or Yahtzee. Great times!
Thanks a million to my sister and her boys for joining us on this journey. Matt, we missed you! I think my sister has a new found appreciation for the seemingly endless challenges of this adventure. And while we warned her, my sister was rudely awakened to the world of camping in the cold. Have fun in Denver next week where it is going to be 85 degrees...you didn't need to rub it in!
It was so wonderful to have visitors! We stayed at a really nice KOA kampground for two days...so, while I was off biking...they were jumping on the jumping pillow, playing miniature golf, and playing on the playground (yes, I was a bit jealous). But at the end of the day, it was a treat to come back to a camp of stories and excitement about the days activities and then back to the jumping pillow we would go...your legs can never be too tired for the jumping pillow. Haha. For the next two nights, we stayed with friends of theirs at a YMCA camp. Oh my goodness, a huge thank you to the Grover family. You have no idea how amazing it is to be indoors and in a bed for two nights in a row. Ahhh, a little taste of heaven right there! The food was fantastic and served around a real table with real plates and silverware. Welcome back to normalcy! Then, the nights rounded out with a game of UNO or Yahtzee. Great times!
Thanks a million to my sister and her boys for joining us on this journey. Matt, we missed you! I think my sister has a new found appreciation for the seemingly endless challenges of this adventure. And while we warned her, my sister was rudely awakened to the world of camping in the cold. Have fun in Denver next week where it is going to be 85 degrees...you didn't need to rub it in!
Friday, September 17, 2010
First Descents on ESPN.com
Hey everyone--
Thanks a million for everyone's support and encouragement to date. For those of you who are new to the scene, I am currently biking across the country as a means to increase awareness about the problem that is young adult cancer and to support the cause that is First Descents.
Anywho, ESPN.com just rocked an article about First Descents. Thought I would pass it along for your reading enjoyment and to further your understanding about an organization that means so much to so many. Happy Reading! http://sports.espn.go.com/espn/thelife/news/story?id=5543425 (if you can't get the link to open, right click on it and open in a new tab or new window. Sorry, it is being temperamental.)
To learn more about First Descents, visit their webpage at http://www.firstdescents.org
To donate to First Descents, visit my fundraising page at: http://teamfd.firstdescents.org/2010/fd/hughes/mary/
Thanks a million for everyone's support and encouragement to date. For those of you who are new to the scene, I am currently biking across the country as a means to increase awareness about the problem that is young adult cancer and to support the cause that is First Descents.
Anywho, ESPN.com just rocked an article about First Descents. Thought I would pass it along for your reading enjoyment and to further your understanding about an organization that means so much to so many. Happy Reading! http://sports.espn.go.com/espn/thelife/news/story?id=5543425 (if you can't get the link to open, right click on it and open in a new tab or new window. Sorry, it is being temperamental.)
To learn more about First Descents, visit their webpage at http://www.firstdescents.org
To donate to First Descents, visit my fundraising page at: http://teamfd.firstdescents.org/2010/fd/hughes/mary/
Wednesday, September 15, 2010
Happy Halfway Across the United States Hump Day!
Happy Wednesday! Happy hump day! Happy halfway across the United States hump day!
Current biking progress:
Pacific Coast: check
Cascade Mountains: check
Sonora Desert: check
Foothills of the Rockies: check
Rocky Mountains: check
The Northern Great Plains: check
Part of the Midwest: check
Washington, Idaho, Montana, North Dakota, and Minnesota: check, check, check, check, check
Yep, that pretty much describes it. I am near the Minnesota/Wisconsin border. Yesterday during the ride across eastern Minnesota, I officially crossed the halfway point of this journey. I am halfway across the United States of America! One minute it feels like it is going by so quickly and the next it seems like it has been an eternity. Did you really ever stop to think how far 4000+ miles is? If there wasn't joy and beauty to counter the pain and laughter to counter the tears, 4000 miles would be an unbearably long way. But the joy is in the journey!
Mother Nature has been totally PMSing for the past 2 weeks and it is about time she pulled herself together. I think she was crying tears of joy for my halfway day, but to me it just felt like cold rain. Boo! However, it did lead to an entire day of laughter. Being ever-optimistic, I departed this morning in bike shorts, a short sleeve jersey, and a windbreaker. Ha! That was the first mistake. After three miles, I was soaking wet and freezing. Good thing mom had randomly stopped on the side of the road six miles outside of town, because I was frfrfrfreezing. The first picture was when I still looked like a normal cyclist. But by the time I added enough layers to be both warm and dry, I looked like a circus clown on a bicycle (insert next picture). Haha! Happy halfway across the United States hump day!
From here we are heading north (brrr!) through Wisconsin to the Northern Pennisula of Michigan with a minor detour to Mackinaw Island. From there, heading southeast across Michigan to the Canadian side of Lake Erie. eh, Canada! Then, New York, Vermont, New Hampshire, and Maine. Bam!
Okay, picture to come later. This internet connection is slow as molasses. Sorry!
Current biking progress:
Pacific Coast: check
Cascade Mountains: check
Sonora Desert: check
Foothills of the Rockies: check
Rocky Mountains: check
The Northern Great Plains: check
Part of the Midwest: check
Washington, Idaho, Montana, North Dakota, and Minnesota: check, check, check, check, check
Yep, that pretty much describes it. I am near the Minnesota/Wisconsin border. Yesterday during the ride across eastern Minnesota, I officially crossed the halfway point of this journey. I am halfway across the United States of America! One minute it feels like it is going by so quickly and the next it seems like it has been an eternity. Did you really ever stop to think how far 4000+ miles is? If there wasn't joy and beauty to counter the pain and laughter to counter the tears, 4000 miles would be an unbearably long way. But the joy is in the journey!
Mother Nature has been totally PMSing for the past 2 weeks and it is about time she pulled herself together. I think she was crying tears of joy for my halfway day, but to me it just felt like cold rain. Boo! However, it did lead to an entire day of laughter. Being ever-optimistic, I departed this morning in bike shorts, a short sleeve jersey, and a windbreaker. Ha! That was the first mistake. After three miles, I was soaking wet and freezing. Good thing mom had randomly stopped on the side of the road six miles outside of town, because I was frfrfrfreezing. The first picture was when I still looked like a normal cyclist. But by the time I added enough layers to be both warm and dry, I looked like a circus clown on a bicycle (insert next picture). Haha! Happy halfway across the United States hump day!
From here we are heading north (brrr!) through Wisconsin to the Northern Pennisula of Michigan with a minor detour to Mackinaw Island. From there, heading southeast across Michigan to the Canadian side of Lake Erie. eh, Canada! Then, New York, Vermont, New Hampshire, and Maine. Bam!
Okay, picture to come later. This internet connection is slow as molasses. Sorry!
Thursday, September 9, 2010
Ode to the Winds of North Dakota
Ode to the Winds of North Dakota
You push, I push back.
You lean, I lean back.
You push harder, I push back.
You lean harder, I lean back.
You slap me across the face, I turn the other cheek.
You push, you lean, you slap, you shove.
You scream, you shout, you howl, you yell.
You push me around.
You throw me off course.
You stop me dead in my tracks.
You lean on me when I’m not strong.
You scream so loud, I can’t hear myself think.
And though you nearly tip me over
And though you bring me to tears
So long as every pedal stroke results in forward progression,
I will not surrender. I will not retreat. I will prevail.
Dear Winds of North Dakota,
This is not a threat. This is simply a self-reminder. But headwind for the past five out of six riding days is ridiculous. I walked into the gas station, restaurant, movie store, service station (you know the type) and everyone stared at me as if I were insane. Well, they might be right. You are driving me to INSANITY! Okay, maybe that is a bit dramatic. But really, why must you be such a bully—pushing and shoving and screaming and now spitting (rain). Do I get a swirly tomorrow? Great! Looking forward to it.
Until tomorrow,
Mary
Pictures coming soon!
You push, I push back.
You lean, I lean back.
You push harder, I push back.
You lean harder, I lean back.
You slap me across the face, I turn the other cheek.
You push, you lean, you slap, you shove.
You scream, you shout, you howl, you yell.
You push me around.
You throw me off course.
You stop me dead in my tracks.
You lean on me when I’m not strong.
You scream so loud, I can’t hear myself think.
And though you nearly tip me over
And though you bring me to tears
So long as every pedal stroke results in forward progression,
I will not surrender. I will not retreat. I will prevail.
Dear Winds of North Dakota,
This is not a threat. This is simply a self-reminder. But headwind for the past five out of six riding days is ridiculous. I walked into the gas station, restaurant, movie store, service station (you know the type) and everyone stared at me as if I were insane. Well, they might be right. You are driving me to INSANITY! Okay, maybe that is a bit dramatic. But really, why must you be such a bully—pushing and shoving and screaming and now spitting (rain). Do I get a swirly tomorrow? Great! Looking forward to it.
Until tomorrow,
Mary
Pictures coming soon!
Saturday, September 4, 2010
Cinco Consecutive Century Challenge
One correction from a previous post from "Day Four: the Day of Firsts." I was NOT the biker who crashed in the gravel (everyone, knock on wood RIGHT NOW!). The boy from a teenage couple popped his tire and crashed in the gravel, scraping up his leg pretty bad. Mom--The Good Samaritan--stopped to help, picked him up, put his bike on the car, drove him down to the country store, and helped him clean out his wounds. Good work, Mom!
Anyways, I know I have been uber slow at blogging lately. Sorry! But I do have a good reason.
From a previous post, you know that I completed my first ever century while crossing the Continental Divide. Being a wee-bit competitive, I decided that it would be feasible--though a challenge--to complete three consecutive centuries. Well, in the matter of about a day, three turned into five, which became the Cinco Consecutive Century Challenge. Who do I think I am? She-ra? Wonder woman? Somebody who is actually in great physical shape? Ha, not by a long shot...but I am allowed to dream and set impossible goals.
Well, kids. "It's possible! For the world is full of zanies and fools who don't believe in sensible rule, and don't believe what sensible people say. And because these daft and dewey eyed dopes keep building up impossible hopes impossible things are happening every day. It's possible!" Name that Disney movie...1...2...3...Cinderella.
It's possible! I completed the Cinco Consecutive Century Challenge! Five century rides (100 miles) in the past five days. Bam!
Century 1: Awesome tailwind. Good start!
Century 2: Mild tailwind...still a good thing.
Century 3: Wicked crosswind. Doable, but a struggle. It's a good thing the day started with Latin dancing on the side of the highway (not kidding) to loosen up the Latin hips because today was all about holding onto the handlebars and keeping my hips loose. I got a side cramp after 75 miles because apparently my obliques aren't strong enough to do a side crunch ALL DAY! Left Montana, entered North Dakota!
Century 4: Awesome breakfast, awesome ride!
Century 5: Headwind, headwind, relentless headwind. Pain, tears, exhaustion. First ever ride after sundown. Beautiful, peaceful, amazing. Star light, star bright, first star I see tonight, I wish I may, I wish I might have the wish I wish tonight. My wish came true...I FINISHED!
Happy Labor Day Weekend!
Zip!
Single tree in the middle of a field. Why? Is this a metaphor for life?
The road less traveled
Worst road conditions...tax dollars hard at work
Welcome to North Dakota!
Funniest sign! It was posted in the women's restroom, hence the gentlemen part is crossed out.
Geographical Center of North America and opening weekend of college football. Go Hawkeyes!Sunday, August 29, 2010
Uncertainty
I distinctly remember the moment in physical therapy school, when my partner and I stumbled upon a theory for our final medical ethics/ethics education project: "Ethics is uncertainty." So simple, but one of those "ah-ha" life moments. Since that day and since that time that simple statement sets off a train of thoughts...ethics is uncertainty; medical ethical conflicts and dilemmas are not black and white, not right and wrong, not yes and no; medical ethics is grey; so the role of our educational system is not to teach us right from wrong; it is to teach us how to think, to process, to negotiate uncertainty--that's a huge responsibility. But life is no different. Life is uncertainty.
For some reason, I have been thinking a lot about uncertainty lately. The only thing certain about this journey is that "for every up, there is a down." Literally, not figuratively. I started at the Pacific Ocean and am ending at the Atlantic Ocean. Sea level equals sea level by my calculations. Thus, for every up, there must be a down. But outside of that, nothing else is certain. For every headwind, there isn't a promised tailwind. For every rough road, there isn't a newly paved road. For every good there isn't a bad and for every bad there isn't a good. Life is not fair. Each day is an unknown slate of uncertainty. Life is uncertainty.
Today, I rode 42 miles...not too impressive as a single statistic. But today, I rode 42 miles in the rain with temperatures in the mid-40s into 30-40mph diagonal headwind/crosswind. Sounds slightly miserable? At times, yes. But ultimately, I have a choice which days to ride and which days not to ride. I made the choice to ride today. And today, amidst the uncertainty, the teachings and wisdoms of my life teachers came flooding back--from my family to my friends to my co-workers, teachers, patients to complete strangers. To have a passion is to accept the denial that comes with it. There is more to be learned in losing than winning. Bad days remind us to be gracious and appreciative of the good ones. Hughes' don't quit. :) Everyday should contain laughter and tears. Take each day as you find it, but don't leave it that way. Okay, I will stop. Just saying that while the riding conditions were slightly miserable, the overall experience was worth the journey--thanks to my life teachers who have taught be how to negotiate uncertainty.
This evening, we had dinner with and are staying with Lindsay and Jacob Lorang. Lindsay is a great college friend from the good ol' days of Creighton University. (#1 school in the Midwest AGAIN! Go Bluejays!). It was so amazingly wonderful to catch up, have homecooked meals, and a warm, dry place on a cold, dreary night. Linds, the very best of luck on your next life endeavors! You are so ambitious! And happy tuna fishing...haha...400 lbs of tuna.
Random thought of today: You don't go into the ring to fight Mother Nature as if to win or lose, because you will inevitably lose. Mother Nature is relentless. And Mother Nature in Central Montana can be a real vixen. You go into the ring with Mother Nature to define yourself, to reconnect with your sense of humanity, to reinforce humility, to respect.
Lindsay and Mary--rise and shine!
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