The Mission Has Begun

        Hello all,

     Today it was a frigid day in Central New York, and since it's so cold, why not begin my blog about my journey for this upcoming summer?  As of right now, I am at $1032 for my fundraising.  I still have more than $3000 to raise, so I need to start brainstorming some great ideas.

About two months ago,  I went bottle and can collecting.  I was surprised at how effective it was.  I was able to raise $80 in about three hours.  I would like to try this fundraising method again once it is a bit warmer out.  People tend to not answer their doors when it is frigid out.

I have also received very generous donations from friends, family, and awesome healthcare providers.  I am thrilled that these people have given me what they have, and I will think about them as I bike and build across the country.

Last Friday I had the opportunity to volunteer with Syracuse Habitat for Humanity.  I wiped some very dirty windows for several hours.  It's really terrible that some of these homes we work on have fallen into such disrepair.  I used my muscle and might to do my best work on the house.  After my shift was complete, I felt a sense of accomplishment.  I was also very hungry for lunch.  It was a very satisfying day.  I plan to volunteer more with this group throughout the spring.

I also ordered these awesome thank you cards with bikes on them.  I have never been so thrilled to send out thank yous to people.  I also realized how much bike stuff is on the internet.  It's pretty overwhelming and tempting.

I went for a nice 35 miles ride last week also.  There's nothing like getting out on your bike with heavy gloves on, earmuffs, and many layers.  It was also great because I just bought new tires for the bike I currently have.  I rode so much on my old tires that the threading was coming out!

I am taking a bike class next week on how to make some basic repairs on your bike.  I feel like this is a very wise decision on my part because I do not like being stranded on a farm in the middle of nowhere.

Unfortunately, since it is winter, I may have to do some indoor cycling until it warms up a bit more.  Syracuse is pretty unpredictable with its snowfall also, but it we have a surprising fifty degree day, I will definitely go out for a ride!  I will even ride if it's forty degrees.  I am willing to do almost anything to go for a bike ride.

I will continue to update this as I get closer to my trip!

If you have any desire to donate or know anybody who wants to, click here