Sunday, June 26, 2011
Friday, June 24, 2011
Day 6 bad Axe to Harbor Beach
Day 6, our final day of the PALM 30 ride. A short ride today, only 28 miles from Bad Axe to Harbor Beach. Our last night in a hotel, tonight we will sleep in our own bed. Looks like we will be wearing biking tights and our rain jackets today. Temps will be in the 60's, with rain most of the morning. Button will be in his carrier, with the rain cover on.
We had breakfast at the hotel, then took the shuttle to the school, where we gathered up our bags and got them loaded. Checked the air in our tires. I had trouble with the tire that has the short valve on it, so one of the bike mechanics helped me with it. When he went to fill it the valve came off. I suggested he replace the tube with a new one, but he fiddled around with the valve and got it back in and we were on our way by 7:30 AM. It was raining when we left.
No porta potties on the route today either, so we had to make our "wilderness stops" behind old barns and abandoned houses. We had made such a stop at the 8 mile mark, and when we went to get back on the road, we had a flat tire. Yep, it was the one with bad valve. A SAG had just gone by about 5 minutes prior, so I figured I might as well get out the new inner tube, and get started on it. I didn't realize how cold my hands were, until I started digging around the pannier for the spare tube. I had no sooner said, "I wonder how long we will have to wait for a SAG" when one came rolling over the hill. Cheerful, Bob Homer, from Ohio set right to work. It was already his 3rd flat of the day. I explained the valve issue to him, and he decided it would be best to put a new inner tube in.
He had never changed a flat on a trike before. The hardest thing about changing a flat on a trike, is that the front wheels, don't have a quick release, so have to be changed on the trike, which sits only 18 inches above the ground. Bob decided it would be easiest to flip the trike on it's side to change the inner tube. Of course, once we got it on it's side, it started raining harder. The rain didn't deter him, and he had it done in no time. I was so thankful to him, and to the Lord for sending help so quickly. I could have changed the tire myself, but it would have taken me longer, MUCH longer. Thanks God, for sending Bob.
We rolled into Harbor Beach about 10:30 AM. The rain was just letting up. We walked around a bit, talked to other cyclist, who had the same, silly, "I did it." look on their faces that we did. We headed out about 11 AM, to line up for the parade. We could hardly wait to see so many in their yellow PALM T-shirts, riding through town.
There wasn't as many riders as there usually is in the parade, many riders were wet and cold, they just wanted to load up their bikes and go home. Still, it was amazing to look back and see so many people in yellow PALM shirts, on their bikes. The parade organizers, put the tandems, trikes, and recumbents at the beginning of the parade. Most likely because we ride slower, and it sets a slower pace for the parade. The fire engine was there, and a police car lead the parade. Many people were there to see all the cyclist, ride by. It was fun. Button stuck his head and chest out of his crate, as if to say, "Look at me, see what I did.?" He got his picture taken many times. I think this dog did too. He seemed to be enjoying the attention too.
Harbor Beach has a current population of about 1500 people. It is located on the western shore of Lake Huron, the the thumb of MIchigan. Harbor Beach is known to have the largest , fresh water, man made Harbor in the world. The downtown, has a charming, old fashioned look ann the municipal marina runs a shuttle service into the downtown area. The pier is handicapped accessible.
The earliest settlers arrived to the area in 1837, they established a sawmill for processing lumber. In 1855, the settlement was named Barrettsville. It continued to grow and was renamed Sand Beach. Later, the people of the town didn't want others to think their town was nothing but a beach of sand, so in 1899, they changed the name to Harbor Beach. in 1910, it was officially incorporated into a city.
After the parade, we had lunch with Ann, David and Ann's friend, from the Ann Arbor Cycling club.
It was nice to talk about the past 6 days and see what different people liked about the ride. Once again, I am amazed at what a wonderful job the PALM volunteers do, in putting the whole thing together. The community volunteers put on a very nice lunch. Things were individually wrapped, and bags were provided for those who wanted to eat their lunch in their cars or on the buses.
PALM had offered the option of people driving their cars to Harbor Beach on the day the PALM ride started, then there were trucks to transport the bikes to Ludington, and buses for the people. We had opted to but our trike on a truck from Harbor Beach to Ludington, and then take one of the buses from Harbor Beach to Ludington, at the end of the tour. After lunch, we located all of our bags, and stood in line to get the trike loaded, wondering how in the world they were going to fit this 10 foot trike on to a 16 foot Budget Rental truck, that already had many biked on it. The cyclist, remove the pedals from their bikes, so they can fit in easier. All panniers have to be removed as well. They finally decided to hand our trike form the ceiling. Some regular tandems, were hung on the walls. it was quite something to watch these people, volunteering their time, to get all these bikes, trikes and tandems loaded. They were very efficient, and had the job done much faster than I thought they would. Our trike had just been loaded, when the buses pulled up. I got Tony and Button on the bus, then loaded all of bags and gear into the luggage compartment that was under the bus, making sure to put it all together. Once 2 buses were loaded, and people were on, they headed for Ludington. I called Keith and Ann when we were about 90 minutes from Ludington, and told them we would most likely arrive at around 6PM. Had time to take all the luggage off the bike before they got there, but had to wait for the trucks with the bikes on them.
Got the trike on the trailer, the trailer, which now had a new tire and rim on it, loaded the car up, and went to find a place to eat. Made a stop at Meijer on the way home to pick up some half and half for morning. Got home about 10:30 PM. We were very tired, just got what we needed out of the car, will deal with unloading the trike, and the rest tomorrow. No rain predicted for tonight, but even if there was, we still were to tired to unload the trike. After all, it wasn't as if it hadn't already been wet...many times.
We really enjoyed our PALM 30 ride. with the Lord's help, and the prayers of many, we rode 283 miles across the beautiful state of Michigan, in 6 days. It was a memorable and remarkable experience, even though it was the wettest PALM on record. We met many new friends and saw lots of places we hadn't been before.
Bike touring is a much more personal way to travel than by car. We get to see and hear things close up, that is one of the things we love about riding.
We hope to ride PALM again next year. I'm thinking, that many others will too. Next year we will be able to help some rookies out, just like the veteran PALM riders helped us out by answering our questions and offering encouragement. What an amazing experience it was. We hope to have many more PALM rides in our future, and many new friends.
We had breakfast at the hotel, then took the shuttle to the school, where we gathered up our bags and got them loaded. Checked the air in our tires. I had trouble with the tire that has the short valve on it, so one of the bike mechanics helped me with it. When he went to fill it the valve came off. I suggested he replace the tube with a new one, but he fiddled around with the valve and got it back in and we were on our way by 7:30 AM. It was raining when we left.
No porta potties on the route today either, so we had to make our "wilderness stops" behind old barns and abandoned houses. We had made such a stop at the 8 mile mark, and when we went to get back on the road, we had a flat tire. Yep, it was the one with bad valve. A SAG had just gone by about 5 minutes prior, so I figured I might as well get out the new inner tube, and get started on it. I didn't realize how cold my hands were, until I started digging around the pannier for the spare tube. I had no sooner said, "I wonder how long we will have to wait for a SAG" when one came rolling over the hill. Cheerful, Bob Homer, from Ohio set right to work. It was already his 3rd flat of the day. I explained the valve issue to him, and he decided it would be best to put a new inner tube in.
He had never changed a flat on a trike before. The hardest thing about changing a flat on a trike, is that the front wheels, don't have a quick release, so have to be changed on the trike, which sits only 18 inches above the ground. Bob decided it would be easiest to flip the trike on it's side to change the inner tube. Of course, once we got it on it's side, it started raining harder. The rain didn't deter him, and he had it done in no time. I was so thankful to him, and to the Lord for sending help so quickly. I could have changed the tire myself, but it would have taken me longer, MUCH longer. Thanks God, for sending Bob.
We rolled into Harbor Beach about 10:30 AM. The rain was just letting up. We walked around a bit, talked to other cyclist, who had the same, silly, "I did it." look on their faces that we did. We headed out about 11 AM, to line up for the parade. We could hardly wait to see so many in their yellow PALM T-shirts, riding through town.
There wasn't as many riders as there usually is in the parade, many riders were wet and cold, they just wanted to load up their bikes and go home. Still, it was amazing to look back and see so many people in yellow PALM shirts, on their bikes. The parade organizers, put the tandems, trikes, and recumbents at the beginning of the parade. Most likely because we ride slower, and it sets a slower pace for the parade. The fire engine was there, and a police car lead the parade. Many people were there to see all the cyclist, ride by. It was fun. Button stuck his head and chest out of his crate, as if to say, "Look at me, see what I did.?" He got his picture taken many times. I think this dog did too. He seemed to be enjoying the attention too.
Harbor Beach has a current population of about 1500 people. It is located on the western shore of Lake Huron, the the thumb of MIchigan. Harbor Beach is known to have the largest , fresh water, man made Harbor in the world. The downtown, has a charming, old fashioned look ann the municipal marina runs a shuttle service into the downtown area. The pier is handicapped accessible.
The earliest settlers arrived to the area in 1837, they established a sawmill for processing lumber. In 1855, the settlement was named Barrettsville. It continued to grow and was renamed Sand Beach. Later, the people of the town didn't want others to think their town was nothing but a beach of sand, so in 1899, they changed the name to Harbor Beach. in 1910, it was officially incorporated into a city.
After the parade, we had lunch with Ann, David and Ann's friend, from the Ann Arbor Cycling club.
It was nice to talk about the past 6 days and see what different people liked about the ride. Once again, I am amazed at what a wonderful job the PALM volunteers do, in putting the whole thing together. The community volunteers put on a very nice lunch. Things were individually wrapped, and bags were provided for those who wanted to eat their lunch in their cars or on the buses.
PALM had offered the option of people driving their cars to Harbor Beach on the day the PALM ride started, then there were trucks to transport the bikes to Ludington, and buses for the people. We had opted to but our trike on a truck from Harbor Beach to Ludington, and then take one of the buses from Harbor Beach to Ludington, at the end of the tour. After lunch, we located all of our bags, and stood in line to get the trike loaded, wondering how in the world they were going to fit this 10 foot trike on to a 16 foot Budget Rental truck, that already had many biked on it. The cyclist, remove the pedals from their bikes, so they can fit in easier. All panniers have to be removed as well. They finally decided to hand our trike form the ceiling. Some regular tandems, were hung on the walls. it was quite something to watch these people, volunteering their time, to get all these bikes, trikes and tandems loaded. They were very efficient, and had the job done much faster than I thought they would. Our trike had just been loaded, when the buses pulled up. I got Tony and Button on the bus, then loaded all of bags and gear into the luggage compartment that was under the bus, making sure to put it all together. Once 2 buses were loaded, and people were on, they headed for Ludington. I called Keith and Ann when we were about 90 minutes from Ludington, and told them we would most likely arrive at around 6PM. Had time to take all the luggage off the bike before they got there, but had to wait for the trucks with the bikes on them.
Got the trike on the trailer, the trailer, which now had a new tire and rim on it, loaded the car up, and went to find a place to eat. Made a stop at Meijer on the way home to pick up some half and half for morning. Got home about 10:30 PM. We were very tired, just got what we needed out of the car, will deal with unloading the trike, and the rest tomorrow. No rain predicted for tonight, but even if there was, we still were to tired to unload the trike. After all, it wasn't as if it hadn't already been wet...many times.
We really enjoyed our PALM 30 ride. with the Lord's help, and the prayers of many, we rode 283 miles across the beautiful state of Michigan, in 6 days. It was a memorable and remarkable experience, even though it was the wettest PALM on record. We met many new friends and saw lots of places we hadn't been before.
Bike touring is a much more personal way to travel than by car. We get to see and hear things close up, that is one of the things we love about riding.
We hope to ride PALM again next year. I'm thinking, that many others will too. Next year we will be able to help some rookies out, just like the veteran PALM riders helped us out by answering our questions and offering encouragement. What an amazing experience it was. We hope to have many more PALM rides in our future, and many new friends.
Thursday, June 23, 2011
Bay City to Bad Axe
Slept well last night, woke to rain. Not a down pour, just a steady drizzle, the kind that still required rain gear, and Button's carrier to be covered, cab driver, same guy as last night, came and got us about 6 AM. We ate breakfast at the hotel. Once we got to the school, we located the rest of our bags and loaded those on the truck. After putting air in our tires and filling our water bottles, we riding by 7:30 AM. This will be our longest day of 61 miles, a few miles further for as , since we will take the detour to avoid the heavy traffic area. Once again there was lots of traffic, stop lights, etc. to deal with on the way out of town.
98% of our riding is done out in the country, so it seemed odd to be riding along, seeing people take their trash to the curb, and other things involved in city living. On our rides at home, we are more likely to see cows, horses and sheep grazing, or an amish buggy or wagon going down the road. Most folks, both country, and city, are friendly and had a big wave for us. We usually wave at people. The "regulars" on our routes always have a big smile for us. To wave at people lets them know we are there, that we are friendly, and enjoying riding. I try to smile and wave at people, even when it's raining. I figure, "yes, I'm getting wet, but I am able to be out riding, so I might as well, try and enjoy it." Truthfully, I can't say I always do, especially if it's a hard, cold rain. But since we have to get from point A to B, complaining won't make the miles any shorter, but attitude can make them go by faster.
Rode past an interesting cemetery today. It was close to the road, not set back a bit, the way some are, and the markers were pretty close together. If we hadn't had so many miles ahead of us today, we probably would have stopped and walked around it a bit. The old gravestones are interesting to look at. When we used to travel,more, I found it interesting to see cemeteries from different countries and states. I remember how neat it was to see the leis on the gravestones in Hawaii, and how grandiose the raised graves in New Orleans looked.
Our goal for a lunch stop today is Sebewaing, which is at the 36 mile mark. We will probably be pretty hungry by then. This small community of just over 2000 people, is known as The Sugar Beet Capitol, do to the Michigan Sugar Slicing Mill in the village, and the yearly Michigan Sugar Festival that takes place there. Many sugar beets are grown in the thumb area of Michigan.
Sugar beets are and important cash crop for MI farmers. They provide jobs and contribute to the local economy. Michigan Sugar Company is a grower owned cooperative, meaning that the growers own the company. The Michigan Sugar Cooperative has approximately 1,250 farmer-members who grow sugar beets on 175,000 acres of land. The beets are then processed into sugar at factories located in Sebe- waing, Bay City, Caro and Croswell.
The sugar beets are expensive and difficult to grow, but are a profitable crop for the farmers, with a larger profit than traditional crops such as wheat, corn or soybeans. Sugarbeets are planted in the early spring. Farmers prepare the ground for planting, by plowing the previous fall and then lightly cultivating the ground in the spring, just before planting. Growers also apply fertilizer to help the sugarbeets grow. Sugarbeet seeds are small, about the size of a BB, and are planted about 1 inch deep in the soil. The seeds are spaced about 4 inches apart in the rows. It usually takes a week or 2, for sugarbeet seeds to germinate and emerge from the soil.
We could see that some serious rain was behind us, moving in our direction, so we really pushed ourselves to get to Sebewaing before the storm. We went to McDonald's for lunch. Not our usual choice of places to eat, but we wanted out of the weather. We got the trike parked and made it inside, before the serious rain hit. We were fortunate that a friend of ours was sitting , by a table, as the place was packed with PALM riders. He told us he was just leaving, and we could have his table. We shared it with others, so the good deed got passed along. It was a good place to wait out the rain.
Before leaving, Tony and I had someone take our picture. I look like there is a triangle on my helmet, but it is just the sail of a boat on the fireplace mantle. Who ever heard of a fireplace in McDonald's? Perhaps Ronald sits by it on winter nights and warms his big feet.
Just outside of Sebewaig, we say some damage from last nights storms. Big trees uprooted, local people working to get them cut out of the way, and cleaned up.
Rode past a barn or some type of out building that was falling down. Written on the side of it was "Top Producer.'' As someone rode past us, they said, "Top producer? Top producer of what? Obviously not a top producer of barns."
The sun didn't really come out much today and the showers came and went. We had our rain gear on most of the day. Button rides along with his head on Tony's shoulder, and we don't hear much from him, unless he sees a water stop, or needs to stop for a bathroom break. We don't have to muzzle him at all now.
In spite of this being our longest mileage day, we made very good time arriving in Bay City at around 2:15 PM. Were glad hat there was some ice cream bars for sale there. Had some popcorn, and bought a t-shirt there too. Once again, the profit from all of the products sold, go to benefit some school related organization, usually the athletic boosters.
Had a good supper, looked at the pictures Dotty, the friendly PALM photographer took all week. After the 7PM meeting tonight, we can take the pictures that are of us. I think there was about 4 or 5 pictures of us.
Tomorrow our PALM ride ends in Harbor Beach, where there will be a parade through the town. Hard to believe that we have ridden 255 miles, and have only 28 more to go before the ride is done.
Stayed at the Econo Lodge tonight. There was a shuttle that was taking people to their hotels, for $2.00 per person, each way. More were in hotels tonight, because of last nights storm. Saw quite a few PALM riders at our hotel, including Mike and his group of friends. He was nice enough to carry our bags to our room for us.
Glad we had reservations. Once again, to tired to watch the news. Will catch the weather forecast in the morning. Not that it really matters, we will ride, regardless of the weather, but at least we will know how to dress appropriately.
98% of our riding is done out in the country, so it seemed odd to be riding along, seeing people take their trash to the curb, and other things involved in city living. On our rides at home, we are more likely to see cows, horses and sheep grazing, or an amish buggy or wagon going down the road. Most folks, both country, and city, are friendly and had a big wave for us. We usually wave at people. The "regulars" on our routes always have a big smile for us. To wave at people lets them know we are there, that we are friendly, and enjoying riding. I try to smile and wave at people, even when it's raining. I figure, "yes, I'm getting wet, but I am able to be out riding, so I might as well, try and enjoy it." Truthfully, I can't say I always do, especially if it's a hard, cold rain. But since we have to get from point A to B, complaining won't make the miles any shorter, but attitude can make them go by faster.
Rode past an interesting cemetery today. It was close to the road, not set back a bit, the way some are, and the markers were pretty close together. If we hadn't had so many miles ahead of us today, we probably would have stopped and walked around it a bit. The old gravestones are interesting to look at. When we used to travel,more, I found it interesting to see cemeteries from different countries and states. I remember how neat it was to see the leis on the gravestones in Hawaii, and how grandiose the raised graves in New Orleans looked.
Our goal for a lunch stop today is Sebewaing, which is at the 36 mile mark. We will probably be pretty hungry by then. This small community of just over 2000 people, is known as The Sugar Beet Capitol, do to the Michigan Sugar Slicing Mill in the village, and the yearly Michigan Sugar Festival that takes place there. Many sugar beets are grown in the thumb area of Michigan.
Sugar beets are and important cash crop for MI farmers. They provide jobs and contribute to the local economy. Michigan Sugar Company is a grower owned cooperative, meaning that the growers own the company. The Michigan Sugar Cooperative has approximately 1,250 farmer-members who grow sugar beets on 175,000 acres of land. The beets are then processed into sugar at factories located in Sebe- waing, Bay City, Caro and Croswell.
The sugar beets are expensive and difficult to grow, but are a profitable crop for the farmers, with a larger profit than traditional crops such as wheat, corn or soybeans. Sugarbeets are planted in the early spring. Farmers prepare the ground for planting, by plowing the previous fall and then lightly cultivating the ground in the spring, just before planting. Growers also apply fertilizer to help the sugarbeets grow. Sugarbeet seeds are small, about the size of a BB, and are planted about 1 inch deep in the soil. The seeds are spaced about 4 inches apart in the rows. It usually takes a week or 2, for sugarbeet seeds to germinate and emerge from the soil.
We could see that some serious rain was behind us, moving in our direction, so we really pushed ourselves to get to Sebewaing before the storm. We went to McDonald's for lunch. Not our usual choice of places to eat, but we wanted out of the weather. We got the trike parked and made it inside, before the serious rain hit. We were fortunate that a friend of ours was sitting , by a table, as the place was packed with PALM riders. He told us he was just leaving, and we could have his table. We shared it with others, so the good deed got passed along. It was a good place to wait out the rain.
Before leaving, Tony and I had someone take our picture. I look like there is a triangle on my helmet, but it is just the sail of a boat on the fireplace mantle. Who ever heard of a fireplace in McDonald's? Perhaps Ronald sits by it on winter nights and warms his big feet.
Just outside of Sebewaig, we say some damage from last nights storms. Big trees uprooted, local people working to get them cut out of the way, and cleaned up.
Rode past a barn or some type of out building that was falling down. Written on the side of it was "Top Producer.'' As someone rode past us, they said, "Top producer? Top producer of what? Obviously not a top producer of barns."
The sun didn't really come out much today and the showers came and went. We had our rain gear on most of the day. Button rides along with his head on Tony's shoulder, and we don't hear much from him, unless he sees a water stop, or needs to stop for a bathroom break. We don't have to muzzle him at all now.
In spite of this being our longest mileage day, we made very good time arriving in Bay City at around 2:15 PM. Were glad hat there was some ice cream bars for sale there. Had some popcorn, and bought a t-shirt there too. Once again, the profit from all of the products sold, go to benefit some school related organization, usually the athletic boosters.
Had a good supper, looked at the pictures Dotty, the friendly PALM photographer took all week. After the 7PM meeting tonight, we can take the pictures that are of us. I think there was about 4 or 5 pictures of us.
Tomorrow our PALM ride ends in Harbor Beach, where there will be a parade through the town. Hard to believe that we have ridden 255 miles, and have only 28 more to go before the ride is done.
Stayed at the Econo Lodge tonight. There was a shuttle that was taking people to their hotels, for $2.00 per person, each way. More were in hotels tonight, because of last nights storm. Saw quite a few PALM riders at our hotel, including Mike and his group of friends. He was nice enough to carry our bags to our room for us.
Glad we had reservations. Once again, to tired to watch the news. Will catch the weather forecast in the morning. Not that it really matters, we will ride, regardless of the weather, but at least we will know how to dress appropriately.
Wednesday, June 22, 2011
Clare to Bay City
I am going to stop numbering my days...somehow I think I got them mixed up. Trust me...from Clare, we rode to Bay City, I know I'm right on that..I rode every mile.
Woke up this morning early. It's hard to sleep for long on such a hard surface. We are tired, and have our 2nd highest mileage day ahead of us. This day, might be the biggest challenge our bodies have faced. Can bodies that only got 4 hours of asleep ride 53 miles? Guess we'll know by the end of the day. I'm thinking we'll be drawing some strength from the Lord today, just like the signs on the back of the trike say.
Our latest start today, as it took us awhile to wring things out and pack up. I had put the tent bag in with our things rescued from the tent last night, and that bag was already on the truck, so the sleeping pads, (yep, that bag was in the truck too) and tent, went into garbage bags. I noticed ours weren't the only garbage bags loaded on the truck today, so it could be interesting finding out which are ours when the truck is unloaded later today.
It was close to 9 AM when we left the school. It was cloudy, wasn't long before it started raining. When the rain was done, hot and steamy paid us a visit. We drank lots of water, and stopped often to offer Button water, and cool him off, by pouring water on him. He rides better each day, less concerned about being next to me and more interested in the surroundings and people. He cries if we go past a water stop without stopping. He knows he gets lots of attention there from his "fan club."
So many great people on this ride, all are so friendly. The food has been great too. Each community is truly glad to see us, and goes out of their way to be hospitable. It's nice to feel welcome and the people at the schools, go out of their way to meet our needs.
Rode past an old abandoned school house today, of course i had to take a picture. today. I bet the school house would tell many stories, if it could talk.
The terrain is much flatter today, that is a blessing. I am stiil amazed to look ahead of us and see lots of bikers, or to see them strung out behind us when I look in my side view mirror. Other times we are by ourselves, with no one around, and it feels like it does when we go out for a ride at home. Those are the times, when we have prayer together. Our time with the 2 of us and the Lord, enjoying his creation, praising him and bringing our cares before him.
With the weather what it's been, we need to count every blessing that comes our way. Most riders know there is no guarantees when it comes to weather, and riding in the rain is much easier than riding in 90 degrees, with high humidity. In my opinion that takes a lot more energy out of a rider. I wouldn't order rain, but it is easier to deal with than heat, especially for Tony. Someone said that they thought about 50 riders dropped out after the storm we had in Clare last night, but all in all, people are trying to keep a positive attitude and not complain.
Bay City was once the camping grounds of the Chippewa Indians and later the hub of specialized industries. Bay City continues to be a major place of commerce in Michigan.
Bay City lies at the mouth of the Saginaw River at the tip of Saginaw Bay on Lake Huron. It is the county seat for Bay County. From a historical point, it also owes it's development to the lumbering industry in the late 1800's. Large quantities of lumber were floated down the Saginaw River and it is estimated that there were more sawmills in this area than anywhere else in Michigan.
It became a central distribution point for much shipping that took place on the Great Lakes. Today it is still a major shipping point for sugar, concrete and other industrial products. Of course the shipping that takes place on the Great Lakes is greatly scaled down now.
It is said that Bay City was on the Under Ground Railroad. There is a map of the underground railroad that shows it going right through Bay City and into Saginaw Bay. Thousands were likely helped down the road to freedom in this northern most stop.
Bay City also played a major role in ship building, especially during WWII, when submarines for the US and Australia were produced here. Our bike route did not take us near the bay.
We got to the fruit stop, and another rider told us there was a big storm about 6 or 7 miles behind us. I grabbed 1 piece of watermelon, got on the trike, clipped in, and away we rode. we rode like a wild fire was behind us, hitting about 17 or 18 MPH most of the way. (That is a fast speed for us to maintain for that long, as mentioned earlier, our trike alone weighs 67 lbs, plus our weight and the weight of our gear.)
Had to slow down to ride through some busy areas and cross some high traffic roads coming to the school today, but still came in faster and stronger than we usually do. We got to the school, got our rian gear out, covered Button's carrier up, were in the school, about 4 or 5 minutes, and the storm hit. Rain, thunder, lightening, hail and very high winds. The wind flattened a couple of tents. We were so grateful we weren't riding in it.
We arrived at the school 3:45 PM. I We had decided we would try and get a hotel room tonight. with the rain, no chance for the tent to dry out ad our sleeping pads are wet as well. Weren't sure how we would find a hotel, but there were some flyers on the PALM desk with a phone number for a taxi service, so decided to see if they might know of some hotels. I called and got several numbers, then started calling to see which ones accepted dogs. Finally found one and made a reservation. Then we went and ate supper. I felt much better after that, so did Tony.
After supper it was raining again, Button was cozy and dry in his carrier on the back of the trike. When we went outside, once again, he had 4 or 5 people petting him and talking to him. Such a rough life for a dog.
We found the bags we needed for the night, called the taxi service to take us to the hotel. The driver asked us which hotel. When we told him which one, he said it was further away and would cost more on Taxi fare. Said he would check a closer one for us and see if he couldn't get them to take our dog. He called, and told them he had a "pair of senior citizens" in his cab with "a cute little dog, that was like their child. A very nice dog or they couldn't take him on the bike tour. Yes, he is in a crate." Then told us the guy said yes, he would take our dog. We got a lower rate because we were part of PALM. Got out of the cab, and saw this on the cab drivers door; "Jesus is my Friend." Seems like once again, the Lord had sent a Christian to help us. No doubt that God is looking out for us and providing for us.
Stayed at the Euclid hotel. What a treat to have a bed, and a hot shower. Wanted to watch the news, but fell asleep before it came on. We'll try and catch a weather report in the morning.
Called our daughter Tracey, and had her reserve a room for us in Bad Axe. She got the last room. Heard rain in the night, and were so glad that we weren't in a tent, felt bad for those who were. Hope no one is flooded out tonight. Glad we have hotel reservations for tomorrow night as well. Don't have to deal with our wet tent and soggy sleeping pads until we get home. Thank you Lord. We'll deal with tomorrow when it comes.
Woke up this morning early. It's hard to sleep for long on such a hard surface. We are tired, and have our 2nd highest mileage day ahead of us. This day, might be the biggest challenge our bodies have faced. Can bodies that only got 4 hours of asleep ride 53 miles? Guess we'll know by the end of the day. I'm thinking we'll be drawing some strength from the Lord today, just like the signs on the back of the trike say.
Our latest start today, as it took us awhile to wring things out and pack up. I had put the tent bag in with our things rescued from the tent last night, and that bag was already on the truck, so the sleeping pads, (yep, that bag was in the truck too) and tent, went into garbage bags. I noticed ours weren't the only garbage bags loaded on the truck today, so it could be interesting finding out which are ours when the truck is unloaded later today.
It was close to 9 AM when we left the school. It was cloudy, wasn't long before it started raining. When the rain was done, hot and steamy paid us a visit. We drank lots of water, and stopped often to offer Button water, and cool him off, by pouring water on him. He rides better each day, less concerned about being next to me and more interested in the surroundings and people. He cries if we go past a water stop without stopping. He knows he gets lots of attention there from his "fan club."
So many great people on this ride, all are so friendly. The food has been great too. Each community is truly glad to see us, and goes out of their way to be hospitable. It's nice to feel welcome and the people at the schools, go out of their way to meet our needs.
Rode 30 miles on the Pierre Marquette bike trail. What a nice trail. Very well maintained, and nice and wide. Plenty of restrooms and shade.
Also had some beautiful wild flowers along the trail.
The trail ended in midland by the tridge, a 3 way bridge, which is loctaed in the heart of downtown Midland. It is a 3 way pedestrian foot bridge that goes over the Tittabawasee and Chipewa rivers.. The tridge marks the spot where the 2 rivers meet. It was built in 1981 and has become a popular gather spot for many.
The trail ended in midland by the tridge, a 3 way bridge, which is loctaed in the heart of downtown Midland. It is a 3 way pedestrian foot bridge that goes over the Tittabawasee and Chipewa rivers.. The tridge marks the spot where the 2 rivers meet. It was built in 1981 and has become a popular gather spot for many.
There was also a children's water, play place in the park. Not sure what it was called but it was circular and had water spouts that shot up at different intervals. Quite a few kids were enjoying it, and were joined by a couple of PALM bikers who wanted to cool off.
We had planned to have lunch at the farmers market, but it had closed a half hour earlier. Tony was really hot, we both needed food and a break, so we walked up the hill to a Pizza and Sub place that had outdoor seating.
We could see that a storm was moving in, so I quickly went down the hill, and put the trike under the fruit market shelter, and grabbed our rain gear. I no sooner got back to the restaurant, when the storm hit. It was raining and blowing so hard, that those that were outside went in the restaurant. we didn't because we had Button with us. Finally one of the people that worked there ,told us to just bring the dog in. we were grateful to get out of the rain, finished our lunch and sat and talked with some other PALM riders for about 30 minutes, until the storm passed. Sure were glad we weren't out riding in it.
We could see that a storm was moving in, so I quickly went down the hill, and put the trike under the fruit market shelter, and grabbed our rain gear. I no sooner got back to the restaurant, when the storm hit. It was raining and blowing so hard, that those that were outside went in the restaurant. we didn't because we had Button with us. Finally one of the people that worked there ,told us to just bring the dog in. we were grateful to get out of the rain, finished our lunch and sat and talked with some other PALM riders for about 30 minutes, until the storm passed. Sure were glad we weren't out riding in it.
A reporter for the local paper interviewed us and took our picture. Found out later, the story was not put in the paper, because there was a homeland security drill in the area that day, and they ran that story instead. The paper printed a picture of a couple of kids in a tree, and said they were on a bike ride across the lower peninsula. Oh well, we almost had our moment of fame.
Walked our trike across the tridge, rode on the trail a little further, and then were back on the road again.
Rode past an old abandoned school house today, of course i had to take a picture. today. I bet the school house would tell many stories, if it could talk.
The terrain is much flatter today, that is a blessing. I am stiil amazed to look ahead of us and see lots of bikers, or to see them strung out behind us when I look in my side view mirror. Other times we are by ourselves, with no one around, and it feels like it does when we go out for a ride at home. Those are the times, when we have prayer together. Our time with the 2 of us and the Lord, enjoying his creation, praising him and bringing our cares before him.
Bay City was once the camping grounds of the Chippewa Indians and later the hub of specialized industries. Bay City continues to be a major place of commerce in Michigan.
Bay City lies at the mouth of the Saginaw River at the tip of Saginaw Bay on Lake Huron. It is the county seat for Bay County. From a historical point, it also owes it's development to the lumbering industry in the late 1800's. Large quantities of lumber were floated down the Saginaw River and it is estimated that there were more sawmills in this area than anywhere else in Michigan.
It became a central distribution point for much shipping that took place on the Great Lakes. Today it is still a major shipping point for sugar, concrete and other industrial products. Of course the shipping that takes place on the Great Lakes is greatly scaled down now.
It is said that Bay City was on the Under Ground Railroad. There is a map of the underground railroad that shows it going right through Bay City and into Saginaw Bay. Thousands were likely helped down the road to freedom in this northern most stop.
Bay City also played a major role in ship building, especially during WWII, when submarines for the US and Australia were produced here. Our bike route did not take us near the bay.
We got to the fruit stop, and another rider told us there was a big storm about 6 or 7 miles behind us. I grabbed 1 piece of watermelon, got on the trike, clipped in, and away we rode. we rode like a wild fire was behind us, hitting about 17 or 18 MPH most of the way. (That is a fast speed for us to maintain for that long, as mentioned earlier, our trike alone weighs 67 lbs, plus our weight and the weight of our gear.)
Had to slow down to ride through some busy areas and cross some high traffic roads coming to the school today, but still came in faster and stronger than we usually do. We got to the school, got our rian gear out, covered Button's carrier up, were in the school, about 4 or 5 minutes, and the storm hit. Rain, thunder, lightening, hail and very high winds. The wind flattened a couple of tents. We were so grateful we weren't riding in it.
We arrived at the school 3:45 PM. I We had decided we would try and get a hotel room tonight. with the rain, no chance for the tent to dry out ad our sleeping pads are wet as well. Weren't sure how we would find a hotel, but there were some flyers on the PALM desk with a phone number for a taxi service, so decided to see if they might know of some hotels. I called and got several numbers, then started calling to see which ones accepted dogs. Finally found one and made a reservation. Then we went and ate supper. I felt much better after that, so did Tony.
After supper it was raining again, Button was cozy and dry in his carrier on the back of the trike. When we went outside, once again, he had 4 or 5 people petting him and talking to him. Such a rough life for a dog.
We found the bags we needed for the night, called the taxi service to take us to the hotel. The driver asked us which hotel. When we told him which one, he said it was further away and would cost more on Taxi fare. Said he would check a closer one for us and see if he couldn't get them to take our dog. He called, and told them he had a "pair of senior citizens" in his cab with "a cute little dog, that was like their child. A very nice dog or they couldn't take him on the bike tour. Yes, he is in a crate." Then told us the guy said yes, he would take our dog. We got a lower rate because we were part of PALM. Got out of the cab, and saw this on the cab drivers door; "Jesus is my Friend." Seems like once again, the Lord had sent a Christian to help us. No doubt that God is looking out for us and providing for us.
Stayed at the Euclid hotel. What a treat to have a bed, and a hot shower. Wanted to watch the news, but fell asleep before it came on. We'll try and catch a weather report in the morning.
Called our daughter Tracey, and had her reserve a room for us in Bad Axe. She got the last room. Heard rain in the night, and were so glad that we weren't in a tent, felt bad for those who were. Hope no one is flooded out tonight. Glad we have hotel reservations for tomorrow night as well. Don't have to deal with our wet tent and soggy sleeping pads until we get home. Thank you Lord. We'll deal with tomorrow when it comes.
Tuesday, June 21, 2011
Day 4 Big Rapids to Clare
Woke up, it looked like rain, hurried to try and get tent down before rain, didn't make it. Had to wait out storm in our tent, and then pack up the tent when it was wet. No fun. Left Button is his carrier on the back of the trike , with the rain cover on. Loaded half the gear in the truck, and went to breakfast. Will do the rest when we are done.
Sat next to a couple from Fl named Dick and Jane. He rides a single trike, and she rides a bike. They have ridden many tours, in fact, they have ridden tours in every state in the US. They are very interesting to talk to. There are so many nice people on this tour, with a wide variety of interests. We all have the common bond of a love for biking, so it's easy to talk to people and get to know them better. It's part of the fun of PALM. Each person here has stories about slices of life, to tell, and here we are all are, strangers, sharing a slice of life together. What an experience.
It poured rain while we were eating breakfast, but by the time we were ready to leave at 8:37, it was only drizzling. We rode out with Kirsten and Jeff. Kirsten has a really cool rainbow, spiral flag on her trike. I'm putting one on my birthday wish list. We had on our rain gear, and Button was as snug as can be in his carrier with the rain cover on. Very glad we bought the rain cover with the carrier. Hope he has a better day today.
Stopped for ice cream in Chippewa Lake at 10:30 AM. Not really hungry for ice cream, but we aren't
sure that there will be stops for food later on, so we had some anyway. Had no idea that Chippewa lake was so large. It is known for good fishing, as well as many other activities. It is located in the NE corner of Mecosta County, at 790 acres, it is the largest lake in Mecosta County. Tony and his family vacationed there a few times, when he was growing up. The area around the lake is very hilly.
A few times, the rain stopped and we took off our rain gear. Then it would get hot and steamy again, and the rain would start again.
One of the water stops had cornish hens, peacocks and chickens across the road. I walked over to try and get some pictures, but the birds kept going in their coops, so I couldn't get any really good pics.
Played leap frog with David and Ann, along with several others, as we rode along. Got a nice sub sandwich at 14 mile Rd, and had lunch with David and Ann. It was a nice break. Good rest, and good company.
I had trouble getting clipped back in after stopping to give Button a bathroom break. We had only a mile to go, so I rode in unclipped. Arrived at about 3:30. Very tired today. Tony's knee is bothering him some, I gave him some IF Relief, and had him rub some of the cream with essential oils in it, on his knee. That usually helps with the pain right away, plus it fights inflammation. So glad we brought it along. It's hard to know what to pack, I wanted to be prepared, yet not over pack. I think I'll know how to do things better, on our next PALM ride.
We were bushed, didn't even get everything in the tent or get Button's carrier covered, came back from supper, got in the tent, and the sky opened up. That was about 6:30. It continued to rain hard, thunder and lightening for hours. We managed to get to sleep, but Tony woke up a few hours later because his side of the tent was wet, and it kept getting wetter. I opened up the tent door, to check on the weather, only to find that we were in a low spot, and the whole area was flooded. The area had turned into a lake. We called it "Lake Clare," (but not until the next day.) Left Button in the tent and went into the school. We were totally soaked by the time we got there. Although Tony was willing to help me move things out of the tent, it would have been slower for me to direct him, then to just go do it myself. Our neighbor Bill, moved one of our bags, even though he was busy coping with his own flooded tent. I got the rest into the building my self. By then the water in the tent was ankle deep, our sleeping mats were floating. No dry place for Button, so I took him into the school, even though dogs aren't allowed there. I had no where dry to put the poor dog. Bill's wife Linda helped me move the tent to higher ground, but it was so wet, that it wasn't useable. It was hard for Tony to sit there and not be able to help me, but I told him later that it helped me the most, to know he was praying for me.
I told the PALM people that we had no dry place to sleep, they said we could stay in the school, but could not use any pillows or sleeping bags, because that was camping, and there was no camping allowed in the school. I changed into dry clothes.
We weren't the only ones with no dry place to sleep, no pillows, and no blankets or sleeping bag. I was so discouraged, overwhelmed by the situation, that I was on the verge of tears. Several people stopped to talk to us, telling us how cute Button was. I nicely asked them to please not make a fuss over him, because I was afraid the PALM people would make me put him out doors. 2 of the custodians, Lisa and Susan, stopped and said how cute Button was, I told them the same thing I had told others, saying that I didn't know what I would do if they told me Button couldn't be in the building, because I had no where dry to put him. Then I lost it, and started crying. They were so kind, gave me a hug and told me it would be OK, Button could stay there for the night. Also said they would ask their supervisor if they could open the cafeteria for people to sleep in, saying at least there was benches by the tables to lay on. They did open the cafeteria and I was glad, but I could see that getting a night sleep wasn't going to be easy. We were tired from a day of riding and new the next day was a 53 mile ride, one of our longer days.
We relied on the Lord for our strength and were determined, with his help, to make the best of it. I got us each something to lay our heads on, and we tried to settle in. The benches were attached to the tables, so not much room to turn over, but at least they were dry.
Pretty soon, Lisa came over and said they had a dryer, did I want her to dry our things ? I cried, saying she was an angel of mercy, and asked if she was a Christian. She said she was. I told her she was an answer to our prayers. I thanked her so much and told her my biggest concern was for Button's carrier. It was soaked, and more rain was predicted the next day. He would have no dry place to ride. She said they had a fan and could dry it with that. Told me to leave all of our things on the bench and she would take care of them.
Finally Tony and I managed to get to sleep, but kept waking up because we were cold. At 2AM, here came Lisa, with our sheets, that were still warm from the dryer. She covered us up with them and we were finally able to sleep a few hours. I know God used Lisa and Susan to take care of us in our time of need. We were so grateful for them and for God's provision for us. God was with us even in the midst of our trails. In the morning all of our things were dry and in a nice neat pile on the bench. How wonderful to know that the Lord used these 2 custodians to meet our needs. God is awesome, that's all I could think. God is awesome.
It was sure not fun to take down a tent that was wet on the inside and outside in the morning, but we got it done.
So tired, but I know the Lord will help us through the hills and miles ahead of us tomorrow, even though our situation is hard. He surely helped us tonight.
Sat next to a couple from Fl named Dick and Jane. He rides a single trike, and she rides a bike. They have ridden many tours, in fact, they have ridden tours in every state in the US. They are very interesting to talk to. There are so many nice people on this tour, with a wide variety of interests. We all have the common bond of a love for biking, so it's easy to talk to people and get to know them better. It's part of the fun of PALM. Each person here has stories about slices of life, to tell, and here we are all are, strangers, sharing a slice of life together. What an experience.
It poured rain while we were eating breakfast, but by the time we were ready to leave at 8:37, it was only drizzling. We rode out with Kirsten and Jeff. Kirsten has a really cool rainbow, spiral flag on her trike. I'm putting one on my birthday wish list. We had on our rain gear, and Button was as snug as can be in his carrier with the rain cover on. Very glad we bought the rain cover with the carrier. Hope he has a better day today.
Stopped for ice cream in Chippewa Lake at 10:30 AM. Not really hungry for ice cream, but we aren't
sure that there will be stops for food later on, so we had some anyway. Had no idea that Chippewa lake was so large. It is known for good fishing, as well as many other activities. It is located in the NE corner of Mecosta County, at 790 acres, it is the largest lake in Mecosta County. Tony and his family vacationed there a few times, when he was growing up. The area around the lake is very hilly.
A few times, the rain stopped and we took off our rain gear. Then it would get hot and steamy again, and the rain would start again.
One of the water stops had cornish hens, peacocks and chickens across the road. I walked over to try and get some pictures, but the birds kept going in their coops, so I couldn't get any really good pics.
Played leap frog with David and Ann, along with several others, as we rode along. Got a nice sub sandwich at 14 mile Rd, and had lunch with David and Ann. It was a nice break. Good rest, and good company.
I had trouble getting clipped back in after stopping to give Button a bathroom break. We had only a mile to go, so I rode in unclipped. Arrived at about 3:30. Very tired today. Tony's knee is bothering him some, I gave him some IF Relief, and had him rub some of the cream with essential oils in it, on his knee. That usually helps with the pain right away, plus it fights inflammation. So glad we brought it along. It's hard to know what to pack, I wanted to be prepared, yet not over pack. I think I'll know how to do things better, on our next PALM ride.
We were bushed, didn't even get everything in the tent or get Button's carrier covered, came back from supper, got in the tent, and the sky opened up. That was about 6:30. It continued to rain hard, thunder and lightening for hours. We managed to get to sleep, but Tony woke up a few hours later because his side of the tent was wet, and it kept getting wetter. I opened up the tent door, to check on the weather, only to find that we were in a low spot, and the whole area was flooded. The area had turned into a lake. We called it "Lake Clare," (but not until the next day.) Left Button in the tent and went into the school. We were totally soaked by the time we got there. Although Tony was willing to help me move things out of the tent, it would have been slower for me to direct him, then to just go do it myself. Our neighbor Bill, moved one of our bags, even though he was busy coping with his own flooded tent. I got the rest into the building my self. By then the water in the tent was ankle deep, our sleeping mats were floating. No dry place for Button, so I took him into the school, even though dogs aren't allowed there. I had no where dry to put the poor dog. Bill's wife Linda helped me move the tent to higher ground, but it was so wet, that it wasn't useable. It was hard for Tony to sit there and not be able to help me, but I told him later that it helped me the most, to know he was praying for me.
I told the PALM people that we had no dry place to sleep, they said we could stay in the school, but could not use any pillows or sleeping bags, because that was camping, and there was no camping allowed in the school. I changed into dry clothes.
We weren't the only ones with no dry place to sleep, no pillows, and no blankets or sleeping bag. I was so discouraged, overwhelmed by the situation, that I was on the verge of tears. Several people stopped to talk to us, telling us how cute Button was. I nicely asked them to please not make a fuss over him, because I was afraid the PALM people would make me put him out doors. 2 of the custodians, Lisa and Susan, stopped and said how cute Button was, I told them the same thing I had told others, saying that I didn't know what I would do if they told me Button couldn't be in the building, because I had no where dry to put him. Then I lost it, and started crying. They were so kind, gave me a hug and told me it would be OK, Button could stay there for the night. Also said they would ask their supervisor if they could open the cafeteria for people to sleep in, saying at least there was benches by the tables to lay on. They did open the cafeteria and I was glad, but I could see that getting a night sleep wasn't going to be easy. We were tired from a day of riding and new the next day was a 53 mile ride, one of our longer days.
We relied on the Lord for our strength and were determined, with his help, to make the best of it. I got us each something to lay our heads on, and we tried to settle in. The benches were attached to the tables, so not much room to turn over, but at least they were dry.
Pretty soon, Lisa came over and said they had a dryer, did I want her to dry our things ? I cried, saying she was an angel of mercy, and asked if she was a Christian. She said she was. I told her she was an answer to our prayers. I thanked her so much and told her my biggest concern was for Button's carrier. It was soaked, and more rain was predicted the next day. He would have no dry place to ride. She said they had a fan and could dry it with that. Told me to leave all of our things on the bench and she would take care of them.
Finally Tony and I managed to get to sleep, but kept waking up because we were cold. At 2AM, here came Lisa, with our sheets, that were still warm from the dryer. She covered us up with them and we were finally able to sleep a few hours. I know God used Lisa and Susan to take care of us in our time of need. We were so grateful for them and for God's provision for us. God was with us even in the midst of our trails. In the morning all of our things were dry and in a nice neat pile on the bench. How wonderful to know that the Lord used these 2 custodians to meet our needs. God is awesome, that's all I could think. God is awesome.
It was sure not fun to take down a tent that was wet on the inside and outside in the morning, but we got it done.
So tired, but I know the Lord will help us through the hills and miles ahead of us tomorrow, even though our situation is hard. He surely helped us tonight.
Monday, June 20, 2011
Day 3 Hesperia to Big Rapids
Woke up early, looks like we might be in for rain today. Got the tent down, and gear packed and loaded. The cross country team was there to help again. I wish they were at each place we are going. Makes life easier to have help with the getting the gear on the truck etc. This will be our first ride of over 40 miles each day, 2 days in a row. In training, we did a 50 miler, and a 30 miler, back to back. That was when I decided I needed to switch my clipless pedals to something that caused less numbness in my feet. Ended up going with Crank Brother's egg beaters. So far they are working out well, but it is still taking me longer to get clipped in, as I am not used to them yet.
We left Hesperia about 8:22 AM. I was going to write a bit about Hesperia yesterday, but forgot, so I'll add it in now.
Hesperia is unique in the fact that half of the village is in Newaygo county, and the other half is in Oceana county. The first settler to the area in 1856 was Perry Booth. He was joined by 2 other settlers in 1866. Living must have been difficult with so few people to help get things done. It's not like they came to a ready made home or community. The post office was registered in 1867. The town was named by Mary Cook, because Hesperia, means "garden" and that is what she thought it looked like. The lumber boom in the last half of the 1800's brought a lot of growth to the area. Being on the White River, made it easy to float logs to the saw mill. Today the area relies on Tourism for a large part of it's economy. Hesperia has abundant sport fishing, especially in the area near the dam. It seems like a very pleasant little town.
In the meeting last night, they said it wouldn't be as hilly today, but since we are heading to Big Rapids, (30 miles from where we live,) we expected plenty of hills. Some riders thought today's ride was hillier than yesterday, for us it was more or less what we are used to riding, because of where we live. (Another reason, we got mountain drive put on the trike.) So far we feel strong. Can tell many are praying.
Had some pretty bad storms come through today.
Thunder, lightening, wind, and rain. Fortuantely, there was no hail. We stopped under a tree to put our rain gear on, and to put the rain cover on Button's carrier.
While we were under the tree, it really started thundering and lightening more, so we high tailed it out of there. About 4 or 5 miles later, Tony realized he left his cane lay in the grass, under the tree. To late to go back, figured we wouldn't find the tree again. Found some shelter under the eaves of a garage, and waited for the storm to pass. When we stopped for water, we told the sag person that tony had left his cane lay. The SAG, said they would be on the look out for it. It's really hard for Tony to get around in strange bathrooms, and showers without it. Sure hope someone finds it, but it is right by tall grass, so it might not stand out real well. We prayed about it while we were riding.
The landscape continued to be a mix of woods and farmland. Rode past an abandoned house, that had seen better days.
Also past some interesting, "stair step" silos.
When we got to Big Rapids about 3:45 PM, we checked the lost and found, the cane, wasn't there. Thank goodness we weren't that far from home, Tony called our friends, Keith and Ann, to see if they would get his extra one out of our other car and bring it to him. Ann said she would come and bring it soon. Ann called back later, left a message that said the cane wasn't in the car we had used to drive to Ludington, guess she didn't think to check the car that was at our house. Ann wondered how she would find us, among so many people. I told her I would leave the orange flag up on the trike. She arrived and saw an orange flag and thought, "oh good, they are right here." then she looked and saw another orange flag, and another orange flag... Opps, guess that wasn't such a good idea. We finally found each other. She stopped at Care Link in Big Rapids and bought one to bring to Tony. Even though she told them that tony was 6 ft tall, they gave her one that was too short, but Tony didn't care, he was just glad to have a cane again.
Ann took me to MC sports to look for something that would be easier to sleep on. Found some self inflating, camping pads. I think they will work good, much smaller and should give us more room in the tent. She took the borrowed air bed home with her. So glad that we were close enough to home for her to come and glad that she thought of going to buy a cane for Tony when she couldn't find one in the car. Thanking the Lord for answered prayer and good friends.
About 10 PM that night, the lost and found, told us someone had found Tony's cane when they were out on the road, riding. SAG had told the people out on the road yet to please keep a lookout up for the cane, and indeed someone did find it. Praise the Lord. We will return the short one when we get back home.
I'll do my history of big Rapids, now, so I won't forget and then have to add it to tomorrows blog entry.
Big Rapids, is probably best known as the home of Ferris State College, the college is a public university, founded in 1884 as the Big Rapids Industrial School, by educator, Woodbridge Nathan Ferris, who from New York. He later served as governor of the state of Michigan, and then in the senate, where he continued to serve until his death in 1928. The school was noteworthy, because it accepted female students, beginning with it's first graduating class. It is also the only public university in the ste to be founded by an individual.
Like so many places in the area, Big Rapids was once associated with the logging industry. The Muskegon River, whose headwaters begin at Houghton Lake, was used as a major waterway for transporting logs downstream to Muskegon. The name Big Rapids came from the swift currents on the river. Families settled in the area and permanent homes were constructed around 1855.
After the civil war many German and Scandinavian people settled in the area. As more logging took place in the area, more growth took place. During the early part of the 20th century, 2 dams were constructed, providing hydro electric power for many. In 1933, oil and gas were discovered in an area about 5 miles south of the city, that is referred to as Austin Field. It has since been converted into a large underground, natural gas storage facilities, with under ground pipelines that come and go from it, and crisscross the state. It provides jobs for many.
Ferris State College now has over 13,000 students, and offers a variety of classes to take. It brings a diversity to the mid sized town atmosphere, that Big Rapids has today. In the center of Big Rapids is a Riverwalk that is 2.64 miles long. The Riverwalk has fishing platforms, walkways, and places to sit and enjoy the sounds and beauty of the area. The Muskegon River offers many recreational options, including, fishing, canoeing, kayaking, and tubing,
Sunday, June 19, 2011
Day 2 Ludington to Hesperia
June 19, 2011
Made the mistake of picking a camping spot near the porta potty, figuring it would be easier for Tony. We were awakened many times by the sounds of tent zippers unzipping, peoples flip flops going "slap, slap, slap," and by the door of the porta potty slamming. None of it made for a very restful night. It was very windy.
Got the tent down and the gear on the truck with no problem, went and had breakfast and were on the road by 8:08 AM. Each rider has a map/route book, plus the turns are marked with a small yellow state of Michigan mitten, painted on the pavement, with an arrow, showing which way to go. They are kind of small, so we have to watch for them. There are also other riders to follow. Everyone starts at their own time and goes at their own pace.
Palm is noted for being a family ride, there are many families here, some with kids as young as 2 years old. Some are pulling the kids behind. others have the kids on tandems, or a tag a long, and some kids, are riding their own bikes. The oldest rider is 93, his name is Bob. He has ridden many PALM's.
He used to have a beagle named Babe, that rode on a board on the back of his bike. When Bob got to a hill, Babe would jump down and walk up, then get back on, to go down the hill. There are a few other dogs in the tour. A Jack Russell, named Buster, a Sheltie, and a black dog that rides along with someone on a single trike. Button is still doing the "chirp/whine" thing because he wants to be with me, but it is quieter with the muzzle on him. Hope that he will eventually quiet down enough, that he won't need the muzzle. He is very popular, already has his own fan club. Some people have referred to Tony and I, as Mr and Mrs. "Button."
The area between Ludington and Hesperia is peppered with woods and farms. Of course I found a barn to take a picture of. I find myself really admiring them, they come in various states of repair or disrepair, and can be big or small. I've always thought it would be neat to convert one into a house. (Tony may not realize that when it comes to things like that, it's a good thing he can't see, or I would likely have him busy all the time. Yep, I'm a sucker for old houses too.) Perhaps it is the outline of the barns against the sky line, they have a sense of rural grandeur to me. I'm saddened to see them falling down.
Many hills in todays course. Very glad we have our mountain drive. It gets us to the top, very slowly, sometimes at only 2MPH, but we spin it to the top, without our knees hurting . Spinning is when we pedal fast, but not hard. Upright bikes, known as diamond frames, would likely tip over if they were going as slow as we go up some hills. There was one hill on the route that was 3 miles long. Took us awhile to get up that one. It wasn't a terribly steep hill, just a very long one. Riders had the option to take a 3 mile detour on the bike trail to avoid it if they wanted to. We opted for the hill, and got up it fine.
A boy of about 11 or 12 kept passing us today, then pretty soon we would pass him, playing a game of "leap frog." This happened with quite a few riders, since we go down the hills at over 20 MPH. But when it came time to go up, they would pass us. Found out later, that the boys name was David, he is on this tour with Ann, his Grandma. They are from the Ann arbor area. We had a lot of fun with the leap frog game.
Ate lunch in Shelby, right where the bike path comes into a nice little park. There was a nice. "Taco Van" there, that had very good authentic, mexican food. Had bean burritos for lunch. Ate lunch with David and Ann, getting better acquainted with them as we ate. Everyone on the ride is very friendly. Tony had a hard time with the heat, the last few hours. I made sure he had planty of the electrolyte mix, Solstic, in his water. It really helped him. We were both pretty hot when we got to the Hesperia High school at 3:30 PM.
The high school cross country team was there with 4 wheels and wagons, helping people get thier gear to the camp sites. There was one with a long wagon, they loaded up our trike, our gear, and Tony , Button I, hopped on the wagon and found a campsite in the shade, NOT too close to a porta potty. We were by the ball diamond, in a group of about 4 or 5 other tents. When we got there, the boys offered to set our tent up, I was so hot, I was happy to let them do it. I think we may have been the only people that got their tent set up for them. I would happily pay each night to have our tent set up. I am tired after riding all day. grateful, once again, fo God's provision. One of our neighbors was a fella named Mike, who was from Tennessee. He and the group he was with, had all met on different bike tours. They were very nice people.
The cafeteria was very hot and the lines for supper were long. The heat of the day caught up with me, I was so light headed, I thought I might just pass out, but thank goodness I didn't. We hope to connect with our friend Kristina, who now lives in Hesperia, while we are here. After supper her Pastor and another guy, (we don't know either of them,) managed to find us, and came and talked to us, offering encouragement and prayer before they left. It was really nice. Their whole church is praying for us. It is nice to know that we have so many who are are holding us up in prayer on this ride. We did mange to connect with Kristina and her daughter Jazmine too. it was so nice to see them both again, and we had a nice time catching up with what was going on in each others lives.
The blow up bed we borrowed for the trip is really quite cumbersome, and takes up the whole tent. It is also heavy to haul back and forth to the truck and our camp sites. It would add far to much weight if we were touring independently, we'll go with something lighter next time.
I am trying to keep a journal on our ride so I can use it to do this blog, but by bedtime, I'm so tired, that I keep falling asleep while I am writing it. Maybe tomorrow, I can write in it earlier. Seems like when we get here, we have time to set up the tent and shower, then it's time for supper. Not nuts about the group shower thing, but we are surely in need of a shower at the end of the day. So tired after supper, that we just want to go to bed. So far we feel our training has been adequate, but it may be too soon to tell.
Made the mistake of picking a camping spot near the porta potty, figuring it would be easier for Tony. We were awakened many times by the sounds of tent zippers unzipping, peoples flip flops going "slap, slap, slap," and by the door of the porta potty slamming. None of it made for a very restful night. It was very windy.
Got the tent down and the gear on the truck with no problem, went and had breakfast and were on the road by 8:08 AM. Each rider has a map/route book, plus the turns are marked with a small yellow state of Michigan mitten, painted on the pavement, with an arrow, showing which way to go. They are kind of small, so we have to watch for them. There are also other riders to follow. Everyone starts at their own time and goes at their own pace.
Palm is noted for being a family ride, there are many families here, some with kids as young as 2 years old. Some are pulling the kids behind. others have the kids on tandems, or a tag a long, and some kids, are riding their own bikes. The oldest rider is 93, his name is Bob. He has ridden many PALM's.
He used to have a beagle named Babe, that rode on a board on the back of his bike. When Bob got to a hill, Babe would jump down and walk up, then get back on, to go down the hill. There are a few other dogs in the tour. A Jack Russell, named Buster, a Sheltie, and a black dog that rides along with someone on a single trike. Button is still doing the "chirp/whine" thing because he wants to be with me, but it is quieter with the muzzle on him. Hope that he will eventually quiet down enough, that he won't need the muzzle. He is very popular, already has his own fan club. Some people have referred to Tony and I, as Mr and Mrs. "Button."
The area between Ludington and Hesperia is peppered with woods and farms. Of course I found a barn to take a picture of. I find myself really admiring them, they come in various states of repair or disrepair, and can be big or small. I've always thought it would be neat to convert one into a house. (Tony may not realize that when it comes to things like that, it's a good thing he can't see, or I would likely have him busy all the time. Yep, I'm a sucker for old houses too.) Perhaps it is the outline of the barns against the sky line, they have a sense of rural grandeur to me. I'm saddened to see them falling down.
Many hills in todays course. Very glad we have our mountain drive. It gets us to the top, very slowly, sometimes at only 2MPH, but we spin it to the top, without our knees hurting . Spinning is when we pedal fast, but not hard. Upright bikes, known as diamond frames, would likely tip over if they were going as slow as we go up some hills. There was one hill on the route that was 3 miles long. Took us awhile to get up that one. It wasn't a terribly steep hill, just a very long one. Riders had the option to take a 3 mile detour on the bike trail to avoid it if they wanted to. We opted for the hill, and got up it fine.
A boy of about 11 or 12 kept passing us today, then pretty soon we would pass him, playing a game of "leap frog." This happened with quite a few riders, since we go down the hills at over 20 MPH. But when it came time to go up, they would pass us. Found out later, that the boys name was David, he is on this tour with Ann, his Grandma. They are from the Ann arbor area. We had a lot of fun with the leap frog game.
Ate lunch in Shelby, right where the bike path comes into a nice little park. There was a nice. "Taco Van" there, that had very good authentic, mexican food. Had bean burritos for lunch. Ate lunch with David and Ann, getting better acquainted with them as we ate. Everyone on the ride is very friendly. Tony had a hard time with the heat, the last few hours. I made sure he had planty of the electrolyte mix, Solstic, in his water. It really helped him. We were both pretty hot when we got to the Hesperia High school at 3:30 PM.
The high school cross country team was there with 4 wheels and wagons, helping people get thier gear to the camp sites. There was one with a long wagon, they loaded up our trike, our gear, and Tony , Button I, hopped on the wagon and found a campsite in the shade, NOT too close to a porta potty. We were by the ball diamond, in a group of about 4 or 5 other tents. When we got there, the boys offered to set our tent up, I was so hot, I was happy to let them do it. I think we may have been the only people that got their tent set up for them. I would happily pay each night to have our tent set up. I am tired after riding all day. grateful, once again, fo God's provision. One of our neighbors was a fella named Mike, who was from Tennessee. He and the group he was with, had all met on different bike tours. They were very nice people.
The cafeteria was very hot and the lines for supper were long. The heat of the day caught up with me, I was so light headed, I thought I might just pass out, but thank goodness I didn't. We hope to connect with our friend Kristina, who now lives in Hesperia, while we are here. After supper her Pastor and another guy, (we don't know either of them,) managed to find us, and came and talked to us, offering encouragement and prayer before they left. It was really nice. Their whole church is praying for us. It is nice to know that we have so many who are are holding us up in prayer on this ride. We did mange to connect with Kristina and her daughter Jazmine too. it was so nice to see them both again, and we had a nice time catching up with what was going on in each others lives.
The blow up bed we borrowed for the trip is really quite cumbersome, and takes up the whole tent. It is also heavy to haul back and forth to the truck and our camp sites. It would add far to much weight if we were touring independently, we'll go with something lighter next time.
I am trying to keep a journal on our ride so I can use it to do this blog, but by bedtime, I'm so tired, that I keep falling asleep while I am writing it. Maybe tomorrow, I can write in it earlier. Seems like when we get here, we have time to set up the tent and shower, then it's time for supper. Not nuts about the group shower thing, but we are surely in need of a shower at the end of the day. So tired after supper, that we just want to go to bed. So far we feel our training has been adequate, but it may be too soon to tell.
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