Cycle the Heartland for HD - Daily Message from Marie

During the ride, a daily message will be written, recounting the highlights and progress. E-mail Marie’s husband Ron at ron.nemec@bigfoot.com to request subscription or come here each day to read her entry.

Day 12 - May 31 - Springfield OH to Columbus OH

Nice breakfast with our host Marty. Her husband Bill was still at work. He is a test driver for Honda; he drives Hondas like 350 miles every night with computerized equipment hooked up. The engineers monitor that information.

Drove to the Madonna of the Trail statue in Springfield. There was no sign for it, and it was almost hidden in the trees at the edge of a golf course. A plaque was placed at the base of the statue in 2003 commemorating the 75th aniversary of the Madonna of the Trail statue(s).

Back on the National Road. Its significance must not be underestimated. It was the first great internal improvement of a fledgling nation.

Charlotte started riding where we turned off Hwy 40 yesterday, and I drove the van out 10 miles and started riding. There was a nice tailwind and pretty level terrain. I rode 12.7 miles in an hour. Really great ride! Saw a sign on a church that said: "Do unto others as if you were others."

Continued through a couple of very small "wide place in the road" towns. At Alton, the transition from rural to urban was very obvious.

Saw quite a bit of Northern and Western Columbus as we painstakingly followed directions to the home of Gary and Mary Ann Nash. They both spoke at the 2002 Nat'l Convention in Columbus, in the Focus on Family Forum on Friday morning. We stayed with them in 2005 driving to the start of our "Coastin' for HD" ride. Gary received the "Person of the Ear" award at the HDSA Convention in Milwaukee in 2006. So great to see them again. Gary's speech and thought process are very good, but his movement has increased a lot. Sad ...

The Nash's daughter Maureen and grandson Grant joined us for dinner. White linen tablecloth and china dishes. Charotte had requested Mary Ann to make her famous lasagna that we ate three years ago. Nice spinach salad, and a strawbery-kiwi white cake for dessert.

Only 5 more days of riding ...

Today's Route Mileage - 60
Charlotte - 30
Marie - 30

Road change - 15 cents

With love from the National Rod,
Marie (and Charlotte)

Day 13 - June 1 - Columbus, OH - Hebron, OH

Usual morning routine, but our hosts Mary Ann and Gary didn't get to see us off, about 8:00 am. Drove down Hwy 23/High Street past THE Ohio State University and into Downtown Columbus. Drove past the Hiatt Regency where the HDSA Convention was held in 2002, where our "Ramble 'Round the Colonies" ride ended.

Hwy 40 is Main Street in Columbus. Charlotte started riding towards Reynoldsville and even 10 miles out it was still urban. I rode the next 10 miles out into the country.

Ended up arriving in Hebron (pronounced HEE-brun) in time to eat lunch in the shelter at the Hebron Canal Park. Shorter ride than anticipated, just 27 miles. Hebron is located at what once was the crossing of the Ohio & Erie Canal and the National Road. The Canal was completed in 1828 and the National Road was completed in 1834. Hebron was a favored commercial and agricultural center for Licking County (now that's a different county name) in the 19th century.

Decided we should do more riding against tomorrow's distance and hills, so we left the van parked in the shade at the park, and both of us rode a bit over 5 miles East, out to Jacksontown (which locals call Jack-town) and back. The changeable message board on the Marathon gas station there said "Ice Cream Cones... Now Hiring... Live Bait." I think that beats the typical C-store motto of "Milk, Bread, Beer Ice" and one of Ron and my favorites from L.A. ("Guatemala... pool... beer... chow mein.") Rode back into Hebron, noting the huge stone monuments on the North side showing distances to the various towns along the National Road.

Rode to the Methodist Church where Charlotte, Wanda Wilson, and I stayed in 2002. A Methodist Church was founded in Hebron in 1833, back in the heyday of the canals and the National Road. We were met by Annette Price and Irene Drushal. Irene and her husband Bob let us shower at their home again, just like in 2002. We like that kind of "deja vue." Irene fixed us some strawberry shortcake as a late afternoon treat.

Fixed scrambled eggs in the church kitchen. Spent the evening on e-mails, journal, and phone calls. The church even has one of those chairs that goes up and down the stairs.

Just four more days riding. Since Columbus, we have been re-tracing the "Ramble" route, in the opposite direction.

Route mileage today - 27 (plus 20 against tomorrow)
Marie - 10 (plus 10 against tomorrow)
Charlotte - 17 (plus 10 against tomorrow)
Road change - 29 cents

With love from Central Ohio, on the National Road,
Marie (and Charlotte)

Day 14 - June 2 - Hebron, OH - Cambridge, OH

Slept well last night, well rested for today ...

Left the church a little after 7:00 am and drove about 18 miles (the extra miles we rode yesterday that we "banked" were "spent" today.)

I started riding at Hopewell. We are now in the lush, rolling foothills of Southeastern Ohio's Appalachian Mountains. Because of the hilly terrain, we decided to do shorter riding increments. I rode out just 4 miles, into Muskingum County. It is rich in heritage.

Charlotte rode into Zanesville. It was named for Ebenezer Zane who laid out the first road from Wheeling WV to Limestone KY. It is known for its Y-Bridge which crosses the junction of the Licking and Muskingum Rivers in the center of Zanesville. The original bridge was built in 1814; the current bridge was renovated in 1986, and has received worldwide attention. Back in the days when airplane pilots relied on landmarks for their bearings, Amelia Earhart called Zanesville "the most recognizable city in the country" because of the Y-Bridge. Going Eastbound, Hwy 40 makes a right turn in the middle of the bridge.

Zanesville is known for its clay resources, which allowed it to become known as the "Pottery Capital of the World." Another village in Muskingum County is Dresden (which we did not visit) which is the home of the Longaberger Company, the largest manufacturer of handmade baskets in the US.

Wanted to visit the Zane Gray National Road Museum in Norwich, but it was closed on Monday. Darn!

Just West of New Concord is the Fox Run S-Bridge. It was built in 1830 and restored in 1997. It was easier to erect than one thrown straight across an oblique stream. 2 other S-bridges survive in Guernsey Co. too.

John Glenn (first astronaut to orbit the earth) is from New Concord. He and his wife Annie both graduated from Muskingum College. The college was founded in 1837 by Reformed Presbyterians. His boyhood home is located on Main St. but closed on Mondays too. Strike two.

While stopped looking at a house which had been a "station" in the Underground Railway, I looked down, and found a $20 bill! Home run!!! (Back in 2002, I found one near a post office near Drexel Hill PA).

Arrived in Cambridge just in time to eat lunch in their city park, which has a covered bridge too!

Cambridge is the county seat for Guernsey Co. It was platted in 1806.

We visited the Hopalong Cassidy Museum. Hopalong Cassidy was the stage name for William Lawrence Boyd (1895-1972), whose boyhood home was in Cambridge. He was my favorite cowboy back in the 1950's. Black 10 gallon hat, black shirt and pants, with a white/pinstriped red bandana. Nickname "Hoppy" and white horse named Topper.

Decided to "bank" some miles against tomorrow, which will be our toughest riding day. I rode 8 extra, and Charlotte 7.

Found the home of Pastor Joe Bradley. After showers, we had a great meal of grilled chicken and steak, cooked veggies, rotini pasta, and salad.

About 9:00 pm, two women (one a Doctor.) from Joe's congregation, came by to visit and make a donation to the ride.

If you're looking for a new place to take a road trip, consider "The National Road."

Route miles today - 60
Marie's miles - 16.5 (plus 8 extra)
Charlotte's miles - 18.8 (plus 7 extra)
Road change - $20.02

Last day on the National Road. I will miss its terrain and lore.

With love,
Marie (and Charlotte)

=========================================

The Y-Bridge

Day 15 - June 3 - Cambridge, OH - Steubenville, OH

Left the comfort of Pastor Bradley's home about 7:15 am.

Drove out of Cambridge; farewell to US Hwy 40 and the National Road for this trip.

"Spent" the 15 miles that we "banked" yesterday. Charlotte started riding in Antrim. We are doing 5-6 mile increments today again; keeps us closer together in case of a problem.

Pretty hilly, which is what we expected. I had to walk 1/2 mile up a long hill. Many of the views were like picture postcards of farms, with white houses and barns.

In Moorefield, took a picture of a painted 4' by 4' quilt block on a barn; may have been an Ohio Star.

Passed through Cadiz (locals call it "CAD-iss), birthplace of old time movie idol Clark Gable. Recalled that in 2002 Wanda, John & Marie, Charlotte and I ate lunch there, near a Wendy's.

Hwy 22 turned into more like an expressway, with controlled access. Two lanes in each direction, with a median in between. Shoulder varied from good to non-existant to spewn with asphalt nodules. While loading her bicycle, a State Patrolman came along and spoke with Charlotte, but he didn't warn her that Hwy 22 prohibits bicycles a little further East.

Got off Hwy 22 at Bloomingdale, and found an alternative somewhat parallel route to Steubenville. Ate lunch in front of an abandoned building and then I rode for the rest of the way through Wintersville and into Steubenville. While riding along Hwy 43, a car drove by and its right side mirror clipped my bike mirror; really surprised me! Closest scrape since 2002 on Hwy 1 in Connecticut.

Found the church in Steubenville, which is located on Lover's Lane. How's that for a street name?

We are staying at St. Mark's Lutheran Church, which was started as a Slovak church about 100 years ago. We are staying in the church parsonage, with Vicar David and Violet Abuya. Violet is a wonderful quilter, specializing in applique. She knows 23 different ways to applique. Her trademark is using plaid fabric for the binding. She also pieces the backing of most of her quilts, too, and documents so much about the fabrics used, history of the quilt constrution, etc. Her 32 year old son just completed a beautiful quilt for his mother.

Violet fixed us a wonderful early dinner. No-Peek stew, salad, and corn muffins; delicious!! Will get the recipe for the stew for the "Bike for the Cure" cookbook that's still on the back burner.

Our dear friend Wanda Wilson was chaufeured by her son-in-law, bringing her from the Pittsburgh area to Steubenville, so she could drive the van with us tomorrow. It is so good to see her again; haven't seen her in six years.

It has rained off and on since 3:00 pm. More rain is expected tonight and tomorrow.

Two more days riding, one full day and a partial day on Thursday.

Route mileage today - about 62
Marie's mileage - 22.65 ( plus 8 miles from yesterday) Charlotte's mileage - 24 (plus 7 miles from yesterday)

With love from Steubenville (Dean Martin's home town),
Marie (and Charlotte)

Day 16 - June 4 - Steubenville, OH - Turtle Creek, PA

Woke up to a drizzle after a good night's sleep. Vicar David had to drive to Marietta OH for his weekly meeting with his supervising Pastor and some visitation at a hospital. Violet had a visit to make to the emergency room at a local hospital before driving to Pittsburgh to pick up her 32 year old son at the airport.

Because of the rain, we drove from Lover's Lane past the corner of Hollywood Bl. and Sunset Bl. (Sanborn Junction in Los Angeles). Crossed over the Ohio River on an old bridge into the "Panhandle" of West Virginia. WV is only 7 miles wide there.

Rain stopped and Charlotte wanted to ride. So we unloaded her bike and away she went. I started riding about 6 miles in front of Charlotte, just insdie the Pennsylvania Border. When I get home, I am going to try to research why the Panhandle is part of WV and not PA.

Cool but comfortable. Riding out in the country with minimal traffic.

The expected rain caught up with us on a hilly 3 mile section. Rode about 2 miles in the rain before we found Wanda. Loaded up the bikes, and I drove while Wanda navigated and Charlotte slept. It was an adventure of sorts, taking secondary roads into Pittsburgh, not Hwy 22. Graduallly worked our way into downtown. Pittsburgh is located amidst three large rivers. We crossed over the Ohio River on the Yellow West End Bridge, then over the Allegheny on the Ft. Duquesne Bridge. The Allegheny and the Monongahela meet at a point in Pittsburgh and form the Ohio River.

Drove past the site of the HDSA National Convention at the Omni William Penn Hotel. Spotted Dave and Sue Hodgson outside and waved.

Continued parallel to the route we will be taking tomorrow out to Turtle Creek. We are staying with our friend Wanda Wilson whom I have known for 10 years. She SAGged with us at the end of the Ramble 'Round the Colonies ride in 2002.

Lovely home at the end of a street, with a terraced back yard flowing into a forest.

Dinner with Wanda's daughter Tracie, son-in-law Bob, and granddaughter Melissa. Bob grilled T-bone steaks, and Wanda and I fixed salad, potatoes, musrooms/onions, and green beans/corn. Apple pie and ice cream for dessert.

Today's Route mileage - 63
Marie's mileage - 9.5
Charlotte's mileage - 12
Road change - 45 cents

Wish we could have ridden more today, but the rain and difficult directions precluded that.

Tomorrow we will be riding in to the Convention.

With love, on the penultimate day of Cycle the Heartland,
Marie (and Charlotte)

Day 17 - June 5 - Turtle Creek, PA - Pittsburgh PA

Woke up to rain ... oh no ... Got Wanda's daughter Tracie to get the weather station chanel on the TV. Looked like the rainstorm would pass through, despite the thunder and lightning outside, so we continued to ready for departure.

Sure enough. By 9:00 am or so, the weather was clearing, so all was a go.

Said a prayer asking God's protection on the last day of the ride, and remembering our prior hosts, our own families, and the HD families we know and love. Left a little after 10:00 am, with Wanda leading us in the SAG van.

It was a pretty simple route in to downtown Pitsburgh. Morning rush hour traffic was over. A few hills, one huge downhill which was scary because we had to feather our brakes the entire downhill, which was about 1/2 mile.

On Penn. Ave. passed some stately mansions, many churches and a synagogue. As we got closer to town on 5th Avenue, we went through a medically orientated neighborhood.

Arrived safely at the Omni William Penn Hotel right about noon. No one outside to welcome us, but didn't expect anyone since we hadn't made any specific ETA with HDSA. When we went inside the hotel to check in, there was a lovely flyer using our website motif, announcing we would be arriving between 2 - 3 pm. News to us!

So we got situated in the room, then got our bikes back from storage downstairs, and re-staged our arrival. This time, 2:15 pm, there were a dozen or so social workers, so that was nice, but anti-climatic, but we did do what HDSA wanted us to do.

Cleaned up and rested until it was time to go to the reception sponsored by the Western Pennsylvania Chapter. It was held at the Senator John Heinz History Center. Foods typical of Pittsburgh were served as appetizers - brats, kielbasa and sauerkraut, perogies, and beets, plus a couple others. Lots of networking conversation going on; volume was quite loud, as you would expect in an exposed brick/wood interior.

Wanda, Charlotte, and I toured the 2nd floor of the History Center, with exhibits entitled "Points in Time:Building a Life in Western Pennsylvania 1750-Today." First thing we saw was an original Jeep. Western Pennsvania was the birthplace of the Jeep. In 1940, 19 months before the USA went to war, the Army requested bids for a reconaissance vehicle to take the place of the motorcycle. American Bantam Co. of Butler PA and Willys-Overland of Toledo OH were the only ones to respond to the bid, which required a vehicle to be built in 49 days. Bantam won the bid. The Jeep helped to win WWII. After WWII Willys-Overland went more into a civilian jeep, the CJ, which was the ancestor of the SUVs of today.

Other exhibits we enjoyed were about the early days of the French and English settling in Native American territory, the Underground Railroad and the history of Afro-Americans in Western PA, and women. Few public records exist of women's lives on the frontier. Women could not participate in legal or political affairs. A few letters, travelers' logs, and recipe books were the source of their experiences.

There was also a video about the Steamboat Arabia. Ron and I toured the Museum in Kansas City MO, in 2000, when Barbara Younger took us there. A family found this steamboat buried 49 ft. deep in a cornfield, excavated it, and devoted their lives to the restoration of its contents.

Would like to have spent more time, but we needed to get back to the Hotel. Peggy Polito, the Social Worker from Pittsburgh, gave us a ride back to the Hotel.

There are four of us in the hotel room tonight: Gerleine Schoonover (TX), Wanda Wilson, Charlote, and me. The room is quite spacious; we are not cramped at all.

Another ride completed, by the grace of God. Thanks to all who hosted us, fed us, donated, etc. We couldn't have done it without you. Thanks to all who sent words of encouragement too.

Today's Route Mileage - 11.5 miles
Charlotte - 11.5 miles
Marie - 11.5 miles
Total Route Mileage - 941.5 miles

With love,
Marie

For Those interested in more details about the Steamship Arabia, here are some references:

• Steamboat Arabia Museum


• Article about the finding and restoration of the Arabia - Treasures of the Steamship Arabia


• Wikipedia article about the Steamship Arabia

Day 18 - June 6 - At the HDSA National Convention

Opening ceremony was unique - a cadre from the trumpet section of Univ. of Pittsburgh Marching Band!!! This was followed by the usual greetings from the Board Chairman and Vice-Chairman, the National Executive Director/CEO Barbara Boyle, and the President of the Western PA Chapter, Alex Andres.

After a mid-morningg refreshment break, the usual "Focus on the Family Care Forum" (no connection to FOTF in Colorado Springs, a Christian Ministry) was held. We know a couple of the participants; Wanda Wilson, our SAG van driver and host in Turtle Creek was a speaker from the caregiver's perspective. We also know the social worker on the panel, Peg Polito, who hosted us in 2002. The panelist who tested negative made an interesting comment, that "she had escaped, but wasn't free".

During the lunch break, I got a new battery for my camera, which had unexpectedly quit working this morning.

Afternoon sessions included Diagnosing and Treating Juvenile HD and Non-Pharmacologic Reatment for JHD. Both sessions increased my knowledge of how HD manifests itself in children. Another interesting session was "Social Aspects of Living At-Risk." Last session of the day was "Met the HDSA Board of Trustee." It was a Q & A.

The evening was the Convention Reception and National Youth Alliance Dance Auction/Program. MC was Billy Aaron Brown, best know for beng on "8 Simple Rules for Dating My Teenage Daughter," which starred John Ritter before his untimely death.

We were told that there were close to 700 attendees at the Convention. Quite a few young people (the National Youth Alliance). Almost half of the attendees were first timers at a National Convention. Pittsburgh hosted the 1992 Convention, before I became involved.

Everyone seems very open, friendly, and hopeful.

With love from the city of Bridges, street closures, and friendy hotel staff at the Omni William Penn Hotel,

With love,
Marie (and Charlotte)

Day 19 - June 7 - 2nd day of Convention

Early morning start of the day, with the Walk for the Cure. Everyone was given a bright orange t-shirt to wear. The walk was led by Alex Andres, President of the Wastern PA Chapter. He is a real activist for HD. For almost 20 years, he has put on "Charlotte's Run" to honor the memory of his mother, who died of HD. I didn't count the number of participants, but I estimated 40-50.

We crossed over the Andy Warhol Bridge to the North Shore, walked along the Allegheny River, then circled back around the new baseball stadium. Huge statues honoring Bill Mazeroski and Roberto Clemente. Crossed back over the Allegheney River on the Roberto Clemente Bridge and back to the Hotel. We may have walked two miles.

Saturday Morning was the HDSA Research Forum. Speakers were Dr. Jim Gusella, whose research spearheaded finding the gene which produces HD, and two speakers from the CHDI, which works in partnership with HDSA on testing drug compounds for efficacy. They are hoping to have a number of compounds to take to trials in 2009.

Attended a reading of a new children's book (Lilco & His Mommy) by Gabrielle Hamilton, a young woman I met at my first Convention 10 years ago in Denver, but hadn't seen since. It is a touching story of a mother mouse and her son Lilco, and describes her love for Lilco despite the limitations of her disease.

Full slate of afternoon workshops: Family Planning Options, Sexual Issues, and Taking Clinical Trial Excitement Home and How to Share It With Your Community.

Saturday night is the Reception and NYA Silent Auction and the HDSA Awards Dinner and Gala/Dance. Didn't bid on anything at the Auction. Nice dinner - salad, potatoes, something like Chicken Cordon Bleu, veggies, and a dessert cup made of thin chocolate, with a gelatinous-like middle, topped by whipped cream.

Various Chapters and Affiliates were honored for their fundraising, newsletters, and leadership. Bob Leck was honored as "HD Person of the Year." I was honored, surprised, and humbled by the Natonal Fundraising Award, which commemorated 10 "Bike for the Cure" rides and raising over $464,000 for HD Research and Family Services.

Danced a few times - the Electric Slide and also a slow dance with Steve Ireland (Unchained Melody). Hung around a bit more, visiting. Charlotte went upstairs to finish packing, as she is flying out Sunday morning.

Rich full day, with lots of memories.

With love,
Marie (and Charlotte)

Day 20 - June 8 - Third Day of Convention

Farewells to Charlotte at 2:45 am, as she took a taxi out to the airport with some others from the Convention.

Got up, and got packed. Breakfast Round Tables from 8-9 am. Closing remarks from Barbara Boyle, CEO of HDSA, and "See you in Phoenix next year." Then time to get everything loaded up.

Wanda and I walked to the parking garage. Found the van parked all by itself on the 3rd floor. Weird feeling! Drove back to the Hotel. Wanda waited in the van while I retrieved the bikes from hotel storage. Loaded them while the bellman was getting seven bags out of the hotel room. Got everthing loaded up. Whew! Everything has its assigned place.

Drove to the Duquesne Incline, one of two funiculars that run from near the river up to Mt. Washington. Reminded me a lot of Angel's Flight in Los Angeles which ascended to Bunker Hill. Great view of Pittsburgh from Mt. Washington. All those bridges! The Monongahela River was cloudy with silt, and the Allegheney was clearer. Rode down and up after looking at the photos and stories. It was free for those 65 and older. I was prepared to pay since I told the cashier I lacked 4 months of being 65, but he waved me through. Back up to the top - not sure of the angle, but it's pretty steep.

Bought gas near Wanda's house - over $80 for 21 gallons. Drove Wanda back to her home in Turtle Creek. Wanda fixed us grilled cheese sandwiches and chicken noodle soup for lunch. Got to see Wanda's daughter Tracie and her granddaughter Melissa briefly. Misy turned 16 during the Convention.

Headed East on the Pennsylvania Turnpike. Beautiful rolling Allegheny Hills. Got off at Carlisle, the site of the College for Native Americans where Jim Thorpe matriculated.

Onto I-81 and then I-78 and South to Lebanon, where Ron's cousin Barbara Ann and her husband Joe live. Ron's father Alfred Nemec was a brother to Barbara Ann's mother Agnes Nemec Shive. So pleased to meet these dear relatives; wished Ron could have met them too. Nice dinner of chicken, mashed potatoes, dressing, and steamed fresh green beans. Local strawberries on dessert cups too! Fun visiting and hearing stories of common ancestors.

With love from PA,
Marie

Day 21 - June 9 - First day post Convention

After breakfast, Joe and Barbara Ann tok me for a drive around the countryside surrounding Lebanon. Many, many farms with barns and silos. Very green and very hot and humid.

Barbara Ann has decorated her kitchen with a Holsein cow theme (black/white cows).

Stopped at a fabric and gift shop run by Mennonites; what an array of fabrics! I was in seventh heaven but didn't splurge!

Back to their house for lunch - Lebanon bologna sandwiches. Then it was time to leave, since I was to meet Barbara Ann's sister Sharon in Quakertown, at the nursing home where Aunt Ann Nemec lives.

Quakertown was about 100 miles further East. Got there fine with good directions. It was about 100 degrees outside, a real early heatwave, and difficult for the schools, since they don't have air conditioning.

Sharon and I visited Aunt Ann for about 45 minutes. Ann is 97 years old. She is a half-sister to Ron's father and Barbara Ann's mother; same father (Rudolph) but different mother. Ann's mother Emelia died in childbirth. Aunt Ann had trouble knowing who I am, and how I am related, but she was cordial. I had visited Aunt Ann in New York City in 2002 during the "Ramble" ride. Aunt Ann let us know when it was time to end our visit. Such a dear lady!

Followed Sharon to their home in Sellersville. Ranch style house with basement. Met Sharon's husband Frank Davidock. Sharon is a school nurse, so this is a busy time of year getting all the records completed.

Sharon had fixed a pot roast (one of my favorites). After dinner, she took me on a tour of the various ancestral sites. On the way, we saw an Amish farmer plowing with four horses pulling the plow. Saw the farmhouse where Ann, Alfred and Agnes grew up, where their Mother Juliana lived after Rudolph died, where she and her second husband Fred Fischer lived, and the cemeteries where Juliana and Rudolph are buried, plus where Agnes and her husband Linford are buried, and where Aunt Ann will be buried. Took photos to share with Ron, but again, wishing he could have been there to met the Pennsylvania relatives.

Finished the tour as the sun was setting. Rich full day! Tomorrow start the long trek home.

Sellersville is less than 100 miles from New York City, so it will take me 3 1/2 days driving to get back to Colorado.

Pennsylvania is a beautiful state, so verdant and full of history, both of our country and the Nemec clan.

With love from the Keystone State,
Marie

Day 22 - June 10 - Sellersville PA to Indianapolis IN

Retraced the route through Quakertown to the I-78 near Allentown, then Eastbound, I-81 near Harrisburg, the state capital.

Got on the Pennsylvania Turnpike in Carlisle. The Turnpike is the only practical way across Southern PA. Decided to visit Shanksville, the site of the 9-11 crash of United Fight 93, into a field in Somerset County. No one can forget the "Let's Roll" of Todd Beamer, one of the 33 passengers whose heroism thwarted the hijacker's objective to crash the airliner into either the Capitol or the White House.

Exited the Turnpike at Wolfsburg and got on US Hwy 30, the Lincoln Hwy. The Lincoln Hwy has its own mystique, too, as it crosses ths US.

Followed well-placed signs indicating the way to the Temporary Memorial. It is located on private property, on a very windy hilltop, and is visible from a distance. A fence has become a colage of flowers, flags, handwritten messages, artwork, and tributes of every description. An array of crosses, plaques, ball caps, patches, flags, and angels have been left at the site; I was moved to leave my royal blue HD bracelet there. The site is administered by the Natonal Park Service. National Park Service volunteers known as "Ambassadors" have familiarized themselves with facts surrounding the event, and give a little talk.

Had to force myself to leave; the site was very compelling.

Back to the Turnpike for awhile, until the I-70 veered off, passing South of Pittsburgh.

On into West Virginia's "Panhandle" to find the Madonna of the Trail in Wheeling Park. These monuments were conceived by Arlene B. Moss of St. Louis and sculpted by August Leimbach, cast of an amalgom of crushed granite, stone, cement, and lead ore, with its primary ingredient being pinkish Missouri granite. This statue had cracks on the base and moss growing on it, the least well-kept Madonna I saw.

Crossed the Ohio River into Ohio. You miss so much of the local history and flavor on the Interstates. Much preferred US Hwy 40, but faster on Interstate. The Interstate Hwy system was the brainchild of Dwight D. Eisenhower, who as a young officer in 1919 took 62 days to get from coast to coast. The I-70, I-25,I-80 route across the US is the Eisenhower Highway.

Because of my signtseeing, I didn't get to Indianapolis until 9:00 pm, but the Hendershots were up and welcomed me with open arms. Barb fixed me a sandwich for a long overdue dinner. Ben, the 4 year old, gave up his camo bedroom for me again.

Today's mileage - 674 miles, through parts of 4 states

Tired, but glad to be well on my way home,

With love,
Marie

Day 23 - June 11 - Indianapolis IN to Lee's Summit MO

Because today will be a shorter drive, I slept in a little, and got to spend time with Barb, Grace, and Ben. Such a sweet family!

Back to the I-70 via the Southern Beltway around Indy. Passed exits for familiar towns of Putnamville and Greenfield (home of DePauw University - most famous graduate former Vice President Dan Quayle) through "Illiana" and into Illinois. Exited the I-70 just W of the border, so I could drive through Marshall again. Wished I could have stopped to visit Anne Cooper, our host on May 26, as I could see their house just off US Hwy 40.

Stayed on 40 through Casey and into Greenup, "The Village with the Porches." Stopped at an antique store and bought a "country" pine wall quilt rack. Then got back on the I-70 heading for Effingham.

Called Roberta Jenkins, our prior host on May 25, hoping to arrange to have lunch with her. But with her busy schedule, she wasn't home, so left a message. Visited the Quilt Shop that was closed when we were there before, then went back to The Cross. Parked, walked into the Visitor Center, and who was there? ROBERTA!! She volunteers at the Cross once a month and had been telling her volunteering partner how she had hosted Charlotte and me, and here I walk in! Because of my need to be in Lee's Summit for dinner, I wasn't able to accept her invitation for lunch, when her shift was over.

On through Vandalia and Greenville, heading for St. Louis. Passed famliar signs for Pontoon Beach, and saw the Chain of Rocks bridge over the Mississippi (both from 2006 ride). Kept on the I-270 skirting North, passing through St. Charles, etc. Drove through where the first 8 miles of the Interstate was built back in 1956.

Many familiar exit signs on the I-70 (Columbia, Jefferson City, Boonville, Sedalia) and on into the outskirts of Kansas City. Found the Hatfield's home without any trouble.

Ted took us all out to the Golden Corral in Blue Springs; yum!! Enjoyed spending time with this family again. They have been part of our ride in 2000, 2004, 2005, and 2008 twice!

Again, Sean (15) gave up his room for me, and bunked with Caleb (12). News of a tornado hitting a Boy Scout Camp in Iowa hit hard, as both Hatfield boys are in Scouts, and Sean is preparing to go to Philmont in New Mexico at the end of the month.

Route mileage today - 508

Over halfway home now.

With love,
Marie

Day 24 - June 12 - Lee's Summit MO to Colorado Springs CO

Sounds like deja vue all over again, but had to get the van oil changed once again, since 3000 miles had been driven. Followed Lona to WalMart, and left the van, then drove back to the Hatfields for breakfast.

Got on the beltway around Kansas City, but then veered off on US Hwy 56, to retrace in the opposite direction where Charlotte, Evelyn, and I rode in 1999.

Passed the C-store where we waited out the rain and met the niece of some friends of ours in Gr. Jct. Decided to drive to the B&B where we stayed overnight in Overland Park, and visit Ken and Nancy Krause at Fieldstone. They sort of remembered us bicyclists. They ceased their B&B business a couple of years ago, and are now trying to sell their lovely place.

Made it to Council Grove, where the Kansas Madonna of the Trail is located. I don't recall seeing it in 1999, but it was right in the center of town. That was the 5th Madonna I saw this year. Ate some pizza at the Pizza Hut where we ate dinner in 1999.

Back to the I-70 in Salina, where I bought a Braum's single dip ice cream cone. The I-70 crosses through the entire length of Kansas (over 400 miles) in the Northern half of the state. Contrary to popular belief, Kansas is not "flat." The Flint Hills are in Eastern Kansas, the Smoky Hills in North Central Kansas, and the "flats" in Western Kansas. The I-70 closely follows the Historic Smoky Hill Trail across Kansas, and US Hw 56 closely follows the Santa Fe Trail. My favorite part of Kansas is Post Rock Country, between Salina and Hays where early settlers solved their fencing problems on treeless plains by quarrying rock to use as posts. Once cut and shaped, they became hardened and weather resistant after long exposure to the air.

At Oakley the I-70 veers NW and US 40 veers slightly SW towards Colorado Springs. That route is advertised as the shortest route to Colorado Springs, so I decided to go that way, plus we had spent so much time on it in IL, IN, OH, WV, and PA. Tiny towns on the green plains. One town is Weskan (short for West Kansas). Passed a sign for Mt. Sunflower, the highest point in KS, just inside the border with CO, 12 miles N. of Weskan.

Once I crossed the border into "Colorful Colorado," it seemed like immediately the prairie grass changed from green to brown. 154 miles to Colorado Springs, due West. 500 miles into today's drive was Cheyenne Wells, the crossroads with US 395. Soon after is Firstview, where travelers can see Pikes Peak for the first time. Another crossroads is Kit Carson, at the junction with US 287.

Passed a big road construction project with a four lane bridge (in the middle of nowhere). Traffic stopped between Kit Carson and Wildhorse where a thick layer of concrete was being laid. I think this is part of the Super Highway being built from the Texas Gulf Coast to Denver. 80% of the traffic was semis.

By now I was getting a little concerned about gasoline. A sign said "No services for 90 miles," and I hadn't bought gas since Lee's Summit MO. The whole trip I had been keeping the van at 60-65 mph, getting close to 30 mpg, so I felt I could make it to Ellicott, on the edge of Colorado Springs. A "Busy Bee" gas station never looked so good!

Arrived at Amanda's home in Fountain about 9:30 pm (gained an hour leaving Central time near the KS-CO border). Amanda was not feeling well; she had a cold, but otherwise was quite cheerful. Had a little soup for dinner. I have stayed so many times with Amanda that she calls where I sleep downstairs "your room."

Today's mileage - 652

Just another 325 or so to go.

Tired, but happy to be "almost home."

With love,
Marie

Day 25 - June 13 - Colorado Springs to Grand Junction CO

Woke up after a good night's sleep, anticipating the day ahead. Fond farewells to Amanda after breakfast.

Decided to stop at the Colorado Springs Bike Shop, owned by friends Ed and Bonnie Johnson. I used to patronize their shop in 1998-2001 when we lived in Colorado Springs. Hadn't seen Bonnie in over a year. Bought Ron a new seat for his bike, with hopes he would ride it more.

Decided to take Hwy 24 up through Woodland Park (has the most Eastern located City Market) and Divide, over Ute Pass and later Wilkerson Pass. Stopped briefly in Hartsel, the geograhic center of Colorado. Drove on into Buena Vista, and stopped at Bev's Stitchery. I had gotten to know Bev on several stops during quilting "Shop Hops" in prior years.

Continued North on US Hwy 24 paralleling the Collegiate Peaks (Mt. Yale, Mt. Harvard, Mt. Princeton) Had the radio on when I heard the news that Tim Russert (of "Meet the Press" fame,) had died of a heart attack. Immediately called my sister Meg, who knows Tim's wife Maureen Orth. Very sad!

Passed through Leadville, elev. 10,200 ft. then down the mountains through Minturn and onto the I-70. Very familiar territory now. Passed Wolcott, where we turn North to go to Kevin and Erin's home near Steamboat Springs. Passed the Jaramillo's home in Gypsum (Sara and daughter Cassie rode with ua the last two days of "Rockies to Plains" last year.) Through Glenwood Canyon, and Glenwood Springs. Another 90 miles and I exited the I-70, just eight miles from home.

Ron was there, home from work, when I arrived about 6:00 pm. Hugs and kisses!

So glad to be home ... home is where the heart is, and mine is with Ron. Those who know him realize that he is indeed "the wind beneath my wings," who facilitates each year's ride, the virtual "SAG meister" who enables me to do each year's ride, with his behind the scenes work with the e-mails and website.

Total route miles - 4,913

It's not too late to donate to this year's ride through www.firstgiving.com/bikeforcure

I still have to total up this year's giving. The two fundraising dinners (Lewiston ID and Elgin TX) were major contributors. Thanks again to Sherri Kole and to Rick Harden and their crews.

One more e-mail to go, with a summary.

In the words of Dorothy from The Wizard of Oz, "There's no place like home." We had hoped and prayed that our grandchild would not be born while I was on the road, so now ... "Come on down, baby."

With love and anticipation,
Marie