So riding is still going well...despite the heat I never knew existed in the South
Yesterday we made it to Yukon, a suburb of Oklahoma City! It was really great to see Katherine (despite her car troubles!). When we got in to the church I went to look at the mail pile and had a WONDERFUL! card from Aunt Laura and Uncle George (thanks by the way!) (your donation went to quality tires!). I made sure to read it first thing this morning and it gave me good luck for the day. Oh, and to answer you questions, I've seen lots of hawks, some sizzor tails, and have been teaching people how Bob Whites sounds. Oh, and Dave Miller, thanks for the cookies...the entire group swallowed them in one day!
The first couple of days into Oklahoma scared me a bit, my body isn't quite adjusted to the heat and being outside was exhausting. I think the trick is to ride hard in the morning, before the afternoon heat sets in. Also, I think it is important to me to dump water on my head about every hour in the afternoon. Today at 11:40 we had 40 miles left and the bank sign said it was 103 degrees out! I've gone through at LEAST four liters of water. I couldn't belive it! Luckily I rode with Julia and we sang the entire Rent soundtrack and part of Les Mes, so the time went by quickly and with fun.
Tomorrow we enter Texas...Uncle Kenny, I will definately be thinking about you! We have a build day in Amarillo, let me know if you want to come pound some nails! Some of the boys in the group want to do the steak challenge (I think its like 64 ounzes of steak in an hour...gross!)
And Halley, Im really sorry about your bike...maybe youll find it? Let me know if you want to borrow mine. Although I read your plan and it was really cute (even though sad)...did you know that bike and builder's often pee in nature as well (although not in people's back yards)
Well, everyone else has gone to shower....I can either walk six blocks to the pool or use a hose...decisions decisions!
love!
allie
Friday, July 18, 2008
Sunday, July 13, 2008
The Best Day Ever
Today may have been the best day yet of bike and build....here's why:
-last night we did group compliments, and so everyone seemed to be in a better mood!
-this morning our hosts gave us FREE breakfast at a really good diner and we got to choose off the menu. I was boring and had oatmeal, but I didn't feel gross later like most of the other riders so it was a good choice.
-we were in KANSAS for 5 MILES!!!! it was FABULOUS! We sang the state song and talked about how great Kansas is and OH it made me SO happy!
-We may or may not have biked naked in Kansas for a bit....
-In Oklahoma we stopped and went swimming in a river. It was cool and SO refreshing.
-A couple of miles in there were huge fields (maybe 1/4 a mile wide) of sunflowers. It was SO beautiful to look and see sunflowers everywhere!
-We had ice cream for lunch (I had soft serve chocolate with hot fudge!)
-We got to Vanita, OK (home of Dr. Phil) with enough time to unwind and relax. I went to the community pool while others went to the biggest McDonalds in the US.
All for now. It was really great to have such a good day after some challenging ones!
Love
Allie "I love Kansas" Kossoy
-last night we did group compliments, and so everyone seemed to be in a better mood!
-this morning our hosts gave us FREE breakfast at a really good diner and we got to choose off the menu. I was boring and had oatmeal, but I didn't feel gross later like most of the other riders so it was a good choice.
-we were in KANSAS for 5 MILES!!!! it was FABULOUS! We sang the state song and talked about how great Kansas is and OH it made me SO happy!
-We may or may not have biked naked in Kansas for a bit....
-In Oklahoma we stopped and went swimming in a river. It was cool and SO refreshing.
-A couple of miles in there were huge fields (maybe 1/4 a mile wide) of sunflowers. It was SO beautiful to look and see sunflowers everywhere!
-We had ice cream for lunch (I had soft serve chocolate with hot fudge!)
-We got to Vanita, OK (home of Dr. Phil) with enough time to unwind and relax. I went to the community pool while others went to the biggest McDonalds in the US.
All for now. It was really great to have such a good day after some challenging ones!
Love
Allie "I love Kansas" Kossoy
Saturday, July 12, 2008
Shifters, Showers and Springfield in the Show-Me State!
Missouri....you are so tricky.
I had SO much fun the past couple days in Springfield. I visited Laura McElroy, slept in a bed at her house, and toured around Springfield with her (Andy's ice cream and the Bass Pro Shop ROCK!). Thanks for being so wonderful Laura.
But there have also been some down parts. For instance, our leaders didn't know that county roads in Missouri are gravel. We spent 20 horrible miles on gravel. UGH. after that, my left shifter stopped working. I figured I would fix it in Springfield. But then into Springfield my right shifter broke, and so I spent my first time in the van. I was kinda sad but I made a game of trying to get our group some free food, and everyone loved the spaghetti I got donated.
Anyways, other interesting things:
-Armadillos are everywhere in MO
-I didn't know how montainous the Ozarks are but trust me, they're big!!!
-Southern MO is a lot similar to the south in terms of accents, and cultures (rodeos, cowboys boots....)
-MO is SO humid, and rainy (its rained everyday that we've been in this state!_
Tomorrow is one of the days I've been looking forward to the most: were biking through KANSAS (well only 4-8 miles!)
Im hungry...time to eat!
~allie
I had SO much fun the past couple days in Springfield. I visited Laura McElroy, slept in a bed at her house, and toured around Springfield with her (Andy's ice cream and the Bass Pro Shop ROCK!). Thanks for being so wonderful Laura.
But there have also been some down parts. For instance, our leaders didn't know that county roads in Missouri are gravel. We spent 20 horrible miles on gravel. UGH. after that, my left shifter stopped working. I figured I would fix it in Springfield. But then into Springfield my right shifter broke, and so I spent my first time in the van. I was kinda sad but I made a game of trying to get our group some free food, and everyone loved the spaghetti I got donated.
Anyways, other interesting things:
-Armadillos are everywhere in MO
-I didn't know how montainous the Ozarks are but trust me, they're big!!!
-Southern MO is a lot similar to the south in terms of accents, and cultures (rodeos, cowboys boots....)
-MO is SO humid, and rainy (its rained everyday that we've been in this state!_
Tomorrow is one of the days I've been looking forward to the most: were biking through KANSAS (well only 4-8 miles!)
Im hungry...time to eat!
~allie
Sunday, July 6, 2008
Meeting in Saint Louie!!!
Today was a GREAT day!!!
Mom and Dad met us last night in Salem, Illinois to bike with us today from Salem to St. Louis. They met us at the church at 5:50 am to ride (although we were a bit slow to get going). I must admit I was a little nervous to have them riding with us, but it was a lot of fun. Mom rode the first 21 miles, and handled it great. After about 5 miles she said, "You know I can go faster..." (and so we did!). At a park near the largest lake in Illinois Dad took a turn. He rode 35 with us and I was impressed with his speed and how he handled the heat (I just heard it got up to 90 degrees today!). We stopped with the group for lunch at mile 40 (it happenned to be 10 am) and continued on. Around mile 56 mom and dad decided to both ride in the car and scope out and ice cream place, which we found around mile 65. It was the perfect DQ- ice cream, good conversation, Harry Potter on in the background and air conditioner!
We took a bike path across the McKinley bridge to enter Missouri (the Show me State) and St. Louis. Dad rode with us across the bridge, and we took some really fun pictures with the arch in the background.
When we got to the church, we found out that the Y we were suppose to shower at had closed. So about 10 of us hopped in the van and came over to Grandma's place, where we swam and showered. It was so much fun to have my friends meet Grandma and they all thought she was super nice and adorable. I'm now writing from her computer...they all went back to the church. I kinda feel like part of my soul is missing, I've been with these people non-stop for four weeks....but I guess I do enjoy my privacy. I took a long shower and am now doing laundry...its weird not to wait in line for the shower or laundry or computer. Tomorrow we have a day off and Im excited to just relax...or go to a museum, or sit around and just enjoy mom and dad and grandma's company. I'm sure anytime soon I'll crash but right now I'm running on the endorphine's of a great day!
Mom and Dad met us last night in Salem, Illinois to bike with us today from Salem to St. Louis. They met us at the church at 5:50 am to ride (although we were a bit slow to get going). I must admit I was a little nervous to have them riding with us, but it was a lot of fun. Mom rode the first 21 miles, and handled it great. After about 5 miles she said, "You know I can go faster..." (and so we did!). At a park near the largest lake in Illinois Dad took a turn. He rode 35 with us and I was impressed with his speed and how he handled the heat (I just heard it got up to 90 degrees today!). We stopped with the group for lunch at mile 40 (it happenned to be 10 am) and continued on. Around mile 56 mom and dad decided to both ride in the car and scope out and ice cream place, which we found around mile 65. It was the perfect DQ- ice cream, good conversation, Harry Potter on in the background and air conditioner!
We took a bike path across the McKinley bridge to enter Missouri (the Show me State) and St. Louis. Dad rode with us across the bridge, and we took some really fun pictures with the arch in the background.
When we got to the church, we found out that the Y we were suppose to shower at had closed. So about 10 of us hopped in the van and came over to Grandma's place, where we swam and showered. It was so much fun to have my friends meet Grandma and they all thought she was super nice and adorable. I'm now writing from her computer...they all went back to the church. I kinda feel like part of my soul is missing, I've been with these people non-stop for four weeks....but I guess I do enjoy my privacy. I took a long shower and am now doing laundry...its weird not to wait in line for the shower or laundry or computer. Tomorrow we have a day off and Im excited to just relax...or go to a museum, or sit around and just enjoy mom and dad and grandma's company. I'm sure anytime soon I'll crash but right now I'm running on the endorphine's of a great day!
Wednesday, July 2, 2008
OHIO!!!!
We left Ohio yesterday but I haven't gotten a chance to update everyone on it!
Well first, let me just say that I really enjoyed my time in Ohio, I think the Buckeye state is GREAT! Reasons why:
-After about 40 miles we stopped hitting mountains, and finally got to rolling hills. While I do miss the mountains because they blocked the wind, it is so nice not to pee my biking shorts everytime I see a big hill.
-We are FINALLY entering the Midwest. I have taken it upon myself to teach everyone things they should know (did you know some of the people on the trip have never seen water towers...and don't know what corn looks like!) I've been teaching the purpose of water towers, and how to recognize corn, wheat, soybeans and hay (I mean really...how did people not know that growing up!!)
-Ohio is the birth place of Halley Feil!!!! And Halley we didn't actually go through Granville, just the outskirts (before heading on to Buxley). But I made sure to think of you the entire time.
-There are quite a few blackberry trees here (they bloom earlier here Eric!). I've stopped and picked (and eaten) quite a few, but some of the people here think its weird to eat berries from nature...i guess maybe they enjoy preservatives and processed food better...?
Yesterday we left Ohio and entered Indiana, another state I have never been to! Our first town to stay in was Rushville, and the people there were SUPER hospitable! They presented us with a feast for both dinner and breakfast (yum, pancakes, oatmeal, fresh fruit!!). Tonight we are in Bloomington, home of IU. Tomorrow is a build day, and it is so refreshing not to be on a bike (even though I love it). While Im SO thankful to be doing this trip this summer, the last three days have been a challenge. Due to bad weather (the day we entered Columbus we rode through three storms), flat tires (I've now had 11, and just got new tires), and trying to help others, I haven't gotten in before 7 pm each day (and we start biking around 7 am). However, when I find myself in a bad mood, the wonderful people in my group are there with hugs and helping me cheer up. And luckily, tonight I hope to ketch up on sleep and tomorrow after building I can do some "me" things!
Funny thoughts:
-The coolest street name I've seen was "Scarce on Fat Road"...
-Thanks for the note Uncle George and Aunt Laura...I have had some saddle soreness but have plenty of cream!
On the last note, going across the country is somewhat expensive. I didn't realize that I would need to upkeep my bike and buy new tires, tubes and possible a chain. If you haven't donated to the cause or know anyone who would like to, please email me at kossoyal@grinnell.edu, call (785-230-1670) or send me a check through the mail drop system.
Well the public library is about to kick me off the computer. Thanks for reading my blog, I love you all, and sending everyone HUGE hugs!
Well first, let me just say that I really enjoyed my time in Ohio, I think the Buckeye state is GREAT! Reasons why:
-After about 40 miles we stopped hitting mountains, and finally got to rolling hills. While I do miss the mountains because they blocked the wind, it is so nice not to pee my biking shorts everytime I see a big hill.
-We are FINALLY entering the Midwest. I have taken it upon myself to teach everyone things they should know (did you know some of the people on the trip have never seen water towers...and don't know what corn looks like!) I've been teaching the purpose of water towers, and how to recognize corn, wheat, soybeans and hay (I mean really...how did people not know that growing up!!)
-Ohio is the birth place of Halley Feil!!!! And Halley we didn't actually go through Granville, just the outskirts (before heading on to Buxley). But I made sure to think of you the entire time.
-There are quite a few blackberry trees here (they bloom earlier here Eric!). I've stopped and picked (and eaten) quite a few, but some of the people here think its weird to eat berries from nature...i guess maybe they enjoy preservatives and processed food better...?
Yesterday we left Ohio and entered Indiana, another state I have never been to! Our first town to stay in was Rushville, and the people there were SUPER hospitable! They presented us with a feast for both dinner and breakfast (yum, pancakes, oatmeal, fresh fruit!!). Tonight we are in Bloomington, home of IU. Tomorrow is a build day, and it is so refreshing not to be on a bike (even though I love it). While Im SO thankful to be doing this trip this summer, the last three days have been a challenge. Due to bad weather (the day we entered Columbus we rode through three storms), flat tires (I've now had 11, and just got new tires), and trying to help others, I haven't gotten in before 7 pm each day (and we start biking around 7 am). However, when I find myself in a bad mood, the wonderful people in my group are there with hugs and helping me cheer up. And luckily, tonight I hope to ketch up on sleep and tomorrow after building I can do some "me" things!
Funny thoughts:
-The coolest street name I've seen was "Scarce on Fat Road"...
-Thanks for the note Uncle George and Aunt Laura...I have had some saddle soreness but have plenty of cream!
On the last note, going across the country is somewhat expensive. I didn't realize that I would need to upkeep my bike and buy new tires, tubes and possible a chain. If you haven't donated to the cause or know anyone who would like to, please email me at kossoyal@grinnell.edu, call (785-230-1670) or send me a check through the mail drop system.
Well the public library is about to kick me off the computer. Thanks for reading my blog, I love you all, and sending everyone HUGE hugs!
Friday, June 27, 2008
The day after A day off!
Im writing from Ohio! So far today I've been in three states- Pennsylvania, West Virginia, and now Ohio! I didn't get a chance to write yesterday: I was too busy relaxing. It was our first day off and I slept in until 9 (I know...so late!). I spent most of the morning bumming around the church, doing laundry, journaling, and calling people. Then in the afternoon Kyle, Lenny, Lindsay and I went to the science center and IMAX! We saw a movie about the Alps and everytime people climbed up the mountain I pretended it was me on my bike :). Anyways, we also ate some great Greek food and let our bodies rest...I feel like yesterday may have been the first day in my entire life that I didn't feel like exercising!!!
There are definately different types of riding...we have been doing mostly mountain climbing, but getting into downtown Pittsburg was intense. There were cars and people and noises everywhere- but we did it! I'm also REALLY proud of myself because I have now changed two flats on my own...to some people on this trip that's no big deal, but learning about bike upkeep is a big deal for me. Anyways, its on to Ohio and then Indiana...more later!
Love
Allie
There are definately different types of riding...we have been doing mostly mountain climbing, but getting into downtown Pittsburg was intense. There were cars and people and noises everywhere- but we did it! I'm also REALLY proud of myself because I have now changed two flats on my own...to some people on this trip that's no big deal, but learning about bike upkeep is a big deal for me. Anyways, its on to Ohio and then Indiana...more later!
Love
Allie
Tuesday, June 24, 2008
A Tuesday update!
Its hard to decide what to write about, as so much happens each day here (especially since we get up around 5 or 6). We have been riding for four consecutive days, and each day brings more challenges (I try to only focus one day at a time). I have to say yesterday and today were the hardest: yesterday I completed my first century (100 miles!!!!) It was exhausting to say the least, but I'm so proud of myself for doing it! I thought today would be easier, until someone broke the news to me that today we were going to be riding 80 miles (I couldn't believe it). But its fun to take things one hill (I call them mountains) at a time.
Cool things I've seen on the rode:
-actually rode signs are really funny to look at. My favorite are down hill signs but I've seen them for tractors, ducks, cow crossings, you name it!
-did you know there are so many fricking mountains in the north east? We just finished crossing the Appalacians...holly shit that was hard!
-there are lots of ice cream stands and farm stands
-Ive seen two pigs, ducks, horses, rolly pollies, catepillars, badgers, deer, buffalo, hawks, dogs, cats, butterflies...just about everything
-Today at the top of the mountain pass there was a wind turbine park with at least 10 turbines, and when we were biking I could here them circling!
-Yesterday we biked through Amish country! I saw lots of horses and buggies and farms
Random thoughts:
-For me, this trip is not just about social justice in the realm of affordable housing. I think its really important to think about bike safety/cars sharing the road. Three days ago I was bumped (okay or hit) by a car. I only hit the side mirror, but it terrified me. I was also angry because I was on the shoulder. Being on the road all the time makes me realize how ignorant some drivers are about bikers, and how dangerous riding can be.
-Road kill is disgusting. I can now recognize the scent of it before I actually see it...road kill makes me never want to drive a car again...maybe when I grow up Ill be car free (!?).
-Attitude is everything (just like in any sport, or life really!). It really helps to sing or talk on the road, or play games (20 questions)
-I had no idea how beautiful this country is. I also had no idea what PA looked like- there are lots of hills and mountains, but also farmland with corn and cows and such
-No one told me about the Appalacian mountains, the Berkshires, and the Poconos
-Im still unsure where I belong in the riding group. Im not the slowest but not the fastest, it kinda just depends on the day and how much my legs hurt
I've been totally excited because almost every town we stay in, we shower at a Y. Which means theres a pool I can stretch out in, and I always feel at home in any pool!
All for now, theres a line! but thanks for reading my blog, and I just figured out the comment tab, and it makes me feel all warm and fuzzy that people actually read about my adventures!!!
love,
allie
Cool things I've seen on the rode:
-actually rode signs are really funny to look at. My favorite are down hill signs but I've seen them for tractors, ducks, cow crossings, you name it!
-did you know there are so many fricking mountains in the north east? We just finished crossing the Appalacians...holly shit that was hard!
-there are lots of ice cream stands and farm stands
-Ive seen two pigs, ducks, horses, rolly pollies, catepillars, badgers, deer, buffalo, hawks, dogs, cats, butterflies...just about everything
-Today at the top of the mountain pass there was a wind turbine park with at least 10 turbines, and when we were biking I could here them circling!
-Yesterday we biked through Amish country! I saw lots of horses and buggies and farms
Random thoughts:
-For me, this trip is not just about social justice in the realm of affordable housing. I think its really important to think about bike safety/cars sharing the road. Three days ago I was bumped (okay or hit) by a car. I only hit the side mirror, but it terrified me. I was also angry because I was on the shoulder. Being on the road all the time makes me realize how ignorant some drivers are about bikers, and how dangerous riding can be.
-Road kill is disgusting. I can now recognize the scent of it before I actually see it...road kill makes me never want to drive a car again...maybe when I grow up Ill be car free (!?).
-Attitude is everything (just like in any sport, or life really!). It really helps to sing or talk on the road, or play games (20 questions)
-I had no idea how beautiful this country is. I also had no idea what PA looked like- there are lots of hills and mountains, but also farmland with corn and cows and such
-No one told me about the Appalacian mountains, the Berkshires, and the Poconos
-Im still unsure where I belong in the riding group. Im not the slowest but not the fastest, it kinda just depends on the day and how much my legs hurt
I've been totally excited because almost every town we stay in, we shower at a Y. Which means theres a pool I can stretch out in, and I always feel at home in any pool!
All for now, theres a line! but thanks for reading my blog, and I just figured out the comment tab, and it makes me feel all warm and fuzzy that people actually read about my adventures!!!
love,
allie
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