Training

8 months ago, I had this crazy idea that I would just hop on a bike and make my way across the country. Little did I know, biking 100 miles a day isn't something that a person can just decide to do one morning. Two weeks ago I began my training. When I saw that all I had to ride was 30 miles, I figured it would be pretty easy. Oh, how I was wrong. The first 20 miles were driven by adrenaline, but that did not last for the final 10 miles. I pushed through it and needless to say I went to bed without doing my homework. The next ride was pretty good, but I found the more miles I did the more of a mental challenge it became. 

All of last week I had to battle myself to go to the gym and just bike. But on Saturday morning while I was in the gym all alone biking, I was able to think. Training is going to be hard, but not as hard as getting up every morning around 5am and biking 100 miles through the heat, for 55 days straight. I was able to take a step back and really think about what I was getting myself into.

 If I were doing this ride just because I needed something to do all summer, I probably would have given up by now. But the thing is, I am doing this ride because I truly believe in the cause I am supporting. I envision a world where every child is given the opportunity to go to school inside a well structured building. I envision a world where every child can have school supplies. I envision a world where children can become students. Pencils of Promise sets out to achieve this. Every morning I will get on my bike and pedal to the end because I know I am helping change lives. I have 55 days to make an impact and I am determined to do whatever it takes to make sure I finish all 3,880 miles. 

Continue to follow my progress this summer and be sure to donate by clicking the phrase #55daystochangelives 

#55daystochangelives

Fundraising Update

         As my trip approaches, I felt the need to give everyone an update on the progress we are making. So far we have raised about $750!!! We are almost to $1,000. It is amazing, since the only people who know are the people that are on Facebook and Twitter. Lots of talking has been happening which is awesome. The Culver community has been extremely interested and supportive.

         I recently just received the Barefoot Grant for $500. I used that money to buy 2,000 custom made Pedaling for Pencils, pencils. I will be selling them for $0.50 and they will also be free to anyone that donates. We are hoping to raise $1,000 or more with the pencils.I will also have a booth at alumni weekend which will be great!

         I have been in communication with Pencils of Promise and they are super excited to see what Pedaling for Pencils can accomplish.

         I also just received my workout to begin training for my bike trip. Let's just be honest, the first week is going to kick my butt. I get home from school on June 4th and only have till June 13th to become best friends with my bike before I send it off to Oregon.

         Keep following my progress and keep spreading the word! My ride has now become more than just a fun summer experience. It has turned into a challenge that will be driven by the goal of changing the lives of students in Guatemala,Nicaragua, and Laos. I am determined to make a difference for them because they are changing my life by motivating me to go Coast to Coast on my bike.

Donate by clicking here!


 Keep up the great work!!