36 miles

Rode my biggest training day yet!! I rode up to Hadley and had lunch with my mother then met a friend from the area who also travels to Malawi and has just returned. My ride was 18 miles each way and it all felt great! I rode on the Northampton bike path for some of the route...it was much cooler there! The ride home was cooler, because it was later. That had not been my original plan to leave that late, but it worked out well anyway.

My friend brought back some items for us to use to sell at craft fairs; fabric to make bags, some jewelry items and some wonderful paintings! She told me her stories of the trip, and new experiences of traveling in Malawi. We talked about the political climate there and what it's like learning about a different culture. We can always talk and talk about Malawi and our experiences both being there and then the experience upon return; it seeems not matter how many times I go, I come home having to readjust. She talked about wanting to return and do some other work and spend some time learning a little more aobut the culture. I always want to go back to Malawi, and I have it in my sights to save up and maybe she and I can travel together next time!!!

Off to school today; it's raining, and so I won't miss out on any riding today! My legs need to rest a little anyway. Plus, my bike needs a little cleaning and tuning up before I ride next!

Countdown

Training is speeding up! We have completed our drive of the planned route: most recently through New Hampshire and Vermont! That will be quite a challenge at the end of 8 days of riding! I am getting my bicylcle all set up for the ride ; we puchased a GPS unit to help with the ride. I am starting to ride more and more and really concentrate on being on the bike as much as possible to get my legs in good riding shape! I need to get out there today before the temperature heats up; supposed to be in the 90's today and tomorrow!

So, with that said, I need to also get going on fundraising - let's get that thermometer moving!!

Follow this link and click on the 'donate' paypal button:

www.educate-malawi.org/karens_ride_for_malawi

Thanks for your support!

Karen

Training has started

I am getting into the swing of it...really have to get moving; 50 miles a day will be a lot!! I have some websites to help me train, have to keep on track! Rode a little yesterday, 12 miles, and was thinking how far I have to go to be ready for 50 miles a day! I know I can do it!! Gotta drum up some business...gotta raise some money; afterall, it is a fundraiser!! Anyone want to ride? Donate? Up to $770 in donations....got a ways to go, but I will keep working on it! Thanks to all those who have supported me so far!