Well, here I am---about two months from departure. So much to do and I'm always a step behind. But, things are creeping forward. Actually, they are hurtling forward and I am strapped to a high speed javelin, heading toward the challenge of my life. Am I up to it? I think so. My trike is "broken"--waaahhh--- and I don't have the projected funds to make this trip comfortably without a hint of anxiety. But, I haven't sent out the sponsor request letters. I spent part of the last weekend with Deois to learn how to get decent journal articles on the effects of exercise on bone density. Running increases it. Weightlifting increases it. Cycling increases it only if you are a pretty weak individual. If you are an athlete, cycling actually doesn't help your bone density at all. You'd be better off walking--which is a weight bearing activity. These things I knew, having been interested is osteoporosis for a few decades. As a physical therapist, I have worked with many senior ladies with fractures and osteoporosis. So, it was important to learn about exercise prescription. Since I have osteopenia--like osteoporosis in its infancy stages---I need to supplement my cycling with other exercise. I will try to get in some regular hiking and strength training. My current regimen is fairly well rounded, addressing strength, flexibility, and endurance. I recognize that my arms are likely to get a bit weak on this trip so I will do daily push ups. When possible, I will try to do pull ups--but I would need to pass by public parks sporting "monkey bars" for the kiddies to have access to a bar sturdy enough to hoist myself vertically without breaking the thing or hurting myself!
I have no idea how this blog gets sent out, except through my website. Another thing to learn!!
I love life.
Jo

Well, here we are, about 2 months plus a few weeks from departure date. The website is being worked on--I hope it will be ready to go soon. My trike is in the shop with a broken part. I may have to go pick it up and bring Henry David home and see if Esteban can help me fix him. Rod Miner, from LightFoot Cycles, is at the ready to give advice once I know what to tell him! I have 5 weeks left of work. I have limited funds set aside for the trip and hope that the money will be there when I need it.
Yesterday, a nice family came and took Sam, my beloved golden retriever. He will now live out his years playing ball with the children. He will be very happy, but for today, I am sad.
Yet, it is all in the natural progression of things. Adventures require hardship; it's a part of the Journey. Without the pain, you can't experience the wonder of discovery.