I haven't posted anything in a while, but my preparation has continued diligently. I've been training on the spinner bike at the gym lately since it is hard to find any good daylight this time of year. Two to three days a week I've been logging about 20 mile rides. Since training time is somewhat limited I incorporate a lot of hill climbs and steady resistance progression. The other three days of the week I hit the weight room hard to keep my entire body strong. This training plus a healthy diet, I should be able to finish this ride no problem. I might even turn around and ride the whole way back. Depends on how the first leg treats my butt. The ride is in about 9 months so I have quite a bit of time. Right now I'm weighing in at about 212 - 215. By race day I'm going to get myself in between 190 and 200. That shouldn't be too hard, and I imagine it will make the ride a lot easier. So far I have raised 7% of my goal, but it's still early. I'm going to hit the campaign trail harder in the coming months. Thank you so much to all of those who have donated. I can't tell you enough how much I appreciate it. I really have to thank most of all my wife, and my mom and friends. Their encouragement has really pushed me and reassured me that I can definitely do this, and that it can make a difference. Everyone has told me how proud my dad would be of me, and I know that is true. He was always a strong influence, great motivator, and wonderful role model in my life. I learned so much from him that I try to incorporate in my life and values. He was a guy who's faith was so important to him and he reflected that in the way he lived. He always found the good in others and in situations in life. He always treated people with respect because he truly cared about each and every person he came in contact with. Those are his qualities that inspire me every day, and have inspired me to do this.
