Back in Business!!!

As you can see, I'm all set up to get back on the road. Thanks to some help from various bike shops around Charleston, I've made the repairs to my bike and picked up another trailer. This trailer is almost identical to the one I was using before. It was missing the piece that connects it to the bike, but I went to the hardware store and pieced together an alternative contraption that should would just fine. As you can see in the top picture I purchased a flag that will hopefully make me just a bit more visible. In the second picture you can see the huge mirror that I added to keep an eye on cars coming up from behind me. My handle bars are bent up a bit, but nothing too major. I've had mixed feelings about continuing, but as everything has fallen together to get back on the road, I'm excited to carry on. I still have some minor pains, but not nearly enough to hold me back. Most of all, I appreciate the support from all my followers. Without your support I may not have had the ambition to push through this setback.

I'd like to thank everyone who offered to help cover the expenses to repair my bike and pick up a new trailer. I spoke with an insurance man from the insurance company of the man who hit me today. All expenses will be covered.

I'd also like to thank Chip and Scott who have let me stay at their place in Charleston over the past few days. I've had a great time. Charleston is a great city and I encourage people to check it out if you ever get the chance.

Next stop, McClellanville, SC. Then, Myrtle Beach!

Busy Day in Charleston

I meant to post this last night, but the internet wasn't really working. I know everyone is curious what my plan will be next. I woke up feeling better than expected. Still some pain in my knee, hip, and lower back, but nothing too bad. I went for a walk all over downtown Charleston. Stopped in to a few bike shops to ask about parts and a trailer, laid in a park and read for a bit, and had a nice cup of coffee at a coffee shop. I didn't have much luck at the bike shops I stopped by, but called one nearby and the worker said someone had recently left a trailer there and he would sell it to me for cheap! Perfect! Once I got back to my friends place I asked his roommate if he could give me a ride to the shop and he did. Thanks Scott. The trailer is very similar to the one I was using before, but it was missing the piece that connects it to the bike. I'm going to have to rig something up temporarily until I can find the piece at another shop. He also had the back wheel I was looking for. I didn't have my bike with me so I couldn't have it mounted right away. My plan is to find the tools that I'll need to do that somewhere today. I'm about to go for a walk and see if a bike shop will be willing to help me out. The nice part about this ride is I'm learning more about my bike and bike repairs.

I should have taken a picture of the trailer, but didn't think about it at the time. The EMTs took it to a dumpster. It was completely destroyed. The picture of my leg doesn't exactly show how bad the scrapes are. I originally thought it was just my knee, but its on my shin and behind my knee too. Don't ask me how that happened. The picture of the wheel doesn't really do it justice either. It's pretty mangled, and the aluminum is actually broken at one point. The third picture is of the park in Charleston. Charleston is a beautiful city and I had a great day walking around.

This morning while reading my Bible I read the parable in Luke where the people of Nazareth try to kill Jesus. They took him to a cliff and tried to push him off, but He just walked away. It wasn't his time yet. He had more ministering to do. Not to compare myself to Jesus, but I find it interesting that I just read this parable this morning. I had a similar experience where I was almost killed, and just walked away.

I'm feeling pretty great today and optimistic about fixing my bike and getting back on the road. I'll try to post before I leave.

Ride in a cop car.

Today I covered about 40 miles before being smashed into from behind. I was just riding along 17 north when a car, going full speed, crashed right into my trailer. I went flying over my handlebars and somersaulting on the shoulder. I actually remember rolling as I saw my gear flying next to me. I stood up the second I stopped rolling and was shocked that I was alive and had no broken bones. Seconds later a doctor pulled up and evaluated me and called 911. I wanted to walk around and find my gear, but he asked me to sit still for a while. A few minutes later police and EMTs showed up and gave me a more thorough evaluation. They even took photos of my injuries. I felt fine, minus the scrapes and bruises, and rejected the ride in the ambulance to the hospital. I didn't want to leave my gear and figured that I'd be in a waiting room all day just to have someone put a bandage on my bloody knee. A police report was filed and there was an estimate made on the damages to my bike and trailer. The drivers insurance will cover all the costs. When everything was all said and done we all stood there trying to figure out what to do with me and my bike. One of the officers agreed to give me a ride into town and threw my bike and all my gear in the trunk.

After arriving at my friends younger brother's place in downtown Charleston I took a shower, got a bite to eat, and called my parents. This brings me to the current moment. I'm debating what to do next. Physically I'm in some pain, especially in my hip and knee. We'll see how I feel tomorrow. Bike/gear wise, I would definitely need a new trailer and back wheel. It's possible my bike may have more damage to the frame that I'm unaware of. May also need some adjustments to the breaks and gears. Most of my gear is alright, but some of the food exploded from the impact and made a mess. Not sure how much money and time it would take me to get everything together and get back on the road. This would delay my already tight schedule. I'm also considering the weather that is already hitting the Mid-Atlantic.

The crazy part in this whole story is about 5 minutes before I was hit some woman stopped in front of me with her hazards on and expressed her concern to a officer who was on the side of the road. The officer spoke briefly with me and explained that she asked him to tell me that she would be praying for my safety.

I'll continue to update with my experiences and my decision on what to do next.

Fellow Travelers

I slept in this morning and had a nice big breakfast before leaving Savannah. Didn't end up getting out until after 2:00. Ended up riding about my last half hour in the dark. My total milage today was about 46. When I arrived at my campground I was informed that there were other cyclists at a nearby site. Before reserving a site I went over to meet them. It was three retired police officers on their way down to Key West, FL. After chatting a bit about our journeys, I asked if I could just pitch my tent on their site for the night. They happily agreed. We talked more and more about various experiences we've had thus far, gear we've brought, and reasons for our rides. You can learn more their ride at: http://www.crazyguyonabike.com/doc/frankz. We're all planning to have an early start tomorrow, but I'll try to get a picture in and post it afterwards. Tomorrow I plan to get to Charleston, SC. It'll be around 60 miles, my longest day yet.

Forgot to mention, I completed my first whole state today! Georgia.

Ricky and Pig!

Here are my two of my friends in Savannah that let me crash for the night. Thanks guys! Ricky has her own blog too. You can check it out at: catyoubig.livejournal.com

Turnaround night!!!

So when I wrote last nights blog I was quite discouraged. I thought all of my possible connections had failed. I went to the hostel around 9:30 and spoke with the man about staying there and he said he would need an answer by 10:30. I felt a lot of energy since I just left the coffee shop and it was a beautiful night. I decided that only my electronic options had been exhausted, and I still had good old face to face encounters. Savannah is a great city full of young, active, and friendly people.

I had to work up the guts, but I began to ride around and stop people who looked friendly. I'd briefly share my story and then ask if they were aware of anywhere I could sleep for the night. After just a few friendly encounters I had success! I was riding my bike along and someone called out, "Hey pedicab man!" This is a bit of a coincidence because I used to be a pedicab driver in Columbia, MO. For anyone who doesn't know what a pedicab is, check out this link http://www.pedicab.com/pedicabs-classic-pedicab.html. Back to the story. So I stopped and gave my spiel. Right away, my new friend Ricky, offered for me to stay at her place. I chatted with them for a while as I told them more about myself and my trip, and learned that the group of friends were on a benefit pub crawl for the local humane society. Ricky offered for me to go back to her place to get a shower, then we'd decide what to do next. After my shower we played with Ricky's new pet bunny, Pig. Two of my other new friends, Sarah and Robert decided to go home, but Ricky and I went downtown to check out a show. We went to the Jinx in downtown Savannah. They had some "hardcore" bands playing. Not my typical genre of music, but I enjoyed it. When we returned I slept on the couch known as the, "black hole." I learned why soon after I laid down. So my once discouraging evening turned into an exciting night of new friends and experiences. I learned that phones and internet aren't the only way to make new friends and find a place to sleep.

Savannah

Today's ride went pretty well. I'm feeling more fit and capable of covering more miles, more easily. As I got into Savannah I passed a bike shop and stopped in to ask a question about a clanking sound I was hearing from my bike. The bike mechanic realized that I had a broken spoke and my rear wheel was way out of true. True is the term used for how circular the wheel is. Often wheels become a bit bent over time and begin to wobble. I had him replace the wheel, but he still hadn't figured out what the clanking sound was. He checked my chain and cassette. The cassette is the part on the back wheel with the multiple sprockets that the chain fits on. He said they both seemed fine, but was willing to replace them both. I replied that I'd try my luck with the new wheel and address the problem later if it persisted.

After leaving the bike shop I went to a coffee shop to try to figure out where I'd be sleeping for the night. I made many attempts to contact someone through friends and couchsurfing with no luck. Then I went to take a little rest in Forsyth Park. Its a big, beautiful park right in the middle of Savannah. I was hoping I'd hear from someone. Still, no luck. Once it started to get late I went back to the coffee shop for some dinner and try again. I heard back from one couchsurfing host, but she already had a guest. This brings me to right now. My fall back plan is to stay at a hostel for $40 a night. It's a bit pricey, but close, and really my only option at this point.

Smallest Church in America!!!

Here is where I stayed last night. I had the place all mapped out, but then thought I passed it by about 3 miles and went back. Then I called the church and realized that it was another 7.5 miles north! My moral was crushed, but I was determined to get there. My total milage by the end of the day was 52. The pastor had told me earlier in the day that dinner was at 5:30, and I didn't get there until after 7. I was so when I arrived. The people there welcomed me in and let me have some leftovers. I piled a huge plate of ham and potatoes. After serving myself I thought, wow this is a lot of food, hope I can eat it. Of course, I did without a problem. They even served me a worms-in-dirt dessert! After dinner I went across the street and stayed on the property of the Smallest Church in America. I was told that it belongs to Jesus, and his name is actually on the deed. It wasn't a bad camping spot. In the morning I did my Bible study and reflection in the church before I left.

Tasty break.

I'm currently sitting at Waterfront Wine & Gourmet in Darian, GA. I stopped to get some quick internet access and plan my next couple stops. I enjoyed a nice IPA and some almonds while doing so. I contacted a church in Townsend, GA called South Newport Baptist. The pastor explained that the smallest church in America across the street and I could stay there for the night. He also invited me to dinner at 5:30. I'm just about to take off and hope to make it on time!!

Fruit Stand in Brunswick

I had recently finished some fresh fruit I left home with and was looking for a roadside fruit stand. I noticed this one and stopped and picked up some apples, oranges, and plums. She even had coconut candy bars! Got one of those too. I stopped for a minute to chat with her about my trip and have a quick snack.

Brunswick Bridge

I was encouraged to take a different route by a friend at the hostel because this bridge is so big with such a long incline, but I wanted to see it! The route was a bit out of my way, but worth it. It was easier than expected and I was able to do the whole thing without stopping. I hit my max speed on the way dow, 23mph. Don't worry I was safe.

Labyrinth

Here's the view out the window of my treehouse. I walked it this morning as I prayed for strength for me and my bike.

Tree house!

This is where I'm sleeping tonight. I got in at about 3 this afternoon and was able to get a nice shower and relax for a bit. Dinner should be anytime. They cook an all organic vegitarian dinner for all guests. Then we all eat together family style.

Todays ride went well, 32 miles. Im planning on about 40 tomorrow. I've made some calls, but no confirmed place to stay yet. I have a campground that's a back up though.

1st camp site

This is where I camped my first night. Not a bad spot, however I didn't sleep to well. As you can see it was a cement floor. I had a sleeping mat, but it didn't help that much. There was also a major road right next to me and there were trucks passing all night and street lights on. Either way, I appreciate the First United Methodist Church allowing me to stay. Next stop, Hostel in the Forest in Brunswick, GA. You can check it out at foresthostel.com.

Goodbye dogs :(

Had to say goodbye to the dogs before I left. On the left is Sunday and on the right is Shelbert. You can also see the shirt I had made before I left. It says "Craig's Coastal Ride" with the Starfish logo beneath it. On the back it has the links for my blog, my fundraising site, and the starfish website.

Full trailer

Here is a picture of my trailer fully loaded before I left.

First day

Made it to Kingsland, GA! Now that I'm on the road I'll be doing a lot of posts from my phone, so bear with me. I'm sitting in my tent now in the gazebo outside the church.  I can see kids playing a little ways away. They should be getting home soon, it's a school night! I met a couple guys outside a furniture store where I stopped to use the bathroom and they asked what I was doing. After I told them one of the took a picture to post on facebook.

Im feeling pretty good. The ride went well. Stopped once for a snack. It took me just under 3 hours and went about 27 miles. The pick I added is of me departing from my house. I'm looking forward tio getting to Brunswick, GA tomorrow.

Departure!!!

Today is the day. I have planned, packed, and said my goodbyes. I'd like to thank everyone for your support. I'd especially like to thank my parents and sister, friends at the beach house where I've lived, and all the other friends and family that have supported me thus far. I'd also like to thank my friends who have taken similar trips and given me guidance on what to expect. Most of all I thank God for giving me the courage to taking on such a challenge. He has encouraged and guided me to take this adventure and will be with me the entire time.

Tonight I will ride to Kingsland, GA where I will be staying in a gazebo behind the First United Methodist Church. I called and spoke with the pastor earlier this week and he said that I could stay there. I'd like to thank the church for letting me stay.

I'm looking forward to sharing my first thoughts and experiences of the trip in my next post.

Thank you CGC!

I just finished my last day of work at Child Guidance Center on Thursday (10/20). I've had a great experience working there and grew so much as a therapist. I feel so much support from my co-workers and agency as a whole. It has been a great agency to work for. Happy 60th!

Foooooood!

Here is the food I've packed. It would be a lot to take all at once, so I've split it up into two packages. One will be for my initial decent, and the other will be a resupply later on. I'll package it up and send it to a friend who lives in North Carolina, he will meet me about 8-10 days into my trip with the extra food and some warm clothes for the colder climates. Thanks Kelly Alford, look forward to seeing you.

This won't be the only food I'll be eating. I plan to stop at various diners and restaurants along the way. I may also experience some nice home cooked meals, if I'm lucky. I can also stop at any grocery store or gas station if I need to pick a few things up.

As you can see in the back I have my camp stove and cup. That's what I'll be eating just about everything out of. Cleaning will consist of the "pour water in, swish it around, and drink" method. Learned that at Outward Bound. Don't worry, I'll actually wash it when I get the chance.

You can't really tell but next to the stove is my coffee press. Anyone who knows me knows that I looove coffee. Not exactly a necessity on the road, but something I will surely enjoy when I take the extra time to make it.

The water jug will serve as my reserve. I will typically be drinking out of the water bottles on my bike, but have the jug to fill the bottles and have as a little extra.

Camping Gear

Here is the camping gear I'll be taking. On the left is my sleeping pad. Across the top, from left to right, is my pillow, tent, tarp, and in the orange bag are stakes for the tent and cords to hang a clothes line and set up my tarp. The poles on the right are for my tent. The black bag is my sleeping bag and to the right is my hammock. Everything will be in a large dry bag.

The tent is not exactly your standard setup. I actually picked it up at a garage sale that was already over. The woman gave it to me for free. It's a junior, but should work for me if I curl up or sleep diagonally. I've tested it in my back yard over the course of a stormy weekend here in Floridan and it stayed in place and surprisingly dry.

On nights that I end up camping I will typically stay in the tent. The hammock is real nice for a relaxing nap, but not so comfortable for a whole nights sleep.

My Wheels!!

Here is the bike I will ride. It's a Schwinn from the 80's that I got from my parents back in college. It's a fantastic bike! I've brought it with me everywhere I've lived since moving away from home, and have ridden it many miles. It's been through multiple adjustments and new parts. I've made some additions and changed a few things to prepare for the trip.

Today I replaced the back tire and tube and the grip tape on the handle bars. The new grip tape has more cushion and will give me a better grip. As you can see, I also have added a mirror at the end of my left handle bar, a headlight and taillight, bike computer, extra water bottle to stay hydrated, U-lock, and seat bag with extra tubes and patch kit. I replaced the seat with the one I originally had on my mountain bike, hoping it's a little more comfortable. I also have a gel cushion that fits over it. I've heard that it's inevitable that your butt hurts after hours of riding. Lastly, I also took the toe cages off my mountain bike pedals put them on this bike. This should help my pedal efficiency.

I recently made adjustments to my breaks and gears to have them in working order. I will be taking a small tool kit with me to fine tune along the way and make any repairs. I should be prepared for most minor problems, but will be passing bike shops along the way for additional parts, repairs, or support.

My next post will include my trailer and the gear that I'll be taking with me.

First Post!!

So I haven't actually started my ride yet, but figured people might be interested in the planning stages of my journey. Plus, it might be a bit hard to start after I've already started the ride. I wanted to create this to share my trip with all my friends and family. I know some people will be quite curious where I am and how I'm doing as I ride up the coast.

I'll give a brief summary of my "current" plans for the trip. I say "current" because my plans will likely change over the course of the next month or so based on many factors along the way.

My plan is to depart from Fernandina Beach, FL on Oct 24th and arrive in Jersey City, NJ on or before Nov 24th for Thanksgiving with my family. I say NYC for the sake of the trip because Jersey City is just across the river, and NYC is more well known. My sister, Trina, lives there and will be hosting the dinner. Hopefully its good because I'll be ready to FEAST!

I plan to stay with various friends along the way, as well as contact churches to see if they'll let me pitch my tent for a night, in exchange for some service. I'll also be using warmshowers.org and couchsurfing.org. We'll see where else I end up staying as my adventure develops. I'm sure that I will meet some very hospitable people along the way.

I have about the first week mapped out thus far. I plan to use mostly google maps "biking" directions to guide me along. This application should give me the best route to take on my bike between destinations.

I will be doing this ride as a fundraiser for Camp Starfish. This is an overnight summer camp for children with behavioral and emotional problems that I worked at during a the summers of my college years. The camp is based in Boston, MA, but the camp itself is located in southern NH. It is an amazing camp that changes the lives, not only of the campers, but of the staff as well. Working at Camp Starfish played a big part in me becoming a social worker, and learning many of the skills that I use today. It is a very deserving cause and I look forward to supporting them along my trip. I have spoke with the director about setting up a page for supporters to donate and it should be up and running soon. In the meantime check out the camp at campstarfish.org.

In the next 13 days before leaving for my trip I will post updates about my preparations. Things such as my planned route, gear I will be taking, and pictures. I look forward to sharing this adventure with anyone and everyone who follows!! (on the blog that is)