Day 21, January 25, 2002
JEFF'S
UPDATE
What should have been an easy ride on flat, well paved Florida roads, turned into my second toughest day after food poisoning last night left me with nothing in my system and no way to eat or hold anything down.
As such, today was a day of reflection and perseverance around what is important and why this cause we are riding for is so important. As I struggled through the day I thought about a lot of things.
I thought about the two people we rode for, Stan Easton and Helen Amundson. Both Stan and Helen passed away from cancer. Translating that into motivation, I thought as terrible as I felt is could not even represent 1% of the pain that someone with cancer endures.
I thought a lot about friends for today was one that without friends I am not sure I could have made it through. Last night as I was shivering, Kevin not only went on his own accord and got me medicine, but he even spooned it out for me! Today as we rode, all day long Kevin, Jamie, and Fredrik took the lead and broke the wind allowing me to expend the least amount of energy possible to complete our 121 mile day. I also got great support from Alison Wallace who provides broth, green tea, and crackers to help me through the day, and from Eric whose words of encouragement simply made it easier to keep going.
I got a lot of motivation from the fact that my family was coming today. Seeing them for the first time since January 2nd when I left for California was something I dearly looked forward to. They are my source of pride and joy!
Lastly I thought a lot of the power of the mind. As on our website "Never Quit" has been the watchword of Kevin's and my ride. Set a goal and achieve it. I thought about the words of that poem several times today. Those words I hope will be part of who I am in the future when I am finished with this 24 day ride.
I am proud to be part of this team. I am learning so much about myself and what is really important in this world.
Jeff
KEVIN'S UPDATE
Today would not have happened without Alison, Freddy & Jamie. Alison, my sister, was up until 2:30 am last night cleaning the RV, preparing food for today, and buying groceries. Jamie and Fred stepped up to the plate by riding hard today and helping bang out 121 miles in under 6 hours.
The biggest trooper of the team was Jeff. After battling a case of food poisoning last night he dug deep and once again rode entire ride.
Today was another example of how the power of the team can overcome many challenges.
Happy birthday Auntie Marg. You are an amazing person. Alison & I are so lucky to have you in our lives.
Rose, Andrew & Jonathan my thoughts are with you every moment of the day. Cheers to Gears!
Kevin Wallace
JAMIE'S UPDATE
Today's ride was fast and pretty uneventful other than a broken spoke and a flat tire. The road was straight, relatively flat and the wind was somewhat cooperative. Today I learned how important it is to have support for an event like this to be successful. Kevin's sister Allison is either driving the van, preparing some great food, cleaning or working on logistics. Eric is the multitasking man, when he isn't riding he is making amazing smoothies, fixing tires or ordering me around. On top of all of that he has an outfit for each job! Jennifer has helped us shuttle our car around for the past 2 days and acted as a taxi driver. She apparently gives an amazing massage but I don't think I have that option on my Butterfield and Robinson tour! OLN Chrissy is always prepared to lend a hand when she isn't filming that is.
While I rode today I thought about how teamwork can make even the biggest challenges become possible. I also thought about how good it makes you feel to lend a hand (or in this case quads and calves). I hope that everyone reading this is inspired to do the same.
A special hello to my Aunt Steffan and to Janet and her family you were with me today and helped me get through some long miles.
Emily, Addie and Katie how are you?? xoxo Jamie
FREDDY'S UPDATE
Today was a great day! (maybe not for Jeff) We did the distance, the wind gods were not on our side but they weren't too bad, the pavement was smooth and I was greeted by my wife at the end of the day! It just doesn't get better than that! It was a day where you could just put your head down and get into your zone, and think about and be greatful for everything you have but most of all your health. Riding these long stretches, makes you think a great deal about what really counts in life, health, laughter, and for me, spending every possible moment with my family.
To all, take good care of your bodies and live life! Huggs and kisses (with a little tickle) to Natalie, Marissa and Stefan, love Daddy.
PS; Joanne- took your advice and pulled Jeff and Kev through the same route as Ironman Florida!