It's All About Perspective: Sleepless Nights

     As I quickly dashed through the cafeteria at school (shoveling a piece of 7Eleven pizza in my mouth for a quick dinner before work), a classmate caught my eye--she looked distressed so I swung over to ask, "How's it going?"  She looked at me with a deer-in-the-headlights look, and said, "I'm kind of freaking out.  I just realized that I don't get to sleep tonight because I have so much to do!"  I nodded sympathetically and said I was in the same boat, and that I hope everything goes well tonight for her.
     After this run-in, I got to thinking: Are sleepless nights really all that terrible?  And a key concept kept on coming up--it all depends on what caused or will cause the sleepless night(s).  My classmate, I don't think, should be nearly as upset as she is.  Yes, it's stressful, but you do your best and put it into perspective.  Her scenario is far easier to digest than some other.  Here are a few examples:

1) The Procrastination Factor (When You're Already Too Busy)
     This is where I feel my classmate (as well as myself) has fallen into the sleepless night trap. She seemed so caught off guard by it, but, c'mon, we're students.  We have a pretty explicit schedule of rehearsal, class syllabi, and work.  Yes, there are definite hiccups that can interrupt the flow of our normal routine.  But, I don't think that this was a surprise by any means--just a realization that a lot of crap is do at the same time and you didn't manage your time well enough to prepare for it.  I'm not saying that I don't do this on a weekly basis, and end up kicking myself when it happens, but... it's your own fault and you don't need to act like it's the end of the world. 
2) New Relationship
     I am currently in this category, along with the latter.  We all know about the giddiness and energy that magically appears when you're in a new relationship.  I've already had many late nights on the phone, all of which--at any time--I could have said, "Well, I have to be up at 6 AM for work, so I'll have to let you go."  But, of course, I didn't.  STUPIIIIIID.  But, at the same time, I cherish the many hours of chuckles, romantic comments, and getting to know the other person that have come out of these talks.  This, I think, is a "good" sleepless night, despite the many in a row that I've encountered.
3) Poor Sleeping Conditions
     I had to deal with this the last night of my trip.  I'm not saying that sleeping in a tent in the Appalachians was, by any means, poor sleeping conditions.  I was just not as prepared as I should have been.  The temperature dropped off and got cooler than normal that evening.  I have a fleece blanket, sleeping mat, pillow, pants, long socks, hoodie, T-shirt made into a hat, shoes, etc., off of which I was using, but I was still cold.  Luckily I had one of those Emergency/Shiny Silver blankets in my first aid kit.  If it hadn't been for that thing I would have more than likely gotten hypothermia that night... no lie.  This is a not-so-fun sleepless night scenario, but, again, it was my fault so I can't really complain.
4) Lost Loved One
     My classmate, along with myself, should be very grateful that all of our sleepless nights have been due to our own stupidity thus far.  Recently, a relative of mine lost their spouse.  This was not expected, and they were still very young--around 30.  The spouse went canoeing late at night to blow off steam and ended up somehow tipping the canoe over, going into hypothermic shock, and drowning.  There were many sleepless nights for my relative because they did not find the body initially; it took almost a week for the search crews to find it.  I cannot even imagine the angst and horrific pain that they went through.

A lesson to us all: be thankful for the self-inflicted sleepless nights, and cherish 

the fact that we're still here.

Giving Back in a Big Way.... Potentially

HAAAAAAAAAAAAAALLELUJAH   HAAAAAAAAAAALLELUJAH!

     Yes, that is the sound of angels singing to the amazing idea I had the other day.  As I've stated, next summer's bike ride proceeds are going to go toward a special surprise for someone.  BUT, the year after that.... *insert genius, commendable idea here*... dun dun dun DUUUUUUUUUUN: I'd like to start an annual scholarship [fund] for a graduating senior from my HS that is going into college with an arts-based [visual, literary, or performing] major.  A daunting task for sure because I know I'll have to raise a HELL of a lot of money to start an endowment and such--but if Obama can get millions of dollars by single dollar pledges, then "Yes, I can" too.
     There are so many things (as always to my schemes) to get done to make this happen.  I guess it's because I tend to think go big, or go home.  Firstly, I have to get in contact with the persons who would know whether or not my HS will be running in a few years.  Like many state-funded educational institutions, it has had its fair share of financial cuts, budget amendments, etc.  There was talk that this past school year would be its last--but it's still kicking!  Once that is done, and if there is a positive outcome of the conversation, I have SO many more questions that need to be asked.  Like, "How in the HELL do I even go about starting a Capital Campaign for a scholarship?!"  I've got a few ideas of how the whole process should happen:

1) Ask school representatives about its health/staying open for at least 5 years... 10 years... 15 years...
     if bad news, stop here or ask another, local school
     if good news, proceed to step two
2) Ask a financial advisor/tax advisor what steps I have to take in order to go about creating an endowment
3) Approach local businesses and community members with proposition of donating toward the scholarship
     endowment fund via personal contact and publicizing the SHIT out of the recital and what it's for, etc.
4) Create criteria for the scholarship applicant(ion) [this will actually happen well before this point, but it
     needed to be put somewhere]
5) Implement said scholarship plan! :)

     Yes, I'm only 25 and should probably be worrying about other things, like what I'll be doing after I graduate from Grad School.  Trust me, I am.  Opera applications, along with Arts Mgt & (soon enough) Junior College and Fine Arts Schools' voice faculty applications are strewn across my desk at home.  I've got [many] plans, but I'm not going to corner myself by only having one career path in my future.  I prefer to be well-rounded and be able to do a lot of things within a field that I love, whether it's performing (which I'll always do), teaching, or advocating/working behind the scenes as an administrator.

Here's to making a difference.

Back to School

Thus starts the second [and last] year of my Masters degree; and the first day, thankfully, wasn't an indication of how the semester has been going (for 2 weeks).  On my way to school for the first day of class, I blew a bike tire, then my first class was with one of those professors that is a genius (which means I couldn't follow 90% of what he was saying), and after that I had a shitty audition for the opera department.  Luckily, everything has been going upward, for the most part, since then.

This blog, my injury & true joy from cycling and adventure, along with other factors, really have been a launching pad for me.  Because of these things, I am even more dedicated to making this annual trip (from where ever I live) home.  I not only want to create for my hometown an opportunity to hear great music of genres that they normally wouldn't hear, but I also want to raise money for different causes that are near & dear to me.  I have devised a sneaky scheme--with good intentions, mind you--for my next recital in my hometown.  I shant reveal the theme for the next year because I'm hoping to surprise someone for whom I care.  I will tell you though, that I am not the only artist on the bill; a good friend of mine, and possibly a few others, are breaking out some old school material we did back in HS (and some new stuff) just so we can all have a good time while raising money for great causes.  So suspenseful, I know, and I promise it will be an amazing [potential] show, surprise and blog entry when the time comes. 

I realize after hurting my knee before & during my trip that I need to take a bit more care of myself and not attempt to be Super Woman, blowing everyone's (and my own) mind with outstanding distances and physical feats the entire trip... it can lead to some devastating & long-term injuries.  I need to balance it out, as far as knowing when I can or should push myself & when not to, and compensate for the weight I'm carrying by giving myself a little extra time (not to mention for wrong turns too!).  It's just very difficult for me to not give 120% all the time; it's in my blood.  I'm not looking forward to wearing a compression sleeve the entire time next year, so I need to take the proper steps to heal my knee (even then I may still have to wear it to keep from re-injuring it).

I'm so excited to raise awareness and funds for so many different worthy causes.

BRING IT.

A Long-Awaited Update

This summer has been crazy.  First, I hurt my knee on my trip--no biggie.  Well, it still hurts every now & then, so I guess it was a biggie, but I'm still alive, right?! :)  Since I returned to Baltimore, in late June, a lot has happened: I moved to a new apartment which is lacking in mice, has water pressure & windows that stay in the track, a made-for-an-adult-sized-person kitchen, hardwood floors, and a big front porch... so happy that I moved.  My dog is even happier; I think my anxiety of living at the old, beyond shitty place rubbed off on him.  I also got hired as the Administrator for the church at which I sing!  Hot dog--now I'm using BOTH of my Bachelor Degrees!
One semi-bad thing is that the competition I did all of this for, the Marseilles' Int'l Opera Competition, for whatever reason, is POSTPONED for TWO years!  So, I had to propose an alternate use of the funds to a committee from school so that I don't have to pay back the $600 they awarded me.  I sent this proposal to my hometown paper too, so all of the people there knew what was going on with their money.  What a bust!

Oh well, lots of other things that need to be paid for in order to get my career on the way!  Headshots.  Travel for auditions.  A website.  New recordings.  Etc.  TAKE THAT committee!

This is an exceptionally brief update, but I have to get back to work/school.  A detailed one of future [EXCITING] plans is to come!

Adventure Cut Short--Injury

     Of course, of all of the epic stories that could've been titled "This Is Why I Didn't Get All the Way Home," the subject of mine is my knee.  >:[  NOT HAPPY.  Oh well--it was an adventure, for sure, and I will do my best to relay it to you.

Day 1: Baltimore, MD to Reston,VA
     I left Baltimore around 12:30-1 pm.  I arrived home after singing for a church service to find that my dog, Dodge, had chewed through all of the garbage I had set aside to take out after the service.  This was a PERFECT way to start the trip!  I was not in a very good mood, but I blew it off and hopped on my bike.  The journey began!
     Getting out of the city is always the challenge, and Baltimore was no exception.  Even with directions, it always seems to be a jumbled mess.  Roads don't hit roads they're supposed to, some are closed for construction, etc.  But, eventually, I got out.  I had do go through some sketchy neighborhoods, but that was expected. 
     I got further and further away, and it got prettier and prettier.  I went by some forest/parks, down a winding hillside road that went along a creek--it reminded me of being home already :)  I definitely walked a hill or two (some were just too steep for me and all my gear).  Eventually I had to stop for a break.  I stopped at the top of a hill in an area between Ilchester and Columbia.  I had to keep checking the online basic google map versus my directions because some of the stuff I wrote down didn't seem right to me (plus, I didn't have a navigation app on my phone--for some reason we couldn't get it activated for the trip).
     I started off again, and somehow missed my first road of the trip.  No big deal, I guess.  I had regular maps, my phone, and an atlas, so I could definitely make it up and find my way to Reston.  To top it off, about 20 miles out of town the maps I had made for the first day went MIA--waaaaaaah waaaaaaaaaah.  So, I made it to Laurel for a late lunch/early dinner, and then redid my directions for the afternoon. 
     Eventually I made it down to the DC area.  And, like any city, the roads are funky because they're based around monuments, water, etc., so they don't necessary hit where they say they will according to the map.  I had to stop a little before dusk and ask a gentleman who was walking his dogs where the path was that led to the Key Bridge (so I could cross the Potomac River and get to VA)--he was very kind and a cyclist himself.  I ended up doing my first little bit of night cycling then--along the river, on a paved path.  It was so peaceful and energizing. 
     I finally crossed the bridge, after having to backtrack up a steep hill to get on M Street.  Once across the river, I realized I was really screwed without the maps I had made for the day, so I called the host family I was going to stay with for the night and asked them for a suggested route.  They said because it was already dark and the route I was hoping to take was curvy, moonlit and had very little shoulder that I should just stay put and they'd come get me.  I was about 15 miles away from my destination for the night, and after losing my maps and having to redo my route I didn't see it as such a big failure. 
     My host family was very sweet and welcoming.  We talked the whole way to their house, they made me a burger at 10 pm and breakfast in the morning, and helped me get on my way/look over my maps before I left.  Let's just say that day two wasn't much better... if not worse :)  But, it was all part of the adventure.
Lesson Learned: Don't keep you laminated (or any) maps in your backpack's netted bottle holder--they'll fall out.

Day 2: Reston, VA to Wolf Gap, WV [Revised: Reston to Front Royal, VA]
     I knew, because of how off track I had gotten on day 1, that I would more than likely not get to Wolf Gap by the end of the day.  I didn't realize how long re-routing and second guessing yourself would take :D  Oh well, I was going to give it my best shot.  And, I probably would've come pretty darn close IF I hadn't made a huge & stupid error early in the morning.
     I left my host family's house around 8 am, and went on my way.  When I got to the first main road that I had to take, my directions said "Go South for about 3.5 miles...."  Since the road didn't have north/south arrows, I grabbed my handy-dandy little compass just to check, and then went off in the direction that it said was "south".  BAD IDEA.  I should've just trusted my common sense!  I know my cardinal directions very well--it's hard to get me turned around--but I was just plain stupid that morning (I think it was because my host family was getting really anxious, and in turn it made me anxious and discombobulated).  So, after about FIVE miles and not seeing the road I was supposed to, going around and around on this little side streets, etc., I was getting really frustrated.  I broke out the phone a few times and still couldn't figure it out.  Then it dawned on me--it was about 10-10:30 in the morning, I was facing in the direction I had come from and the sun was on my left.... I was facing south.  I just stood there for a second and let it sink in; I grabbed my compass and held it up as I faced south, and low & behold, it said I was facing "north".  DAMMMMMMMMIIIIIIIITTTTTT! 
     So, after wasting a few hours that morning, I hopped on my bike, again, and headed off in the RIGHT direction.  All I could do was laugh at myself.  I kept on thinking, "Once my dad hears about this I'll NEVER live it down.  It's like the time I went 'sand duning' in my car and got stuck."  When I sat down for lunch, on the road that I was supposed to get to 3 hours earlier, I got out my maps and decided that I would get to Front Royal, VA, which was about 20-30 miles short of my original destination.  No biggie!  I'd still get a good 70-80 miles in for the day, backtracking included.
     I made it to Front Royal around 8 or 8:30 pm.  There were a few enormous hills that I had to walk, but I got there!  The last hill is just before the town--and then it's a plunging downhill sweep into the town's center.  I went to the first motel I saw, got a room, walked across the street to a local burger joint (which has DAMN GOOD burgers!), and then off to sleep.
Lesson Learned: Don't trust your CHEAP ASS compass that is part of a compass, thermometer, magnifying glass & whistle combo.  It WILL lead you in the wrong direction, guaranteed.

Day 3: Wolf Gap, WV to Elkins, WV [Revised: Front Royal to Jerome, VA]
     Front Royal is only about 25 miles from the border to WV.  I figured I'd be to the border just after lunch time (because of the hills & whatnot).  Then, I was planning on following my directions for the rest of the way home, hoping to make up for lost time once I got to the west side of WV/Ohio--Ohio is flat, so I was sure that it'd be a piece of cake after the Appalachians!  Since I hadn't made any camping reservations for WV, where I slept each night wasn't a concern or problem.
     Yet again, without fail, VA back roads threw me off, big time.  It should've taken four hours TOPS for me to make it over the border, but that wasn't the case.  I ended up skirting the border because of the extremely poorly marked (and gravel) roads.  Many of the signs do not line up with the road they are supposed to represent; they roads meet at a four-way stop, but the signs go diagonal to both of them--which is which?!  Also, to make it harder, many roads have multiple names or they change names as they curve around hills, mts, go over creeks, etc., and the maps that I had made didn't always have the multiple names.  I had most of them, but then sometimes I didn't and had to wing it. 
     I made it to the Wolf Gap area in a in an insanely slow amount of time, and it was only downhill from there.  For some reason, SR (state road) in VA equates to GRAVEL.  And, being in the mountains, it's a pain in the ass.  My first challenge was a hill on a road called "Mine Mountain Lane."  It was a deviation off of Boyer Road, which is a side road after the eastern part of the George Washington Nat'l Forest--that place is BEAUTIFUL.  I would highly recommend going there if you get the chance.  I wove through Elizabeth Furnace (a lot of the town names have Furnace in them for some reason).  Getting back to Mine Mountain Lane.  I was only supposed to be on it for a little bit, then I was, according to my map, supposed to hop on another road and meet up with it again near the end of it... this never happened because the other road wasn't there.  And this road, Mine Mountain, was HELL.  Uphill, at about a 14-20 grade, and GRAVEL.  If you've ever tried to go on gravel, especially while being weighted down with gear and going uphill, you know it's pretty difficult if not impossible with tires that are in between road and off-road.  So, I walked this road for the most part.  I'm assuming it was about 3 miles, and it was ALL uphill.  Absolute anger was evident at first, but it faded and eventually I just told myself that this was what it was about: the adventure, challenge and stories I'd have to tell when I got home.  When I reached the top, at Mt. Tower [road], I took a break and a picture.  I had walked up a friggin mt w/all my gear!  Challenge #xxx accomplished!  I was pretty proud.  Granted I wasn't on the right road, but I did it.  Now, I could enjoy the ride down--which was INSANE!  It was switchbacks on gravel :D  I had to keep my brakes on the entire time.  It was fun, and beautiful, but a little nerve-wracking.  At the bottom was Woodstock, VA.  I stopped for lunch/dinner, and then was on my way again.  I knew I wasn't going to make it to Elkins, WV by any means, so I checked my maps and saw that there were a few campgrounds over the border that were on the way there, so I planned to stop at one of them instead.
    The road I had to take after I got to Wolf Gap (I switched over to the next day's directions so that I could stay on my planned route--I could forgo stopping @ Wolf Gap), was quite the challenge.  It wasn't nearly as bad as Mine Mountain Lane, but it was uphill and gravel too.  Then, there was a fork in the road... and it wasn't on my map per se.  I was tired and somewhat frustrated, so I said, "Well, I have to go NW, so I'm going this way.  Woops.  Mistake #xxx.  If I had gone right, which took me up (more uphill and on gravel) to the top of the mt and essentially into WV, I would've been GOLDEN.  But, I went left, the easy way, which was down and NW (rather than due N, then west).  This proved to be another pain in my ass.  I went down this hill, keeping an eye out for the next road I was supposed to turn on--but, again, it never showed itself (because I went the wrong way on an unpaved, uphill SR when it forked & was unmarked----grrrrr).
   After a bit I just gave up, as far as caring where I was heading, as long as it was NW I was ok with it.  At about 6:30, though, and I realized that I somehow didn't get into WV, I was starting to worry.  So, I stopped at a church, in an area where apparently there aren't any towns, and asked a nice old couple where I was.  The man was extremely nice, but his Virginia accent and a very roundabout way talking made this conversation take 20 minutes instead of two.  I asked them if it'd be alright if I camped behind the church (it was getting late & I was frustrated--not to mention tired and I could see a possible rain shower coming).  They said sure, but then re-thought and said they'd call their friend, Louise, to see if it was ok if I camped in her yard instead.  Louise said it was ok, but she is very private, and apparently had someone really scare her a few years back, so no one is really allowed in her house other than people she already knew.  No biggie, I had everything I needed.  I had to charge my phone, though, and the outlets at the church pavilion (about 100 yards from where I was staying) weren't turned on.  So, the older couple said they'd take me home for dinner and I could charge my phone while I ate--this is an example of the generosity that many country folk, in whichever state, exhibit; I'm so thankful for this. 
     They made me bacon & eggs, watermelon, and we chit chatted for a couple hours til my phone was charged.  They told me that I should go back the way I had come, Jerome Rd, all the way to Conicville, then hop on hwy 42 South to Harrisonburg, then cut over west to WV.  The hills/mts are much worse in the north, apparently, and they suggested going this way because it was paved and less hilly.  The way I had intended to go, according to them, was difficult even in a vehicle, plus there were black bears.  When I told them that I had walked up Mine Mountain Lane, their eyes got huge!  They said that it's closed during the winter, and few people even drive up it (I had seen maybe 5-7 cars for the few hours I was on it).  They had a chuckle about that. 
     I had already set up my tent and everything, so they dropped me off in Louise's yard, and I was ready for sleep!  To my dismay, I didn't realize how chilly it was going to get.  I'm from WI, so 50 degrees isn't weird by any means, but when it's coupled with humidity it can be downright bone-chilling!  I had on long pants, long socks, an extra pair of shorts, a t-shirt, a long sleeve shirt, and a t-shirt wrapped around my head (as a "hat").  At some time in the morning, I realized that these things, along with my fleece blanket and sleeping mat, simply weren't enough.  Luckily, I had one of those Emergency, metallic blankets in my first aid kit!  I'm pretty sure that thing was the only thing that kept me from getting hypothermia that night!  Even with it and my fleece blanket I would get a chill every now and then... Adventure #xxx.
    
Day 4: Elkins, WV to Glenville, WV [Revised: Jerome, VA to Petersburg, WV--RE-revised: Charlottesville]
     The next morning I got off to a late start.  My alarm, for whatever reason, didn't go off.  I felt really shakey and off that morning, which I attributed to terrible, frozen sleep.  I ate a PowerBar and hit the road.  I went the way they told me, to a T.  I got to Conicville, got on the hwy, and headed south!  Yay!  One step closer to WV. 
     Then, my knee.  I was about 15 miles away from where I had started. and my knee didn't hurt, but I started to feel a little pinch in it.  It wasn't bad at all, but I definitely noticed that it was just starting to hurt.  No biggie, one or two days and I'd be in flat Ohio.  So, I kept going.  5 more miles til Timberville, which is where I was going to have a late breakfast/early lunch.  By this time, my knee was actually getting pretty sore, but I figured the rest from my lunch would take care of it, plus, I could put my brace on when I stopped.  But, as I sat there for lunch it was really evident that I couldn't do much more.  Just SITTING hurt.  It was throbbing and I kept on getting surges of pain that would take my breath away--not a good sign.  It was the same pain(s) that I had felt when I hurt it a month ago. 
     I sat there, in the cafe, very angry at myself, my knee, etc.  I had only gone 4 days and I had to stop?!  I'm relatively young, healthy, and driven--this shouldn't be happening!!!!  I after going through the throws of anger, I sat back and told myself, "You need your knee for the rest of your life.  Keeping your pride intact is not worth having to have knee surgery and rehab..."  So, I swallowed what was left of my pride and called my sister--she works with a computer all day, so I figured it'd be easier for her to check on the Greyhound schedule than me. 
     My knee was in such cruddy shape that I couldn't even bike to the next [big] town, 20 miles away, to hop in a cab which would take me to Charlottesville, VA & to the Greyhound.  I had to take a cab to take me there.  When I arrived, I went directly to the UPS store so I could ship my bike back to Baltimore before the store closed.  I knew that you could take your bike on Greyhound, but that's only if it is wrapped up in special crap blah blah blah, and I didn't want to have to take it with me to WI just to ship it to Baltimore... or so I thought.
     I got back fromt he UPS store and was on my way to dinner when my sister called me.  I had given her my CC# to purchase my Greyhound ticket.  She sounded like she was hesitant. 
She said, "You'll never guess where your bus goes." 
I said, "At this point, probably back through some small ass hick town that I've already been through." 
She was silent.  "Worse." Nervous, sympathetic laughter.  "Baltimore."
"I already shipped my shit, for $360 to BALTIMORE!"
"It's not 7 yet.  Can't you go to the UPS store & tell them to cancel it?"
"No!  They're closed--it's 7:30 out here--we're an  hour ahead of you guys!"
This is where I just sat on the bed and had angry tears running down my face for a bit.  But, as she always does, my sister found a way to make me laugh--reminding me that this is just another memory to add to my bank and story to tell, which is what this trip was all about.  It didn't make my depleting wallet feel any better though!

Day 5-6: Greyhound from Charlottesville, VA to WI Dells [Madison], WI
     Well, I had my first taxi ride on this trip, so it's only befitting that I had my first Greyhound ride too, right?  Let's just say that was an experience!  It wouldn't have been so bad, but my knee was killing me, and having to be cramped up and not able to stretch my leg was horrible.  That was the worst, but another bad part was dealing with some of the people (or not dealing, depends on how you look at it).  On a bus betweens Charlottesville and Pittsburgh, there was a group, a Repulican ex-marine from WV (who was missing--well, not missing--but had severly degraded his front 4 teeth), an obese Australian 20-something boy, and a NYer from Jamaica; they were talking religion and politics for a good hour or two.  Let's just say the VA Real Estate magazine I had grabbed for my sister was the only thing that kept me from taking my laminated maps out and slitting their throats. 
     In Pittsburgh, a cute little 20 year guy, Gavin, and I started talking.  We ended up watching a lot of goofy videos on his phone and using each other as snuggle buddies til Chicago.  That made me feel a little better.  UNTIL I looked at my ankles!  Even back in Pittsburgh my ankles were starting to swell.  By Chicago, I had no ankles-->kankles and blocks for feet were all that I could see.  It was so freaky!  I have never had that much swelling and water retention in my feet.  While waiting for my bus in Chicago, apparently they had oversold and had to call a 2nd bus.  We were running 45 minutes behind, but our AMAZING driver got us to Madison on time!
     I was supposed to get off the bus in WI Dells, WI, but because there was a stop in Madison and my sister was there for a Dr. appointment, I got off early!  My feet hurt, my knee hurt, my stomach needed food, and I was so sick of being on a bus (for 26 hours at this point), that I said "SCREW YOU!" and got off.

    So, now I'm home.  Injured knee recovering, slowly.  I've already got some donations from friends, friends of the family & family, some of which I'm told that don't even leave a tip when the go out to eat; so, I'm thankful.  I think of this as an extra week to practice my music so that it's that much better for my audience :)  I want to make them proud, and I'm sure I will.  Now I just have to decorate my donation bin, finish program notes, practice singing, and heal.  Then, it's back to Baltimore to start planning next year's trip.

Here's to the generosity of the wonderful people in this great country--it's because of you I made it.

Thank you.

The FIIIIIINAL COOOOOOOOOOOOOUNTDOOOOWN

(Yes, that is to be sung to the 80s tune if you were wondering.)
    
     Here we go! T-minus 44 hours til I leave.  AAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAHHHHHHHHHH!  I'm not nervous about bad drivers, or rain, my pets, or lack of food--all of those are minor.  If I can cycle in Baltimore, MD, where [trust me on this] the WORST drivers in the USA are, I think I can handle back-country, drunken factory workers.  I'm assuming they'll think my blinky lights are the Po-Po attempting to pull them over for drunk driving, so if anything they'll speed away from me.  Rain, well, rain will keep me cool.  All of my stuff will be in sealed, plastic bags within my water resistant panniers, so nothing should get wet.  My pets are in amazing hands; I have AWESOME friends who are looking after them and can take on anything!  I trust their judgement: there's a phone tree and a schedule if anything goes a haywire.  Food--food is my best friend, so I will never NOT have it on me :)  Plus, I'm really excited to stop at little dive diners and whatnot in the Middle-of-Nowhere, USA.  Maybe I'll find a gem!
     My biggest concern is getting to where I need to be each night; I'm DEFINITELY pushing myself physically on this trek; I've never done a tour over 100 miles, so we'll see how this goes!  Part of the uncertainty is because I'll be in the middle of nowhere, in an area I've never been, so some of the roads may be marked [or more likely, NOT] differently.  I wrote down as much info as I could from what was given to me via Google Maps.  I created my own maps for each day, which I'll have my sister post once I've left an area--maybe a day or two after to make sure no creepy-crawlies are following me :)  I have to get the ones I printed off laminated tomorrow, this way it doesn't matter how much it rains--they'll be protected.  I'll also have traditional maps and my atlas with me too, so I can see where I am on a larger, more accurate scale. Let's just hope that all of what I wrote down fits perfectly and I don't miss a turn, have to back track, or get so frigging lost it's unbelievable and end up in the wrong state!  I've always been really good with directions if I have a map--plus I'll be moving at Grandma Speed, which is pretty close to Ludicrous Speed [Spaceballs reference], so I don't think that I should have much trouble.
     I'm also a little leary that, because of my slow speed, I won't get to the 1st two campgrounds in time for their "First Come, First Serve" sites; all of their reservable sites are taken... wah waaaaaah.  All of the other ones, in Ohio and Michigan, I've reserved my site.  Done & done.  I still have to buy my ferry ticket to cross Lake Michigan, but I'm afraid that I'll be running behind, for whatever reason, and I'll miss it & have to purchase another one--and they're not cheap.  The campsites I can at least get refunded most of the money if I don't make it, but the ferry (I think) is non-refundable.  I'll check tonight.
     As far as gear goes, I'm almost set.  I have to get bottle holders, a new nipple for my Camelback, eye protection, a mirror, and 2 bolts (one wiggled loose from the frame, and then the special one, that came with my bike rack, fell out.. not happy).  My buddy, "Jasper," is giving me the hook-up tomorrow.  I have to have a once-over on the bike done, probably some new brake pads, and then I'll be golden!

Gear I have:
EXTREMELY bright colored shirts, biking shorts, tons of socks, spandex galore, biking/regular shoes & flip flops, helmet, blinking lights for front & back, a hanky for my snot (I've never been very good at farmer blowing--it ends up dangling there & sticking to my face), tent, thin sleeping mat, blow-up pillow & fleece blanky, tiny propane burner & camping cookware, chargers for my phone & mp3 player, HUGE First Aid kit :), vitamins/supplements, TP, camping towel & toiletries, pepper spray & a newly sharpened buck knife, bungee cords, extra tubes & a chain, tools to fix my bike, my many maps & camping reservations, music (to study & to give to my piano player upon arrival), etc...  all of which is around 30 lbs [food & fluid included].

Here we go, ready or NOT!

My First Donation--Prior to Riding!

     Due to the upcoming ENORMOUS event of riding from MD to WI, you can only expect that I've been gabbing to everyone.  Customers at the coffee shop I work at find it really interesting; a classically trained singer, riding a bicycle over 1,000 miles to give a recital... it just doesn't make sense to some of them. But, those who know me, and even many who don't, think that it's a pretty neat thing to do--let's just hope I can do it :)
     Many of the customers come into the coffee shop and ask, "Whose bike is that?!"  I nonchalantly say, "Mine.  I'm cycling to WI, so I need a good bike."  Then, the eye bulging starts.  Some think it's awesome, some (like my father) thinks it's crazy, and there is an array of reactions. 
     The other night, as I was getting close to closing up the shop, a group of guys--I'd say late 20's/early 30's, musicians [? (if they were, it was the play-in-a-bar/just breaking into semi-main stream type)]--came in and needed some caffeine.  I started chatting them up as I was making their drinks, the usual protocal.  One of them said that he thought it was awesome that I was wearing purple shorts--then he asked if I owned the place (stating that it'd be even cooler if an owner wore purple shorts).  I said that I didn't; that i was a lowly worker.  Somehow my ride to WI was brought up, and they all looked astonished.  They started saying that the would give me enough money for all of the fudge on the counter if it'd help me get to France for the singing competition this fall--but I brought it to their attention that if they took all the fudge the money they gave me would have to go in the drawer, so it'd be pretty pointless.  Being intrigued as they were, they wanted to know the amount of money it would cost to purchase all of the fudge that was out for the day; so to humor them (and myself/my accuracy of guessing), I weighed it.  It would've cost around $115-$120.  I was pretty close with my guess (around $100). 
     As I was wishing them a good night and moving the fudge back over to the counter, Mr. Purple Shorts handed me a wad of money--$110 to be exact--and said it was the first donation toward my flight money to get to France.  I was stunned.  Absolutely flabbergasted.  I just looked at him, giggled (I'm sure, as I always do), and said a feeble "Thank you."  I gave them all free coffee cards and said they had to come back to Baltimore to get another java from me, and I wrote my blog's address on Mr. Purple Short's card--I hope that they follow this and enjoyed their coffee.

Here's to you, Mr. Purple Shorts.

Semi-Injury and the Recovery Process

     Apparently you aren't supposed to really pull up when you're clipped in [to you pedals].  Wah waaaaaah!  I was doing a training ride that I had intended to be 40-50 miles, but it ended up being a little shorter than 30 because I was stupid:
   
     It was a gorgeous day, and I was doing really well.  I weighted my rig down with about 1/2 of the weight that all of my gear should weigh for the real trip, and I was still keeping the same time [basically].  I was so excited!  I only had to stop twice on the HUGE hill by Seminary Ave--an improvement!  In my overzealousness, I figured I could cream a smaller hill by giving it my all; down AND upstroke.  Bad move. On an upstroke, I pulled with a lot of force and felt a zinging, electrical-like pinch up the front of my knee cap.  It didn't hurt, per se, but it felt different, so I figured I'd keep going. 
     Then, a portion of the road that I normally ride on was closed, so, detour!  No biggie.  I had my phone, so if I needed directions I could easily get them.  I headed east from my intended course and wound up in a pretty neat area.  Despite the new surrounding and my enjoying them, my knee still felt a little off and I would get a pretty robust pinch/pain every now and then.  Duh.  Should've turned back when it happened, but no, not this gal.  Too stubborn.
     Finally, as I was climbing a hill on the southeast side of Cockeysville, the adult in me said that the small, yet annoying pain is not going to get better unless I rest it and actually figure out what I did.  So, 15 miles into the ride I turned around and headed for home.  To top it off, about 5 miles south of there I blew my first tire on my new bike.  The glass on these streets is horrendous!  I changed the tube with ease (and had the wrong size tube--too long--to put in, but it still fit) and I was able to ride home. 
         
     When I got home, it felt ok, but I knew that something wasn't right... but, it was time to go to work, so I ACE bandaged my knee and biked the 3-4 miles there, worked for 8 hours without any real pain, and then went to bike home.  But that didn't happen.  I got about 2 block away from work and my knee cap felt like it was ON FIRE (in an electrical way).  So, I ended up walking the 3-4 miles home.  Either way, physical activity probably wasn't the best decision.  Walking didn't hurt, but I know I was overusing my poor knee.
     Then, when I got home, the stairs to my apt seemed a daunting task.  I would get the pinch everytime I tried to pull up and hold my knee above the ground or when I was trying to support weight on it while it was bent.  Uh oh.  Not good.  My trip was only 3.5 weeks away at the time.  The adult in me took over again, and I figured no more riding for at least a few days... in the meantime, I had to figure out what was wrong with my knee how to fix it!
     I went on WebMD, Wikipedia, biking sites, etc. to try and deduce what I did.  The best assumption (because I still haven't gone to the Dr.) is that I sprain my lateral collateral ligament [on the outside part of the knee] and strain the patellal tendon [which stretches from the quad muscle, over the cap, and downward].  All in all, it wasn't pleasant what I was feeling, but it wasn't terrible by any means. It was very different from any injury I had gotten playing other sports for so many years.  I'm use to getting hit with a softball in the shins, pulling a hamstring or other muscle from not stretching well enough or overuse, being cleated in the calf, having a volleyball whack me in the nose, locking knees with people while running to catch the same ball, etc. 
     But I had never really hurt a ligament before.  It's definitely different.  I almost get a numb sensation sometimes when it's acting up.  I've been babying it.  I Rested it, Iced it, bought a Compression/support sleeve for it, that worked WONDERS (it's so much easier than having to wrap it each day), and tried to keep it Elevated as much as I could.  Granted, working a job where you're on your feet constantly doesn't help, but I tried to sneak in sitting breaks as much as possible.  I started taking Glucosamine/Chondrotin and CoQ10 supplements to aid in the recovery process.  I also bought a cream that has the herb Arnica in it, which is really good for helping to heal [moreso external and swelling] injuries, but it can't hurt to have it in my 1st Aid kit on the road!
     Overall, my intuition to just bite my athletic lip and not be a bad ass [since then] has paid off.  After about a week (plus a few days), I think it's healed [relatively well].  I can cycle again, with a long trip coming up in 2 days.  I learned my lesson that you CAN'T really pull up when clipped in--it's more to just relieve tension and stress when on an upstroke, NOT a chance to heave all of your quad strength and end up separating what connects your thigh to your shin.  I also plan on wearing a compression sleeve on each knee, at least for the first few days, to protect those badboys and remind myself that it's not a race or a challenge other than to reach my destination each day.

Speed is not important for my goal; stamina is.

Usage of Moolah from Fundraising Recital

     Well, a more imminent usage of donations from my community, rather than grad school, has come up--I was offered a $600 Career Development Grant from Peabody.  I proposed an idea of participating in 2 different singing competitions, both overseas, to develop my skills as a performer and singer, as well as for auditioning.  One of which in Marseilles, France.  This is the one that I can still apply for/go to.  Yadda yadda yadda... I asked for $3000, which would cover airfare, hotel for every night, food, etc... and they gave me $600.  WAH WAAAAAAH.  If I refuse this amount, because I am unable to come up with the rest for the trip, I cannot be awarded it again.  So, I pretty much have to use it.
     I decided, as well as part of my cycling trip, to couch surf--this way it's FREE.  :)  That saves me $1500+.  Not to mention, I'm sure I will meet some amazing people while I'm there.  Now, I just have to raise $1100.  I figure:

Bolt Bus & Amtrak to EWR airport-$42
Flight-$1064 [(per Expedia) it's $400 cheaper to fly out of EWR, NJ than BWI, MD airport]
Food-≈$30 (€20) per day x 12 days = $360 (€240)
Misc.-$250
--------------------------
     about      $1700
     (grant)      - 600
 -------------------------
                    $1100 (that I have to raise)

Hopefully my hometown sees this as a great opportunity to help me.  If I even make a few hundred dollars, I'll be happy.  I can attempt to make $1000 in July alone [(which is quite possible if I work my tookus off) 40 hrs/wk, every week will get me there], but then I still have to pay rent for August, which subtracts a decent portion of that, so I'm left with what I make in August (another $1000).  Then, rent will (hopefully) be paid primarily via a student loan, so I can finally start saving/paying on the interest that's accruing on my loans.
  
     If I think about this, it's a win-win for me.  If I get passed the first round, or even venture to say place in the finals or WIN the competition, I'll make some money.  If not, I've got almost 2 weeks to venture around Europe.

Oh sweet nectar.

... And So It Begins

     Oofdah!  Today I FINALLY did my first of many training rides.  Let's just say I got my ass handed to me in a pretty Easter basket.  My voice was cruddy from having to sing everyday except Tuesday last week for Holy Week at church, so I figured, "Hey, why not skip my vocal coaching and, instead, kick my tush into gear and train--it's going to be hot & sunny when I ride, so I better do it!"  I left my apartment around 9:45 and got to school around 12:50ish.  Man, oh man, was it a trek.
     I chose to go out of town on Fells Road, a relatively windy and studded with tough hills area.  What's better than training for mountains than riding on roads with really steep hills and curves?  Nada.  I did about 27-30 miles, in the BLAZING sun.  I even have beautiful new tan lines to prove it.  I wore my backpack, which had H2O, a grapefruit, and some almonds in it (along with tools in case anything went awry).  I went about 10 miles and stopped at a little gas station and got a VitaWater thingy, just because I knew I was losing more than water in my sweat, and I grabbed a cheap trail mix to supplement my almonds.  After a little break, I was back on the road.  Then, the big hill came...
     This is no ordinary hill.  Right after a road called Seminary Ave. is a HUGE, curvy and steep climb.  And, of course, there was a red stop light right before it, so I didn't get to use my momentum to help me get up it.  I had to stop 3 times on the way up because 1) I'm out of shape, 2) It was FRIGGING hot, 3) It's steep and curves.  I made it, eventually, to the top, and then just went slowly until I regained my breath & composure.  Sweat (I'm already a chronic sweater to BEGIN with) was pouring down me.  My backpack had sweat spots if that gives you any idea...  85 degrees, noon, and lack of physical fitness equates to a long, sweaty, trying ride.
     It took me about 3 hours for 30 miles (10 mph), which is what I anticipate I'll be doing when going through the mountains when I'm fully loaded (and in [better] shape from training).  My gear will be around 25-30 lbs tops, with my tent, sleeping mat, water/food, and extra pair of shoes being the heaviest things.  My tent is around 4 lbs, water and/or food, well that depends on how much I'm carrying, shoes are probably 2-3 lbs, and my mat is around 2 lbs.  Most of my clothes will be spandex or cotton, so they'll be light enough--5 lbs maybe.  After that, I've got a light propane burner, foldable stove, (need to buy) multi receptacle to cook food in, clothes/towel, fleece blanket, tools/spare parts and maps.  Then, there's my GD lock, which is HEAVY, but I'd much rather use a U-lock than a cable considering my Peugot was almost stolen when someone snipped the cable this winter.  A little weight for an extreme increase in security while cycling 900 miles is worth it in my book.
     One thing I didn't think about was eye protection.  When buzzing down the hills I had to squint because of debris--not the smartest thing because who knows (especially around a curve) what's going to be there.  Sticks, dirt, a rock, an animal, a retarded motorist--they all could be lurking ahead, so your eyes need to be OPEN.  That being said, clear & tinted eye wear are on the list of "To Get" things.

So much more work is to be done.

Safety Measures

     "I think it's a stupid idea--I've said my piece!"  This is what my grandma said to me when I was home in March and was telling her about my trip.  I completely understand and know why she is concerned about my ride from Baltimore to WI.  There are so many dangers to be faced, but the rewards, intrinsic or extrinsic, far outweigh the risks (in my mind).  I get to see a part of this beautiful country that I haven't yet, I get to kick my ass to (literally) get over the next mountain, I'll be strengthening myself physically and mentally, I get 10 days to meditate and think about life, myself, etc.. Overall, it's going to be an amazing trip and I am so incredibly excited to push myself to the limits.
     With my grandmother's mindset of imminent danger in the foreground, I've been planning--what a surprise.  Even before Gram expressed her displeasure for my decision others in the family showed concern.  "Are you going to have a pistol?" was what my little brother asked.  "Will you be staying in hotels?"  "What are you going to bring for protection?  You know there're a lot of weirdos out there!"  "You're going ALONE?!"  All of these questions are valid, through & through.  There are real dangers when doing a solo trip, bicycle or not.  With my bike, however, there are even more dangers, oddly enough.
     The first that comes to mind: MOTORISTS.  I can't tell you how many times I've only been left 6" on either side (parked cars on one side and/or quickly moving traffic on both).  It can be really scary, but I find myself looking farther ahead down the road when that happens so that I don't go sideways and I can prepare for the upcoming (possible) obstructions or gap in the cars--it's a good thing, I think.  I've been developing a pretty good sense of how to maneuver in sticky situations... more often than not the safest thing to do is just keep trucking on and have the cars get pissy and go around, then get over when you have a chance; the more predictable you are the better.  I normally ride on the skirt of the road and try to avoid having assholes ride my bum, beep, and then curse at me.  Sometimes, though, a jag-off bus driver will pull off the curb without looking and push me into traffic--no biggy, just wait til the red light (or if no one is behind me or the bus) and get over, then flick 'em the bird :)
     To help prevent any "I didn't see you!" comments, I'm DEFINITELY getting some neon and/or reflective gear.  I think one vest and one long-sleeved jacket will be sufficient.  My helmet is white, I have reflectors on both sides of the bike, and I have (to replace--dammit!) blinkies for the front and one to clip on my back/backpack.  I've also looked at the reflective bracelets for ankles and/or wrists--they're like the ones we had when we were kids that bend when you slap them against your body--and they just don't seem like they'd be comfortable.  I'm pretty sure there are Velcro versions too, so I'm going to look into that.  There's no point in being cool looking when cycling for amount of distance--safety should be the first thing in your mind.
     Next, dogs.  They love to chase us, it's inevitable.  I've normally been able to deter them with verbal commands, such as, "No!"  "Naughty!"  "Stay Down!"  "Get back in the yard!" etc.  I've been reading on a continual community blog, crazyguyonabike.com, about other tactics too.  Talking sweetly to them too, so that they remember that you're human/dominant and not prey is an alternative that works well.  I also have two whistles that I carry--a regular, old nasty one that was probably my gym teacher's in grade school, and I bought one with a compass, thermometer and little magnifying glass in it.  Not to mention, I have a REALLY LOUD whistle when I jam my fingers in my mouth and blow--it even hurts my ears sometimes.
     Then, I've got the creepy people with which to deal (hopefully not any more so than usual).  I'm going to get bear/pepper spray for that (not to mention it'll help if there's a really aggressive dog).  Also, for camping purposes, I'll always have my buck knife on me; this'll help if I get in a bind.  All I hope is that I have the smarts to use it to protect myself rather than having it being turned against me in the worst case scenario.  I'll also be texting my family every hour or so when I have to stop to rehydrate/snack so they'll know EXACTLY where I am/was.  My cell phone will always be charged and on me.
     As far as getting bit by a rattle snake or preventing hypothermia in the case of bad weather--let's just hope I get bit somewhere that I can reach to cut & suck, and I have a metallic safety blanket in my first aid kit :)

So, reflective gear, helmet, blinkies, pepper spray, whistles, cell phone, and a knife.  I think I'm set.

The Recital

     As of earlier this week, I was given the "GO AHEAD" from my old HS for my recital!  This makes me feel really good for many reasons.  Firstly, I get to show all of my friends and family (those who think it's worth their while) what I'm doing with my life and how far I've come in developing my talent and technique.  I'm just slightly better than when I played Sarah Brown in Guys and Dolls and the Evil Stepmother in Cinderella :D  [If you couldn't get the sarcasm by the Italics, you need to stop reading this blog and get a life.]  Plus, I get to have the event hosted at the place where my education started and the majority of people who started me on this path called life... it truly is home for me, no matter how much I dislike spending more than a week there.  Secondly, I'll be giving back to Montello in the best way that I can--through music.  I plan on doing this recital thing there every year, but let's see how this one goes first.  Eventually I'd like to go back there and open a cafe that features local produce and only WI meats and cheeses, homemade goodness all around with baked goods, soups, etc. all made from scratch, you get the idea... but that won't happen for quite some time.  Lastly, but definitely not LEAST, is the donation aspect; having my supporters actually support me in a financial way (in whatever amount) is the main focus of the whole thing.
     So, onto figuring out a few main things that are pertinent to the recital.  The most important, I think, is finding a PIANIST.  I have a few colleagues who play piano in that area of the state, so now I just have to figure out which one can actually do it and how much they charge :)  Another big thing I have to do is, and this is using my Arts Mgt Degree knowledge, is create and increase my visibility, and create excitement about this event, within Montello and the surrounding communities through word of mouth, flyers, the newspaper, donation jugs w/a spiel on them, and utilizing "MHS Presents".  I already have a freelance writer's information who has done an article on me previously, so hopefully she'll want to write another one.  I've already created the posters for the event, now I just need to alter it to fit the time, date, and find my accompanist & tac their info on there.  Then, another big thing is PROGRAM NOTES.  I know relatively all of the songs & arias I'd like to sing; now, I just have to create translations, get composer's bios, and slap them together and print those off.  Lastly, baked goods.  I'm not going to charge for them, but I'll have a BIG jug by them saying, "Donations Welcome--If You Liked the Music, Toss in a Coin or Two," or something to that affect.
     I feel confident and am becoming increasing ecstatic about my recital at home.  I listened to the first recording of myself since I started Grad School this past week, and it was amazing to hear the difference that less than a year's worth of practice and lessons has had on my voice!  I sounded like me, or at least how I remembered myself sounding, but WAAAY better... it was so cool and made me feel really proud.
    I had to sing this past week for a few things at school (I sang the Presentation Duet from Strauss' Rosenkavalier and Stabat Mater by Rossini).  I got a lot of compliments from students, teachers, the head of the Voice Dept @ Peabody, etc., and it felt awesome.  It just reiterated that I'm doing the right thing for my life and career, and it was really reassuring :) 

Here's to enjoying your life and future career!

Long Time, No Anything

     Well BUJEEZERS!  It's been far too long since I've blogged--many factors have led to this.  First, SCHOOL.  Opera rehearsals and dress rehearsals and performances consumed me for most of February, and then into March when the whole thing came to a head.  I wish I could've gotten some cycling under my belt because the weather was so nice, BUT I screwed up something in my foot (a ligament?) by, I'm assuming, walking in flip flops for well over 5 miles and then tromping around on stage in 3" character shoes for several nights.  Needless to say, walking wasn't so pleasant and I didn't feel secure enough to ride with a screwed up foot (jumping off for stops and whatnot might've injured it further).  THEN, Spring Break.  I went home to WI per a large monetary gift from my late great-grandmother/grandmother.  It was nice to see my family and let them all know that I'm doing A-Ok out here on my own. :)  When I reminded my grandmother about my cycling trip home this summer she said, "I think it's a STUPID idea!  A pretty girl riding all by herself... well, I've said my piece."  I know a lot of people feel this way, but I'm doing it.  Enough said.      
     During Spring Break I went to my HS to visit my good friend who is now a teacher there, my cousin who teaches there, my old softball coach, as well as my old choir teacher.  It just so happened that choir was in session when I showed up, so I sang for some HS girls and then the JH choir (I even stood on the risers and sang with them for part of class, just like old times).  It was a lot of fun, and the expression of awe on some of their faces was priceless.  I even made my choir teacher tear up when I sang!  My class was the first group of kids that she taught from freshmen to senior year--we were her babies.  After I sang, she asked me some questions so the kids could get an idea of what I do, how I got there, how much I practice, etc.  Some of the kids expressed interest (even before I sang) in taking a few lessons with me during the week that I'm home in June.  Singing for them just solidified it: CHA-CHING! 
     Now, I just have to battle the district administrator to let me have the recital in the school.  The "problem" is that the school charges other people to use the facilities, especially during the summer time when the school shortens the work week and shuts down as much as possible to save on utilities.  Keep in mind that I'm a former student who is trying to give back to her community and show them what I'm doing with my life (well, yeah, I'm asking for spare change, but I'm paying for the accompanist, baking all the goods, creating and printing the program & promotional materials, etc.).  I'm hoping that this recital will not only benefit me, however that may be, but it will raise awareness that good has AND STILL CAN come out of Montello, that the school shouldn't shut down, and that people should support the school.  It's hard to face the fact that my school, along with many others, may shut down within a year or two...  and I don't want to see it happen.  It's one of the few things keeping that community alive.  If the school closes, what's left in Montello?  Bars?  Kwik Trip?  I wonder if it will resemble the old HS, the brick one on top of the big hill, like a ghost building that's vacant and eery.  Montello needs help, and I want to do just that.  If the school won't let me have the recital there I will just talk to one of the churches in town.  Either way, I'm having a recital, but I want the school to benefit from it because it's what started me on my way, the place where I got the beginning of my education.  We'll see what happens...

Preparing the Apt for the Trip & Being a Pet Owner... AAAARG!

     So, a  large dilemma presented itself early on in the planning process:  What in the HELL am I going to do with my pets while I'm gone away for two and a half weeks?! (Not to mention when I fly home for 5 days in March for spring break.  Who wants to spend their time in a warm climate when they could ship off to the frozen tundra?!  This girl, apparently.)  The answer?  Well, that's to come, my friends.
     I have a 6 year old boxer, Dodge, and a newly gifted-to-me kitten, Zephyr.  They get along really well--the kitten cries whenever he hears Dodge & I coming back from a walk.  It's kind of pathetic how much the kitten loves the dog.  They play hide n' go seek, wrestle and bat each other around like they've been friends since birth.  And, of course, they love the other specie's food (& feces) more than their own... damn animals.  Rearranging my apt since I moved in has been such a pain; I've had to do it several times because each animal has a different set of strengths and/or climbing ability that I have to account for.  BOO!
     I tossed around the idea of sending them to a pet boarding facility, but then I remembered that I'm POOR, and will be spending enough money on the trip... wah waaaaaaaaaaaah!  Also, with as attached as they are to each other, they may not handle being apart very well.  And, my dog has a moderate case of separation anxiety that has gotten much better since he was neutered and has been living with me again, but we just moved here from rural WI and gotten our routine going.  Him being around so many new dogs at once is a bit overwhelming for him, and he likes to pick fights for dominance; not the BEST thing for a dog to do in a kennel.  That being said, I'm not sure that I'd want him in an area full of new/strange dogs.  So, hmmm... what to dooooooooo...?  The kitten I think would be fine, but he may get lonely without his cohort in crime.

Why not find an arsenal of friends who are willing to pet sit and/or stop in at random times?

OF COURSE!  

     I am creating a chart (SURPRISE SURPRISE) with dates, times, names of who needs/can stop by, what needs to be done, where things are in the apartment, etc. for my potential animal sitters.  One good thing, I think, is that I'd prefer my pets to stay at home & and don't need to go with the sitter--the sitter, however, does NOT need to stay at my apt for any amount of time; they just need to pop in, feed/walk them, and be on their merry way.  I'd feel bad if someone was "required" to stay at my cruddy place, not to mention watch my crazy animals while they were there.  My animals are pretty use to me being away because of my busy school schedule, so I figured it'd be better that a sitter only pop in like I do, rather than smother them with affection (especially because I don't/can't do that when I get back--I don't need them getting use to be pampered!).  If the sitter wants to take Dodge or Zephyr for a bit, great, but I'm not asking for that.

     In order to make my apt Dodge-proof (his separation anxiety makes him search & destroy anything that is food or garbage-like) I have to do a few things before I leave.  All garbage will be out before I go; clean waste baskets!  I'll have to have the sitter flush the toilet when they come--my dog (and cat) prefer this to a water bowl (don't ask me), and they'll need fresh H2O :)  I have to keep my kitten's food (and litter box) in a guarded area--otherwise the pooch will eat from both sources.  Both animals' food is in a Rubbermaid container so they can't get into it while I'm gone during the day (or the mice for that matter). ETC.

     Also, I really want to unplug as much stuff as I can, so I'm going to eat or get rid all of the food in my fridge/freezer.  I will soon have a chest freezer that I'll keep all of my long-term frozen goodies in, but I will unplug EVERYTHING else in the apt.  I will leave my ACs in the windows in case it gets warm--the sitters can turn them on/off as needed to make sure my animals don't become jerky while I'm gone--but that's it.

     Bleh, so much to think about.  So much planning that is yet to be done.  Mapping.  Charts.  Reservations for camping/couch surfing.  Setting up the recital.  Finding an accompanist.  Oh geez--I better get started.

     

The First Ride on the New Bike

     Yesterday was my first official "ride" on the new bike.  I wanted to do a ride that was a bit challenging while still being easy enough so that I could concentrate on biking, and to more importantly get a sense of how it feels on the new bike.  So, around 10 am on Saturday I filled up my camelback in my backpack, tied my sneakers & bandana, and hit the road (Yes, I wore my helmet.) 

Man, oh man, did the Judy take a beating. 

     It had been a good 6 months since I had done a ride over 10 miles.  I think my last decent ride was in August, when I would bike to & from work, which was 20 miles away from where I lived.  I talked to Jasper and asked him where he thought would be a good ride for distance, terrain & time.  He suggested going up to Baltimore County around an area called Loch Raven.  He said there were hills and it was a pretty area.
     I ended  up only doing about 20 miles because there was an ATROCIOUS headwind that I had to constantly fight, uphill and all!  When I got about 10 miles out of town and there was yet another winding, semi-steep incline I decided I had tested the bike's handling enough.  I had to get back to see a friend's dress rehearsal for her recital and make sure I actually ate something so my body wouldn't give out.  I wimped out to be blatant...  Twenty miles, how pathetic!  Then again, 44 degrees, a headwind, and a very stiff biking seat [even w/padded pants] that you're not used to can make even the best give up a little early (at least that's what I'm telling myself). 
     Oh well, this was the first of many.  After I build up my rider's callus to this new, stiff seat I'm going to switch over to my comfier one.  I will DEFINITELY be using the other seat for the trip.  I want to do a day trip down to DC too, but I'll have to wait for more biker-friendly weather and find someone to let the pets out.  Onward!

Food For Thought [and Energy]

     Food Food Food, I Love Food!  And I've taken enough human nutrition and biology courses to know what your body needs to function.  Needless to say, I don't eat only what my body needs--I eat tons of food, whether I "need" it or not.  Blasted over-eating habit!  I curse you (and so do my larger than normal inner thighs and saggy bum)!  BUT, this entry isn't about my cellulite-cushioned extremities or what I eat on a daily basis; it's about what food(s) I should take along on the bike trip to keep me nourished during the taxing ride.

     A little back story...   

I went to watch and cheer on a friend at the Door County (WI) Half Iron Man Competition in the spring/summer of 2009.  I had never been to one, so it was neat to go.  Seeing all of the swimmers/cyclists/runners and their endurance was incredible!  I stayed relatively close to the start/finish area so that I could take pictures of my friend, and while doing so I saw a lot of people offering different flavored "goo" and other things to nourish the athletes while they competed.  I hadn't ever seen or knew about that--I mean, yeah, there's Gatorade commercials and all of those over-the-top things in nutrition stores "for athletes," but I hadn't been introduced to much before that competition.  It was one of those *DING* light going on in your head moments where my science brain and practical brain had a love child:

When you work out, for whatever length of time, your body uses different sources to provide itself with energy.  For short, quick bursts of exercise, your body uses a few different ways to re-synth ATP [(adenosine triphosphate) what your cells use for energy] into sugar/energy.  After 10-30 seconds your body will use up these stores because it's done during an oxygen-phobic time (supposedly), and this process needs oxygen to be continually done.  Also, the reserves of the chemicals needed are in relatively short supply and are burned up quickly.  After using up that energy source, the body turns to its intracellular sugar reserves--glycogen.  This can only last for a few minutes, then it's onto the BIG GUNS: blood glucose.  
Your blood glucose level is pretty darn important.  Your liver can and must convert stored glycogen reserves--AKA fat--to maintain blood sugars, otherwise, well, if you've every seen anyone faint or go into hypo-glycemic shock you'd understand.  It's not good.  However, your liver isn't the fastest guy in the factory, and it can't keep up with the rapid rate at which you are depleting your BG (blood glucose) supply during intense and long-term exercise.  So, this is where the whole gut/quick replenishment/FOOD snacky treats come in...  TA-DAAAAAAA!  FULL CIRCLE.  Your body uses the sugars that are "in progress" in the gut as a rapid replenisher of the sugar that you're expending.
     THAT being said, onto the food!  I have been fiddling with a "breakfast cookie" recipe for a few days to attempt to come up with a semi-healthy cookie that will be easy to carry and give me a boost of sugar & other nutrients on the ride.  Try it out--it is still being tweaked, but the initial product is pretty darn tasty!

Breakfast Cookie Recipe

(makes 3 dozen)

2 cups sugar                                               1 cup whole wheat flour                         1/4 tsp ground nutmeg

1/3 cup molasses (whatever kind)               1 cup all-purpose flour                           1/8 tsp ground cloves

1 1/2 cups quick oats                                 1 1/2 cups chunky peanut butter             1/4 tsp ground cinnamon

1/2 cup Craisins                                         2-3 eggs (depending on size)                  1 tsp baking powder

1/2 cup chocolate (or butterscotch) chips    1/2 cup butter (or margarine)                 1 1/2 tsp baking soda

1/2 cup crushed walnuts                              1 tsp vanilla extract

     Preheat the oven at 375 degrees Fahrenheit.  Cream the butter, sugar, PB & molasses.  When no lumps are left, toss in the eggs & vanilla & give it a quick mix.  Next, add all of the "non-powder" ingredients (Craisins, nuts, oats & chips) and mix.  Sift together all of the remaining ingredients and incorporate them.  The batter should be a bit moist [it sticks a little to my fingers in the next step, so it should to yours too].  Roll the dough into golf ball sized pieces, place on a lined baking sheet, and then flatten the balls a bit with either your fingers or a fork.  Bake for 15-17 minutes, until the tops crack & start to fall.  You don't want to over bake them or they turn into concrete.  Let them cool on the cookie sheet before transferring or storing, as they will be very soft for a bit.  When they're done, they are a little crunchy on the outside and chewy on the inside--delish! They're great to dunk in milk (or soymilk :D), which adds icing to the breakfast cake.

     After creating this recipe (well, creating is a bit pompous--I found a basic PB & oats recipe and then doctored it up some), I got to thinking about other food I should carry... or rather, WHAT should I carry?  Does anyone have any recipes they think would be good for travel that I could make in advance and then take for the trip?  Do you have any recommendations for things I should have on me at all times?  Jot them down!  I'd love to try them out :) 

A Thought...

     So, I'll be turning the big 2-5 in two weeks.  Some of you may be thinking, " Twenty-five?!  You're just a spring chicken!"  Others may be thinking, "I wish I were that old--then I could do whatever I want!"  Whichever side of the fence you're standing on doesn't matter... my upcoming quarter-of-a-century  birthday just made me think a little bit, about life, goals, etc., and I figured I'd share some of my thoughts with you.
     When I was younger (which wasn't so long ago, but it seems like it sometimes), I remember telling myself I was going to learn EVERYTHING and be the smartest woman alive.  I wanted to know math, science, music, history, be able to play every sport, speak different languages fluently, cook like nobody's business, make my own clothes, grown my own food, etc.  I never thought I'd be anything less than spectacular in every facet.  Then, reality sets in as you get older; you realize you don't have time to wipe your own ass, much less study your French, read about the Americian Revolution or gardening, clean your apartment, go jogging with the dog, go to the opera and art galleries... and this is just being a working musician & student, much less a working parent who chooses to go back to school.
     I have to admit, I've done some pretty neat things thus far and am definitely making my life my own.  I never settled for being average or followed the flock--CHECK.  I worked my ass off to pay for 1 1/2 years of my undergrad education, working 30-50 hours a week, all while maintaining a 3.6+ GPA.  I've become much more fiscally responsible (which had to be done by falling flat on my face).  I made it to grad school and can actually pay my bills, despite many peoples' skepticism, via singing.  I, along with my family, started a summer road trip tradition that will hopefully continue.  I'm going to be BIKING 1/3-1/2 of the way ACROSS THE COUNTRY by myself!  I've made some amazing, lifelong friends and relationships that I cherish deeply and will always take care to maintain.  I've learned a ton about human physiology and nutrition and make a point to eat healthy(ish) and lead an active lifestyle (most of the time) so that I can enjoy this frail yet amazingly, genetically strong body I inherited from my parents.  I've been making solid progress on my vocal technique in just the past week--it's amazing when something finally clicks!  ETC!

     Even with that list of "cool schtuff I've done," there is another, even longer list of things I want to do and learn.  I have a ton of goals, some of which I may never accomplish.  Nonetheless, I still strive to be "that girl" who continually learns, and, someday, will know as much as I possibly can, have done all/most of the things I've wanted to do, and am completely content with my accomplishments in my life--that's not asking too much of myself is it?  There's so much to do, and I've only got 75 (more or less) years to do it!      

Here's to living your dream--making your life the way you want it and doing what fulfills you.

... and to think, I'm only 25... in two weeks.

How To Raise Funds--I Don't Know

     The whole idea behind this fantastical voyage is to help raise funds for my pricey grad school education.  So, how does one go about that?  Sponsors?  But who do you ask?  Who would be interested in sponsoring a solo bike trip?  I haven't taken the time to figure that out yet--whoops.  I'm hoping that local cycling shops or education-based organizations might sponsor me. 
     I know of some people that have participated in a cross-country bike trip to raise funds for cancer research, but that was a ride put together by the organization rather than the people.  I suppose that I could talk to local health organizations too to see if they'd be interested in sponsoring me because it's an activity-->  exercise--> part of a "healthy lifestyle" --> less chance of developing/preventing certain diseases(?).  The ball is in my court, and I just need to make the effort to ask.  Who knows, maybe my proposal will really strike a chord [musical reference :D] in someone and they'll pony up the dough!  It can't hurt to try.  What's the worst that can happen--getting a dirty look or shot down?  Pssssh!  I've been shot down on many occasions.  Blatant rejection isn't anything new or unwelcome.
     I've talked to a few people and they have suggested grants, ones that pertain to the recital part of my trip; apparently, my school and others may help support my recital and its expenses.  Again, asking can't hurt.
     I hope that the base of my support will come from my hometown.  A lot of small donations is what I'm thinking will come, like in the Obama Presidential campaign.  I know that many of the people there are very proud of me and would be willing to give a buck or two to help out.  I am going to ask hometown businesses if they'll keep donations jugs for me (so people can toss extra change in there).  Would I have to keep a separate account and records of the amounts for that?  Would I have to create a 501(c)(3) for that? 

SO MANY QUESTIONS!  Any answers?

Research is the name of the game... not only for my cycling, but for sponsors and a stream of cash.

How the Hell Am I Going to Blog While Biking?

     So, this thought popped into my bean: I'm going to be biking, no computer in tow, so HOW am I'm going to blog?  Wah waaaaaaaaaah!  I'm too cheap to buy one of those schnazzy phones with millions of applications I'll never use.  I use my phone to call, text, and occasionally take a picture.  Pretty basic, nothing fancy. But, with this blog as my love child, I can't just leave it to fend for itself for a week, or your imaginations for that matter.  The whole point of creating a blog is to blog, right?  Someone gifted me a phone that has internet capabilities, and I may just activate that phone for the month of my ride so that I can post short yet detailed updates.  I'll also be keeping a recorded verbal log of my trip, that way I won't forget anything that I want to post.  I'll take 1.5 million pictures, I'm sure, so your eyes won't be deprived of the visual aspect.  Blasted, this is turning into an Oops Baby Blog--more and more crap to keep up with and invest in that I didn't anticipate.  That's the name of the adventure game, I guess.
    
     As far as training is concerned--NADA yet.  Baltimore was shat on with snow last week to the point that 1 of the 2 days I actually have to go to school each week was cancelled.  My electricity was out for 24 hours too.  Snow and roadbikes don't get along very well, and if you know ANYTHING about [Baltimore] Maryland drivers it's no surprise that the majority of them were in the ditch or some other form of "accident" that evening... they are atrocious drivers out here!  I could have biked yesterday, but I've been lazy to be blunt.. like the guy below.

P.S. I've done this--and I ended up with a scraped & bruised arm because the dog stopped and my arm didn't.  My arm made sweet love to the window frame and it yanked some of the top skin off.  Don't do it.

Anywho's, blogging and biking.  Training.  Equipment.  

     So much to do.  I set up the tent for the first time!  I took everything out of the bag the first night I had it to make sure nothing was missing--all parts are accounted for.  The only problem I had was that my kitten thought it was the GREATEST new jungle gym for him to play in.  NOPE!  I kicked him out of the bedroom until I had made sure that I could set it up easily and quickly; I didn't want to chance my little Sabertooth's ability to snag the material and rip/slash it (Lord knows my shower curtain looks like streamers from him jumping, latching, then sliding down it with his machete-like claws.  Luckily my water pressure is so low that the water wouldn't ever come close to coming into contact with the curtain).
     I bought maps of the states I'm going to be trekking through too, minus West Virginia.  I simply couldn't find one at Barnes & Noble.  Every other useless place, but no West Virginia.  I've been creating maps on Google for the trip, and I think that I'll post them AFTER I've gotten to a place and moved on so that people can see my route.  I just don't want to give away my position to the enemy in the time of war, if you catch my drift.
     Well, time to practice singing so that I sound glorious for my recital when I return home at the end of the trip.  Most of the people there wouldn't know the difference if I screwed up a Czech, German, Russian, French, Italian, etc. word, but I will.

Some of the Gear and Thought Process

The Tent: No Limits; Kings Peak Model

 

 

 

     This was the tent that I wanted, and thus had a friend purchase for me in Georgia while she was home for winter break.  I did some research, about 2-3 hours, on what kind of tent I wanted and the different brands that carried products within those specifications.  For the money I wanted to spend (this seems to be a recurring theme, and rightfully so), this tent gave me the most bang for my buck and had really great reviews online.  I think I made a pretty good choice :) 
   
Specs:

• Size: 85 in. x 51 in. x 41 in.
• Sleeps 2
• Weighs only 4.4 lbs.
• Two vestibules
• Interior bag
• Rip-stop
• rainfly

I can't wait to set this thing up!  I'm wondering if I have to lay down a tarp underneath (in the case that there are some sharp twigs or water)?  I'll have to check out some other blogs to see if others have done that. 
     I have tentatively mapped out where I will be staying each of my 9 nights (10 days) of the trip.  Don't take it personally, but I don't think it'd be smart to divulge the specifics of that information to strangers.  You may be a potential stalker; I approve of the obsession, but not of the tracking and/or incessant spying and eventual harm to me.  I will say this: I will be leaving Baltimore and then go through Virginia, West Virginia, Ohio, Indiana, Michigan, and then to Wisconsin.
     Some people have asked me, "Why, if you have to go north to WI would you go south initially?"  My thought is that I haven't been through the Virginias yet, so why not on my trip?  It's only a teensy bit out of the way anyhow.  I want to see as much of this country as I can before I kick the bucket, and I don't think there's a better way to do that than on the ol' bicycle.
     The greater intention of this trip isn't just to tour part of our country, or to kick my own ass physically; it's to give a recital when I get home with the hope that some of my hometown supporters will come, listen, watch, and then donate toward the cause: my extremely expensive graduate education [and then, indirectly, to the survival and maintenance of the arts in the USA].  As far as the dates of the trip, I used my 2011 Farmers' Almanac to choose the "best" time to ride.  I chose a span of time where nice weather is supposed to be prevalent.  Let's hope that this summer doesn't go too far off course from the predictions and I have decent weather for my journey.  I can handle rain, no biggie, but torrential downpour with a chilly wind for more than a few hours gets to be a bit obnoxious.
     When figuring out what exactly I need for this trip, I sat down with a pencil & paper and brainstormed for quite some time.  List after revised list has made its way to my coffee table.  I then took that list and inserted
the items into a chart similar to the one below... it's pretty minimalistic.  I figure the less I carry the better, but I still have to have the essentials.  I have a 2 liter water bladder in my backpack, plus I'll be carrying bottles in bike's holders.  I won't be packing a lot of food because I plan to stop at farmers' markets & local produce stands along the way.  I'll only have 1-3 days' worth food on me at any given time.  Again, the lighter the better. This is hard for me because I'm a chronic over-packer/preparer.  I try to imagine the worst possible scenario and be prepared if it happens.  On this trip, though, I'm letting go of that habitual tendency and taking what I need.  Yeah, yeah, yeah, I know I don't NEED the camera, music, or phone, but why ride 900 miles and not have any pictures to remember it by when my memory deteriorates with age or what about when I need that inspirational song to help me get up that last hill?  I think this is pretty darn good, for me, as far as light packing goes.  Only the essentials, and then some small, added tidbits to make it more enjoyable & memorable.  Besides, you'll be dying to see a visual account of my journey, right?!  Right.
    

	Have	Need to Get
In Backpack	Tools for Bike                 Compass TP        MP3, Camera, Phone Toiletries                       Chargers Atlas/Maps             Snacks Buck Knife                        Money	Bear/Pepper Spray CO₂ Cartridges Tubes for Tires Extra Chain Treats (for the mean dogs)
In Panniers	Sneakers/Flip Flops     Extra Food Clothes               1st Aid Kit	Propane Burner/Cooking Receptacle
On Rack	Tent	Sleeping Mat/Bag