Countdown to Send-Off
Hello. This blog is coming to you from the keyboard of Nicole (recognizable in the pictures as the one with the curly hair and, clearly, the brightest smile). I hope you can all tolerate my writing as I will be in charge of virtually all blogs from here on out. I apologize in advance for not making the best of first impressions, but that is only assumable seeing as how I am not at my best. Currently, I am lying in bed waiting for the Benadryl to kick in and carry me off to sweet slumber; I am attempting to sleep off a severe case of a strept throat-like illness involving intense throat pain, headache, and the inability to eat for the past week. I cannot stand for more than a few minutes so, needless to say, I am beginning to question my abilities to cycle across our nation. I have hope, though, that God will give me the courage to face whatever physical challenges continue to be thrown my way (How’s that for a tie-in?). Yet despite all of my hope and courage (Oh, look. I did it again!), prayers for a speedy and complete recovery would be most appreciated. Anyway, to conclude my self-introduction, please allow me to thank you all for taking an interest in my family’s ride and also to express my desire that my blogs throughout the ride help you feel as though you are not just reading the industrial facts and updates of a mission, but rather the honest observations and ponderings of a friend. I truly look forward to communicating with you all.
And now a few announcements about the ride:
Well, the countdown is officially underway: only five days until we leave our happy little town of Gig Harbor and set off toward Lady Liberty! There is still much that needs to be accomplished, though, and so we ask for your continued prayers and support that everything comes together in due time and that no one is forced into a stress-induced coma. Also, if you would like to be additionally involved, please come to our send-off party this Saturday (May 17th). Generously hosted by the city of Gig Harbor, it will take place at the Gig Harbor Civic Center from 10:00am to 12:00pm. There will be plenty of hope, courage, live music, free pancakes, good fellowship, and sunshine. We start pedalling at noon and all are welcome to ride with us across the Narrows Bridge. Hope to see you there!
Cheers,
Nicole
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Hi to Nicole and the rest of the Hope & Courage team. Thanks for the update on the trip, I can’t believe you are 4 days away from leaving. Fred and I are looking forward to seeing you off on Saturday. I’ll be the one in the crowd saying “that’s my brother and sister-in-law and nieces and nephew!!!”. I’ll be checking this blog every day to see how you’re doing along the way. Hope Nicole gets better soon. See, I used Hope too.
Love,
Reenie
I loved your story on Evening Magazine. I will be watching your journey from your blog and praying for you to have safe and happy travels.
God bless you!
Heavenly Father,
I thank You for the love and promises that You have given us. Lord, I thank You that Your Word says that we are healed by Your stripes and I ask that You give healing and good health to Nicole and the whole team. May You bless them, strengthen them, and encourage them as they ride across the country as ambassadors for You. Bring healing to Nicole so that she will not only be able to participate fully, but also be able to share another testimony of Your greatness. We thank You and praise You and will worship and honor you in Jesus’ name. Amen.
We are so proud of you all! We also feel very privileged to know you and feel like we are a part of your great journey! We will be praying for you and know that great things will be shown as you share your message!
God Bless and safe travels!!
God Bless you all. I will be praying and looking in on this blog. I know that there will be many great things that God has already put in place. I can’t wait to hear about it. Safe Travels
God bless you guys! I know that God is using your family! I know that many people will come to God on your journey across America!
Rick Pollen
Bob & Family-
Safe travels we are all with you- enjoy your adventure and blessings on your work!
Craig
Hi
I pray all is going well on your trip
I enjoyed riding with you from Kent to Issaqua wa.
Thanks for letting me bike with you.
I will be praying for you every day God bless
Chuck Zimmer
RCC
Dear Friends,
Thanks for letting Media and I have part in this great adventure! Your friendship means so much to us. Our prayers are for your personal saftey, personal growth, and personal relationship with God. We believe that all three of these will be met, with God’s grace. You all are a testimony to so many. My first pastor (Alvis Alsup) told me to remember that I may be the only Jesus some people will ever meet. Our daily experience is truly in view of so many. All of you are now in that spot light in a whole new way. May your light shine for Jesus! Don and Jeane. Thanks so much for your willingness to be such a huge part of this ministry! You are so loving and giving. It is a real testimony to your personal walk with Christ. Thank you for setting the example for us. We love you all.
Todd and Media