Capital City...LIVING LARGE

I do believe, help my unbelief.
                               Mark 9:24

Austin has a lot to offer including Lady Bird Lake, a lot of bike lanes, and the best sidewalks I've experienced in Texas! The Capital building has a majestic ambiance especially at night. The public transportation is outstanding but can be somewhat confusing (referring to the Metro Train). The  American dollar can take you far in the Austin public transportation system. Bike racks on the train and buses.

Texas State Capital at night

Who's your Daddy?

State Capital by day from Congress Street

Lady Bird Lake also known as Town Lake

Happy New Year Y'all

Christmas in Austin

 Interior space of Austin's International Youth Hostel

We have found the Messiah; Jesus Christ, who brings us grace and truth.
                                                                John 1:41

Although the weather on Christmas Day was wet and cold the company at the International Youth Hostel wasn't. There was a volunteering of efforts that put together a free Holiday meal and I think everybody has enough to eat.

Celebrating the Season in Community fashion

Austin is the capital of Texas and the Capital building is a handsome landmark easily identified from Congress Street looking north. The beautiful Colorado river flows through the city that is traversed by a number of pedestrian friendly bridges

Alamo City...been there, done that.

Some Historic Architecture in downtown San Antonio

To you, O Lord, I lift up my soul.
                            Psalm 25

Happy Holiday's,

It was an eventful week in San Antonio. Although the weather was wetter than I hoped for; I was able to conduct some important business projects where I needed technological assistance. Thanks to SKYPE and  places like McDonalds, Starbucks, and hotels that provide a free WI-FI signal.  Thru them I was able to access the Internet and take care of needed business. Hemisphere Park was the highlight of my downtown experience where I encountered an organized occupation area of the park where concerned Americans where raising an awareness of our broken financial system. One thing I applied to their recommendations was removing my money from Bank of America. According to some spokespeople BofA is laying off 30,000 employees to pay for their lawsuits where they are being sued for about 5 billion dollars. There are also allegations that they are keeping our military in perpetual debt by some of their policies. These occupiers encouraged putting money in local banks and credit unions.

Lot's of Great American history in San Antonio, and around the Alamo. I enjoyed asking local folks about their interpretation of The Alamo, and what really happened. I learned that Mexican leader Santa Ana regained control of the strategic Alamo after he killed his appointed commander who gave up his post to the invading Texacans. He didn't put up a fight but instead retreated and met his death by Santa Ana. The Mexican commander then headed north to retake the Alamo, but couldn't  retain his homeland's presence there. Santa Ana was defeated as he continued to push northward with his poorly trained and diminishing troops by the occupying Texacans.

The roads were tougher in San Antonio than I anticipated, and the traffic was congested with very few bike lanes. Buckling sidewalks with telephone poles in the middle of them, as well as obstructive mailboxes weren't uncommon.

I'm planning on trekking northwest to Austin, then on to Houston. This Texas traffic however makes me skeptical about my plans and abilities to get around in these urban areas. I've heard that Austin is a very bike friendly city so I'm fired up about my proposed visit. One thing I tell people is that dreaming doesn't cost anything. That's what a lot of my future on this tour is...still a dream.

I enjoyed New Bruanfels, but had a hard time putting up with the smoke in the local sports bar "Scores" that telecast the Cowboy-Buccaneer game. One thing I value about my home state of California is the no smoking laws that are enforce in social environments (like bars). Unfortunately, now my cloths smell like smoke. That's the price you have to pay in 2011 Texas to catch some NFL or sports action at a pub.

Heart of Texas

Church of San Fernando-San Antonio, Texas

Government building-San Antonio

Alamo-San Antonio

You shall love your neighbor as yourself.
                                   Leviticus 19:18

I consider San Antonio to be "Deep I The Heart of Texas" and that's where I am now. I've never seen a area as dedicated to medical research or as expansive as the facilities here in San Antonio. Unfortunately, it's been pretty difficult to safely cycle around town with so few bike lanes,  buckling sidewalks, as well as jutting mailboxes, trees, and telephone poles.  I'm a survivor so far though.

Fortunately, I've had the opportunity to spend the last few days with a nurse friend where I was able to thaw out from the nightly freezing temperatures. Having access to a kitchen and a warm shower was nice too.

I hope everyone is in the Holiday Spirit (filled with Goodness and Light).  Although I haven't been logging to many miles this week, I've been able to send out some Holiday cards.

Thickening Air

Lonely Saguaro Cactus

I came that they might have life and have it to the full.
                                                  John 10:10

One thing I've noticed as I move east in Texas is that the air is getting heavier and the landscape is greening up. Some of the green pastures west of Uvalde remind me of springtime. The recent rains are something I haven't experienced in a long time and I anticipate wetter travel as I continue east. The air is thicker as the elevation descends from west Texas. I wonder what the gulf coast will produce. Will I be able to handle the humidity?

I like to take at least one day off per week. It gives me a chance to go thru my equipment and tighten loose bolts, lube my chain and oil my Brooks saddle. It also gives me the opportunity to wash my cloths and rest my body.

Enjoy your day,

Francis

Rio Grande Sighting

Barrell Cactus & friends

As I loved you. So you also should love one another.
                                                              John 13:34

Finally made it to Del Rio after spending time in Sanderson and Langtry. Although Sanderson claims to be the cactus capital of Texas, the cactus garden at the Langtry visitors center takes the honors. Quite the place and well worth the time if you're in the area. One thing I must say about the visitors centers in Texas, is that they are well designed, resourceful and accommodating.

I took a walk across the swiftly flowing green Rio Grande today and enjoyed the afternoon in Ciudad Acuna (Mexico). I was able to get both dental and eye exams free of charge. I recommend that anybody with limited incomes who needs dental services patronize the dentists in Mexico. Your money goes a lot further there than in the U.S.A. From my experiences with Mexican dental services, you'll pay roughly 30% of the costs you'd pay for dental work in America and that's with insurance!

The weather was great today, the temperature reached well into the 70's. I'm happy to be further south this time of year whereas, I'm not to fond of battling cold and wind while cycling.

Alpine Thanksgiving

Don't Mess With Texas!

What is seen is transitory, what is unseen is eternal.
                                                       2 Corinthians 4:18

Had a nice tailwind that blew me into the town of Alpine today. No complaints from me about the West Texas drought. I can deal with cooler temperatures better than I can deal with rain or snow. A 20degree Fahrenheit rated sleeping bag certainly has helped me deal with some cool autumn night temperatures. As a matter of fact, I woke up a few days ago with ice in my water bottle. It's very important to have dry clothing before getting in the sack at night.

Unfortunately, I haven't been able to integrate photos taken during my travels on this blog. Nor have I been able to correspond directly with followers. Perhaps the future will include better luck in the development of this blog. If you are interested in traveling with me or dealing with me personally, my email address is fsts61@gmail.com.

Kickback Time

Clear dry air meant bright star filled skies...hard to describe the beauty

Picturesque Southwestern American Landscape.

This is the day the Lord has made, let us rejoice in it.
                                                  Psalm 118:24

I've been staying pretty consistent with my approach toward this tour and I found Van Horn, TX  to be a nice place to rest and regenerate before the long haul to San Antonio. Our Lady of Fatima church and the Pilot with the WiFi signal have provided a nice haven to pass the time off the road. Although I missed tailwind riding opportunities yesterday and today, tomorrow has it's hopes.

More riders moving east have appeared and it's nice to share different riding perspectives and approaches to touring. Generally, I'm the slowest guy in the pack because I'm  not in a hurry to get anywhere fast. I carry more equipment than the average biker on tour not because I want to see how much weight I can pull around but to be as comfortable as possible. This stuff includes a tent big enough for me (3 person), 2 sleeping bags, cooking gear,  a good sized air mattress, a variety of wind breaker and rain jackets as well as extra biking shorts, socks, and a pair of biking sandals.  Additionally, I have several bike tubes and spare tires. The tires help to keep me off the ground at night when I camp out.

Hopefully I'll get on down the road with the wind at my back tomorrow.

Lone Star Rising

MOONRISE over Las Cruces, New Mexico

We observed his star at its rising, and have come to pay homage to the Lord.
                                                                   Mathew 2:2

Texas is one very large state. A drive on I-10 from El Paso to Beaumont would cover over 850 miles. I don't plan on taking the interstate. In fact, my proposed route should be well over 1,000 miles across Texas! Maybe I'll never get out of here, that's OK though because I'm no hurry. I'm enjoying west Texas because it's dry and there are some tail winds to catch during the day. I've been having some communication issues with my computer, therefore, my ability to respond to comments is limited.

Las Cruces, NM was one place I didn't plan on visiting but it turned out to be a good experience especially walking around the Mesilla Valley Mall. Although there weren't as many biking lanes there as I hoped for, I found the sidewalks appropriate when needed. Found an excellent frontage road south of town that lead me into El Paso.

My high end Armadillo rear tire let me down. The tire was separating from the tread and I noticed a lot of extra play in handling of my bike. Therefore; I decommissioned it and replaced it with a new Schwalbe. This too was a disappointment. After it installed I noticed my hemorrhaging tube bulging onto the rim. Upon further evaluation,  I noticed the outer ring of the tire had a wire protruding from it which punctured my tube. Although it was dark, windy and dusty when I installed my second spare, I was happy I had one left to install. Even though my latest spare tire has some tread wear I'm delighted that it's holding air and getting the job done. Hopefully I can find a local bike shop along the way where I can return my faulty 'high end' tires and get credited with some new rubber.

Surviving Storm #1

ARIZONA mountain range

Not much out here but wind and clean air

He who lives in love lives in God and God in him.
                           1 John 4:16

Since traveling from Globe I've had the opportunity to travel thru the San Carlos Apache Indian Reservation. I enjoyed spending my money there because the taxes on items bought were about 4% vs. the 8+% that I pay in Arizona. The Apache Gold casino wasn't bad either with $5 in free slot play just for signing up for a player's card. The homemade Indian Fry Bread in the restaurant was outstanding.

I had interactions with the first touring cyclists during this leg of my journey. Chris was heading west after getting off the Continental Divide Route. He started in Anchorage, AK and wants to travel to Cancun, MX via the Baja California Peninsula before returning to his homeland of Switzerland. I gave him some information about traveling on the Apache Reservation and suggested some camping techniques. You can check him out @ www.chrigiontour.blogspotcom. If you like reading German, you might find his site appropriate.  I also met Janet traveling to California from the Houston area, I plan to look her up when I get closer to Houston even though she will probably still be touring.

The last few days have been challenging with strong headwinds starting in Pima, AZ all the way to Lordsburg, NM. Although the elevation here in Lordsburg is higher than Safford AZ, the climb was tougher because of the strong winds that preceded the latest storm and the first major one I've experienced on this tour. I was happy to get into Lordsburg before it got to dark. It certainly was a challenge to get here and  fulfill my personal goal of averaging 30+ miles per day. After setting up camp and falling soundly asleep, I woke to lots of rain coupled with strong winds. Needless to say, it wasn't a great idea for me to set up my air mattress without putting up a tent to enjoy. My sleeping bag got soaked along with my air mattress. Thankfully, the rains and temperatures in the 30's  didn't last long. The sun came out today and dried my stuff out pretty well.

Made it to Top Of The World

This Highway 60 tunnel is one scarey place...tough eastbound upgrade

Evening shadows falling on Arizona Canyon east of Globe

I am the bread of life. Whoever comes to me will never be hungry, and whoever believes in me will never be thirsty.
                                          John 6:35

Well, I feel like I accomplished something big by making up the grade into the Pinal mountains, thru the tunnel and then onto Globe. The Grade of the road (Hwy 60) between Superior and Top Of The World  was so extreme that I walked my bike most of the way. This distance was over 7 miles where the elevation climbed over 1,700 feet! By the time I made it to Top Of The World I was out of water. Happily, I spent the $2 for a gallon there to replenish my supply. The ride into Globe from there went quickly as I descended about 1,000 feet while exceeding speeds of 45mph.

I'm taking Sunday off to rest my legs and enjoy some NFL match ups.










.

Preparing for a Grind

Happy to be breaking in my newly built 40 hole rims with 14 gauge spokes and Phil Wood hubs.

Some rest and relaxation is mandatory in my routine

Love one another as I have loved you.
                          John 15:12

Today starts the real test of what I am as a rider. I'm comfortable with my equipment and I'll be putting it to the test with assents to Superior and Globe. There is a dangerous old mining tunnel that I plan to go thru between these two towns, it's the only road available as far as I know. This tunnel on Highway 60 is not designed for bikes or a 2 lane highway from what I understand. It was built to get copper mining equipment about .5 miles through a mountain. Now it functions as a major thoroughfare for public usage. With no bike lanes, fast moving heavy traffic and a tough upgrade with a fully loaded bike; this climb should be a unique experience. I hope to live to tell another story.

Last night a rain storm suddenly appeared after I prepared my tent less camp for another night under the stars. At dusk I wanted to watch the 6th game of the World Series and headed toward a local pub in Gold Canyon. Upon learning that the game was postponed due to inclement weather I noticed people rushing inside wet and frazzled. A strong storm was blowing thru and it was to late to get my camp stuff to a dry location. Irregardless; when I made it back to camp, I just turned my wet air mattress over and unfurled my wet sleeping bag. I'm amazed at how well I slept considering the conditions. The storm departed as quickly as it came. Now my stuff is drying out on a warm sunny day.

With Blessings,

Brother Francis

Ready to Roll again

My road machine...READY TO ROLL

Treat others the way you would have them treat you.
                                                   Mathew 7:12

My upgrades are complete with a new set of touring wheels, new Brooks seat with a new seat post, new tires with heavy duty tubes, new touring handlebar with grips,inserts and as a new front stabilization spring. The stabilization spring helps me maintain control of my handle bars. This is a new and welcome asset in touring equipment because my front steering is now easier to control. The front rack and panniers add a lot of weight. Eleiseo @ Slippery Pig bike Shop in Phoenix recommended it, he also installed it for me.

I just bought a digital camera. Now, I'm prepared to reveal my adventures with pictures as well as words.

The miles should be easier now with much stronger wheels, a more comfortable seat and handle bars with a wider variety of hand positions. Next destination...Apache Junction.

New Frontiers

Life's a lot easier with the correct equipment, you need it if you are serious about touring on a bicycle.

The people who sat in darkness have seen a great light, and for those who sat in the region of the shadow of death, light has dawned.
                                                          Mathew 4:16

Since leaving Blyth, CA I've enjoyed a refreshing swim in the Colorado river and many nights camping out under the stars in Western Arizona. I've met many new friends including a organized group of cyclists raising money for injured United States Marines. I caught up with them at the tail end of their annual ride in Wenden where they raised over $300,000!

Because of the severity of wheel problems that I've had including 11 broken spokes since my trip started, I've come to the conclusion that my 28 hole rims aren't the right wheels for me to tour with. I'm sick of tightening loose spokes, truing rims and struggling  with my stock wheels. Therefore; I've ordered a set of Velocity rims (40 hole), Phil Wood hubs and 14 gauge spokes to be laced in a 4 cross pattern. These recommendations came with advise from Rincon Bike Shop owner, Dennis in Carpenteria, CA. I met Dennis a few years ago when I toured the California coast. Our physiques are similar, and he has more touring experience with heavy loads. Therefore; I heed his recommendations more than anyone else's regarding touring. He is a tandem specialist and was very adamant about me inquiring with him before purchasing more equipment. Eliseo At Slippery Pig  Bike Shop in Phoenix also helped me make some decisions about my touring wheel investment..

I finally made it to Mesa, AZ despite my wheel problems and have  been enjoying time with my niece Renee and her husband Mathew (Buddy). They have been very patient and hospitable with me as I wait for the arrival of my rims. They are coming from Florida, hopefully they will arrive today. Everything else has arrived.  I invested in a new Brooks saddle yesterday. Apparently they have a 800 mile break in period, then after that, they are very comfortable. I've heard nothing but good reviews about them. Additionally, I'm considering investing in some touring handlebars and a front end stabilizer (so my steering will be smoother). It's nice to be in the Phoenix area where there are people with resources to assist my biking adventures.

Making Miles

A beautiful Arizona rock formation

Example of excellent road for cyclists, flat, clean, dry, well marked. Enjoy this kind of road...it's not to common on a long distance tour.

Christ took our infirmities, and bore our diseases.
                                                Mathew 8:17

Well, I've had a few good days of riding under my belt and I'm watching the rising full white moon from a warm clear Blyth, CA landscape.

After some challenging days in the wet cold Cuyamaca mountains I made it down into Imperial Valley but not before breaking 5 spokes. Believe it or not I traveled over 60 miles one day with this condition. I was prepared for at least 2 days of walking but thanks to some tremendous tailwinds and a 2,000+ foot descent, I hobbled into El Centro with another rear flat (acquired 2 miles out of town). After some welcome service with owner Paul at El Centro's Finish Line Bike Shop I got a few more miles behind me. *note* I did have some tube liners installed and my wheels trued there. Paul told me my rims, chain and gear cluster were in good shape and the reason for my broken spokes was due to a break in period. All the broken spokes were on the drive side of the rim and the damage was done after a Banner Grade (outside of Julian) descent where my chain lurched off it's cluster and wedged next to the spokes...things could have been a lot worse.

The ride north out of El Centro was a bit nightmarish on Dogwood Road with little to no bike lane along with plenty of 55+mph traffic, including trucks.

I've been noticing a lot of play in my rear wheel and the pedaling has been tough with some undesirable sounds. Lo and behold! I've noticed several loose spokes, now, I get to monitor them too. I'm considering investing in some higher end touring rims so these wheel problems will hopefully cease.The Phoenix metro area will be the area where that transition will be made. There will certainly be some challenging mountains and miles between here and there.

Finally on the road

Maybe there's a gold in those hills

 A great Prophet has risen among us; God has looked favorably on his people.
                                                                                  Luke 7:16

I finally got on the road after several weeks of delay. I'm posting this from beautiful Pine Valley, CA where I'm enjoying a breezy sunny day with temperatures in the 70s. The free WiFi signal from the closed public library is nice too. I might be a little crazy to be leaving this beautiful place but I am only answering my calling.

My vehicle is tucked away, other possessions sold (as many as I could find buyers for)  and I'm officially en route to new horizons. The mountains have been a challenge and the miles are earned. My longest day has been only 20 miles. I'm carrying more gear than I'm used to including cooking materials an extra sleeping bag and a fine bottle of Don Julio Tequila given to me by a dear friend Joe Cardenas (retired Park Ranger San Diego). The city of San Diego has proclaimed 30 March to be Joe Cardenas recognition day. How ironic that I have such an intimate relationship with such a big wig local.

I noticed my first flat tire today after waking up to a cool mourning. I'm skeptical about using tire liners because I've had problems with them before. I'm still liner less but am considering reinvesting in them because of the junk on the road besides thorns that can find their way into my tires (like the wire I found this mourning).

Prep work and packing up

My man Mike and yours truly

The Lord has sent me to bring good news to the poor, to proclaim release to the captives.
                                                                                Luke 4:18-19

Mike Riche (pictured with me) is taking over my church duties while I'm on my trek. He has given me many helpful applications in developing my computer skills. 

My estimated date of departure has been moved to 5 September, 2011. Thanks for your concern.

Update

Horseshoe Falls as seen from Niagara Falls, Ontario CANADA

                                                                
Today, do not harden your hearts, but listen to the voice of the Lord.
                                                            Psalm 95:7-8

Because the challenge of storing my camper has risen, the start of my trip has been delayed. If anyone is interested in buying my 1983 Toyota Dolphin or better yet helping me store it while I travel please let me know. My phone #1(619)573-9529. I will keep you informed as new issues come and and lingering ones are addressed.

  

Introduction and Primary Objectives

Mississippi Chameleon

                

Man does not live by bread alone, but by every word that comes from the mouth of God.
                                                                            Mathew 4:4

I'm commencing a 15 month bicycle journey in San Diego, CA that will take me to at least 28 states, and coast to coast. Canada is also in the plans for the spring of 2012 (weather permitting).  If all goes smoothly, I will  return to San Diego for the 2012  Presidential election in November. Camping will be my primary way to rest, however; it's unlikely I'll turn down the opportunity to experience some complimentary clean bedding and a warm shower along the way.

You are welcome to follow me on this blogsite. If  you want  me  to address your questions, concerns, or comments, please be patient and I will do my best to respond appropriately.

I believe in the risen Jesus Christ and feel moved by his Holy Spirit to be a living testament of his love thru my actions, hopes and aspirations in this biking adventure.

I view this tour as a "Proclamation Tour", I believe that Jesus Christ came in the flesh, rose from the dead and through the work of the Holy Spirit is at work in my life and all those who live a life of faith. I want to live a life of thanks. Thanks be to God for giving me a productive body, ambition and the time and resources to do a tour like the one I'm on.

Let me say that I'm subject to change on this trip. Yes, I have goals and objectives for my travels but I also leave room for the possibility of change. It's currently 8/19/2012. I'm in Buffalo, NY now and let me tell you that when I planned this tour, I wasn't planning to be here now. Things change and I hope I can continue to be flexible to change.

I originally planned to complete this tour in 13 months but it's been extended now to 25 months. To be honest with you, I don't know if I'll ever get off the road!