Monday, January 02, 2006

Blackberry Preserves

When I got home, there was a package on the table. I knew who sent it. Three times, we had done a bike ride that raises money for tree research and planting. Inside was a jar of blackberry preserves and a hand written note. The note said he needed my help and he wanted me to do the bike ride again in 2006. I read the note again.

The 2006 ride starts in Thunder Bay, Ontario, and conclude 550 miles later in Minneapolis. I will have to raise a minimum of $3,500. This means I have to start sending out letters to businesses and groups asking for their support. It also means I better start training. I haven’t ridden my bike since last August.

No – was going through my mind. That’s a lot of asking for money and a lot of training. I looked at the preserve and read the note for a third time stopping at the part that said, “I need your help” – well heck, it’s only 550 miles.

Better dust off the bike.

15 Comments:

Blogger Cliff said...

You better get over to the local Harley dealer.

9:26 PM  
Blogger Rachel said...

Those preserves look good Ralph!
You are going to ride 550 miles on a bike?? Just thinking about it makes my whole body hurt, especially my knees.

If you do it I'll be cheering for you!

(Thanks for not getting upset with me for putting your curler picture up on my blog!) I didn't think you would or I wouldn't have done it. I need all the laughs I can get!

9:31 PM  
Blogger Jim said...

That's a nice thing to do. You must be in pretty good shape. Can you tell us what the charity is?

10:28 PM  
Blogger Aravis said...

I'll be cheering you on, and looking forward to your commentary after the ride! :0)

11:42 PM  
Blogger Dan said...

Ralph Armstrong?

7:16 AM  
Blogger Ralph said...

Cliff - I don't think I can afford a harley but I might spring for one their seats just for a little more padding.
Rachel - I done this a few times before. Yes, my knees will hurt but not as much as my seat. Keep cheering.
Jim - Not good shape yet but I better be by July when the ride happens. It is for a proffesional organization called the International Society of Arboriculture. All the money goes to the TREE Fund (Tree Research and Educational Endowment). Their 2006 Tour des Trees site isn't up yet. I'll post it when it is. It a great group of people from all over the country.
Aravis - I'll keep you posted.
Dan - Lance has finished first for the past seven years. That means he is at the head of the group. I just finish.

12:50 PM  
Blogger Rachel said...

How about one of Cliff's tractor seats on your bike? Would that be more comfy on the behind??

6:26 PM  
Blogger Seeker said...

How many days is the ride? I hope you get to sleep in comfy motels and not church basements....

8:12 PM  
Anonymous Anonymous said...

I remember the cigarette ad that said, "I'll walk a mile for a Camel." But, Ralph will ride 550 miles for Loveless Cafe Blackberry Preserves? I gotta try some of that stuff.

8:48 PM  
Blogger Gel said...

Well, Ralph, you already know which way to wear your hair for this cycle of your life. :)
I remember reading about last years trip and thinking what a great cause and admiring your athletic skills and dedication.

8:54 PM  
Blogger JUST A MOM said...

uuummmm CAN I SAY THAT THERE IS NO AMOUNT OF JAM TO GET ME TO RIDE A BIKE OR EVEN WALK THAT FAR, Hell I won't even drive that far. My hat is off to ya Ralph!!!!! you go for it!

10:23 PM  
Blogger Live, Love, Laugh said...

wow, you sure have some ambition, I don't think I would even attempt a 10 mile ride much less 550 miles. Are you sure you wanna do this? Ok then, let us know when you get back!

1:34 AM  
Blogger Rachel said...

Jerry, it must be awful powerful stuff indeed! I believe I'd start with just a tiny taste...just in case...I mean if it makes Ralph willing to bike 550 miles, no telling what you might think of doing! Could be hazardous to your health.

1:00 PM  
Blogger Ralph said...

Seeker - it is 6 days. We usually stay in college dorms until the last night.
Jerry - so do I. I haven't even opened it yet.
GEL - Thanks
Just a Mom - It wasn't the jam. Steve is a nice guy. I'll go for it and keep you posted.
Live, Love, Laugh - No I don't want to. I say that everytime about now then when it is over say - "WOW. That was fun!" The ride is in July.
Rachel - relax I won't give any to Jerry or Cliff.

8:25 PM  
Blogger Astrid said...

Do you know how to mend a flat tyre?

1:59 PM  

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