Florahome, Florida...end of day 1 :)

We've officially started. After a good night with our couchsurfing host, Jack, and a big IHOP breakfast we headed to the beach. Above is the official dipping of the back tire in the Atlantic. We then rode/drove our first 60 miles into the thriving metropolis of Florhome, FL...population, 1509...including us. It was a cold (44*), windy day but no rain so we're happy. So far, so good!

Safely in St Augustine

We drove through alot of rain, but had some sun on the way to St Augustine, 5 days after leaving Ogden. Early tomorrow the bikers will start their adventure. The new map at the top is the first of 7 maps across the USA. Remember we are traveling east to west on the black line. Please continue to keep us in your thoughts & prayers,

We are not sure when we will next have internet, but will give you an update when we do.

The Big Easy: New Orleans

We made it to New Orleans just in time for a break in the rain. After walking around the French Quarter for a while, we got back in the car and headed east. After a lot more driving in the pouring rain, we finally made it to Crestview, Florida for the night.

Louisiana

It was a long rainy day of driving, but we managed to stay ahead of the bulk of the storm that's going through the area right now.

We're now safe, warm, and dry in Alexandria, Louisiana. Next stop...New Orleans.

Texas

Finally made it to warmer weather. After another 500+ miles of driving, some of which was on Route 66, we finally stopped to spend the night in Childress, Texas. Not sure why there are so many metal cows at the Welcome Center, but the urge to pose with them was irresistible.

Farewell Utah

Finally...the beginning of our adventure!

Leaving our snowy driveway, in hopes to find warmer weather.

We made it as far as Gallup, New Mexico tonight. Not any warmer yet, but we're still optimistic.

Why The Name??

Our purpose for this blog has nothing to do with donations. It's merely a way for our friends and family to share in our journey. We appreciate your prayers, support, and encouragement. Thanks for joining us on our adventure!


That being said, many people asked if we planned to raise money for an organization on our bike ride across the US. It seemed like a fantastic way to put our actions into service for others, so we chose 2 organizations that we have personal experiences with.


Other riders who have done this route accepted a penny a mile for their organizations, which seemed fair. So, that's where we got the name. By accepting donations, pennies (or dollars) at a time, we hope to make a small difference with these organizations as they work with people around the world. If you want to know more about the organizations, shown below, or if you would like to donate or pledge, contact us at peddling4pennies@hotmail.com. Thanks to those who have made donations & pledges.


PLEASE KEEP US IN YOUR THOUGHTS AND PRAYERS DURING OUR JOURNEY

http://www.worldservicecorps.org/ Kathleen spent the summer of 2007 doing Health Work Training in Nepal with WSC .









http://www.outreach-international.org/Doris went with OI to Philippines in 2007, Bob & Doris went to Malawi in 2008.

Our Home For 2 Months

This is the 1972 VW Camper we will be living in, with the mini trailer of supplies & bikes (when they are not being ridden).

The popup has a bed for Kathleen; Bob & Doris will be on the double in the back of the van. We have the basic amenities of home.

We will be leaving all this snow behind, and heading for warmer weather (we hope).

The Route We Are Following

The map at the top of the Blog shows the entire Southern Route, 3,162 miles, set up by Adventure Cycling. We are starting at the east & heading west. Once the adventure begins, one of the 7 smaller maps will be there so you can better see where we are & this USA map will go to the bottom right of the blog.

REMEMBER US IN YOUR THOUGHTS AND PRAYERS FOR HEALTH, AND SAFETY, AND GOOD WEATHER.

Introduction to peddling4pennies

Bob & Kathleen will be riding bicycles 3,162 miles from St Augustine, FL west to San Diego, CA in February & March. Doris will drive a VW van as support & will post photos & tell stories of the ride along the way.