Written by: Eldon Eigsti, Orange Ride
This is my second Fuller Center Bicycle Adventure. Last year, I rode the whole route from California to Maine, along with our fearless leader, Connor. This year, I joined the “Week 6 Segment,” from Lincoln to Peoria. I thought I would compare the experience of being a full-time rider versus joining for part of the ride.
First of all, there was no boxing up a bike and shipping it, hoping it would arrive undamaged when joining for part of the ride. My wife, Marilyn and I drove to Lincoln, NE Saturday, stayed in a motel that night, and then, I joined the group Sunday morning. The ride will be stopping at the end of the week in Peoria, IL, which is less than an hour from my home.
As far as fundraising is concerned, friends and family were very generous in supporting my ride last year. This year, I was able to fund my trip on my own.
In addition, I think we have almost had more rain and storms this week than the entire ride last year.
Last year, I was part of the core group, which welcomed new riders. This year, however, the cross-country riders have made me feel at ease and part of the group.
Also, I was not able to help with the build day in Peoria last year, but this year, I plan to be part of the service project.
Furthermore, this year, I had no mountains to cross, but last year, there were many.
There are more differences between my ride last year and my ride this year, but enough of the differences. What is the same is the camaraderie in working together to fulfill the vision of eliminating poverty housing. It was rewarding to be a part of a celebration of a new covenant partner in Shenandoah, IA. With the help of many people and organizations, let’s eliminate poverty housing.
