Many of you believed, as well as myself, that I was leaving San Francisco today (the 13th).  We actually left on the 10th, and are currently in Davis, CA!  I came to the library at the University to hopefully post some pictures, however, the computers wont allow me to do so since I can't sign in.  I will try to do that as soon as possible, I appologize.

We started our trip off with a beautiful ride from San Francisco to Sabastopol CA.  The chemisrty between our group was amazing; I have never felt so in tune with 8 other individuals as I have on this trip. When we arrived in Sabastopol, we stayed at Laguna Farms.  This is an organic/living food and CSA  farm, along with an alternative energy co-op.There were so many progressive actions being taken there.  We sat under a huge oak tree with Scott, the owner of the farm, to discuss the importance of alternative evergy and how we can utilize the most sustainable form.  We then made a fabulous dinner with fresh veggies from the farm; we even got to take a shower in the outdoor facilities!  The next day we had a very leasurly ride to Sanoma.  Around 2, we stopped for some wine tasting with our lunch. (We are in wine country, we had to take advantage!)  When we arrived in Sanoma, we went to a community garden party were, again, we indulged in some delicious wine made by our host.  While eating dinner with the  members of the community garden we were able to discuss a lot of the issues we are riding for.  Our group inpired discussions spanning empowering queer commuinities to the use sustainable farming practices. 

The next day was the longest ride yet, riding a grueling 80 miles with about 4000 ft. of cumulative climing.  Our group did fantastic!  Everyone pulled through with smiling faces and hungry stomachs.

When we arrived in Davis, there was a change in plans.  Unfortunatley the organization we were going to do a project with here suffered a loss of a very special student in a car accident right before we arrived.  So, we are staying at a student community living co-operative called "the Domes."    A community garden flourishes on the west side of the 10 domes, with a bike church holding down the center of the grounds.These domes are on campus living, devoted to non-violent principles and promoting community living. Because today was a project day, we helped them clean up the bike church and clear and area near the garden. 

I appologize for the brief update, I plan to post pictures and spend more time writting soon. I hope all is well with everyone.  Take care

Emma

HI Emma. What a wonderful start to your trip. Getting to be involved with so many groups, and explore the land with such knowledgeable guides and great friends will be incredible. I am sooo Jealous. While i have been winnowing away, you will be fattening up on great food and wine. ARGH... oh well. I have arived in New Orleans. The end of an extremly long journey... IT has been real. I wish you the best of luck.

Peace and chain grease:)

Hello Emma WOW I am so impressed with your ride. I was finally able to get on the website. Great Photos!!! With my slow connection it takes a while to downlaod but very worth the wait.
Everyone was here this past weekend** A & P they rode to town with Mike - to the Farmer's Mrkt. Mike is loving his new bike. Yesterday the three hiked up to Mt Townsend ** good hike but it was very cold and all was socked in!!
I will watch and read your website often. Take care love Jen

Hi Emma, Madeleine, Brian, Kat and Gang,
I am so glad I was able to play "host" for 4 of you in Salt Lake City! I have always treasured the unusual experiences I've had in my life, and always make it a point to be involved in a variety of unfamilair circumstances. Meeting all of you and having you in my home for two nights was one of those experiences I'll never forget! We had some great conversations, and I am so, so, so, thrilled at what your group is doing. What I'd like you to know, more than anything, is how impressed I am at your wisdom, your sense of social justice, your empathy for others, and your awareness of politics and other issues of the day. It gives me great hope for the future, knowing that at your "young" age, you already have knowledge of and passion for issues that many, many, many people go to their grave never understanding. You are caring and wonderful people. I know you'll have many fascinating adventures in the future. I'm just glad I was able to share in a small part of this one. So, to all of my STRAIGHT BUT NOT NARROW houseguests ....thank you for sharing your wisdom with me! When you wear your shell necklaces, I hope you'll remember me (Lynda), Hazelnut, Cedar Lu Lu, and baby Kitty Coca. You're welcome in my home anytime!!
Love,
Lynda :)