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Miles: 117 - Total Miles: 2,919 - Total Ascent: 87,136 ft.Wow, what day - I AM IN CALIFORNIA!!! Needless to say, I was pretty excited to get here! Today was simply amazing, to say the very least. I departed Wickenburg, just prior to 7:00 am, and rode 95 miles alone. John had work obligations that he had to tend to. However, after work he picked up his son, Johnny, and met up with me in the town of Quartzsite, Arizona. From there, about 20 miles, John was my support vehicle to Blythe, his home town.
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After I crossed the Colorado River I was in California. And I couldn't have asked for a better welcoming. Just off the interstate I was greeted by a Blythe Police Officer. I was given a police escort to their city park where I was greeted by more than 100 patriotic, flag waving fans. John and Angie organized an O.M.E.H. welcoming party in my honor. I will never forget the good people of Blythe. The Vice Mayor, Town Judge, VFW Commander, and a Protestant Minister were but a few of the civic leaders who greeted me. Additionally, members of a local group "The Yellow Ribbon Committee" made a special presentation. So far, this was the largest showing of support I have received on this journey. Thank you Blythe!.
Afterwards, the Hermanson's invited me to stay at their house. Angie prepared a wonderful home-cooked meal, and we really enjoyed each other's company. Thanks again John and Angie!
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"I CAN!"
13 comments:
Let me be the first to welcome you to CALIFORNIA!!!!!!!!!!!! Now there are no further states to cross!!!!!!!!!! You are down to a few cities and a few more miles!!!!
So keep on keeping on, one mile at a time and one city and a time, NO MORE STATES AT A TIME!!!!!!
Your almost there, be careful, can't wait to see you and the family in Huntington Beach!
Ken (Gramps)
I wanted to be first to welcome you to California but as luck would have it night owl Ken beat me to it. Anyway, WELCOME TO CALIFORNIA CHIP. There was never a doubt in my mind that you could do it. I am so proud of you and your efforts.
Love, Mom
Well, you may be the first to welcome him into California, but I am one of the first to see him! It is such a treat to have Chip in our family's home. I don't want to give anything away, but I will just say that when Chip arrived here in Blythe we gave him a heroes welcome! We love you Chip!
Angie Hermanson
Whew! I can think of nothing better to say than one big WHEW!(and of course how proud and happy we all are!) Now to get Tracy, her support driver (thanks Ellen!)and kids into California today and we will all be very very happy campers.
Faye
You certainly can!!
Pretty Soon your "I can" is going to be "I did"! You are an inspiration. I hope the directions last night are helpful on today's journey. Remember to look for the giant rooster of of the I10W at Highland Springs Exit in Beaumont. That's a great picture op. and the owner(Jackie) of the restaurant lost her son in Iraq as well. It is a wonderful place of patriotism. We'll be thinking of you. Love, The Murrill Fam from Blythe
I just wanted to say a HUGE THANK YOU TO BLYTHE CA!!!!!!! Now I know that I will come and visit such an amazing place with amazing people. Stay tuned for more from Chip!!!
Chip....I am speechless!!
Put one pedal in front of the other!!!
Lisa
That is probably my favorite road sign.
Great job Chip! Wish we could be there in HB to join the party!
YAY CHIP!!! you made it to California! How exciting. I am so proud of you.
Love,
Julie Sanford (Anderson)
Hey Chip, WOO-HOO, Hooray, and Yippee!! I am so proud of you and glad that you are in CA and near the end of your journey. I am leaving tomorrow (Friday) for Ohio to visit Grandpa Roberts. I will check your blog from the computer up there. Don't know how much you will be posting these last few days. Hope you post a bunch of pictures of the grand and glorious celebration in Huntington Beach. Be careful, so near the end. Love, Aunt Annie
We were so impressed to see Chip ride through Blythe. I know I wasn't the only one with tears in my eyes. What an awesome triumph! No more state lines to cross, yippee! Chip made it to Blythe and was greeted by so many people who support this cause. We are so proud of you, Chip! After reading your blog, we feel we are truly a part of O.M.E.H.'s quest. We congratulate you and wish you and your family the best. You've done an amazing work! May God bless you on the rest of your journey.
The Zezulka Family
Hooray Chip, you made it to California!! We are so proud of you. I biked on a stationary bike the other day for 7 whole miles and my legs were burning. I can't imagine pedaling 100+ miles. You wold have to call in the parmedics!! Just two more days--keep pedaling hard.
Okay, now that Chip has told you about Blythe's welcome from his end, I will tell you some of what happened on my end. They announced Chip's arrival over the local radio station, and told about his cause. Blythe started gathering for his arrival at 5 p.m., but because of a flat tire he didn't show up until almost 7 p.m. It was a great moment seeing Chip finally arrive in Blythe to everyone cheering and chanting "Way to go, Chip!". Not only did a lot of adults come, but a lot of kids were also there waving flags and just as excited! As Chip addressed the audience and talked about his cause, so many were touched and brought to tears!
Thank you, Chip! It was an experience we will not soon forget!!
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