Final ride of the year for the Great Cycle Challenge

The trails were rough and required constant alertness. The bugs where tolerable, and the weather was challenging, but overall the trail rides were interesting. I completed all my goals for this year and together the cyclists throughout Canada raised a lot of money to help defeat this horrible, devastating disease. Through dedication and intense research a cure can be found, that will enable these children to live normal lives. No child should have to live in pain and suffering and I will continue to pray and support these beautiful children.

2025 Trail Rides

Cancer can be defeated.

Shadow, water and sunshine

The dark shadows cast their shapes upon the rippling water.The bright sun shone overhead, casting light reflections upon the waters surface. Flies and mosquitoes would buzz around in search of food. Their obvious food choice was my life blood as they pierced my skin in search of it. The hot sun, shining upon the surface of the rippling water, heated up the water, creating the conditions where aquatic plant species could grow and thrive. The droplets of water falling to the surface of the water created circular patterns and wave patterns that mixed with the light from the sun. As the sun began to set and it began to darken, I made the decision to complete my distance challenge for today and cycle to my final finishing point.

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Water, sun and vegetation.

The tall grass lined the banks of the meandering creek as the grey sky reduced the light coming from the sun. The vegetation was abundant and growing rapidly and starting to produce seed. The light from the sun was filtered by the dense, grey cloud cover. A faint glowing orb was present behind the cloud cover. The thick vegetation was able to absorb more moisture from the slow, flowing creek while the heat from the sun was temporarily filtered by the grey clouds. The gentle wind would cause the thick vegetation to sway back and forth like the grass was dancing, while the water flowed slowly down the creek. Eventually the sun would appear more brightly as the cloud cover dissipated. The rays from the bright sun would bounce off the surface of the creek, creating star like patterns. Water, sun and vegetation, natures own wonderment.

Stone, grass, water and sun

The water flowed quietly and slowly through the narrow, stone lined creek. The ducks swam contently through the water feeding on whatever they could find. The narrow geology of the creek made it a good place for ducks and other creatures of nature to rest and feed. The bobbing heads of the ducks, along with the flapping of wings made for an enjoyable observation of nature. Swimming slowly in search of food the ducks would be soon be out of sight. I appreciated all the more the hand of man who built this narrow run off canal, as I saw how much it contributed to betterment of the natural order.

Hot prairie sun

The blazing heat radiating from this bright sphere called by many, the sun was fascinating. The fact that this giant energy factory could be studied and observed from this tiny planet was out of this world. So far away but yet so near to the hearts of many. To think that this giant, burning sphere was what kept every living organism on this tiny planet alive was indeed awe inspiring. So reliable and self sustaining was another reason to respect this burning sphere in the vast universe. Tree branches stretching to absorb it's light, and plants opening up their flowers to be nourished and pollinated all at the same time. Humans and animals evolving to the cycles of the sun. Myths, legends and stories developed by ancient civilizations revolving around the sun, hold still to this day an important part of history. Revolve on you burning, giant sphere for your time in history has yet to begin.

Water, the gift that keeps on giving.

Water shoots into the air creating droplets that gravity captures and hurls them into the pool below. The bright sunlight is filtered through the water droplets and turns them into different colors. Ripples create circular movement and swirls of motion. Undulating golden water waves formulate and reflect the shadows created by the reflections of light off the objects the sunlight hits. The spray of water droplets reaches my face and my reaction is one of gratification. Water the liquid gift that just keeps on giving.

Water and City lights

The lake water rippled in the slight breeze as the pelicans searched for food. Surrounding the pelicans, were ducks and geese feeding and flapping their water soaked wings. Pelicans would fly gracefully to the feeding location to join the rest of the flock. As the water fowl were feeding, the sun was setting quickly and the surrounding area grew dark. The lights of the city turned on similtaneously and their reflection bounced off the surface of the rippling water. This was a signal for my challenge to end for today, to be continued tomorrow. Onward I pedaled to my finishing point tired but renewed at the same time.

Green Growth and Sunshine.

As the trees and the plants roots grow deep into the prairie soil absorbing necessary nutrients the color green is predominant. Water and organic matter mix together to precipitate growth and photosynthesis. The bright light from the sun is integral to the green growth of the plants and the intricate processes that occur in plain sight and hidden beneath the soil. Constantly changing and adapting to the naturally occuring conditions the trees and plants contribute to the overall well being of the ecosystem. From food for all living creatures to the evaporation of water, and the release of oxygen, green is one of the colors of growth and life. Humankind is one of the beneficiaries of this precious process of growth and light. Never take for granted the unseen and the seen for it is our reason for our existence.

Into the sun trail ride.

The sun shone brightly as I pedaled onward to my destination, my goal within reach, but still unattainable, due to circumstances beyond my control. The brilliant sun eminating it's raw energy gave me hope that things would turn out for the best. To think that this round ball of massive, fiery energy is what kept the human race alive was fascinating. Most days it would rise visibly to fulfill it's universal duty and set, leaving darkness behind. The vastness of the universe is mind boggling and infinite in it's potential. Capturing a burning sphere so far away with my camera, left me with a sense of awe and I would never take the sun for granted ever again. As the sun set, I realized that this burning sphere was a reliable ally for my existence on this spinning mass we call earth and it filled my soul with energy and hope.