10 ways to eat better

 10 Ways To Eat Better

Everyone asks us how we eat. So today we decided to stop and take a minute to let you guys know the top 10 ten ways we started to eat better and teach our families to do so as well. 

• Eat 30% more whole, unprocessed foods

 Its less of a shock to your system than just jumping in.Plus you're more likely to stick with it.

•  Minimize the fat in that pantry

The more fatty foods you have in the home, the more likely you are to binge eat or say those magic words. Oh, I'll just have one...two...eight...next thing you know the whole bag is gone. Don't allow the not so good food items to be too accessible.

• Love your water bottle

Most of the time when you think your hungry you're really thirsty. Dehydration can lead to over eating, fatigue, headaches, and mood swings and more, in adults and children alike. Carrying your water bottle everywhere (so we have learned being on the road) keeps you aware of your thirst and quenches it. Try it you'll see!

• Shop the outside perimeter of the grocery store

As T says "Thats where all the goodness is". No really, purchasing from the perimeter means your cart will have more fresh ingredients. Why? You have the fruits, veggies ,fresh cut meats and cheese. Your less likely to pick up the more processed foods this way.

• Drink a hot liquid after each meal 

This is a personal practice of ours. It generally makes the meal feel complete. Tea's tend to soothe after a long days work and can calm you before bed. 

• Carry a snack pack for your busy day

Most families will tell you this one practice makes a huge difference. Carry a few apples, bananas, grapes for you and the kids. It's too easy and harmful to pull in to a fast food joint and "fill" up on a burger and fries. Carrying your snacks will save you money and calories to burn later. 

• Incorporate raw foods into your everyday

 Raw foods can be more than just salads and veggie sticks. You will find yourself amazed at the sights,tastes,and fulfillment of raw food. Or just keep it simple and eat a salad or have a smoothie.Find your local Raw Food restaurant and be aware how they change the way you view fruits and veggies. Happy Cow gives a list of restaurant available in your area.

This is a raw desert. See I told you raw food is no joking matter.

• Start a mini garden

Gardens can be big or small, but which ever you choose they can yield great rewards! Maybe start with some onions and lettuce. Two very simple crops that make a world of a difference when in your reach.

• Eat small amounts frequently

We've all been told to eat several small snacks between meals. And we agree. Its never been so clear to us that eating small snacks between your bigger meals keeps you from gorging on the not so good stuff.  Stay away from such heavy meals that make you want to sleep afterwards.

• Drink your veggies

Vegetable juice can be delicious. Try lots of different types of greens with a little carrot and some beets. It'll sweeten it up and you'll still get your greens. Green smoothies can do the trick as well if you don't have a juicer.

Gaby's Story

September 8th 2006 my cell phone rings. I was surprised by the voice on the other end of the line. It was my cousin Mackey. He was best friends with my dad and he has never called me before. I thought he might be calling because it was my 21st birthday. I had just got done getting all dressed up to go out for dinner that night when he delivered the most devastating news of my life. He called to inform me that my father was in the hospital in North Carolina on life support and that my family there was about to "pull the plug".  I had no idea that he was in the hospital in the first place let alone seconds from leaving this earth. I had never been close to my father and to know that he died without me being able to make my peace with him will always haunt me. My father had gone to the hospital the day before for chest pains and other symptoms. The next day he had a massive stroke, two days later he was gone at the age of 56. At that time I was 160 lbs. Three months later I looked back at the pictures from the time when I my father died and noticed a significant weight gain. I thought to myself  "If I don't change my lifestyle I will end up like my dad". He suffered from high blood pressure from eating a S.A.D diet (Standard American Diet). I gained more weight after that point until I really got hold of the combination of eating nutritiously coupled with proper exercise. Now I have the education and the inspiration to live healthy and fit. I have learned from the experience of my father. I believe that he felt that itcouldn't happen to him but it did and can happen to anyone. I have devoted my life to helping others in their quest to as healthy and fit as they can be. This isn't a diabetes story but it was my wake up call. Hopefully reading this will be someone's wake up call rather than living it.

T's Diabetes Story

                   I can remember as a child seeing my grandmother pull a cold vile out of the refrigerator, transfer the contents into a syringe and then take it on tray along with a meal to my grandfather who was sitting on the living room couch. Even though he only had use of one arm he would clean the injection site and put this liquid into his stomach. As a child I really didn't pay it much attention. It was just something that was. Now that I am older I realize that his condition was due to the lifestyle he led. In that day or at least in my family children are never taught that what you eat and how you exercise can become more than just making you obese. The sad reality of it is that it effected more than just him. It was apart of my aunts, uncles, cousins and other grandparents and the people they knew as well. Now seeing my grandmother suffer from diabetes is heartbreaking. She hates needles but has to take insulin three times a day, her vision is diminishing, she can't walk any more or even turn herself in bed. This has led to bed sores that are stubborn about healing and being bed ridden has caused blood clots in her legs. I can remember my grandmother being so animated and lively. Now she is forced to lay in one spot all day as this preventable disease preys on her body, mind and life. The saddest part the the situation is she probably didn't even realize what she was doing to herself. It is tradition in most societies that food is a reward, comfort, and love. Food is the connective tissue in the world and there is no change in sight. How I see it, the main component that we need to change is the type and amount of food we consume. It is a simple solution to a complicated problem. I don't want anyone to end up how my grandmother has.

Share your  Diabetes story here. My story 

Some Pictures from Laurel and Hattiesburg

T outside of the only African American war museum in the U.S

THE LADY IN THIS PIC JUST FOUND OUT THAT SHE HAD DIABETES 2 DAYS BEFORE SHE SAW US

The mayor of Laurel and some friends we have made along the way.

John Brown the assistant mayor of Hattiesburg

Some fire fighters we met in Laurel. The fellow on the left got us an escort in and out of Hattiesburg. Thanks Darrell!

Picayune Item: We're on the front page!

September 21, 2010

Two women ride cross country for diabetes

From Staff Reports

PICAYUNE — A trip across country can be a daunting task, especially when the only mode of transportation is a bicycle.

However, two Florida women, 24 year-old Gaby Johnson and 29 year-old Tameka Collins, have undertaken that task to raise awareness of diabetes, obesity and the public need for exercise and healthy eating.

Johnson and Collins passed through Picayune this weekend on their way to Louisiana. They began their journey on July 7, and have been on the road for about a month and a half. So far they have traveled more than 1,300 miles. Their destination is Seattle Washington and they expect to arrive there sometime in November.

The women got the idea to undertake this task while watching the Ironman Competition. At first they thought they would attempt to walk or run the distance from Florida to Washington, but eventually decided on bicycles. The decision to start the ride was inspired by both women suffering deaths in their family that may have been avoided with lifestyle changes.

While promoting healthy lifestyles is their primary goal, they also hope to educate the youth on the power of desire, effort, attitude and determination. They hope to steer the American public away from the standard American diet as part of their primary goal, a diet which consists largely of processed or fatty foods, and instead to eat more fruits, vegetables and whole grain foods.

When they started out on their trip, they were traveling about 80 miles a day. Hilly areas, which are a change of pace from Florida’s flat landscape, hindered their progress, pushing the daily distance traveled back to 30 to 40 miles. However, their determination, and the extra exercise, has them back up to pedaling between 50 and 80 miles a day.

As they travel the country, they are collecting donations for the Diabetes Foundation. Anyone interested in donating to their cause or simply keeping up with their progress can visit their blog at http://rawroamers.blogspot.com/.

To see the entire story / http://picayuneitem.com/local/x1857720452/Two-women-ride-cross-country-for-diabetes

Gonna miss Mississippi

So many people have told us to stay out of the south for various reasons from the heat to the so called "hicks". We heeded their opinion and set a northern route. When we found out that the mountains might be way too much to climb plus the cold might cut our trip short we decided the best thing for us would be to go as south as possible. The lack of hills/mountains in the south would enable us to get more miles in per day plus stay as warm as possible for longer. Now we found ourselves in the state of Mississippi. I have to admit, I was a little concerned of what might transpire here, I have heard so many stories and saw many movies based here that don't quite have an inviting theme. The first stop was Meridian. We stayed with a host from couchsurfing.com.He showed us so much hospitality and love it was unbelievable. We stopped at a volunteer fire department to get directions but got so much more than that. Dana and her husband helped us with our mission, contacted the news and supplied priceless motivation. The next day we did a news broadcast with WTOK-TV.
Leaving Meridian we were on a high. We thought the momentum could carry us into Laurel 65 miles away but leaving so late in the day we  only made it to Saundersville. That night we ended up camping in the yard of a church counselor. They weren't expecting us but still showed us southern hospitality. He brought us pounds of fruit to appease our vegetarian appetites and even called ahead to our next to stop make sure we had a place to stay. Fueled and on the road we stopped in Laurel to get water and directions from the local fire department.They were amazed by our trip and also gave us blessings. We continued down the road only to get waved down 5 minutes later to get a donation. He surprised us both we he called the mayor and told him to meet us at city hall. We took pictures with the mayor and got an awesome unexpected surprise. They contacted the news station to do a story on us. On the road once more, not even 10 minutes later, one of the fire fighters chased us down. He said that he wouldn't be able to sleep that night if he didn't help us out. So he called the chief of the F.D in Hattiesburg to see what he could do for us. To make a long story short we had an escort waiting on us when we entered the city limits. It was not your ordinary escort. It was the assistant mayor John Brown. We rode with flashing lights to the closest F.D where to freshened up to take a tour of the city! This was an experience like no other. Not only did we have a complimentary lunch, we got to visit the only black history military museum in the nation. They even got us a complimentary room where we could get some much needed rest. To phrase up Hattiesburg in a sentence... This is an incredible city with incredible people. John got in touch with the media in Picayune(our next stop) and also made arrangements for a comfortable nights rest. One of the reporters even took us out for dinner! All in all we have nothing ill to say about Mississippi. One thing that we have agreed upon and learned from our travels is to never judge a place, person, or thing based on someone else's opinion. Go there and find out for yourself and make your own opinion based on your own experience.You just might be pleasantly surprised just like we were!

Our interview with WTOK news station in Meridian, MS

http://www.wtok.com/home/headlines/103096449.html

Pair Cycles to Raise Awareness

Meridian, Miss.

Two women are cycling across the country to raise awareness about diabetes.

People we have met...Food we love

The Silver Comet Trail

Today we set off from Atlanta with the goal of riding across the Alabama border. To make a very long story short, we didn't didn't reach that goal but for good reason, here's why. We said farewell to the family that hosted us in Atlanta for 3 days and set off into unknown territory. About 5 miles into the ride we came across a man (identified later as Bob"phatboy" Carter) on a very interesting street strider. Come to find out he has already done one cross country trip and in about a week will be commencing a second tour of 50 KM ride – 50 City – 50 Days. His mission is to become physically fit and to raise awareness of America’s battle of the bulge.

http://www.phatboyriding.com/

We spoke with him for over an hour and could have kept talking we but we all had things to achieve that day. In what seemed to be only a five minute conversation we got some excellent encouragement, advice and new friendship. Bob Carter, you brought the warmth to a chilly morning!
 
 

If you know anything about Gaby and I then you know we believe in manifestation.We decided that we needed water bottle holders. So riding on the trail and getting a huge pep talk from Bob I built up some courage to ask the bike shop for the water holders.What do you know!!! Not only did we get 4 holders, we got 4 water bottles to go in them!! A big thanks to Silver Comet Depot Cycles(SCD Cycles). We can't thank you enough!!

                   The next notable thing that happened to us today will probably be the most memorable thing to me. While continuing our ride we rode past a small group of people gathered on the side of the trail. I turned saw a woman lying prone(face down) and tangled in her bike. I assumed that she just had a fall and would get back up, but she wasn't moving. I jumped off my bike and helped free her from the bike. A man who we had just spoken to 5 minutes earlier yelled she's unresponsive. Me having graduated E.M.T school knew that this was a serious situation. I yelled let's check her A.B.C's( airway, breathing, circulation). We rolled her over only to reveal a cyanotic(blue) face. Her airway was blocked, she was not breathing and she had no pulse. The man next to me gave a couple of breaths I began doing chest compressions.I could feel her ribs break underneath the pressure of the compressions, this is common in C.P.R. He gave more breaths but I noticed that the air was going to her stomach, not what she needed. When air goes to the stomach it causes the involuntary vomiting. Needless to say she was vomiting. I tried to readjust her head but I could not get her tongue out of her airway. So while giving breaths I took a risk with mouth-to-mouth but not doing it wasn't an option. We gave her C.P.R. for about ten minutes.She never regained a pulse. Finally E.M.S showed up. Unfortunately there was only one of them. I continued C.P.R while he inserted an airway device. After 3 minutes or so he had the bag valve in place but I was still doing chest compressions. He hooked the A.E.D (what shocks you) and gave 3 shocks. The rest of his crew finally arrived and took over the scene. They were not able to get a pulse either, not even after intubation. Then they took her to the hospital. All the while from start to departure her husband was watching the whole thing. He was so cool,calm and collected the whole time. I think he was actually in shock. Anyone I know would have been hysterical,but my dad and I. Come to find out the man who I was doing C.P.R was a doctor. We both came to the same assessment of the situation. Her survival looked really grim. She was pulseless for over 15 minutes the last we saw. I hope we are wrong though. I can only imagine what her husband is going through, survival or not. One minute you are enjoying a picture perfect day and the next minute... So, go home, pick up the phone, do what you have to do and tell the people you love "I LOVE YOU"!!! You never know if you will ever get another chance to.

To top the whole day off we got a very nice complimentary hotel room. Thanks Econo Lodge of Rockmart,GA. I truly recommend this hotel. The ladies at the front desk are angels and will take very good care of you. The rooms are clean and modern. Theres free wifi too for the touring cyclist. Anyway I don't want to sound cheezy but tell'em we sent ya! 

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Photos from the Last week... Bike trippin GA *Hotlanta is really HOT.

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Downtown ATL near the underground

Downtown ATL Peachtree St.

Downtown ATL Peachtree Park. This guy makes homemade pops. We didn't get a chance to try any but have hear great things.

A trip

Our forever buddies in Macon,GA Willie and Christen. They were thinking of starting a hostel. I think Macon really needs one.

Our first day back on the rd. and feeling great.

The funniest little chick we've met.

There were about 20 of these chickens running around in the middle of a busy intersection in front of a Chinese restaurant.  

Awesome chick in Griffin,GA about 20miles out of ATL. We had  huge bag of boiled peanuts and some bananas. I don't recommend eating so much before you ride.

That was a little intimidating

FINALLY! entering Atlanta was hot. I really didn't want to stop on an incline to take pictures but T was al for it. Little did  know the next couple hours were gonna be so memorable.

I think the pic speaks for itself. Lol Wow this lady was a trip and a half. I don't think I ever met anyone like her. She was swinging her hair and flashing us. All i can say is Wow.

Pretty awesome thrift shop

We met with Keisha Bell, project manager of YMCA in St. Petersburg,FL today to see if we could work with her on a non-profit program she is managing called FAB Families ( http://www.stpetefabfamilies.com/  ). They are community based, minority serving health agencies that support healthy living. They offer dance classes, health expos, cooking classes along with other programs setup between the seven partnership groups. We agreed we would work with them when time permitted doing vegetarian cooking classes but for now we really want to start our own non-profit. Unfortunately we're having some difficulties figuring out how to get the process going. Other than filing with the state we are at a loss. So our next option is to get a non-profit that we feel co insides with our mission to donate the funds too. I think we much rather donate to a small non-profit that is working directly with the public and may not have the financial backing that some of the bigger non-profits do. I quess we will see.

The new sponsor Boston Bill and new bike tour signs.

I love these new shirts and glasses. We put our new cycling signs on the back and went for a short run. Fast signs donated some sticky signs that you can stick to anything except these shirts. lol. I think we will pin them onto the shirts other wise after you start sweating a bit maybe a mile into a run the sticky gives and it just starts hanging and falls. Maybe because the signs are to big. There a great idea though.

I love these new signs! 

Meeting with the Mayor

We met with Mayor Bill Foster upon our arrival back in to St. Petersburg, Fl. We sat down in city hall and told him about our travels thus far. We was very intrested and amazed at what we had accomplished. When you see the distance crossed on the Florida and Georgia maps it makes your jaw drop. I know because it makes mine drop every time I see it. He remained supportive through out our conversation and even a hint of pride was detected. After our chat concluded he walked us to my mother's office where he suggested that she hang a giant U.S map and update it with pins on where we left our mark. Needless to say Mayor Foster was an awesome, laidback guy and we are very proud to have met him.

Our 1st news article of many more to come.

Gaby Johnson (left), 23, and T. Collins, 29, both of St. Petersburg, Florida, are on a mission. The duo plan to bike across the country for health and fitness and to raise awareness about diabetes. Johnson and Collins are on the first leg of their trip which will take them from St. Petersburg Chicago, Illinois. From Chicago, they will head west and hope to be in Seattle, Washington by November. Gaby stated that each town is a little bit different. She added that each town they stop in they visit the city hall to get a signature from the mayor. The young ladies also said that when they stop for a break from riding they try to find a family to stay with that may have a family membber suffering from diabetes and cook a healthy meal for the family. They explained that by eating properly and exercising, a person with diabetes can live a much better life. While in Baxley, Gabby and T. stayed at The Progressive Resource Center.

The Snake in the Lake

It was our second day at the Hostel in the Forest and we wanted to swim in the much talked about lake located in the rear of the property. We walked down the dim path with thick brush on both sides of the boardwalk. I was glad it was a boardwalk in place because people liked to walk to the lake at night and there is no telling what could be stepped on in the dark. We came to an opening that revealed a beautiful, alligator free lake. It could be debated to be a pond due to size but that really didn't matter to me. The mosquito's had been feasting on me all day and I was covered in sweat and dirt. I quickly tore all the clothes from my body and stepped carefully into the gleaming water. You can't do things like this in Florida or the south to be exact. Any body of water,  even the sea (in south Florida) most times is inhabited by these ancient creatures. As I disappeared into the water a sense of clam fell over me. The sun was beaming down and my skin invited the heat of the rays and coolness of the water. Fish were quickly interested in me. I suspected because of my dreads. They pecked at the ends of my locks to see if there was any nutrition to be had. It didn't bother me though, it was kinda cool even. I swam all around the lake. One lap, two laps, three until I made it back to where I got in. I had been swimming for over an hour now and needed a little rest. I wasn't successful in my attempts to get Gaby in the water at all.Now at the point of begging, she did decide just to wade. Once again the little minnows came up to me. I poked my tongue out to see if they would come nibble and free some dead skin off of me. I know that many women pay for this kind of treatment in a spa setting. Now my back was to the bank and Gaby was in front of me.She made a beautiful addition to my panaramic view. I continued to let the fish come eat. They were coming from every direction now. Suddenly their pattern changed. They all swam from my left to my right in one big school. I thought to myself that it was very odd that they were doing that. Just at that moment Gaby said to me in atone of  voice I had never heard come out of her mouth, "T, there is a snake right behind you." I felt an impending feeling inside me then I heard hsssssssssssss. It sounded like the snake was close enough to tell me a secret in my left ear. Knowing a little something about snakes I didn't want to upset it, plus I didn't know what kind of snake it was. So I eased ever so slowly in the water in the opposite direction of the mystery guest. I turned gently to see a snake that I had never see  before. I tried to look at it's head but it was moving around so much it was a little difficult to identify if it was a sort of pit viper. I did see that it had no rattle but did have a very big head and and some impressive girth to it. The four footer seemed to hesitate coming closer but didn't want to leave either. I felt anxiety running from my toes to my head. I thought to myself these kind of creatures can smell fear, and immediately I felt my heart rate slow. The snake was within striking distance from the second Gaby saw it, lond enough to where we had enough time to talk about our strategy for escape. Gaby asked what we should do.The thought of spalshing around quickly entered my mind but if it was an aggressive snake I didn't want to piss it off and encourage it to have a go at us. I suggested swim slowly( doggie paddle) to the floating dock but she wasn't going for that. She determined on her own to wait for him to be a clear distance from her then she bolted for the bank. I waited until I couldn't see him any more then exited the lake. The nerves had settled and I wanted to stay in but it was clear ( from Gaby's face and tone) lake day was over. Later when we looked at some pictures of snakes we determined it was a water moccasin. I didn't think he was moccasin because I thought all "cotton mouths" were black. THAT IS NOT THE CASE. Some one once told  me that I was protected by my ancestors and from the things that have happened to me in the past few years I do believe that. Maybe the snake in the lake knew it too.

Sunshine in Baxley, GA

             It's been awhile since our last post which was meant to catch you up. We are getting used to the flow of bike travel now and should be writing a lot more. The fact that we are in Baxley, GA and everyone seems to be angels has made it a lot easier for us to get Internet access. When you ride into Baxley the first place you see is a brand spanking new KFC but after that is City Hall. We were warmly welcomed by Raven and when we asked to speak to the mayor she says,"sure he's at his other job at peoples bank two businesses down." We went there and got our first mayors signature. I'm feeling pretty good about that I think we will cont. to do it. It also helped that he was nice and gave us some info about the Baxley. He also let us no maybe the newspaper would do a write up. We haven't made the time for media but everything in Baxley seems so easy and nice. It was right across the street. We went over and what ya know he did an interview and took our picture right then and there. 15-20 minutes tops.  Left there and walla in between the City Hall and the mayors job is the public library. The lady at the counter was awesome and let us simply use the computers since it wasn't that busy. All of this leads to me writing this post right now. I gotta say I'm digg'n this city.

This past week has been great. I have to say I wasn't sure about Georgia but I am very sure now that GA is a beautiful welcoming state. We are only half way through GA and I've met so many great people from Kingsland to Brunswick (where I had the experience of a life time) to now in Baxley.

Now we are on the road. It felt good leaving from a familiar place. We wanted to leave from Key West originally but it would be much easier on our nerves and wallets to leave from a place of comfort. If any problems were to arise we would be able to call for some assistance. Our path for the day was to take the Pinellas Trail to Clearwater Beach. It was a 30 mile bike ride, taking it slow was the plan. We knew some people that we would be able to stay with to save money. The temperature was around 93 degrees, this was about average for the Florida sun. One mile became five and five became ten. When got to our 15th mile we decided to stop and have lunch. We took shelter under a huge oak tree and munched on vegan jerky, liters of water and fresh fruit. The extra energy was welcomed dearly by our bodies. As the breeze streamed over our heads we smiled at each other at the fact that we had started our much anticipated journey. We climbed back on our bikes and kept riding. Now we had come to a spot on the trail that we had not yet reached. I didn't know there were so many bridges to cross. All-in-all there were roughly 10. We didn't want to push it too hard and expend all of our energy, many of the overpasses became underpasses. No need to build up lactic acid I reasoned. We trained for the tour but not very hard. Plus we never rode with our gear. Between the two of us we were toting about 60-80 pounds. Shear will and muscle memory would start us off. There would be plenty of time to build up in mileage.


Now we were at a point where we needed to get off the trail in order to get to Clearwater Beach. We upgraded our phone to include gps to aid us in our journey. We also saw a fellow biker who gave us directions to the beach. We were getting to the point where we just wanted to be there, rest was needed. We got off the trail and headed into down town Clearwater. I quickly recognized landmarks and knew which direction to take. I think my hunger was leading me as well. We made our way around a curve and there appeared the bridge to our destination, a damn big bridge. My thighs quivered at the thought of going over another incline but it had to be done. As we ascended we saw our path was hampered by a broken down golf cart that took up the width of the pedestrian part of the bridge. Some one was pushing it along. We happily hopped off the bikes a walked to the top. The ride down was incredible. The fact that we finished our first day after months of delays meant so much to us. This was the first day of sweat, triumphs, trials, smiles. We were just happy to be on the road doing what we set out to do...help ourselves and other people.

Pre trip jitters

                I cracked my eye lids to reveal just a glimmer of light seeping in through the blinds directly in front of my bed. I knew I had to get up early today but I could not help the sense of sadness and joy I was feeling. I knew that this would be the last time I slept in this bed, in this house possibly in this city as a St. Pete resident. I felt like there was so much to do even though the only thing there was to do was to ride. My mom got up a  little earlier that day, I knew that she would not get a good nights rest.She was worrying herself sick and us too. She tried everything she could to get us not to go but we had to do this, we wanted to do this.Any way she opened my door and let little Gaby in. LG as I call her was a energy filled boston terrier that adored me I and I her. She jumped on the bed and began to lick off all the traces of sleep from my face. Smokey, my dog of  7 years sensed the excitment and jumped on the bed to join the fun. She being the alpha dog gave Gaby a lilttle nudge so she could get all the places that LG didn't get. They like little kids began a sort of play wrestling but quickly sprang off the bed when they heard the leashes come out for their morning walk. Now it was time to get going. I brushed my teeth and put on my biking gear. The only thing there was to do now was to pack up the tent and wait for my dad to get home so he could see us off. I would have left the day before but it didn't feel right with out getting a hug from my daddy. We laid all our gear by our bikes and did a final check to make sure we weren't leaving any thing behind or taking anything extra that would slow our progress. Smokey back from her morning stroll knew what was going down. I had left her before to live in Hawaii for half a year and she knew the routine of preparing to leave. She laid down next to my bike with a distant look across her face. I'm sure some of you may think I am crazy but Smokey is a keen, emotional creature. But I had to go, no matter how hard it was for me and every one around me. My mom was keeping her distance this morning. I knew this was very hard for her. She tried to keep it from me but a daughter knows her mother like a mother knows her daughter. She came up to me and gave me a deep hug and said her goodbye's. I quickly ran for the camera to capture the moment but as quickly as it came...she was gone. Quick bye-bye's are the way to go with her. No need to show tears. Now we were packing up our bikes and the anxiety was building as high as the Rockies. All we could do was look at each other and smile and ask over and over, "Are you ready". If there was a time to turn back it would have been then. But we both knew we couldn't wait any longer to start our journey. In pulls my dad into the driveway. "Ya'll ready" ? "Of course", I replied. He examined our bikes and the way we had them set up. It looked as if he was trying to find a problem so we could delay our departure. But there was nothing negative to say. We took some pics, exchanged hugs amnd said see ya later. He was off to tennis camp and once again we were left with our nerves. I had mine in check. I never felt too nervous when I knew that things were going to be in my favor. Gaby was as nervous a 18 year old boy on draft day. The time had come. I said bye-bye to Smokey and little Gaby, took a deep breath and pushed off. We couldn't leave right away though. We needed to stop by the bike shop to get some air in our tires and a computer for my bike. We entered the bike store to see a nice familair face. Dave, the guy who had helped us in the time leading up to the trip. He filled our tires, hooked up a gadget to measure various things and installed an extra light on my bike. Exit the bike store and our trip begins. I immediatley wondered if the last pedal would feel as good as the first.

Goodmorning!

Here is our route plan. So far we are on track. We started in St. petersburg, FL and have worked our way up to Jacksonville, FL where we have been for three days. Today we will bike 70 or more miles to brunswick, GA and then head for Atlanta, GA. If you know anyone on or off this route that could host us for the night or who may need help with their diet please let us know.

The journey has begun!

Its been a while since we've posted and theres so much to say! Pictures will be uploaded as soon as we get our computer in brunswick, Ga which is our next destination. It's been a week and a half and we're already crossing the Florida Georgia line. I'm trully excited. There has been so many emotions from the night before we left up to the second that I'm writing this blog for you.

Bike touring is amazing! It's the only way to really see a place other than walking it. I would say to anyone atleast do a county. There have been great people and jaw dropping situations. Things all my planning couldn't prepare me for, like 5 flats in a day or not people able to stay in a city because of my color. I want to keep you posted as often as possible so atleast once a week there will be 2 to 3 posts. It would help if you let me know what questions are most important to you and it'll keep me motivated to find internet access.

          Anyhow remember to stay safe and enjoy life as healthy and fit as you can be.

What we eat

I've recently had loads of questions about what I eat. It seems very easy for me now being in my 4th month 100% but I was once had the same questions so here is a list of what I eat daily.

Apples -Most mornings.

Bananas -Most mornings and lunch. They're quick and not messy when squished in a backpack when firmer.

Cashews- Had to cut back personally b/c I LOVE cashews and can't stop once I start. lol

Bubbies pickles -Cut them up and throw them in a salad. Also we make a notta tuna dish with these but I can't stop grabbing one or two( or 3 or 6) when T starts making food.

Carrots -Most days I put these in a salad or T who insists on gourmet food frequently puts them in her many amazing dishes. For me its quick fuel baby! I grab and go.Carrots are quick and easy.

Almonds - Every other day when working out pretty hard.

Lettuce -I like to switch it up but kale is big in the raw community.

Olives- There is a company out there that has raw olives. I thinks its sants barbara in a glass container.Many more are on the rise.

Tomatoes -Grape tomatoes most of the time because they are easy to carry with you as a snack.

Nori wraps -For nori rolls, I put any kind of veggi I can find into them. T makes an awesome nut sauce that is supposed to taste like cheese, and it does.

Mushrooms -Originally they were'nt my thing but recently they have gained a special place on my dinnerplate.T marinates them in olive oil and with braggs and WOW... you've never had a mushroom this good. They taste cooked.

Oranges and Grapefruits -Everyday being that we are in FL and they are in season.

Starfruit - T has an eye like a hawk and finds these trees everywhere. So... I have to eat them the mornings she makes smoothies. They are great when they're super ripe but any other time I can't take the sourness.

Lara bars -Publix and every health store in our area has them. When I can't get to good food I stop and grab a few.

Coconut water/Milk-  LOVE LOVE LOVE coconut water and can't live without it. If your buying it I'd make sure it just says Coconut water. You can also make your own milk too! They have amazing nutrional and other values.

Date rolls -NEW- This is new to my diet. I eat dates in my Lara Bars and the other bars I make when I can, but this is pure date and some coconut sprinkles on top. Pretty good stuff Natures Finest has them but I haven't seen them else where. No date rolls on the road I guess.

I have not used sea salt or pepper in 2months not for any real reason but that my food has been just fine without it. For beginners it helps to add a little since the transition can be stressful on your taste buds. All in all I eat a lot of salad, smoothies, nuts and pieces of fruit. I like simple things and don't like to spend a lot of time in the kitchen. T is the chef of our pair so she makes sure I have different things other than just an apple or banana. Together we make a great team. A sort of yin/yang. We balance each other very well. If you have any more questions let drop us a line!

Want to travel but don't have the money? ( Here are some links that will get you on the way.)

Ways to travel on the cheap

http://www.digihitch.com/

Even if your not planning on hitchhiking anytime soon ( which I highly recommend on the big island, HI) this is a great site. There are articles from seansoned travelers that answer some of the most baffling questions.... How to find work on the road, how to find rides, saving money tips and so much more.


http://www.wwoof.org/  (FAVE)


GREAT site. There is a fee for the booklet which tells you all the organic farms around the world but it's well worth it. I've used this site myself and its a total win for you and the host farm or organization. They need the help you want to travel. depending on where you go there can be very little work or there can be lots. There are internships and you may find some paying jobs. You pay for airfare and in most cases they will pick you up and pay for food. You may have to tent camp. I had a cabin.

Accommodations

http://globalfreeloaders.com/

A great site for those nights you maybe don't want to camp or just in town for a night or two you can contact someone in the area that you'll be in and see if they have a couch available for the night / nights you'll be in town. I haven't tried this site yet but I am a member of http://www.couchsurfing.org/ and have used there site.


http://www.couchsurfing.org/ (FAVE)

My favorite way to travel. Hostels are okay but theres nothing like couchsurfing. I've hosted and in HI ran into a traveler who was on her way to a couch and invited me along. It was great. We spent most of the day with him going to lunch at a great thai resturaunt in the area, playing some soccer, we got a great shower ( I was living very rusticly at the time...A shower was very special to me.) he even gave up his bed and slept on the couch. Had a party for us. It was great! People of all ages do this and most are verified by the site. People can leave comments about wether your a good or bad host / visitor. Priceless.

I have so many websites that I want to share. This list will grow just continue to check back.

Raw-Food bicyclist *Great 4min.Video*

                I was googling away yesterday trying to find another raw biker who has done what we're preparing to do. Well I ran into this video which for me was pretty enlightening. See I worry about what we will eat, where we will sleep, who we will meet, and how we will get money to survive. Going without is fine with me but curiosity is truly driving me nuts. I feel he answered the question about food. IT IS POSSIBLE TO BE RAW ON A BIKE TRIP! This I knew but listening to someone say it is comforting. I hope you enjoy it as much as I did.

Globetrotter Packs

Globetrotter Packs

I'm thinking of taking one of these along with us on the trip. They seem to be the answer to alot of travel q's I've had recently. The option to communicate is key. Take a look see.

The Thrill of Common Interests

It is funny how you really don't know what you've got til it's gone. I, not even 24 hours away from my lady am feeling the effects already. I'm not talking about being love sick or even missing the attention that only your partner can give. I'm referring to our shared raw food lifestyle and the love and passion we have for it. Any day we were together we would make sure we both ate…and ate enough. I would try to make something we've never had, tasty, and cross over capable. It is exciting seeing some one fully enjoy a 100% raw dish that you made. It creates bonds the same as family sharing a huge meal together.But today I seemed to be content with a huge salad, some bars and simple fruit. Gaby is naturally this kind of raw foodie but I love to do over the top dishes for the both of us. I may be premature since it has only been a day but I will soon find out. I have gotten used to having a vitamix and dehydrator. Now I will "downgrade" if you will, but the most important thing is that I still have! And I am very grateful for that. With every closed door you see more open ones ahead. One of the many bonuses I have to being in St. Pete is the abundance of citrus trees. And soon enough the avocados will be begging to be plucked from burdened trees. Not to mention my city is so bike friendly and runner friendly. Also the beach is never farther than my feet's/wheels ample capability to get moving. Back to my original point, it so critical to have people around you who value and share in the same things you do. I will never take this for granted again. There is a certain appeal to it all and I need more people around me who can give me that thrill. This also a huge tip that I give to you. Surround yourself with people with common goals, intrests and lifestyle. The transition or journey will have a lot less bumps and be that much more enjoyable. Peace and blessings.

Easy Raw Lasagna…. Anybody can do it. I just have to remember the recipe! Lol

 

    Raw Lasagna

• Zucchini
• Tomatoes
• Sun dried Tomatoes
• Dates
• Spinach
• Olives
• Cashews
• Lemon Juice
• Italian seasoning
• Salt
• Pepper
• Garlic
• Union
• Olive oil
• Water
• Mushroom
• Nutritional yeast or yeast

That's pretty much it.

I'm going to make it tomorrow and there will be a step by step slide show with measurements.

You don't need a dehydrator only a blender. A peeler for the zucchini but you can just cut it thinly with a sharp knife. No excuses there's always a way to make tasty raw food.

Click here for more Healthy Meal options

Healthy Raw Meals

*Raw* Mexican Corn Bread

• 3 cups fresh corn
• 1 ½ cups green bell pepper
• 1 cup flax seed
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 1 tablespoon chili powder
• 2 tsp ground cumin
• Small hand full cilantro (leaves)

That's it!

In a food processor, chop the corn and bell pepper. Add everything and process until almost smooth.

Gaby and I liked it just like that.

You decide though b/c once we dehydrated it at 115 degrees for 3hrs on both sides we were in heaven!

For raw foodies like us having bread is exciting.

Either way was awesome try it and let us no what you think.