Who let the dogs out?

Look at those good dogs. They are ridiculously good looking!

Testing

I'm sending this from my phone let's see if it works. Shall we?

3 Short Days

Well, there are only three days left till our departure. Although it is true that I've been ready for darn near a month, I seem to be running around in a frenzy trying to get all the loose ends tied. I fortunately have the best parents in the whole world, they agreed to drive out from Florida to house sit for a month while I embark on yet another crazy adventure. Feel free to stop by the Myrtle household and say hello to Mom and Pop Tops'! I also have to throw a shout out to my boss who has allowed me to take my entire year's vacation all at once....you are the best!

So many people in my life have been so supportive of this trip including my loved ones and family. It's great to have people around me who understand the value of living life to the fullest. I've had some people express their concern for our safety, to which I must say I've briefly entertained those fears. But fear can't keep you from living out your dreams! At the moment I'm only afraid my yoga practice is gonna go to shit and that Barry will be too hungover to depart at a decent hour on Saturday:) Besides that, I know we've done all we can to ensure that crazy motorist will see us (I got a little too happy with the reflective tape.... just for you, Mom) .

We will have spotty access to cell phone signals and the internet but we will greatly appreciate some blog love. So keep the comments and emails flowing while we keep you updated with our progress (or lack thereof:) I know what you all are thinking, "these people are the most motivated loafers in Fort Collins!" Yes, we are....and we will have the biggest quads in Fort Collins too, come July!

This Train Is Bound for Glory!! Peace Out!

Ayn

P.S. Check out this guy's blog if you get a chance. He's another FoCo resident doing a similar trip.
Good Luck Paul!

http://rontosfolly.blogspot.com/

Fast Approaching

T-minus 5 days till departure and there's been lots of prepping. Its exciting to think we're in the last week before takeoff. With the bikes it seems there is always something more to do. And, putting on the racks is never as easy as just putting on the racks. Fortunately, we're all getting close. Ayn could have left a month ago, but the rest of us loafers are just getting our act together...we're team loaf-a-lot for a reason. ;)

Many people have asked "Why?" (to which I reply, "why not?") or , "You're crazy". But, I think there is nothing better than letting go of the daily grind and simplifying everything. For me, biking to Oregon is an adventure of a lifetime. It's about being with friends before transitioning on to new things, exploring places I've never seen at a snails pace with the wind in my face (or better yet at my back), and realizing its possible to do anything you dream of. Biking has been more than a mode of transportation...its connected me with friends, got me off my butt, showed me how to be green, allowed me to get the best parking spot in town, and most importantly given me an opportunity to appreciate my surroundings.

I feel pretty lucky to have the time, friends, and sweet bike :) to make this happen....

We plan to use this blog to keep in touch with our friends, families, and groupies (we know who you are...). But, we're not quite sure how often we'll be able to access a computer. So, we'll do our best! Please feel free to check in often and/or post messages!

Stacy

Team Loaf-A-Lot: Where it all began...

Team Loaf-A-Lot was unofficially formed in 2005 when a group of friends starting getting together for weekly rides. As delayed start times, frequent breaks, and post-ride BBQ planning consumed the ride itself, the “loaf-a-lot” style became our signature phrase. The rides were much more than an opportunity to get our butt kicked up Rist Canyon and a chance to enjoy the local scenery, share camaraderie with friends, and in essence, “follow our folly”.



Team Loaf-A-Lot has become a motto and way of life for us during the biking season, which seems to last year round. You want to leave at 9? Better tell us 8:30. Want to take a quick ride after work? Be prepared for an adventure on that side dirt road, and bring the headlamp just in case. Hungry? Just ask, there’s probably a picnic stashed in the pannier. With Team Loaf-A-Lot it’s about enjoying the ride, going for hours without looking at a watch, sharing company, and ending the day with a good beer and a BBQ.



Here area few team members in all our glory at Tour de Fat, 2007


Bread helmets and capes were in the year of 07. Team loaf-a-lot will step it up during Tour de Loaf when we'll travel over 1800 miles to the Oregon Coast. But, unfortunately, we'll probably have to tone down the BBQ's. Riding all day and setting up camp will most likely lead to a lot of easy meals and early nights...but, you never know!

Tour de Loaf Fundraiser Pics!

Here are some pics from our Tour de Loaf Fundraiser at Lucile's. We had lots of local businesses donate beer, food, and raffle prizes galore! Thanks to everyone who joined us :)