Still showing zero, but collecting lots of promises...

So yeah, both mine and Derek's little "fundraising thermometers" are still stalled at zero. However, tons of people have promised to donate, most notably my good friend Regan, who is a highly-educated temporary Starbucks employee (she is seeking a teaching job in London, ON), who called me today to say that she is going to donate her tips to my ride.
Thanks Regs! You are great.

A New Bike!

I bought a new bike today... a 2009 Norco Storm hardtail cross-country bike. Derek and I went out and did Powderface trail yesterday with my good ol' Raleigh, and it was great, but I felt like I was pushing that bike past its capacity. The new bike has front suspension that can be locked off for street/road riding, but still be MUCH better for ripping around in the mountains. And it's AWESOME!
Yesterday was the first mountain bike ride that I actually thoroughly ENJOYED. And I even had my first fall! Luckily, I rolled off the bike and landed on my new camelbak, which was full of cushy water. It was like landing on a pillow, and it made me laugh!
It will be very nice to have a better bike for training for this event.

A Beginning!

So, I am officially registered, and I am about to send out my first email soliciting donations. I am looking forward to pushing both my physical limits on the bike ride, as well as pushing myself to collect as many donations as possible.
For those of you reading this, and considering sponsoring me, please do! Though my cousin Trevor lived in Manitoba, the Alberta Cancer Foundation does important research nation- and world-wide. I am excited to have found a way to honour his memory by pushing my own limits.