This summer has never felt closer.

As February draws to a close, my trip this summer is becoming more and more a reality with each passing day. Today, in particular, was a huge milestone: I reached the $3500 fundraising mark, putting me a mere $1000 away from my goal. I never fathomed I'd be saying this before April, let alone March. The amount of support I have received is overwhelming, and I am grateful for every ounce and penny of it. 

Today, after a nice ride to Payne's Prairie, I came home to see than my new bike had been delivered! The timing couldn't have been more perfect. I am beyond stoked to assemble her and become one with my trusty steed. 

My Introduction to (Insert bike name here).

Thanks to an extremely generous donation from my Aunt Kitty and Uncle Richard, I have officially passed the $1000 fundraising mark! Which means a couple of things: 1. I am well on my way to fulfilling my fundraising total, which is a very comforting thought, and 2. I get to order my new bike! That's right, I get a brand spankin' new bike from Bike & Build just for reaching this milestone! I will receive it in the mail in a couple of weeks, with my first task being to assemble it...which should prove to be interesting. Here's the bike I ordered, in all her (his?) shining glory! (Gender and name TBD).

For anyone who cares to know, it is a Giant Avail 3. And before I get reprimanded for going with the silver/white model (I also had the option of a black and red one, which would show the dirt a lot less, yadda yadda), I just couldn't see myself riding any other bicycle once I had seen this beauty. I'll just add it to my collection of silver bikes, bringing my grand total to 2. Let's just say I'm well on my way to owning the ideal number of bikes (which is n+1, n being equal to the number of bikes you currently own). 

Anyway, super huge shout out to all of my early donors, I can't thank you guys enough! Keep it real. 

Until next time, Marles.

B&B Swag!

I got my first Bike and Build jersey and reflective triangle in the mail last week! 

      In other news, I sent out my first batch of fundraising letters in the mail yesterday, so I'm looking forward to finally getting the word out about my trip, Bike & Build, and the affordable housing movement. Let's hope some donations start rolling in as well :) Click the "Donate Now!" link up top to help me out! All of my supporters will be featured on the "Supporters" page.

The Beginning of Awesome

It is early morning on January 9th, 2014. I can't even believe it's 2014. I feel like the "New Millennium" was just yesterday! I guess it's time to face the facts. Anyway, back to the date. Just over 5 days ago, I found out I had been accepted to participate in Bike & Build 2014. I was (and still am) ecstatic! But I'm also nervous. Has it already been 5 days? And my fundraising total is still at $0?! Well I better get a move on with my letter-writing, Facebook posting, emailing, flyering, etc.