Rode entire length of the Mississippi River Trail 2013, self contained, bike and gear weighed 105 lbs. I did it!
Welcome, everyone, and thanks for visiting my website, “Old Guy on a Bicycle.”
As you can tell from the title, I’m an old guy (65 in 2011) with an extreme passion for bicycling. In fact, as of October 2011, I have logged over 29,000 miles since I began biking in 2005. What you will see as you scroll through my website are my many adventures since then as well as my new adventures.
My name is Frank Briscoe. I have always appreciated the great outdoors, e.g., football, motorcycle racing, hunting, the Boy Scouts (as a Scout and Scout Master), jogging, hiking and backpacking, caving, sport rappelling, white water rafting and canoeing. Some of these have taken their toll on this “Old Guy.” I wondered how I could continue to enjoy outdoor sports, exercise my body and soul, and still be able to get out of bed the next morning!! I found it in biking.
Inspiration and motivation are key elements for me. I was blessed to have been inspired by a very wise man who just before he passed at the age of 77 said to me, “Don’t wait until you’re 65 or have enough time and money to begin enjoying life. If you don’t make the time and/or you wait to have the money, you never will. So do it now while you’re healthy and able.” His words combined with motivation from my childhood scouting days reminded me that biking is it. You see, I recalled a running series of a story I read back in the late 50’s in “Boy’s Life Magazine”. It was the story of a young Scout who rode his bike solo acrossAmerica. That was my dream then and now it’s become reality.
- I DID IT!
On October 4, 2011, after 126 days and more than 6,000 miles I can say I made it from the northwestern most corner of Washington State’s San Juan Islands to the southeastern most tip of Florida, I fulfilled my childhood dream. It was much more than I ever imagined and truly renewed my spirit and introduced me to fabulous, caring and kind people along the way.
You can read all about my “Crossing America” journey by going to “Bicycle Adventures”. There you can read about it and many others since 2005 as well as new adventures as they happen.
In addition to my “Bicycle Adventures”, there is a tab called “Videos/News Releases”. This section contains biking YouTube videos and any recorded interviews that have been written about me and was able to obtain. Take a look. It’s fun stuff!
There are a number of ways to reach me. The “Contact Me” section outlines the various ways. I look forward to hearing from you with comments and/or questions I might be able to answer for you.
I hope you take time to visit the “Donate to MS” section. It is there you will learn about my commitment to help the National MS Society find a cure for this debilitating disease Multiple Sclerosis (MS). Many of my adventures have focused on raising money to do just that. Please take a minute to read all about it and make a donation to create “A World Free of MS”.
Thank you for visiting my website. I hope you visit from time to time and take a virtual ride with me!
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137 Comments
Don
September 12, 2013Hello Frank, i am Don in Oakland California and am working on a plan to someday/eventually relocate to Belize. Robert website/blog Bound for Belize referred me to you. I have read a lot of your travels and will have to find the time to read more. I could not figure out how to subscribe for future updates.
Thank you for sharing and continued success.
Don
Frank Briscoe
September 13, 2013Hi Don in Oakland,CA!
When you send me an email and I approve it as I just did you will receive notice of future posts. Hope to have time to do some writing about Belize on my website in the coming weeks. In the meantime, if you are on FB become my friend there as I’ve been doing short posts with pictures at the venue. I’m Frank Briscoe, there are about a dozen of us with that name, scroll down to the one with a profile picture of an old guy hanging out the driver window of a orange VW bus, I’m wearing a red, white and blue bicycle jersey, click on friend request and I’ll confirm you. If you have any specific questions in the meantime, write me through here and I’ll do my best to answer you ASAP.
Thank you for the well wishes.
Your new Friend,
Frank
paco
July 20, 2013Welcome to Chetumal, Frank! My friends of Ciclociudad Chetumal (https://www.facebook.com/CiclociudadCh?fref=ts) and me welcomes you! Keep Cycling!
Frank Briscoe
July 20, 2013Hi Paco and thanks for stopping by my website. I’m looking forward to meeting you and your friends.
Denny Harkins
July 6, 2013Hi Frank,
Congrats on your recent trip through the Netherlands. Following your good example, Nancy I just bought two recreational bikes to ride around the Port Angeles area. I go down hill like a “bat out of hell” and up hill like a turtle. You could call me Fat Old Guy on a Bicycle.
Frank Briscoe
July 6, 2013Hi Denny!
Thank you for dropping by my website and for the Congrats on my Netherlands adventure, it was awesome. Fantastic to hear you and Nancy have bought bikes and begun riding. Don’t worry about going uphill slow as my speed is slow and slower. Remember when I visited you I was very glad you gave me a ride up the hill to your home. Stay in touch. Next I leave for Belize, Central America on August 13, 2013. Oh, I’ll be writing a story about the Netherlands with some great pictures. In the meantime, I’ve posted quite a few pics on Facebook. Are we friends there, if not request to be friends and I’ll confirm. Take care and sorry was unable to be in CL when you are there. Have a great time there and especially at the Medicine Meeting!
Ernest Strader for Daisy (Gibbons) Strader
May 16, 2013Mom (Daisy) is proud of you and I also wish one day to do something like this . Of course not on this big a scale( from coast to coast) It would have to be from Terre Haute to Bloomington. I am also proud of you cousin Frank and Mother and I look forward to more pictures of your cycling trips Gods peace and love follow you …
4theoldguy11
May 16, 2013Hi Ernie!
Thank you for checking out my website, hope you visit often. Please give your mom hugs and kisses from me. Did you know at one time your mom was like a mom to me. She used to take me to church with her, I rode on the top cross bar of her bicycle. When I’d stay at Grandma Gibbons, I’d get to sleep in your mom’s bed. I remember she had lots of quilts and covers on the bed and the bed itself was like a feather bed, super soft. I alway felt safe, warm and loved.
When I first took up bicycling I could only ride about 4 miles before stopping. I built up my mileage and ability 3 years before taking my first long tour. Now riding my bicycle exploring new places and meeting great new friends is a way of life. Actually, my bicycle adventures have brought me closer to God, too.
Look forward to visiting with you more.
Karen Teeters
September 26, 2012We were happy to have you stop here in Charleston, Missouri last night! So nice to meet someone dedicated to a cause! Safe travels!
4theoldguy11
September 27, 2012Hi Karen! Thanks for posting. I enjoyed visiting with you. I don’t think I remembered to thank you for the Gatoraide? So here is a belated “Thank You”! You have a great town and I enjoyed meeting both Pator Dan and Mike. Pastor Mike and I had a couple hours of great conversation over dinner and breakfast. With luck I’ll return to Charleston, Pastor Mike has invited me back to speak with his church family.
Karen Teeters
October 2, 2012Of course, you are quite welcome! We wOuld love to have you come back to Charleston anytime! The third weekend in April is the Dogwood-Azalea Festival ( the one we spoke about ) It’s a gorgeous time to come if you can arrange it!
4theoldguy11
October 3, 2012I do plan on coming back the Dogwood-Azalea Festival sounds like a great time to come. You might drop me a reminder close to it as I’m old and forgetful.
John Jones
October 2, 2012Hi Frank, Couldn’t find you stuff on Bicycle Adventures but was glad to find you on this blog. I’m 65 and have just started cycling (about 4 months ago). I have really gotten into it, riding about 150 miles a week with a weekly long of about 40 to 60 mile. My problem is my butt.. Tried different saddles and nothing seems to work, can ride 25 to 30 miles everyday with no problem but when I move it up to 50 t0 60 it’s hard to do it day after day. Interested in a long ride just learning to deal with this problem. Any suggestions. Answer on my email if you can… Don’t mind here just don’t want to miss it…
4theoldguy11
October 3, 2012Thank you for reading my journal. I hope to inform, inspire and entertain you. As for a saddle for longer distances, that’s a tough one as I’ve tried about 30 saddles. Each person has a different need in comfort. What I finally did was ask before purchasing if I could return the saddle if unhappy with it providing I didn’t damage it. Most suppliers will do that, the hard part is asking to try it for 30 days but again I’ve had pretty good success. If the company believes in their saddle they will do it. Another alternative, are you an REI member? If so, they have an unconditional lifetime return policy no questions asked. You would be out the shipping both ways but that is going to happen with any of the suppliers unless you are purchasing local. A good first saddle you may want to consider is a Brooks, perhaps the B-17. They are all leather and conforms to your butt in about 300 miles of riding?
On my website to email mail me you can go to the bottom of the Home page or any page and enter a comment and I’ll get it. Also, at the top header there is a “Contact Me” you can use, too. I’m faster at responding to email using this email address.
Good luck with finding a saddle. If you have any questions about riding don’t hesitate to ask as I will give you my best opinion. Thank you for reading my journal. May the wind always be at your back. Your new bicycle friend, Frank
Arktic
May 7, 2019I’ve had exactly the same problem on either but cheek where the ishium (sitz bone) pushes down on the saddle. Over time, it is easy for a pressure sore, or a friction blister to develop. I’m using several interventions. One is Bag Balm. It is sold for cow’s utters but hit works well on human skin as well. Hardware stores usually carry it. I also have been experimenting with chamois butt’r and dznuts pro – two creams that lubricate the skin and supposedly keep it healthier. Haven’t locked in on one or the other yet.
I also opted for the Brooks B17 seat and am breaking it in good. I have been told NOT to wear padded biking pants with it. Rather, just wear regular shorts but make sure you don’t have a seam rubbing you. I also have found putting a 4″ by 2″ bandaid on it with the cottom covering the at risk skin helps to reduce friction in that patch of skin. I’ve been biking for decades and never had blisters on my butt. But when I turned 60, my skin started giving me trouble. Hope that helps. I see this blog is about 7 years old so nobody may be visiting. Who knows? Anyway, if I helped one person, I’m happy.
Joe Jann
August 23, 2012Hi Frank,
I’ve enjoyed reading about your adventures. I had a question… I’m A Boy Scout Scoutmaster and was considering taking our boys over to Savanna, IL to bike the Great River Trail towards Rock Island. I’m just curious if it is all bike trail like your photos or if we have to bike on the highway which I don’t want to risk the kids by doing that.
Where in Savanna did you pick up the trail, we live a couple of hours away so I’m not familiar with that trail.
Thanks!
Joe
4theoldguy11
August 24, 2012Hi Joe,
Sorry I’m currently in Vegas working and not able to check my notes to give you specifics about the GRT at this time, I will be back home on Tuesday and will check my notes in order to provide you an accurate report on the trail. As you approach East Moline you begin to ride on city streets, I’m thinking it is Port Huron but again I’ll give you a better report next week. I think perhaps a loop ride would work better than a one way.
I worked with the Boy Scouts for over 20 years and took my Scouts on many high adventures, last few years concentrated on the Venture Scout program. Anyway, it will be helpful for me to know what age and experience level the Scouts you are working with to better inform you about what part of the trail to ride. An alternate, don’t know if it is close to you, I’ve heard the rail to trail in Sparta, WI is an awesome ride. You might check it out as an alternative.
Thanks for reading my journal, hope you continue to follow me on my adventures. Likewise, anytime you have a question or comments please contact me and I’ll do my best to help you out.
4theoldguy11
August 29, 2012Hi Joe,
I’m home from Vegas and ready to help you decide/plan your Scout bicycle ride from Savanna to Rock Island. Checking my notes the trail is intermitten between dedicated bicycle/pedistrian trail and Rural roads to Port Byron. After Port Byron you begin getting into some city street riding and the trail becomes a bit confusing in East Moline to Rock Island. If you have older mature Scouts you shouldn’t have a problem but keep an adult in front and rear of pack. On the other hand if your boys are younger I’d recommend a shorter out and back ride to maybe Albany and back to Savanna. There is a decent map of the 62 mile Great River Trail 2011 Map available from Blackhawk Waterways Convention & Visitors Bureau http://www.bwcvb.com or phone 800-678-2108. The map I have also lists the Quad Cities Convention & Visitors Bureau as a contact http://www.visitquadcities.com or phone 800-747-7800.
Should you have additional questions or needs contact me direct at my business email: mofrank@frankscenterinc.com or phone my office 417-667-9190 if you phone and I’m not in leave a message with the girls and I’ll get back to you ASAP. Please confirm back you have received this message.
Brad Moulton
August 7, 2012Hey Frank,
What’s up? Just got home not to long ago from delivering papers. It Was an Honor to meet and get to know you the other day. I’m not a very religous person really but I do believe that God wanted me to stop and help you. Something in my gut told me to I guess you could say, where as normally I wouldn’t. I had no problem giving you a lift to Alton, IL. I’ve never been there myself so it was a journey in its self for me and my girlfriend. Johanna has never rode a ferry before so it was a new expierence for her. I hope that you have recovered enough from the hamstring injury to continue and finish you current ride. I am going to keep up with you on here and facebook when I can. When I have the extra money, you can definately count on me for several donations. I hope this comment finds you doing well. Stay safe, God Bless, And Take Care. Your Friend, Brad
4theoldguy11
August 7, 2012Hi Brad, Thank you for writing. Your mom sent me a note the other day. God is in your heart Brad, you’re good man and never let anyone ever make you think otherwise. You were a blessing to me in my time of need. While we were driving along I couldn’t help but think about what an older gentleman told me early on in my journey, “God will provide for you in a time of need”.
I enjoyed getting to know you and Johanna. You two will make a great couple, I failed to ask do you know if you’re going to have a girl or a boy? Did you get the job with the satelite company? I trust Johanna liked the ferry ride, I did for sure.
My pulled hamstring is getting better. When I arrived at the Arch in St Louis marked the halfway point of my journey along the Mississippi River. I’m taking a forced break from the adventure to fullfill a work committment. Will do the second half of the journey beginning in late September and expect to complete by middle of October. I do hope you follow me on this website, while on Facebook be sure to ask to become my friend. Mostly I post quick comments there and refer folks to my website.
Thank you for your help, consideration and kindness. I’m proud to be able to call you a friend. Give Johanna a hug from the Old Guy. Will look forward to hearing from you again.
Brad Moulton
August 9, 2012Hey Frank,
Yea I did get the job pretty much for Direct Tv. I started training yesterday. It is a new expierence but so far I am liking it; all except for heights. I do not know what we are having yet but Johanna does. I don’t care until it comes out as I will find out then. The only thing I care about is if it is healthy. Yea Johanna enjoyed the ride on the ferry especially when I took it back home. That’s good that your ham string is recoving fast. You are an inspiration to many people including me. You can write, call,text, and e-mail me at any time. If you want I can get all that info to you via e-mail or facebook. I am going to try and get on here atleast every other day if I can and if nothing else fails I can write you via the snail mail lol. Take care,
Brad & Johanna
4theoldguy11
August 9, 2012Brad that’s great news you got the job, I know you will do well just stay in there when you get those no’s. Selling you will be rejected more often than not but your reward selling will far exceed what you do with the paper route. Good attitude with the baby, healthy is what counts and keeping gender a surprise adds to the moment. I do my best to show folks they can do more than they think they can as well as getting folks to enjoy life by living. We need to become Facebook friends my full name is Frank Briscoe go on facebook and look me up and request to become a friend there. We’ll stay in touch and anytime you want to talk about anything especially sales I’ll be a good ear. Take care my friend.
Brad Moulton
August 13, 2012Frank,
Sorry I haven’t been on here the last couple of days. Been busy training. So far today was only my 4th day training. I’m not going around selling the subscriptions or whatever for Direct TV, I’m installing them lol. It’s got its own advantages and disadvantages. The only problem that I have with the job is the simple fact that I am not a real big fan on heights. I prefer to be on the ground.
The guy who is training me made $260 just for today. Then he said that he is only $30 short of making $3000 this pay period which ends the 15th. That’s crazy! I was only making bout $220-$230 every 2 weeks delivering papers. SO this is going to be a big jump up for me. As you can tell, I am excited about the change in jobs. But I also have another reason why as I have a kid on the way.
Well I think I am gonna get off of here for now. I just thought I’d check in and see how you was doing. Take Care and God Bless
Brad
Craig & Ruth
August 6, 2012Hi Frank! We really enjoyed meeting you last week on the Great River Trail in Fulton, Illinois. It was fun riding with you for a short distance and getting to know you. Good luck on your ride!
Craig & Ruth
4theoldguy11
August 7, 2012Hi Craig and Ruth, The pleasure of meeting you was mine. Glad we were able to help each other find the trail out of town and meeting again a couple times on the trail. I completed the first stage of riding the length of the Mississippi River Trail (MRT) on Sunday when I arrived in St Louis. I must take a month break to work then I will start stage 2 back at the Arch in St. Louis and travel to New Orleans where the Mississippi enters the Gulf of Mexico. Should have my journal caught up by the end of this week. Hope you have the time to read it and enjoy the pictures I’ll post. Take care and may the wind be at your back.
Gayle Moulton
August 4, 2012My son Brad came home and told us how he and his girlfriend met you today 8/4/2012 and that you are a inspiration to them. They were in a red truck. He showed me a card you gave them with your website here. Your website here is awesome. God Bless You.
4theoldguy11
August 4, 2012Hi Gayle, You have a kind and considerate son who helped me out a difficult situation today. I feel God sent Brad into my life today as a Guardian Angel. You can be very proud of him and your future daughter in-law, they are good kids. I was blessed for having met them. God Bless you and your family.
Gayle Moulton
August 9, 2012I am thankful that you have come into Brad and Johannas life. There is a reason I do believe that people run into each other. You are one that they do look up to. I believe that knowing you can bring them closer to God.
Thank You.
God Bless You.
4theoldguy11
August 11, 2012Hi Gayle, Like Brad I didn’t consider myself all that much of a religious person but since I’ve begun my bicycle adventures God has protected and confirmed to me he exists. I hope you had a chance to read my Aug. 4th journal entry its about my belief God wanted Brad and I to meet. Other confirmations God showed his power and goodness to me were in my journal entries Oct 1 & 2, 2011 from Crossing America. I very much look forward to getting to know Brad and Johanna more. If anytime he gets down for any reason ask him to contact me. You have a good son.
Gayle Moulton
August 13, 2012I am more thankful that you are Brads new friend to talk to, when he has issues that he won’t talk to us about, he will know that you are there for him, he has someone that will listen. God has truely brought you into his life.
Your new friend,
Gayle
4theoldguy11
August 15, 2012Good Morning Gayle,
God does work in mysterious ways that is for sure. look forward to visiting with Brad. If he’s ever needing someone to talk too remind him I’m there. God Bless you and yours. Frank
Gayle Moulton
August 15, 2012Stopping by to say Hi. from the Moultons.
4theoldguy11
August 15, 2012Hi back at you Gayle. Say hi to Brad and Johanna for me.
Cindy Johnson
June 25, 2012Frank,
Thank you for allowing me to purchase one of your bikes. I love riding it and look forward to many years of adventures. Of course my adventures on a bike will never compare to yours! I have appreciated all the instructions you have given me – you are very patient. I am looking forward to biking with you this summer. Thanks for being a great friend! Cindy
4theoldguy11
June 25, 2012Hi Cindy, Thank you for the check but most of all thank you for the kind words. It has been a pleasure riding with you and I likewise look forward to riding with you this summer creating adventures and memories for both of us. I’m the one who is blessed the most with your friendship. May you enjoy many miles of happiness and fun on your bike and in life. Frank
womanglow
February 3, 2012hi frank,
thanks for correcting my mistake and also for the connection with sue and her husband. have you considered doing the santiago thing? i know you’re busy with american tours but have a look at the movie “the way” with martin sheen in it and you might just want to join us (whoever we turn out to be) in a couple of years. it would be great to have a survivor champion in our midst!
nancy
4theoldguy11
February 7, 2012Yes, I will be interested in joining you on your Santiago adventure. Keep me posted on your progress and especially when you confirm date for it. Frank
womanglow
February 13, 2012wow – fantastic! it isn’t for a couple of years yet – but great!!!
womanglow
January 9, 2012hi frank,
what a great site. cycling’s fantastic isn’t it? i’ve just started my own blogsite which i hope you visit and comment on – i’d appreciate that very much. i’m slowly getting a team of older women together for a hike across the camino in spain – the santiago de compostela – it should be a wonderful walk or bike ride, haven’t decided yet. maybe you could give us some cycling tips or getting ready tips on my blog? keep up the good work, nancy
4theoldguy11
January 9, 2012Hi Nancy, I’ll check your website out. If I might be of any assistance with tips or ideas for a specific adventure you are going on let me know and I’ll do my best to provide good information.
womanglow
January 23, 2012that would be great. the santiago de compostela thing will happen in the next couple of years even if it’s just me and one other friend! what i’d appreciate is if you would do a guest blog on my site about how you prepare for a long trek – i know you’re on your bike so what preps do you do? and how do you prepare mentally? what inspires you etc and any weak spots? it would be lovely to establish a strong link between the two sites if you think the same. nancy ps i’ve started cycling every other day in preparation.
4theoldguy11
January 25, 2012Hi Nancy,
Glad to see you are pursuing your dream, even if it ends up being only you and one other or just you whichever you are the one to make it happen. I’ll do my best to answer your questions.
I took up bicycle riding almost 7 years ago. I had been a life long jogger but due to a total knee replacement could no longer participate in that activity. For five years following the knee replacement I became a couch potato not doing anything in the way of exercise. During those five years I gained over 50 lbs. Worse my mental attitude was in the WC. It can be safely assumed I was depressed. Realizing my depression and need to fight it I knew I had to once again begin exercising. I thought bicycling was the closest to jogging for me. Due to my extreme out of shape condition I was only able to ride a bicycle 4 miles when I first began. Also I found the bicycle caused me substantial physical discomfort. In an attempt to see if there was a way to make bicycling more enjoyable of an experience I went to bicycle shop that did fitting of rider to bike. The bicycle I had been riding was much too large a frame and none of the vital fit points came close to what they should have been for me. Wow! Getting a bike fitted to match my body geometry made a world of difference. Almost immediately I went from riding fewer than 10 miles per outing to 15-25 miles. Most of the discomfort of riding was gone. The exception was saddle comfort and I literally tried 22 saddles over the course of a year before settling on one I liked. In summary; first sure get a bicycle fitted to you and second start slow and build your miles up over the course of several months.For the last 6 years I have averaged 3,000 miles on a bicycle annually in 150 +/- outings. I supplement my bicycle riding with an indoor spin trainer when the weather is bad outside. I also weight train with light weights and high repetition about 35 times annually, mostly during the winter months. What I don’t do but very much encourage you to do is to do about 5 minutes of stretching before and after each workout. My New Year resolution is to force myself to do stretching this year. The few times I have done stretching exercises I have fewer aches especially after longer rides.
Having a POSITIVE MENTAL ATTIDUDE is all important in anything you do in life. I can testify to this truth as time and time again in my life I have accomplished what others thought I couldn’t do or were amazed I did to whatever the project. For example during my ride across America this past summer one particular stranger when he learned what I had done looked at me and said, “Excuse me you don’t hardly look like you can ride a bicycle let alone ride one over 4,000 miles. At that time I had just completed riding across the mid-section of America about 4,000 miles still well short of my goal to ride corner to corner another 2,000+ miles to go. You see even with all my exercise, I still am over weight. I like my beer and food. There are many things I think about to keep a positive mental attitude the most important to me are the folks I meet on my journeys. We can discuss more about keeping a POSITIVE MENTAL ATTITUDE in future discussions.
I encourage you to pursue your dreams, keep a positive attitude and check in with me as often as you like with any questions, comments or concerns.
May the wind always be at your back and happiness in your heart.
Your new friend,
Frank
womanglow
January 28, 2012frank,
thanks so much for the encouragement. i will copy and paste it on to my blog with your ok. i also used to jog – my best was 19 kilometres one afternoon after teaching all day. walkman in my ear (yes, a walkman!) and i was flying on the home strait.
but that was in my early 30s. mid-50s and i’m cycling now like you. i don’t stretch but will take note of what you advise. it’s such a chore, isn’t it?
like you, i indulge in sins of the stomach, but i also have residual strength (also like you) that keeps me keeping on. but your positivity is very encouraging and i will stick with my routine to honour my goal of the santiago trek.
my attitude is positive – i know i will do that trek – and i know i will succeed, at my own pace. and having strong support in the background is invaluable.
thankyou and i look forward to continuing this discussion,
nancy
womanglow
January 29, 2012it’s up now, frank. thanks so much.
also, i wonder if you could fix a mistake i made in my reply below. instead of the word “jog” i wrote “job”. are you able to edit it?
am enjoying our new chats,
wishing you well and success with survivor application,
nancy
4theoldguy11
January 31, 2012Hi Again Nancy, OK I corrected the job to jog. Anytime I can be of assistance let me know. Good luck with your hike across the Santiago de Compotela in Camino, Spain. If I may be of any further assistance let me know.
Sue Knox
January 30, 2012Hi Nancy, I love the idea of a trek for “older women”. I prefer wiser. My husband did a 6 month cycle trip around Australia on his bike – in 5 months!! http://www.ridethetalk.com.au – have a look to see what he got up to. He was doing talks on energy efficiency in the home – in the most environmental way he could think of.
On my bucket list, I have the great alpine walk, also the great ocean road walk. In time it will happen.
Good luck with your trip organising.
4theoldguy11
January 31, 2012Sue welcome to the Old Guy’s website. Maybe you and Nancy will be able to get together for an adventure? I’ll be here to offer my advise if and when you have questions. Frank
womanglow
February 3, 2012hi sue
i’ve checked out your hubby’s site and subscribed also. maybe you might consider joining a bunch of “wiser” women (and maybe some men as well – your h. might want to come?) in a couple of years if you’re not busy up in the alps. i’ve long wanted to cycle the great ocean road too – it’s magnificent isn’t it? good luck with your walks and maybe this can all lead to bigger and better things?
nancy
Ryan Elhosni
September 2, 2011It’s a shame you don’t have a give money button! I’d definitely give money for this outstanding webpage! I suppose for the moment i’ll be satisfied bookmarking and incorporating your Feed to my Google account. I look forward to fresh messages and will share this blog with my Facebook team: )
admin
September 2, 2011Hi Ryan, I do have a way for you to contribute. On my Home Page top center click on Donate to MS, next screen scroll down to link in red click on it. That will take you to my personal page with the National MS Society. On the left of this screen you will see fund raising guage just below it in red text is “Donate to Participant” click on it and follow the directions and you’ve made a donation. Thank you for your help and support I greatly appreciate it as does all the folks with MS.
Lloyd Smith
August 21, 2011More defense Frank- More D Hope you’re home safe by 20 Sept
admin
August 26, 2011Hi Lloyd, Sorry won’t be home until about Oct. 10th but will play then, if you want me too?
Corey Harper
August 15, 2011Frank,
All these years and I had no clue you were an avid cyclist!
Glad to know it from a fellow Randonneur!
Sincerely,
Corey Harper
admin
August 31, 2011Hi Corey, Same here maybe we can get together for a ride one day.
Hawkins, Stephanie A.
July 27, 2011Very nice message u have written!
Dale Rau
July 22, 2011Hey Frank, Joyce said you might be having trouble with logistics for the west coast leg … what’s up?
admin
July 22, 2011Hi Dale, Joyce said you were tied up with work and another gal who was going to help in Oregon has a new job, I think. Past that I have a friend in Seattle, Joyce and Denny Harkins going to help get me trough Washington.
Dale Rau
July 30, 2011Soooooo, what’s the current plan for your Oregon leg? Let me know as much in advance as you can & I’ll see if I can help out somewhere. The “work” situation is somewhat flexible.
admin
July 31, 2011Hi Dale, any help would b great. Maybe shuttle my vehicle? I’m thinking OR about 10-12th at N border allow week to ride State?
admin
July 31, 2011Hi Dale, I’m thinking to b OR N border about 10-12 Aug. Take week to ride entire State?
admin
July 12, 2011Thank you, may you continue to enjoy my journal.
admin
July 3, 2011Thank you Mary, how did you find my website? I’m really pleased at how many folks are finding it and writing me. I very much would like to write short stories and be a motivational speaker in my next life.
Drum and Bass
June 29, 2011Nice Blog !!! your the best
admin
July 1, 2011Thanks, hope you continue to enjoy my ramblings.
Jeff Mercer
June 29, 2011Good for you! “The secret of life is being
passionate about what you do!”
You sir are just that. Best of luck on your
adventure! My hat is off to you and I am
sooo jealous
admin
July 1, 2011Hi Jeff, thank you for the kind words. Don’t be jealous, part of my adventure is to prove to other folks you can always live your dream or at least give it a go. Attitude and determination are the secret ingredients.
Karole Hickling
June 28, 2011Great write-up, keep it up!
admin
July 1, 2011Glad you enjoy my ramblings. Hope to continue to inform and entertain you.
Jack Odell
June 28, 2011Where are you Frank? We’re getting nervous!
admin
July 1, 2011Hi Jack, Sorry haven’t had internet service for several days. My journal is caught up as of now. I’m still going.
admin
June 26, 2011Thank you as I try to keep the reader involved by writing in a conversational manner. Hope you continue to read my blog.
Jack Odell
June 20, 2011Hope you got some rest today.
Jack Odell & Connie (Gisel) Odell
June 17, 2011You’re our hero. We’re tracking you every step of the way. Hope to see you when you come through Savannah, GA. – Long way off, good luck, great charity.
admin
June 26, 2011I’m just another baby bloomer trying to prove we can do anything we set our mind to doing. Glad you’re following my blog and look forward to seeing you in Georgia.
admin
June 16, 2011You may want to check http://www.biketheusforms.org website as they have maps, videos and news feeds of our Trans-Am crossing as well as a Northern Tier and Pacific routes.
admin
June 16, 2011Hope you find my blog informative and fun to read.
admin
June 16, 2011Hope to keep you informed and entertained.
nancy Ross
June 13, 2011Hope all is going well. Think of you as I’m out ‘leisurely’ riding my bike. Hope to get a bike rack today at Spokes and Spandex. Vickie and I will have a fun day together today. Nancy
Monte
June 9, 2011Great job. Wonderful cause. Hang in there. Looking forward for the updates.
admin
June 16, 2011Hi Monte! Thank you your words of support made my day. Hope to be a bit more positive, informative and entertaining as the weeks roll on.
admin
June 26, 2011Hi Monte, Thank you for reading my blog. I hope to provide you with insights to my thinking and feelings as I cross our great country and hopefully entertain you at the same time.
larry covington
June 8, 2011Keep spinning Frank!
larry covington
June 8, 2011And may the wind always be to your back.
admin
June 16, 2011Don’t I wish, mostly it appears we have headwinds. Today, I had to peddle going downhill as we were riding into a 20+ mph headwind. Such is life.
admin
June 16, 2011Spinning is how I make it up all the hills. It would be interesting to know how many revelutions I do going up some of these hills at 3 mph for nearly and hour. My short legs are spinning like a top or so it feels.
John Wuertz
June 7, 2011Frank,
I see from your first post you got started. Keep the faith. Stay strong! Wishing I was sharing the ride with you! more than vicariously.
John
admin
June 16, 2011Thank you for the kind words. I know you can do this and you should. Looking forward to providing you useful information for what to or not to do on a crossing of Ameria.
Diane Ray
June 7, 2011Frank, hope things are going well and your goal is be achieved. Take care of yourself and will be watching for details.
admin
June 16, 2011Hi Diane, after a couple dark days things are getting better. I’ll also get stronger but so will the kids on this stage of my adventure. Looking forward to providing you more fun news to read.
Rick Green
June 5, 2011Looking forward to your next and all future postings……. Not only is your trip and the 4 years of planning leading up to it inspirational, but the fact you were a guest at our Tuesday afternoon “Medicine Meeting” at the Cottage before your departure takes this adventure to a whole new level. May the wind be always at your back.
admin
June 16, 2011Hi Rick, You just made my day. Part of my adventure journey is to share the experience and to let other folks know they too can live their dream, too. Take care my friend, I hope to be a bit more positive with future posts. The past couple days have been difficult but I’m working through it. After all its all part of the journey.
Jim Boss
June 3, 2011Off to a good start, Frank ! I’ll be looking forward to following you on your journey.
Pat Deren
June 2, 2011Way to go Frank. Your adventure is inspirational and we will watch your progress with interest. Safe travel. Pat
Markus
June 2, 2011Hi Frank!
Joyce forwarded me your blog, very impressive. I have done a lot of fund raising to fight MS in the past, ridden my bike a lot to do so. I will ride a century right this weekend to support the fight against leukemia and lymphoma, the ride around Lake Tahoe.
Good luck on your ride!
Markus
Nancy (Hopper) Fitzgerald
May 18, 2011Frank,
What an inspiration you are. To take on this journey and your contribution to MS is awesome! We will probably still be talking about it at our “50th” reunion.
Looking forward to following your blog.
Nancy
admin
May 19, 2011Thank you Nancy, hope I’m with you all at the 50th to talk about it, too.
Sue Stackowski
May 18, 2011Go, Frank!!! Old Guy? I think not! Young at heart and an inspiration, definitely.
Godspeed and roll on!
admin
May 18, 2011Thank you Suzy, you made my day hearing from you.
Ruthann Albrecht
May 17, 2011Are you bikin’ through my beautiful Utah? I’ll be here!!
Best regards.
admin
May 18, 2011Hi Ruthann,
Originally yes, but since changed my route to make it easier on myself. I hope to ride in your area within the next two years.
Bill Gronow
May 16, 2011Way to go Frank! I’ll be watching.
admin
May 16, 2011Hi Bill, Hope I’m able to entertain and amuse you.
Steve Highlander
May 16, 2011Frank,
My best wishes to you. I trust the fulfillment of your dream will be beyond your imagination and that you will pick up many friends and have many adventures along the way.
Greg Adrian
May 16, 2011What an inspiration you are to so many! As a man named Paul says: “press on”.
Stay safe, and know that you have many thinking about your ultimate success!
Ooohhhrrraa – FRANK!
Semper Fi ….!
God’s speed!
ady
Dr. John Esch, Jr.
May 13, 2011Frank,
Have a great time on your tips and be CAREFUL!
Dr. John
Hildur Eiriksdottir
May 12, 2011Hi Frank.
What a journey you are planning. It will be fun to follow your trip. Best of luck.
Regards from Iceland.
Hildur
admin
May 13, 2011Oh my goodness! How wonderful to hear from you Hildur. Hope to entertain folks with my blog. I’ll make my first post today. Look forward to visiting with you again.
Hildur Eiriksdottir
May 13, 2011I will pass your webside on to my biking friends in Iceland.
Best of luck.
Hildur
Sandy Thomas
May 12, 2011Frank,
Good luck on your adventure. Be safe and take pictures. Best Wishes!
Sandy
Debbie Mellentine
May 11, 2011Frank –
First of all…you are amazing!!! I have so much respect for what you are doing physically, mentally, emotionally and philanthropically!!!!
I will definitely be following you adventures on your website – and by the way – love your website name!!!!!!
I truly wish you the best of luck on this adventure and can’t wait to hear/see/read all about it.
Deb
Barbara Ann
May 10, 2011To keep our faces toward change and behave like free spirits in the presence of fate is strength undefeatable”.
Happy biking to you, my friend….
Barbara Ann
Jerry and Jaxcene Beisner
May 7, 2011Frank, Good luck on your trip. Looking forward to following along on your website. Check is in the mail for MS. Good Luck and Good Speed (not to fast !!)
Jerry and Jaxcene Beisner
Roger Johnson
May 3, 2011Good luck to you Frank! Can we get a blog or a map???
Pepper
April 27, 2011Sweet website Frank. We’re happy to have you, I look forward to riding with you this summer!
admin
April 28, 2011Hi Pepper, It will be an honor and pleasure to ride with you and the group.
Carla McDougal
April 24, 2011Way to go Frank, I’m so proud of you!!! You are an inspiration and I’m glad to know you.
Bonnie Falcone
April 4, 2011Yeaaa Frank! Good for you! What a memorable 65th for you! Take care, be safe and well and Godspeed always! Your friend, Bonnie
Robin
April 3, 2011Read your article on morningsun.net. Good idear raising money for MS Society, plus having an adventure to boot! May you always get that “tailwind”. Bless you on your journey!
Denny Harkins
March 31, 2011Frank, I salute you! An old guy supporting a good cause riding a red, white and blue bicycle across our great country is a true patriot in my book. Keep me posted on the exact time and location of your departure in Anacortes and I will try to be there.
admin
March 31, 2011Hi Denny,
That would be great! I’m on a wandering path but should be in the Anacortes area around Aug. 5th. I’ll keep you posted.
Joyce
March 30, 2011You’re doing it Frank! Rolling across America and helping MS….absolutely heart warming. I’ll be following this blog!!
admin
March 31, 2011Thank you Joyce. I do what I can, where I can. Along the way, hope to entertain folks as well as motivate.
nancy Ross
March 27, 2011Your website is now in my Favorite file and I’ll follow with interest your summer adventure.
Wishing you the best of everything – health, weather, excitement, friends, bike maintenance…
I know you’ll handle any challenges that may occur with little difficulty.
Nancy
admin
March 28, 2011Thank you Nancy. I do hope I’m able to provide you some entertainment and memories while on my adventure.
Dorothy
March 24, 2011I could not be prouder or more honored to be your friend for all you do! You are a good and extraordinary man. God speed, my friend!
admin
March 25, 2011Thank you, those are the kindest words. You bring joy to my heart and soul and a tear to my eyes. God has blessed me with such beautiful friends.
George E. Veugeler
March 22, 2011“Stay the Course!” In case you’re from where, THE PATRIOT.
Robert Copple
March 20, 2011Good Luck Frank, I have your website saved to my favorites only a couple of months to go. Take lots of pictures and get them posted for us. I’m sure it will be an adventure of a lifetime.
admin
March 21, 2011Hi Robert, I plan to keep you all posted on my last great adventure. Hope you enjoy the stories.
Jessie Rugga
March 20, 2011I truly like yours site.. retain going
Valery Seymor
March 19, 2011Hello There. I found your blog using msn. This is a very well written article. I�ll make sure to bookmark it and return to read more of your useful information. Thanks for the post. I�ll certainly return.
Kurt Kuehnert
March 18, 2011Great cause by a great guy! Are you riding anywhere near CL on the X-country trip?
admin
March 18, 2011Thank you Kurt. Unfortunately southern Illinois will be the closest I make to CL.
wendy veugeler
March 8, 2011Great site Frank. Keep on keep’n on!
admin
March 18, 2011Thank you Wendy, but I’ve had to rely on others to make it work and look good.
Elena Klusmeyer
March 8, 2011What a great website Frank…I am going to have so much fun follow you on all your biking adventures ;)..elena
Debbie Gilbert
March 8, 2011Frank, I am so proud of you. You are such an inspiration to many.