A group of 'bears' comment about Dan ... 'DAMN baby got back' after we walked by and were called hotties on the way to bed ... LOL

BTW - I visited the woman I saw standing on the road in Santa Cruz memorializing her brother last year. Gave her a big hug. She was a + influence last year!

Oh and three shout outs for the moment. 1. La I met Bjorn hes wonderful! 2. Jeff im staying hydrated thus far. 3. Scotty and Archie i miss you!

Today has been more powerful than i could have imagined. Day One has already introduced us to many new friends and moments of laughter and tears.

You can also follow the ride this week at http://experience.aidslifecycle.org! Official video and blogging from the ride!

AIDS/LifeCycle 8 Updates from the Road! #6

Gabcast! AIDS/LifeCycle 8 Updates from the Road! #6

Just got to Lunch... Making great time... 41 down... 38 Miles to go! Thanks for coming this morn. Big brother :-)

Got into camp in Santa Cruz around 3:15pm. We set up the tent, blew up the air mattress, set up, showered... Now off to dinner! Good day!

Just got to Lunch... Making great time... 41 down... 38 Miles to go! Thanks for coming this morn. Big brother :-)

Just wrapping up lunch on Day One! Back on the road soon!

Rest Stop 2! 31 miles down and 11 miles to lunch! Had a long hard ride UPHILL! We're still feeling great and making good time!

AIDS/LifeCycle 8 Updates from the Road! #5

Gabcast! AIDS/LifeCycle 8 Updates from the Road! #5

Tyler and Densil... We just found out we raised OVER $10 MILLION this year!!! AMAZING! Thanks everyone!

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OPENING CEREMONIES!!!

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We've arrived!!!

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WELCOME TO DAY ONE: SAN FRANCISCO TO SANTA CRUZ

Our AIDS/LifeCycle adventure begins as we ride out of the Cow Palace grounds in San Francisco immediately following Opening Ceremonies. The route on Day One offers some of the best scenery and cycling roads that San Mateo County has to offer. The stunning coastal views from hilltops to the ocean are truly Northern California at its best! Tailwinds prevail as we pedal along scenic CA Hwy 1 on our way to Harvey West Park in the City of Santa Cruz. Highlight of the day: The lunch stop on Day One offers a spectacular and breathtaking view of the ocean.

Day One offered three very moving experiences for me last year: The opening ceremonies, the crowds along the streets with memorials to family and friends lost to AIDS, and the beautiful views along the Pacific (pictured above).

In closing, since it's Sunday AND the first day of the ride, allow me to offer a prayer for all of the cyclists, roadies, and support staff on the ride!

O God, our heavenly father, whose glory fills the whole creation, and whose presence we find wherever we go: Preserve those of us who cycle across your creation; surround us with your loving care; permit us to safely enjoy the sights and sounds as we travel; protect us and those with whom we share the road from every danger; and bring us safely to our journey’s end; through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.

GOOOOOOOOD MORNING!

Hey everyone... Quick post. We're awake and getting ready to run out the door! I bet that not even all the East Coasters following this blog are up right now on a Sunday morning!

Tyler and I are already a lively team this morning... Joking and laughing about this and that. We'll have to take a photo this morning with all of our morning gear on! If you thought the spandex shorts were cute, you'll have to see the TIGHT reflective spandex leggings! :)

And yes, Theresa. I will be having a Red Bull for breakfast. Work on our sponsorship deal for next year, k?

OFF WE GO!!!

Alarm just went off on day... How should i attempt to wake up Dan today?

Day Zero and time to go to bed!

Before I head off to bed I wanted to take a few moments to reflect not only on today, but the journey it has been leading up too the AIDS LifeCycle experience.

Today was Day Zero -Orientation Day. Dan and I got an early start so we could get a jump on the long lines. We arrived at the Cow Palace, the starting point for the ride, and waited in line for Check-In, the Orientation Video, Tent Assignments .... you know all that logistical stuff and then went to visit the Pos Pedalers Booth. I am excited to have signed up with the Pos Pedalers, a group of openly HIV Positive Cyclists, to bring awareness and strive to elminate stigma surrounding the "face of HIV."

Dan and I traveled back to Densil's apartment here in the Pacific Heights area too relax and grab a bite to eat. We walked the area, found a couple thrift stores and low and behold - I found my red Dress!!! LOL I know you cannot wait to see the pictures, but you'll have to check back on Day 5 :-)

We rounded out the evening with Densil and his friends, several of which are going on the ride as well for a CARB Fest, one of the many luxuries of riding for seven days straight!

Tonight I sit here and think about not only the journey i've had training for AIDS LifeCycle, but the journey over the last five years living with HIV. Since my HIV Positive diagnosis in the spring of 2004, I have committed myself to advocating for the rights of young people everywhere using my face and personal story as an educational tool and resource in hopes of inspiring other young HIV Positive indivduals to live each day to it's fullest! In so many ways I look at where I am today in my life and realize that the individual that I have grown to become in so many ways has been shaped by being diagnosed HIV Positive and am in awe. It has impacted the relationships that I now share with friends and family, the career I have grown so passionate about and am inspired by each day, and the happiness I have found.

I could write forever, but I need to get some rest. Know that I love you all.

This is going to be an emotional week.... sigh ... this one's for you Shelton (tears rolling down)

Packing and relaxing a little bit before we go to an ALC dinner hosted by Densil's friend Brendan.

Stay tuned for ALC day 5 ... Thats right folks, I just found my Red Dress!

ORIENTATION SAFETY VIDEO!!!

Day Zero! Dan and I got here a bit early to beat the crowd. There are so many people... This is going to be an amazing week!

We just saw Chad Allen while we were waiting for Orientation to get started... HOT! HOT! HOT!

A Night Out in the Castro!

Tonight, Tyler and I had dinner with Carolyn Barbadoro at Thai Chef in the Castro. Afterward we moved on for a drink at Toad Hall and then along to a party in the neighborhood.

We ended up running into Chris Dyer, Peter Kester, Brad Russi, Ryan Winfield, and Gregory Zitterkob at The Lookout! It was like being back in DC at JR's all over again!!! It was so cool to see them all before the ride!

Headed to bed now to get some rest so we can go to Orientation EARLY tomorrow morning!

GOODNIGHT!

Out at a party in the Castro... We've met a few more AIDS/LifeCycle riders tonight! The Castro is crawling with us. Orientation tomorrow!

Carolyn, Dan, and Tyler in the Castro!!!

On the ground in San Francisco!

On a plane bound for San Francisco, California! I ran into a guy I met at the LAGLC last month and another cyclist in the terminal. Sf here we come!

The Weather Forecast for AIDS/LifeCycle

The AIDS/LifeCycle weather forecast according to The Weather Channel May 28, 2009. Daily temps are logged based on the starting location and may vary due to elevation changes. Not too hot this year, though. We had a couple scorchers last year!

Day One: Sunday/Starting in San Francisco
66'F Partly Cloudy

Day Two: Monday/Starting in Santa Cruz
68'F Partly Cloudy

Day Three: Tuesday/Starting in King City
74'F AM Clouds/PM Sun

Day Four: Wednesday/Starting in Paso Robles
80'F Partly Cloudy

Day Five: Thursday/Starting in Santa Maria
68'F Mostly Sunny

Day Six: Friday/Starting in Lompoc
66'F Partly Cloudy

Day Seven: Saturday/Starting in Ventura
66'F SUNNY

CLOSING CEREMONIES - SATURDAY, JUNE 6 in LOS ANGELES
74'F MOSTLY SUNNY

Getting some rest in Santa Monica before the ride!

Dropped off our bikes and making a run to the Yogurt Stop for some cake batter yogurt with red velvet cake!

The bikes are loaded up! Time to hit the road!!!

THANK YOU!

Thanks to everyone who stopped by at the Send-Off Party last night! I am leaving for Phoenix with the bicycles this afternoon! See you on the road!

The Ride is as Much About Awareness as Anything Else...

Let's start a conversation about HIV and AIDS. Keith Haring had it right. Ignorance = Fear! Silence = Death!

A Little Inspiration for the Ride...

Last year I ran into another AIDS/LifeCycle cyclist at LAX while I was waiting for my flight to San Francisco. We were both carrying our bike helmets, which sort of gave away our common destination. Doreen, I found, was about to embark upon her FIFTEENTH! ride.

She is a remarkable woman.

Before we boarded the plane, she gave me this bandana covered with some messages to inspire me to keep going throughout the ride. (Click on the image below for a larger readable image).


Each day on the ride can really HURT. Sore asses, aching thighs, chafing, constant exposure to the sun and elements for HOURS each day... This bandana reminded me last year why it was so important to continue riding - at least up to the point that I physically couldn't after my ER visit. It's going with me again this year to remind me again why...

THIS YEAR I WILL FINISH THIS RIDE!

A Cool News Story About a Past ALC Event

This is a couple years old, but still does a fabulous job of covering the basics of the ride! Check it out!

Our LuckyDog/Southwest Center for HIV/AIDS Jerseys Have Arrived!

Thanks to everyone over at Lucky Dog Creative! Don't the jerseys look great?! Now I just need to find bright green socks! This could be a challenge!

A message from Lorri L. Jean, CEO of the LAGLC

PS - I love this woman!

This is what it's all about, folks...

This is an excellent video featuring many of the services provided by the LA Gay and Lesbian Center. It focuses on much more than the HIV/AIDS services, but is touching nonetheless. Please take a moment to watch.

AIDS/LifeCycle 8 Route Map and a Your Introduction to the Open Road!

DAY ONE: SAN FRANCISCO TO SANTA CRUZ

Your AIDS/LifeCycle adventure begins as you and your fellow cyclists ride out immediately following Opening Ceremonies. The route on Day 1 offers some of the best scenery and cycling roads that San Mateo County has to offer. The stunning coastal views from hilltops to the ocean are truly Northern California at its best! Tailwinds prevail as we pedal along scenic CA Hwy 1 on our way to Harvey West Park in the City of Santa Cruz. Highlight of the day: The lunch stop on Day 1 offers a spectacular and breathtaking view of the ocean so be sure to pack your camera.

DAY TWO: SANTA CRUZ TO KING CITY

Rise and shine early on Day 2 to beat the Santa Cruz morning rush hour commute and get an early start on your second day in the saddle! This is a long mileage day with relatively flat terrain that will take us through the Salinas Valley, also known as Steinbeck Country. The lushness of vineyards, strawberry and artichoke fields stretch as far as the eye can see in all directions. There are usually excellent tailwinds along the roller coaster road that takes you into King City at the end of the day. Highlight of the day: Mission Soledad, the Water Stop location on Day 2 is one of the most historic and special destinations on the ride. Take a moment to enjoy the peaceful serenity of the Mission Chapel.

DAY THREE: KING CITY TO PASO ROBLES

Quadbuster. Don't let the name scare you. You are sure to make it to the top with your fellow cyclists (and perhaps a special guest) cheering you on and up! But Quadbuster is only a small part of the route on Day 3. You will pedal on remote roads passing only a few small quaint stores, mostly later in the day. Rest Stop 4 is at Mission San Miguel, one of California's 21 historic Missions. Be sure to bring a little money to purchase a postcard or two for loved ones in the Mission's wonderful little gift shop. The day ends as you ride into Paso Robles where we camp at The Mid State Fairgrounds. We dine inside the fairgrounds dining hall tonight - what a treat! Highlight of the day: Lunch on Day 3 is in the small town of Bradley where the local school hosts a BBQ to raise money for their field trip program. Bring your cash to purchase a hot-off-the-grill hamburger, cheeseburger or veggie burger! Cash only!

DAY FOUR: PASO ROBLES TO SANTA MARIA

The route on Day 4 has a little bit of everything - a feast for the eyes with stunning vistas and ocean views that give way to sprawling fields of farmland and even some quaint seaside towns. The route will wind along some remote and seldom-traveled roads as well as some congested town streets. Before lunch you will conquer the infamous Evil Twins. The views from the top of that second sister hill are nothing short of spectacular and you may even find yourself forgetting that you are pedaling uphill. From there you will ride back out to the coast and through the city of Pismo Beach (Do I smell Cinnamon Rolls?) and on into Preisker Park in the beautiful Central California city of Santa Maria. Highlight of the day: Half Way to LA!! At the top of the second sister hill you will come upon a vista point turnout where you will have the opportunity to have your picture taken with the Half Way to LA sign! Don't forget your camera on this day!!

DAY FIVE: SANTA MARIA TO LOMPOC (This was the dreaded ER day last year!)

Day 5 begins with a beautiful and scenic ride through the farmlands of Santa Maria. At the edge of town, you will enter one of Santa Barbara County's prettiest wine country roads. The scenery will be classic Central California with sprawling vineyards and ancient oak trees making the few challenging climbs along the way well worth the effort. Lunch is located in the quaint tourist town of Solvang - a town founded by Danish immigrants. The authentic Danish architecture, thatched roofs, traditional windmills give the town an old world feel, making it a very popular cycling destination. Departing Solvang, you will pedal through Buellton, home of the world famous Pea Soup Andersen's and head into Lompoc on more beautiful and scenic wine country roads. Highlight of the day: Oh my, but don't you look just fabulous in that Red Dress!

DAY SIX: LOMPOC TO VENTURA

Day 6 begins on one of the prettiest roads on the entire route. You will pedal through vast expansive ranchlands with wildflower covered hills on both sides! As you ride toward the coast through the gorgeous Gaviota Pass you will be on US101. This is a well travelled freeway and caution should be practiced at all times along this portion of the route. After lunch you will pass through the heart of Santa Barbara, Montecito and Carpinteria and on into Ventura where we camp at San Buenaventura State Beach. Highlight of the day: Day 6 is your best bet for dolphin sightings!! Cast an eye to the sea and perhaps you will glimpse those playful creatures jumping in and out of the water as they frolic just off the coast.

DAY SEVEN: VENTURA TO LOS ANGELES

Almost there! Today your trip south will take you through Ventura, Oxnard and Port Hueneme (pronounced Why-Knee-Me) and Malibu. You will see the military planes on display as you ride past the Naval Air Station on your way to Highway 1 also known as the Pacific Coast Highway (PCH). Once on PCH it's a straight shot down the coastline for about 20 miles. Enjoy the southern California sights of surfers and beach goers as you pedal through Malibu on your way toward LA. You will complete your journey with a turn away from the coast and nice pedal through Santa Monica on your way to the Closing Ceremonies site. Highlight of the day: The streets are peppered along the route on Day 7 with friends, family and well-wishers. Enjoy your hero's welcome - you deserve it.

AIDS/LifeCycle 8 Updates from the Road! #4

Gabcast! AIDS/LifeCycle 8 Updates from the Road! #4

Welcome to my AIDS/LifeCycle 8 blog! This year there are more ways than ever to folllow me on the ride! Thanks!!! :)