May 28th, 2011:

Today I turn 32 and over the course of the last few months I have been staring at my bike hanging on the garage wall – longing to be taken out – but I have always been “too busy” and/or lazy.  Then a few days ago as I started researching how to sign Robert Paetz Photography up to be a contributing member of 1% For The Planet, I came across this “Climate Ride”. It is essentially a 320 mile ride down California’s coastline starting in Fortuna and ending in San Francisco with the added benefit of supporting a cause I adamantly believe we need to concern ourselves with – climate change.

Now some of you may remember back in 2006 when I successfully rode 500 miles from Santa Monica to San Francisco, over 10 days, with a tent and a sleeping bag strapped on the bike.  So, when I started thinking about tackling the next 320 miles of coastline whilst raising awareness and money for this cause, I couldn’t get it out of my mind.  I kept bringing it up to Felicia, and she could tell I was excited.  She cautiously reminded me that I would have to get back in riding shape to tackle the 80+ mile days that take over the course of the 5 day ride. all the while not wanting to diminish my excitement.  I mulled it over for a few days, kept worrying about how I would ever meet the fundraising goals and finally registered and made the commitment to raise $3000 for this cause.

Instantly I have been given a twofold goal of bringing Climate Change awareness to this blog as my primary public platform and forcing me to oil up the chain on my bike and head out for some long rides.  This is a new year of my life and I get to start with some renewed goals.

Now for the part where you come in:  Family, Friends, Acquaintances and Random Readers – all I want for my birthday this year is your support in reaching my fundraising goal.  Just click the “Climate Ride” link below, and give what you can. $5, $25, $50, $100 – it doesn’t matter.  Every little bit helps.

Thank you.