Shoshone National Forest

Our first day back we rode through Shoshone National Forest on the way to Jackson, WY.

On the way up the mountain the road was closed so we had to take the pilot car up the mountain. Here is Sarah in the back of the pick-up truck.

 At the top of the mountain there was this most AMAZING lake with a perfect view. It totally seemed unreal.

After the lake we saw the best sign of the trip. A 6% down grade for 17 miles!!!

At the bottom we came out to the valley. Here is a view of the Tetons! The next day we climbed these! That's right.

Chadron Clean-up

While waiting for the bus trip to St. Louis we stayed in Chadron, NE. We were hit with a tornado so we decided to help the town out and clean up the community. All 29 of us set out and helped about 30 homeowners across the town. It was an amazing experience and I know Paige would of loved it.

South Dakota

So I have finally been able to upload some photos. Here is the beautiful South Dakota landscape. This photo was taken shortly before the accident. The peacefulness of this photo reminds me of the good times we had in South Dakota.

Tetons baby

Bike & Build has been truly amazing. The other day we passed over the great Tetons. I have never seen them before but it was something I will never forget. Once we get Internet other then phone service I will post some pictures. Thanks again for everything. Your support really makes this possible.

Road Trip For Paige

Yesterday we began our road trip to St. Louis to pay honor to Paige and her family. Last night we stopped in Lincoln our half way mark to rest up for the other half of our journey today. My parents blessed us with warm meals, clean towels, and most of all a home to rest our weary bodies. Just north of their home is a park and we were able to strenght our legs and play frisbee. For me of course it was great to be with both my family and Bike & Build family together. Today we will continue to St. Louis for the viewing and memorial tomorrow. I am very greatful for everyone who has made it possible for the P2S10 family to travel all the way to St. Louis. We are truley blessed because of it. I know these next couple of days will be hard and seeing Paige again will bring back memories of the accident. But together we will make it through.

To the one and only...

Paige Hicks 

(Fearless Leader)

The one and only Paige. I will forever miss you!

-Keep on Keepin on

Riding in the Wheat Field!!

Welcome To South Dakota

Wake-Up

With a 4:00 a.m. wake-up we are able to begin our ride with a beautiful sunrise. This totally makes it worth it.

On the search for the Lost Nation

On our way through Iowa we kept finding signs for a town called 'Lost Nation.' Over and over again we wondered if we would ever find it. As well as if it is lost why does it has a distance. We have a good time joking around so once we came to this booming town we had to take a photo.

This day I was sweeping with Brittney. Shortly after this photo we took a rest stop at a gas station. Which for any other person would be a good experience. However with me I always choose the worst places. At first instance it looked like a nice place. Then after coming out I smelled like poo. After searching around for awhile I found poo all over me. It was so bad I wanted to cry but I kept it together, cleaned myself up, and continued traveling. It ended up that I placed my camel back in poo on the ground and then when I put my bag on it got all over me. Let just say I was thankful for the showers at the end of the day. Even if it was freezing cold.

Open Road...

On the trip we have been blessed with many open roads. This is a common sight as we went across the mid-west. Now in South Dakota the landscape is changing and the fields of wheat are increasing by the day. It's amazing to see God's creation as we travel from sea to sea.

Mohawks

So in Bike & Build we have a lot of time to think and sometimes do crazy things. Lately the guys one by one have been appearing with Mohawks. Here is Hassan and Sam showing off the official haircut of P2S10. I think at the last count we had I believe 6 men supporting the new look. These photos are for all the mothers out there wondering what there sons are up to. Don't worry they are all sweethearts and they take care of us ladies.

Requests!

So the trip is coming along and of course I have lots of stories to share. I want this blog to be more interactive so I am asking for requests. Is there a picture you would like to see? Are you wanting more photos or stories? Let me know and I will provide the best of my ability. Also make sure to send along encouragement. On our trip we have an encouragement box and it always makes my day when I get one. So make sure to post a comment on this entry.

South Dakota Here We Come!

I'm learning more and more about why Nebraskans don't like Iowa. I always told people it was because of their speed limit and taking forever to get across. But now I am learning about the fields of endless corn, the gravel roads, and the countless hills. Wait, I forgot about the heat. Never the more I do have to say it reminds me more and more of Nebraska and the miles of openness.  Yesterday as we were riding 100+ miles another rider made a comment about the greenness of everything. We had the beautiful blue skys with the green field covered hills and the random trees throughout the landscape in front of us. It was a peaceful moment as the pain of miles and heat kicked in. I'm sad to see Iowa go but I am looking forward to what South Dakota has to offer. It seems like yesterday we began our journey and it is in South Dakota we hit our half way mark. Now when we tell people where we came from we get crazy looks. Before it was more of where we were going. So ready or not here we come South Dakota.

Iowa where the corn never ends.

So growing up in Nebraska I have seen my share of corn fields. But I am finding out that Iowa by far has more then I ever thought. I guess that is why Iowa is like the number one corn producer in the United States. So far we have seen corn, corn, and some more corn. I do have to say that it is quite beautiful and I am loving it. Today I was in the van driving. It was somewhat of a crazy day with a detour half way through the day making it over 100 miles. Then right after the first group arrived we heard the rain coming. Now that is crazy. Within seconds the rain was pouring and everyone there jumped into the van. We thought the storm would pass over quickly but it hang around more of the afternoon. It would come and go but overall it poured the whole afternoon making for a very cold and wet afternoon. Once people started arriving at the host we welcomed them with towels and hot chocolate to warm them up. I don't remember which host gave us hot chocolate but today it was a life saver and I want to thank you for that!!!!!! Well tomorrow is a short day and I am so ready for bed so I am calling it an early night. Hope all is well where ever you are and I send blessings your way.

Pontiac, IL News

Today on the way into Pontiac, IL we were meet with the news. They took this amazing photo of the group at our lunch stop, which was under the only tree in the area. I was driving but was also able to get into the photo. As a leader we drive every fourth day so we are able to get our gear from location to location. It's been interesting learning how to drive a trailer around and I will have many funny stories to share with you some day. Once we arrived into Pontiac we went to a local diner and had some amazing food. Olivia and I then went for a little walk around town to pick up some local information. On the way there we saw a radio station and decided we needed to see if we could get a spot on the air. Within minutes we were back in the studio talking about the trip. I couldn't believe how nice everyone was and how opened they were to helping in any way. Tomorrow is our day off here and many people are finding ways to get to Chicago. I'm just going to hang out around town, get some good rest, and maybe cook some Chinese food.  Just depends on what I can find. 

The Land of Lincoln

Blessing

My stay in West Lafayette was truly a blessing. Being away from your friends and family is hard. Then add the challenge of riding across the United States. Both of these things make coming home even more of a blessing. I am extremely blessed with an amazing church to call home. Above you will see Rachel, Rainey, and Robin up bright and early to cook us breakfast. I can't say I know to many people who would get up at 4 am to come cook and look so good at doing it. I thank each of you so much for everything you have done to make this stay possible. You are AMAZING!!!!! I also want to thank both Alex and Wyatt for riding with me. It's great to have extra riders joining us on the road and just being able to catch up on whats happening back home.

My Friend Hassan

Here is Hassan playing with our newly found beach ball! Got to pass the time and Hassan always has some good stories and games to play.

Home Sweet Home

Out of all the states we have been to this is one I have been looking forward to the most. Indiana has been my home for three years now and I was so happy to be entering the state once again. Gabe and some other riders wrote a 'Welcome Home Hailey' at the state sign and it totally made my day. This day so far has been my favorite by far. To start the day off we had a police escort by the Dayton, OH police. It was great getting to celebrate the 4th on the bike with some amazing friends plus riding my first ever 100+ mile ride. As the day went on it started to get really hot. At around mile 90 team Hailey stopped and bought a bag of ice. At that point we were over heating and needed a little boost of energy. So we spent time sitting at the gas pump eating ice, filling our Camel backs full of ice, and placing as much ice as we could in our clothing. Let me tell you it was amazing to have some relief from the heat. The last 7 miles we changed direction and finally had some tail winds. At the end of the day I couldn't believe we had traveled over 100 miles by bicycle. I will truly remember this day and the challenges we had to overcome to complete it. Now that this day is complete I look forward to seeing everyone in West Lafayette tomorrow night.

OHIO

Today was my first successful long day! I was suppose to be driving today but because another co-leader's knee was in pain we switched drive days. Therefore today was a day to see how far I could go. Overall the route was pretty flat. Not much hills along the way. The further west we get the more the surrounding reminds me of home. Yesterday I even saw a sign for Indianapolis. Today Alex's parents were nice enough to host us for lunch. It was nice to meet them as well as eat something other then peanut and jelly sandwiches for lunch. Lunch was pretty far into the ride at about 52 miles but it was nice to only have 40 miles left afterwards. After lunch I rode with Maddy and we picked up the pace. We created some songs and just had a good time. I am learning how much I love bike paths. Well at least ones we can find. On one of the paths we met these two guys who were biking from Cincinnati to Springfield. Come to find out that there is a path that goes the whole distance. I'm thinking that maybe this fall I will have to come back and bike it. If anyone is up for it let me know. I would love some fellow riders.Well I don't know much else. After a 92 miles day sleep is almost all I can think of. Tomorrow is a build day and then we have a 100 mile on July 4th into Indiana. I can't wait to see everyone in a couple of day.

Hay-Lunch Stop

On the way from Columbus, OH to Dayton, OH we were able to stop at Alex Ray's parents house in Springfield for lunch. They had lots of food and drinks for us waiting as we roded by. Out back we were able to also capture some good hay pictures which is important on any Bike & Build trip.

Healing

So it's been a while since I last wrote. Life on the road has been getting hard. On Sunday night I was rushed to the hospital. No I wasn't hit by a car but I was shaking and truly freezing. They treated me for dehydration and after a truly scary time I was released. Later I found out I had a low blood sugar count. Since then I have been laying low and truly sleeping like crazy. I tried to ride today but only made it 11 miles down the road. I'm trying to figure everything out and learning all about what I can do to avoid another visit to the hospital.  I'm really scared right now but I know everything is in God's hands. I just ask each of you to keep me in your prayers as I learn what God has planned.

New York oh how I love thee

This is one of the beautiful views we were able to see along the way in New York. 

Welcome to Pennsylvania

Nine days into the trip we enter into our fourth state with a wonderful group photo!

Still Strong

After hills and more hills we came to a beautiful lake where we had to show how strong we are. We were quite successful if I do say so myself.

Trailer Painting

Look at our bright and colorful trailer!

First Ride / First State

Not only did we have an amazing first day we were also able to experience our first state line. Here I am at the Connecticut / RI boarder. May there be many more states to come.

Providence Build

The second day of our trip we were able to build with the Providence Habitat for Humanity chapter. It was a great time painting and of course getting to know each other. Here we are at the end of the build day getting ready to ride back to our host. Right before we were leaving an ice cream truck came by and of course we needed to have some. Thanks to Habitat!!!!!

Wheel Dip

Here is our amazing leadership team at the wheel dip in Providence, RI. Paige had a little hard time getting the bike over her head so we went with the thumb ups. This is the start of an amazing journey and I can't wait to be at Seattle with them in August!

Shake Down Ride

Today we were able to go on a shake down ride with all the riders. This was great since my bike decided to skip gears on the flats. I was able to get it fixed before the journey began.

Providence Update

I cannot believe it has already been three days since I arrived in Providence. We have been busy running around getting things ready for all the riders and it has been a blast. Earlier today we were able to go for a quick ride and try on our new gear. It was great getting back on the bike and riding with my co-leaders. The trail was on the coast and was so beautiful. After the ride we were able to go out to eat at a nice restaurant thanks to P2SF leaders and now it's time to finish and print everything before the riders arrive tomorrow!! Well I better get back to work. Tomorrow is the big day!!!!!!!!!! Oh yeah

Farewells and Goodbyes

So the time has come to say farewell and goodbye to my friends and family for the summer. Last night I was blessed with a BBQ. I had a blast seeing everyone and being able to say goodbye for now. I'm never good with goodbye but I'm excited to finally get underway. Tonight the leadership group is meeting up and starting to get everything ready for the riders on Saturday. It seems like yesterday Wyatt agreed to go on Bike & Build and we started signing up. He backed out but he got me to fill out the paperwork and I owe him a thanks. Also I owe Laura and Alex a huge thanks for all the amazing stories, pictures, and encouragement of their journey last year. Well I guess I can't say thank you yet. You never know on the first mountain I might be, "What did I get myself into." lol Well the flight is boarding and I better go for now but check back soon and learn more about the ride.

Mail Drops

Time keeps on flying by. I can't believe that I will be flying out in just two weeks to Providence. During my journey I will be able to receive mail once a week. It would be great if each of you could send some snail mail with encouragement and/or care packages along my journey. If you do please make packages out to 


Bike & Build
Attn: Hailey Dady
General Delivery
CITY, ST ZIP


City name and state can be found below as well as dates of pick-of. Please remember to allow for enough delivery time on the packages. I know I will be blessed with each one I receive. Thanks and God Bless.

June 17 Kent,CT 06757

June 24 Coudersport, PA 16915

July 01 Columbus, OH 43215

July 08 Pontiac, IL 61764

July 15 Sioux City, IL 51101

July 22 Chadron, NE 69337

July 29 Dubois, WY 82513

August 05 Lincoln, MT 59639

August 12 Spokane, WA 99210

Wind and Hills

This week was a week of hills and head winds. Over the last seven days I took to my new bike and 'Covered Indiana.' For the last three years I have help organize a week long bike tour for Habitat for Humanity here in Indiana. This year I had a great time and was able to get prepared for a life on the road. The week started out with head winds and ended, yes, with head winds. Tuesday was the worst with 30 mph head winds for 70 miles. It is a tradition for me to bring in the end group and I held to that once again. Tuesday morning brought many bike repairs and a long day. We did not make it to lunch tell 3 p.m. then I had a conference call at 4 so I stayed around while the group went ahead. I left lunch a little before 5 with 35 more miles left to go. I thought I would have to be picked up but with a pair of fresher legs I headed out strong, making it in to the host a little before 8. Over the week we had some good laughs. It really made me excited for the summer. I am proud to also say that I did not even walk up any of the hills for those who make fun of how slow I go. It's not about speed, it's about the journey! For now I will rest and tomorrow I will be off again for another journey on the bike.

The Mother of Training Rides

Training has been going well and it even will be going back this next week. More then anything this week will get me so excited for the chance to ride the rest of the summer.  I will spend the next seven days riding over 350 miles around the state of Indiana in a tour called Cover Indiana. This is my third year riding as well as organizing the events. The tour is for raising both money and awareness for Habitat for Humanity. It is always a fun relaxing ride with some nice 'Nebraskan Mountains' aka hills. Plus last year we even got to ride through some great lakes. This year seems to be the same with lots of rain in the forecast. Let's hope mother nature changes her mind. Well I'm off for now. Pictures and stories of the week to come.

First Ride

Yesterday was such a beautiful day I could not pass up a chance for a ride. I finished taking off the plastic and hopped on. I joined a couple other friends, even some old Bike & Builders and went for a twenty mile ride. It really got me excited for this summer. It made me realize I need to come up with a name for my bike. My old bike was name Gus. Does anyone have any suggestions?

Be The Change...

Last year I had two really good friends complete the Bike & Build journey. A documentary was put together by some of there fellow riders called 'Bike and Build: Be The Change.' It is an amazing video and it makes me excited about this summer. Check it out...

A Huge Thanks

Over the last couple of months I have been blessed with the number of donations coming in. Last night was no difference. Thanks to Tri Kappa I am $500 closer to $4000. Apron sales are going great as well. If you are interested in purchasing one just let me know. They make great gifts for children of all ages.

Thanks again for all your help, prayers, and support. Each of you are truly a blessing.

Apron Sale

Here is another way you can help Hailey cover the United States. Starting today you can purchase a homemade apron. Sizes from toddler to adult are available. Prices range from $15 - $25 with a variety of patterns and styles. 100% of all sales will go directly to Bike & Build. If you are interested please email Hailey at haileydady@gmail.com. Below you can see Mia wearing a toddler size apron. How cute is she! :D  

 

Did you know...

Did you know that despite states' efforts, there is no county in the country where an individual can work 40 hours per week at the minimum wage and afford even a one-bedroom apartment at the local fair market rent.

$1000 Bike Mark!

Thank you to everyone who has donated so far. Together we have officially raised over $1000. Well on the way to reaching $4000. This mark also allows me to order my official Bike & Build Bike thanks to Giant! Check out my soon to be new ride.

Welcome!

I would like to take a moment and welcome you to 'Where in the World is Hailey?' This is the place to be to find out about Bike & Build, keep up-to-date on the trip, and to find out what you can do.

Check back soon...

P2S - Bike & Build 2010

Wow, it this real? It is official, this summer I will set off with 31 other young adults and travel by bicycle across the United States to raise funds for and awareness of affordable housing efforts. We will be traveling from Providence, RI to Seattle, WA. Along the way we will stop in hundreds of communities where we will meet with local residents, give presentations about housing issues, and build affordable homes with local housing groups.

In order to participate, I must raise $4000. The proceeds from the trip will be used to fund young-adult driven affordable housing projects. Please join me on this adventure and sponsor a portion of my ride. You could consider donating a certain amount per mile ($.10/mile x 3864 miles = $386.40), perhaps an amount per day ($1/day x 68 days = $68), or even what you would spend today on meals ($10 - $20). Any and all donations are greatly appreciated and do make a difference.

If you cannot make a monetary donation, please keep my fellow riders and me in your thoughts and prayers as we brave the elements, hit the road, and spend the summer covering the United States on our bikes. If you choose to donate, your contribution will be tax-deductible. You can make a contribuation online by going to bikeandbuild.org/rider/3976 and clicking on DONATE!

It's exciting for me to have this opportunity and I would be honored if you joined me. Along the way I will be blogging the journey with stories, photos, and of course some videos. Be sure to keep an eye out on our route and if we pass through your town be sure to stop by and say hi! Together we will dream big and truly make a difference.