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February 3, 1997
Update from Carole
Ollie and I come from France. As you can tell, English is not my first language. I arrived in San Francisco at the end of December, where I met Jason and learned more about the expedition, and I jumped in this bicycle adventure.
I decided to let you know a little bit more about me, trying to explain to you the different motivations I have to be a part of the team, en route to Peru!
First, I used to travel with my backpack alone or with someone because I have always been interested and curious in different cultures and peoples. I needed adventures and links outside France as to abolish the world's borders and the lack of respect of differences; and also to prove to myself I was able to face unusual situations. Until now, I've been satisfied with the continuity of links created between people I met. Except for a personal satisfaction, it wasn't enough.
Looking at the expedition's goals, the diversity of people involved and their reasons, I realise that I've found an echo for love that I desire to be spread all over the world. At a personal level, I'm looking for answers to my own dissatisfactions, trying to improve myself and realise things I want to be. And certainly above all, I believe this expedition will bring new changes, new directions that I don't even expect now.
I notice 3 important points for me in this bicycle trip :
Physical - Moral - Emotional
Physically, I had the same problems as every novice in biking : pains everywhere on my body (knee, bottom, back!) before getting used to my bike and efforts! As I 'm also the smallest of the team, my little legs don't have the strength to reach the first who is pedaling!!
To forget about all the pains, the mind is helpful. When you really want to, you can do it. However hard it can be, you can find a solution; even if you have to get off your bicycle and walk, no shame on you.
As well, I try to be more active and creative : translation in Spanish, repairing my bicycle with help of the team when it's necessary, trying to develop the objectives with everybody, opening myself to new things : computer, video, etc ...
All the people involved from now (whatever the level of their investment) open doors and create different interests which is very interesting to share and learn about.
Concerning the feeling, one of the very good points is that this expedition allows me to keep doing things I really like : travel, meet people, kids in their schools and propose an exchange school program, still opening my heart more and more, help when it's necessary and share this adventure by the links already created.
I learn more about myself and enjoy it and try to find personal project that I will realise.
Day after day, I feel more satisfied, try to realise my goals and dreams, which really makes me happy with others and myself.
Even if it's sometimes the hardest way to act, now it's time to follow this energy and the little voice inside - to do what can make me happier.
Anyway, why not try? just have to believe in it.
PS: I would like to thank all people I met along the Californian roads for their hospitality, kindness and help. Especially to Bill, who I met on the road near Ocean Drive and came with us to San Diego, who gave me his bicycle to be more comfortable, and also to the Leidiger family who really welcome us with open arms for our last days in USA.
Next news from Mexico!
Carole.
Posted on February 3, 1997 5:46 AM