Triathlon Across America 2006

Day Fifty - Completion of TRAAM 2006

2006-07-29T19:32:00.000-07:00

DAY 50, SATURDAY, JULY 29, DEDICATED TO:
Jostens, Inc. and TwoBitGrafix
(Thank you for designing & producing the TRAAM brochure. It greatly helped to advertise the Jeff Barnes Brain Injury web site & solicit funds for the Foundation.)

Tomorrow is dedicated to: Gods Faithfulness

My brother JEFF. He, like me, is also stubborn enough to complete a tough task.

TRIATHLON ACROSS AMERICA
(TRAAM)
Lake City, FL, to Jacksonville, FL
Todays Facts:
Jacksonville, FL: Population ?; Elevation 25
Current support driver: Nadine Barnes, wife & best friend
Run 3 miles with Wes, bike: 67 miles, Swim in the Atlantic Ocean
Highlight of the day: Seeing the Atlantic Ocean & taking that last swim
Challenge of the day: Taking it a mile at a time to the finish
Bike temperatures today: Low 75, High, 109
Helmets given away so far: 281
Flat tires: CA-2, AZ-4, NM-1, TX-5, LA-1, MS-1 (Total so far: 14)
Bible verse for the day:
2 Timothy
4:12 I have the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith.

Dear Family & Friends,

I have finished the race (TRAAM). I actually completed the TRAAMJ @ at 10 AM Pacific Time. I dont believe I can explain what this day meant to me. Im not sure I can explain it to myself. I will be learning lessons from this for years to come. I do know this, I accomplished my goals:
1) Dedicating the Triathlon Across America to my younger brother Jeff.
2) Publicizing the JBBIF web site.
3) Educating kids about bike safety & giving away helmets on behalf of the
JBBIF Board.
4) Take the TRAAM one day at a time and relish the experience.

Wes and I ran our three miles up a country road in the dark. As I biked the 67 hot muggy miles to the east coast my whole trip ran through my mind over and over again. I was thinking of Jeff & his family, my family, the JBBIF Board, all the people who are praying and helping our cause.

I became quite emotional when I came over the last rise and saw the Atlantic Ocean. Nadine, Wes, and two of the Lawles brothers (originally from Huntsville, Alabama) and their wives were there to greet me. Billys wife is Reanna & Bens wife is Michelle. I dropped the bike, stripped down to my bike shorts, put on my swim cap & goggles, and ran into the warm surf. It was a tremendous relief to have accomplished the TRAAM and not to have let anyone down. (Ill share more later).

After photos and Sparkling Ciders (thanks Lawles family) we went out to a pizza
feast. It was great! Nadine and I started driving back toward the west coast through the biggest thunderstorm Ive ever seen. We are in a motel attempting to process the TRAAM. I will need more time to do just that.

Tomorrow well continue to head west stopping for a church service somewhere. I plan to PS you again, so his is not the last youll hear from me. Hope thats OK!?.

Day Fortynine

2006-07-28T18:41:00.000-07:00

DAY 49ers, FRIDAY, JULY 28, DEDICATED TO:
New Fitness:
(THANKS MICHAEL FOR YOUR WEIGHT TRAINING PLAN. IT WORKED!)
Tomorrow is dedicated to: Jostens, Inc. and TwoBitGrafix

My brother JEFF. Remember when we sold lemonade at 2 cents a glass to earn money to buy our first microscope? It must have taken us weeks.

TRIATHLON ACROSS AMERICA (TRAAM)
Monticello, FL, to Lake City, FL
Todays Facts:
Lake City, FL: Population, ?; Elevation ?
Current support driver: Nadine Barnes, wife & best friend
Swim in Pool 200M, run 3 miles, bike: 63 miles
Highlight of the day: Seeing my first swamps
Challenge of the day: Tired Trek bike
Bike temperatures today: Low 72, High, 103
Helmets given away so far: 276
Flat tires: CA-2, AZ-4, NM-1, TX-5, LA-1, MS-1 (Total so far: 14)
Bible verse for the day: Hebrews 12:1

Dear Family & Friends,

We got an early start. Something felt wrong from the beginning. The back tire felt like it was losing air. I usually ride it with 110-120 psi, but it felt like it had only 50 in it. I checked and rechecked the pressure. I finally told Nadine, I think that my bike is tired. She agreed and said we both deserved to be tired.

Observations from the bike today:
1) Seeing some of my first swamps
2) More dead armadillos in Florida than TX, LA, MS, & AL all together
3) Watching a weasel run alongside the road for awhile
4) Reforestation of pine & fir trees (looks like Christmas tree farms)
5) Huge billowing white clouds preparing for a big afternoon thunderstorm

Physical problems I am currently enduring: (From head to toes; ha, ha)
1) Some headaches at the end of long hot days
2) Eyes are constantly watering day & night
3) Throat constantly dry (must chew gum)
4) Heat rash on upper left back and on both wrists
5) Lower back (still a light pain)
6) Tingling of the sciatic nerve
7) Deep muscle tissue bruising on front of thighs
8) On the verge cramping on the backs of my legs
9) Rock cuts on top of right foot (Gulf of Mexico)
10) Hot toes while on bike after 30 miles

I share these physical challenges so you know it is not easy, but so you will also know you can overcome uncomfortable situations to complete your goals. In fact, one of my original sayings is; Some of our most memorable moments are not necessarily are most comfortable moments. And these past seven weeks have provided a myriad of memorable moments.

Tomorrow: Run 3 miles with Wes Nick, Nadines cousin from North Carolina
Bike about 65-70 miles to the coast
Swim in the Atlantic Ocean
Complete the TRAAMJ @ about 9 AM Pacific Time
(We cross the finish line tomorrow Tanner!)

Thanks for your support and your continued prayers & thoughts,
Jim Barnes, torch1984@sbcglobal.net

Day Fortyeight

2006-07-28T18:40:00.000-07:00

DAY 48, THURSDAY, JULY 27, DEDICATED TO:
Wilsons Cyclery & Sierra Cycle Werks
(Thanks to Dave @ Wilsons & Craig @ Sierra for their support)

Tomorrow is dedicated to: New Fitness

My brother JEFF. Remember when we were wrestling on the top bunk and you crashed my head through the window? Thank goodness the shade was pulled down so I didnt get cut.

TRIATHLON ACROSS
AMERICA (TRAAM)
Chattahoochee, FL, to Monticello, FL
Todays Facts:
Monticello, FL: Population, 2,533; Elevation 120
Current support driver: Nadine Barnes, wife & best friend
Swim in Pool 200M, run 6 miles, bike: 74 miles
Highlight of the day: Tallahassee Pre-School & Greenville Lemonade Stand
Challenge of the day: Extremely hot sun
Bike temperatures today: Low 70, High, 108
Helmets given away so far: 276
Flat tires: CA-2, AZ-4, NM-1, TX-5, LA-1, MS-1 (Total so far: 14)
Bible verse for the day: James 3:13 Who is wise and understanding among you? Let him show it by his good life, by deeds done in humility that comes from wisdom.

Dear Family & Friends,

I started on my own today with a 20 mile backtrack ride at 6 AM. The problem was it was still very dark since we went to the time change (Eastern). It finally lightened up at about 6:30. We had breakfast and left by 8:15.

At mile 31 we reached Tallahassee, the capital of Florida, and headed for the capitol building. I found a group of very young children playing only five blocks from the capitol. They were at the First Presbyterian Pre-School & Day Care Center of Tallahassee. The lead teacher, Sara, was thrilled to receive helmets for the kids, especially when I told her all of her children could have one (50 kids). Sara even got one for herself. Fifty-one helmets are the most weve handed out at one place before. We were not allowed to photo the kids so Nadine took a picture me in front of the capitol building instead.

With only 4 miles to go on my 74 mile ride I was called over to the side of the road by two young sisters from their lemonade stand. I thought, Why not? I pulled over and their dad and brother were with them in the shade on this extremely hot & sunny day. They found out my story and I promised to return with Nadine and the helmets. When we got back their dad, Ronny, had a generous cash donation for the JBBIF. The children and their dad were fitted for helmets, given wristbands & brochures, and had our photos taken. Grandma was there to take pictures too.

After a cool shower in the motel room, lunch, and a power nap, I went out for my walk/run and swim. I believe today was the hottest day weve had since Texas. It was stifling! I am now resting and preparing for another long day tomorrow. We are supposed to meet up with one of Nadines cousins, Wes, who now lives in North Carolina. He plans to help SAG the last day. Cool!

Oh, one other neat thing happened today. There was a package addressed to me in the motel office. It was a brand new helmet, a gift from the Rudy Project Company. Its a beautiful blue with red and white highlights. I will wear it with pride! Thanks!

Thanks for your support and your continued prayers & thoughts,
Jim Barnes, torch1984@sbcglobal.net

Day Fortyseven

2006-07-26T18:49:00.000-07:00

DAY 47, WEDNESDAY, JULY 26, DEDICATED TO:
Ministers & Pastors
(Thanks for your dedication to God & His people)
Tomorrow is dedicated to: Wilsons Cyclery & Sierra Cycle Werks

My brother JEFF. Remember our trip in dads pickup from Chicago to Visalia in less than two days so we could play a softball league game for our church?

TRIATHLON ACROSS AMERICA (TRAAM)
DeFuniak Springs, FL, to Chattahoochee, FL
Todays Facts:
Chattahoochee, FL: Population, 3.267; Elevation 180
Current support driver: Nadine Barnes, wife & best friends
Swim in Pool 200M, run 6 miles, bike: 74 miles
Highlight of the day: Spotting my first alligator
Challenge of the day: Finding a natural water body to swim in
Bike temperatures today: Low 77, High, 108
Helmets given away so far: 221
Flat tires: CA-2, AZ-4, NM-1, TX-5, LA-1, MS-1 (Total so far: 14)
Bible verse for the day: (Thanks Nellie!) Isaiah 41:10 So do not fear for I am with you, So do not be dismayed for I am your God; I will strengthen you and help you; I will uphold you up with my righteous right hand."

Dear Family & Friends,

I left on my bike at 6:30 AM. I rode through Argyle, Ponce De Leon, Wesville, Garyville, Bonifay, Chipley, Cottondale, Marianna and Grand Ridge. The area was heavily forested for the most part. Later I came to some swamps with large oaks that had climbing vines on them along with hanging Spanish moss.

Nadine bought me a strawberry slush today. It was another long hot one. When we reached Chattahoochee we turned north to so I could swim in Lake Seminole. We found we had crossed the border into the state of Georgia and had passed into the eastern time zone and had lost another hour.

Upon arriving at the State Park entry I was shockingly told I would not be able to swim. The lake water level was extremely low and it had been closed to swimmers because there were many hungry alligators. We were allowed to go down to view the lake. I immediately spied a 12-foot alligator about 100 yards off the shore. It gave Nadine the creeps. I was hoping to get a close photo on a gator. We finally left. As we left the ranger said the only natural waters that are safe in Florida are the Gulf and the Atlantic. I guess my next natural water swim will be the Atlantic Ocean.

Thanks for your support and your continued prayers & thoughts,
Jim Barnes, torch1984@sbcglobal.net

Day Fortysix

2006-07-26T18:48:00.000-07:00

DAY 46, TUESDAY, JULY 25, DEDICATED TO:
Donors to the Jeff Barnes Brain Injury Foundation
(Thanks you so much for helping our dreams come true to help others)
Tomorrow is dedicated to: Ministers & Pastors
My brother JEFF.
You ought to see his music collection; albums, 8 Tracks, 45s, cassettes, CDs, etc.

TRIATHLON ACROSS AMERICA (TRAAM)
Pensacola, Florida, to DeFuniak Springs, FL
Todays Facts:
DeFuniak, FL: Population, 5,089; Elevation 250
Current support driver: Nadine Barnes, wife & best friends
Swim in Pool 200M, run 5 miles, bike: 74 miles
Highlight of the day: Having my first Alligator Ice drink
Challenge of the day: Riding long miles with my cut foot
Bike temperatures today: Low 82, High, 102
Helmets given away so far: 221
Flat tires: CA-2, AZ-4, NM-1, TX-5, LA-1, MS-1 (Total so far: 14)
Bible verse for the day: (Thanks Nellie!)
Zecariah 4:6 "Not by might nor by Power but by my Spirit says the Lord."

Dear Family & Friends,
Two helmets were given to the cooks at the hotel breakfast. They were so appreciative. It rained hard during breakfast but stopped before I started on my Trek bike. It didnt rain anymore today, but the heat became oppressive because of it. The first 25 miles were beautiful along the Gulf Coast with rollers along the bluffs. The next 50 were east on Hwy 90. With the wind behind me I was moving along at 18-20 mph.

The day wasnt very exciting until I stopped at a Fast Gas station. I bought my first ever Alligator Ice. Its like an Icee or Slushy. After I drank half of it Nadine asked me to stick out my tongue. When she finished laughing I asked her what was so funny. She took my picture and showed me. WOW! My whole mouth, tongue, and teeth were bright blue. It was sure good though (including the brain freeze).
After settling down in the motel I walk/jogged five miles and did my swim in the motel pool. My legs act as if they are going to cramp at any minute so I continue to stretch them when I lay down.
We gave out another 4 helmets when we ate at Sonic. Three young girls were from Pennsylvania and the fourth was a local girl. Need to get to bed. Another long day is ahead of us.

Thanks for your support and your continued prayers & thoughts,
Jim Barnes, torch1984@sbcglobal.net

Day Fortyfive

2006-07-26T18:46:00.000-07:00

DAY 45, MONDAY, JULY 24, DEDICATED TO:
Prayer Warriors; Family, Friends, Churches
Tomorrow is dedicated to: Donors to the Jeff Barnes Brain Injury Foundation
My brother JEFF. Remember your first hot car? I think it was a Comet.

TRIATHLON ACROSS AMERICA (TRAAM)
Mobile, Alabama, to Pensacola, Florida
Todays Facts:
Pensacola , FL : Population, 56, 255; Elevation, 24
Current support driver: Nadine Barnes, wife & best friends
Swim in Gulf of Mexico , 200M, run 4 miles, bike: 77 miles
Highlight of the day: Swimming in the Gulf of Mexico
Challenge of the day: Swimming in from a strong riptide with cut foot
Bike temperatures today: Low 72, High, 82, hard rain for 30 minutes
Helmets given away so far: 215
Flat tires: CA-2, AZ-4, NM-1, TX-5, LA-1, MS-1 (Total so far: 14)
Bible verse for the day:
James 1:2 Consider it pure joy, my brothers, whenever you face trials of many kinds, because you know that the testing of your faith develops perserverance.

Dear Family & Friends,
The day started on the bike in front of the USS Alabama Battleship in Mobile . It was overcast and threatening rain the first two hours. Then it poured a warm summer rain for about 30 minutes at the Gulf of Mexico coastline as soon as I arrived. There was so much water on the road that I found my bike hydroplaning several times. I was soaked but not cold. As I rode along the coast the wind was behind me and I was going between 21-23 mph.

There was no sign on that highway indicating the moment we entered Florida , but we knew we had because the road number had change from 182 to 292. A few miles into Florida Nadine pulled over to wait for me. It was the perfect place for a swim in the Gulf of Mexico . There were surfers on the beach between two large high rise hotels on white sand. I got my boogie board and goggles and headed for the water.

The breakers were coming in in fast sets about 3-4 feet high. One surfer I talked to told me to be careful of the riptide. I charged into the surf as Nadine was taking pictures of me. The water temp was really nice. As I started to swim into the waves I kicked some large rock or rocks underwater that scraped the top of my right foot in two places. The salty water immediately made it sting so I realized I had cut something, but I continued to swim outward. When I finally turned to return to the beach I found myself 100 feet east of Nadine. I didnt fight the current. I swam in and walked back up the beach to the place I had entered.

We had lunch with the Lawles family before they headed home to Huntsville, Alabama . After another rainfall Nadine and I went on a 4 mile walk to see historic Pensacola and then a light dinner. We are now in the hotel preparing for another long day tomorrow. By the way, the forecast is for rain all week long. Well see.

Thanks for your support and your continued prayers & thoughts,
Jim Barnes, torch1984@sbcglobal.net

Day Fortyfour

2006-07-26T18:45:00.000-07:00

DAY 44, SUNDAY, JULY 23, DEDICATED TO:
GOD. HE IS IN CONTROL

Tomorrow is dedicated to: Prayer Warriors; Family, Friends, Churches

My brother JEFF. I know you are proud of your family.

TRIATHLON ACROSS AMERICA (TRAAM)
Rest day in Mobile, Alabama
Todays Facts:
Mobile , Alabama : Elevation 10
Current support driver: Nadine Barnes, wife & best friend
Swim in motel pool, 200M, run 0 miles, bike: 20 miles
Highlight of the day: Visiting the USS Alabama
Challenge of the day: Resting & waiting for the last week to start
Bike temperatures today: Low 72, High, 88, hot & humid
Helmets given away so far: 209
Flat tires: CA-2, AZ-4, NM-1, TX-5, LA-1, MS-1 (Total so far: 14)
Bible verse for the day:
Job 37:15 Do you know how God controls the clouds
and makes the lightning flash?

Dear Family & Friends,

Our friends, the Lawles family, from Huntsville , Alabama , made the 300+ mile trip south to visit us. Two of his and Ninas 11 children also came along. We met as we served in a US Army missile group in West Germany in the early 70s. We became friends as we helped sponsor youth groups in the protestant chapel during our free time. Nadine and I were newlyweds at the time. Our friendship was renewed when we met up again as we took groups of Visalia area students back to US Space Camp annually. Bobby had reserved us a room in an old southern hotel in downtown Mobile . It is quite a flashback in time to be here.

I got up before anyone else and did a 22 mile round trip bike ride to the USS Alabama Battleship. Upon return we had a light breakfast and prepared to attend the First Baptist Church service. After worship we were able to hand out helmets to the music ministers two sons. We then left the hotel for a trip to the USS Alabama Battleship. It was a greta experience not only to view the battleship, but also to see their Viet Nam and Korean Memorials and many aircraft, tanks, cannons, etc., that were on the grounds.

I am resting this evening and getting ready for that last push to the east coast. Please continue to pray for safety, strength, and determination to complete the course.

Thanks for your support and your continued prayers & thoughts,
Jim Barnes, torch1984@sbcglobal.net

Day Fortythree

2006-07-26T18:42:00.000-07:00

DAY 43, SATURDAY, JULY 22, DEDICATED TO:
Hurley Elementary School Students, Parents, & Staff.
(It has been my pleasure and honor to be a teacher at Hurley Elementary School during its first fourteen years. It is student-oriented and values family.)

Tomorrow is dedicated to: GOD. HE IS IN CONTROL

My brother JEFF. Remember all the hunting & fishing trips with dad? You were always the better shot. I was the better angler.

TRIATHLON ACROSS AMERICA (TRAAM)
Pascagoula, Mississippi, to Mobile, Alabama
Todays Facts:
Mobile , Alabama : Elevation 10
Current support driver: Nadine Barnes, wife & best friend
Swim in motel pool, 200M, run 6 miles, bike: 44 miles
Highlight of the day: Visiting Hurley, Mississippi
Challenge of the day: Finding our Southern-Style Hotel In Downtown
Bike temperatures today: Low 83, High, 108, hot & humid
Helmets given away so far: 201
Flat tires: CA-2, AZ-4, NM-1, TX-5, LA-1, MS-1 (Total so far: 14)
Bible verse for the day:
Phil. 3:13 I am focusing all my energies on this one thing:
forgetting the past and looking forward to what lies ahead.

Dear Family & Friends,

I was up before dawn for my walk/run. I then showered, had a light breakfast, and packed the SAG vehicle before jumping on my bike. After only one mile I turned north on Hwy 63. The temperature was over 80 degrees when I started and was climbing quickly. We took a small road to the northeast and ended up in Hurley , Mississippi , at mile 20. Their town signs had all been blown away during Hurricane Katrina. So we couldnt take a picture upon entry.

My highlight of the day happened when Nadine and I arrived at a 4-way stop at two major highways near the center of town. There were about 20 girls and four adults standing in the streets collecting money from motorists. They were a part of three girls softball teams from Hurley who were state champions. The money was to get them to the nationals to be held soon in Jackson , Louisiana . I had Nadine drive the car up to the intersection and told the girls and their coaches what I was doing. We spent about 45 minutes handing out brochures, wristbands, and 10 helmets. It was a lot of fun. (Their head coach ended up donating $20 to the JBBIF too.)

I got back on the bike and worked my way through another 24 miles of oppressive heat. As we entered Mobile I racked the bike and we went into the center of town and found our hotel. Malaga Inn is an old southern-style hotel with modern conveniences. It has a beautiful courtyard with a large fountain in the center. Gas lamps light the courtyard and highlights the old wooden balconies. Charming Im sure. It was reserved by our friends, the Lawles family, from Huntsville , Alabama , who are arriving soon to visit with us over the weekend. Ill tell you more about them tomorrow.

One special note to the Melvin family back in Visalia ; you were right, the Blue Bell ice cream is terrific! Its not just in Texas though. I found it in LA, MS, and AL. Ill check Florida out next week.

Thanks for your support and your continued prayers & thoughts,
Jim Barnes, torch1984@sbcglobal.net

Day Fortytwo

2006-07-26T18:41:00.000-07:00

DAY 42, FRIDAY, JULY 21, DEDICATED TO:
Mike & Judy Kellers 27th Wedding Anniversary
(These are very neat friends. Congrats on your commitment to God & each other.)

Tomorrow is dedicated to: Hurley Elementary School Students, Parents, & Staff.
(Several Hurley students have e-mailed me to say they love the idea of a Tanner Berbereia Kindness Award. Tanners family likes the idea too. One student is researching an appropriate award with his parents. Tomorrow I will be riding through
Hurley, Mississippi, and I will be thinking of you.

My brother JEFF; BEST MAN AT OUR WEDDING!

TRIATHLON ACROSS AMERICA (TRAAM)
Gulfport, Mississippi, to Pascagoula, Mississippi
Todays Facts:
Bogalusa , LA : Population: ?; Elevation 10
Current support driver: Nadine Barnes, wife & best friend
Swim in motel pool, 200M, run 6 miles, bike: 44 miles
Highlight of the day: Interview on NEWS Channel 2, Biloxi
Challenge of the day: Extremely hot & humid
Bike temperatures today: Low 80, High, 106, hot & humid
Helmets given away so far: 191
Flat tires: CA-2, AZ-4, NM-1, TX-5, LA-1, MS-1 (Total so far: 14)
Bible verse for the day:

Dear Family & Friends,

I started today quite differently than usual. I got up early and ran my six miles then swam my 200 meters in the pool. I did this because a Biloxi TV news team wanted to do a special on the TRAAM. Steve Phillips, a Channel 2 reporter, had received a news flash FAX from my sister-in-law and sister, back in California . Nadine and I left Gulfport and rode along Highway 90 along the waterfront viewing more of Katrinas damage. The news team took shots of me just before we got to Biloxi . Steve stopped me and did an in-your-face interview that we got to see on the 5 oclock news. They did a nice job.

The bridge was out ahead so we had to head north on Hwy 110 to I-10. It was a hairy ride on overpasses & bridges with cars zooming by and the side lane was full of junk (glass, wood, plastic parts, trash). They also have lines of those raised reflectors that I must make my way through. Anyway, we lost each other for about a ½ hour. Our cell phones got us back together. We went south again and then east along the gulf through the towns of Diberville, Ocean Springs, & Gautier to Pascagoula (a port city). We are about as far south and east as you can go in Mississippi .

We plan to eat at McDonalds or Wendys and hand out free helmets to kids. It is our gift to Hurricane Katrina victims from the JBBIF. Oh, yes, Alabama , here we comeJ!

Thanks for your support and your continued prayers & thoughts,
Jim Barnes, torch1984@sbcglobal.net

Day Fortyone

2006-07-20T20:46:00.000-07:00

DAY 41, THURSDAY, JULY 20, DEDICATED TO:
Brad & Betsy Robbs 4th Wedding Anniversary
(Congratulations son-in-law & daughter)!)
Tomorrow is dedicated to: Mike & Judy Kellers 27th Wedding Anniversary

My brother JEFF. My Aunt Glenda asked, Do you remember when you were visiting and we all visited the beach. You and Jeff collected many sand crabs. Well, your Mom found them a couple of weeks later in your closet after she spent some time tracking down the rotten odor in the house. We all loved you 3 kids so much and got a kick out of some of your antics,which there were many.

TRIATHLON ACROSS AMERICA (TRAAM)
Bogalusa, LA, to Gulfport, Mississippi
Todays Facts:
Bogalusa , LA : Population: ?; Elevation 30
Current support driver: Nadine Barnes, wife & best friend
Swim in motel pool, walk/run 3 miles, bike: 61 miles
Highlight of the day: Entering the state of Mississippi & Helmets to Katrina victims
Challenge of the day: Another flat tire near the end of my ride
Bike temperatures today: Low 72, High, 103, hot & humid
Helmets given away so far: 1190
Flat tires: CA-2, AZ-4, NM-1, TX-5, LA-1, MS-1 (Total so far: 14)
Bible verse for the day:
Jeremiah 10:12-13 When he thunders, the waters in the heaven roars;
he makes the clouds rise from the ends of the earth.
He sends lightning with the rain and brings out the wind from his storehouses.

Dear Family & Friends,

The day started quickly as I entered the state of Mississippi in just four miles into my ride. Nadine took the photo of me with the entry sign and we moved on. I arrived in Poplarville and made contact with Butch, the editor of the Poplarville Democrat. After a brief interview and photo we gave our first Mississippi bike helmet to Edie, the receptionist. We couldnt make contact with Peggy of the Chamber of Commerce so I went to a nearby service station and gave away another 7 helmets (6 to one family). These helmets were given to direct victims of Hurricane Katrina. It felt very rewarding to be able to give these gifts on behalf of the Jeff Barnes Brain Injury Foundation.

We then turned south on highway 53 and saw more and more signs of hurricane damage. The blue roofs were everywhere. Thats what the locals call the roofs that were damaged and covered with the bright blue tarps. I also began seeing debris of trailers on the roadsides as well as more and more broken and downed trees. At mile 56 I had another flat tire and repaired it in the extreme heat. The traffic increase greatly as we passed Interstate to our motel. The first two motels and donut shop we came to are still being rebuilt. The McDonalds sign remains damaged and businesses are closed everywhere. I believe we will see more as we go to the beaches after the downpour of rain in our latest thunder and lightning storm. They almost come like clockwork in the afternoons now. Will close this for the day.

Mississippi , here we areJ!

Thanks for your support and your continued prayers & thoughts,
Jim Barnes, torch1984@sbcglobal.net

Day Forty

2006-07-20T20:45:00.000-07:00

DAY 40, WEDNESDAY, JULY 19, DEDICATED TO:
Sponsor: Icenhower Real Estate & Development, Inc.
(Brian Icenhower was my sixth grade student at Willow Glen years ago. Thanks.)
Tomorrow is dedicated to: Brad & Betsy Robbs 4th Wedding Anniversary

My Uncle Jan and Aunt Mary who recently celebrated their 50th Wedding Anniversary. Remember who your ringbearer was? Thanks for the ice cream bribe Uncle Jan!

My brother JEFF. My Aunt Glenda asked, Do you remember when:
You were visiting Grandpa and Grandma Erwin's house in Torrance? The big white house on the corner with the cellar door right under Grandpa and Grandma's bedroom window?
You and Jeff were out there early one morning jumping up and down on the door with so much excitement, as only you two could do, (luckily it didn't cave in with your high jumps). Anyway, Grandpa worked nights
and was trying to get his morning beauty rest. Well, he was not a happy camper with his two very active grandsons. We had many laughs about that
incident.

TRIATHLON ACROSS AMERICA (TRAAM)
Amite, LA, to Bogalusa, LA
Todays Facts:
Bogalusa , LA : Population: 13, 365; Elevation 180
Current support driver: Nadine Barnes, wife & best friend
Swim in motel pool, walk/run 6 miles, bike: 55 miles
Highlight of the day: Riding through the Louisiana forestland
Challenge of the day: Finishing my walk/run before the lightning storm
Bike temperatures today: Low 80, High, 103, hot & humid
Helmets given away so far: 181
Flat tires: CA-2, AZ-4, NM-1, TX-5, LA-1 (Total so far: 13)
Bible verse for the day: Jer. 9:23 & 24 Let not the wise man boast of his wisdom
or the strong man boast of his strength or the rich man boasts of his riches, but let him who boasts boast about this: that he understands and knows me, that I am the Lord, who exercises kindness, justice and righteousness on earth, for in these I delight.

Dear Family & Friends,

As I rode my last day in Louisiana through the towns of Franklinton, Springhill, Plainview , and into Bogalusa , I considered my week. Observations about Louisiana :
1) road kill include opossum, armadillo, large pond turtles, and huge bullfrogs; 2) the people are friendly, helpful, and generous; 3) its hard to tell where east Texas ended and Louisiana began; 4) its very warm & humid here; and 5) it could thunderstorm every afternoon as far as I can tell.

After passing through the small community of Springhill I had my first flat tire in Louisiana and with my new Mikey tires. (You know; the triple strength no-flat tires?) Soon after that delay I found myself in a forest of pines. Then I was amongst clear-cutting. The good news is that it was being reforested. Small pines were growing out of the remains of what was once a mature forestland.

Next came a sight to see. Pines that went up 20-25 feet and then broken like a toothpick with the top touching the ground. The last time I had seen a sight like this was in the Sierras were and avalanche had done the same thing to trees in the valley below the ridge. These were to be my first signs of the devastation of Hurricane Katrina. As I pulled into Bogalusa there were two other signs of the hurricane. Many rooftops still had blue plastic tacked on them and several houses and mobile homes had red Xs on them (meaning they were condemned). I also saw many large oaks with busted and missing branches. I imagine we will be seeing much worse than this before our trip is over.

After getting into our motel, showering, eating lunch, and resting, I took off on mile daily 6 mile walk/run. I really ran hard the last three miles to beat a huge thunderstorm coming our way. I just barely did. The rain came down and the light show was on.

Mississippi , here we comeJ!

Thanks for your support and your continued prayers & thoughts,
Jim Barnes, torch1984@sbcglobal.net

Day Thirtynine

2006-07-20T20:43:00.000-07:00

DAY 39, TUESDAY, JULY 18, DEDICATED TO:
Sponsors: Steve & Holly Smit (Isaiah 40:31)
Thanks so much fro being a BRONZE SPONSOR!
Tomorrow is dedicated to: Sponsor: Icenhower Real Estate & Development, Inc.

my brother JEFF. (Who is quite an auto mechanic. I wish you could still help me with my 1969 Mach I Mustang.)

TRIATHLON ACROSS AMERICA (TRAAM)
New Roads, LA, to Amite, LA
Todays Facts:
Amite , LA : Elevation: ?, Population: ?
Current support driver: Nadine Barnes, wife & best friend
Swim in motel pool, walk/run 6 miles, bike: 51 miles
Highlight of the day: Ferrying across the Mississippi River
Challenge of the day: Finding a town on our route with a decent motel
Bike temperatures today: Low 73, High, 106, hot & humid
Helmets given away so far: 181
Flat tires: CA-2, AZ-4, NM-1, TX-5 (Total so far: 12)
Bible verse for the day:
Isaiah 40:31 But those who hope in the Lord will renew their strength. They will soar on wings like eagles; they will run and not grow weary, they will walk and not be faint.

Dear Family & Friends,

Nadine and I went to a restaurant called Satterfield along the water where I had swam. I ordered all you can eat catfish. The manager asked if she could donate a check to the JBBIF after she had read our brochure. Then two other waitresses and a busboy also brought a donation to our table. I asked if I could take a photo of them with Al. Whos Al? they asked. Thats the name Nadine and I gave the stuffed alligator decorating a table in the center of their establishment. We then gave them several helmets for themselves and their siblings. See the photos.

I rode he 10 miles and met Nadine at the free ferry on the Mississippi River first thing this morning. We caught the 7:15 AM run. The river had several tugs chugging up the river with long sets of barges. The boat traffic, currents, undertows, and debris make the river very very dangerous to swim in. After the short trip across we had a small breakfast and biked through the towns of St. Francisville, Jackson, McManus, Clinton, and Chipola. We enjoyed seeing trees with Spanish moss, homes on stilts, and painted and pond turtles in bracken bodies of water under bridges.

After 51 miles the temp was up to 106. I racked my bike and headed to Interstate 55. There were no motels in Kentwood or Tangipahoa so we went further south and found a Comfort Inn in Amite. I showered, ate lunch & rested before heading out on my 6 mile walk/run. I then swam my laps in the pool just before thunder, lightning, and pouring rain hit this community and the pool was closed for safety. Were tired but happy were done with everything for the day. I can hardly believe tomorrow is our last full day in Louisiana . Mississippi , here we comeJ!

Thanks for your support and your continued prayers & thoughts,
Jim Barnes, torch1984@sbcglobal.net

Day Thirtyeight

2006-07-20T20:42:00.000-07:00

DAY 38, MONDAY, JULY 17, DEDICATED TO:
My Mens Bible Study Group (Mike, Steve, Paul)
Our Accountability group has been meeting weekly for over 12 years. It began as a Promise Keepers follow-up group and become a close-knit group who listens to each other, shares with each other, and prays for each other. Thanks for your friendship & fellowship over the years.

Tomorrow is dedicated to: Sponsors: Steve & Holly Smit (Isaiah :31)& my brother JEFF. Remember the time we shot arrows into great-grandpa Moores outhouse (that he still used)?

TRIATHLON ACROSS AMERICA (TRAAM)
Opelousas, LA, to New Roads, LA (very near the Mississippi River)
Todays Facts:
New Roads, LA: Elevation: 80, Population: 3,723
Current support driver: Nadine Barnes, wife & best friend
Swim in motel pool, we walked 3 miles, bike: 63 miles
Highlight of the day: First view of the Mississippi River
Challenge of the day: Extremely high temperatures
Bike temperatures today: Low 70, High, 108, hot & humid
Helmets given away so far: 174
Flat tires: CA-2, AZ-4, NM-1, TX-5 (Total so far: 12)
Bible verse for the day: Psalm 34:14 Turn from evil and do good, Seek peace and pursue it.

Dear Family & Friends,

My day started out bike riding at 6:15 AM in a cool 70 degrees left over from last nights thunderstorm. I rode out 21 miles west on highway 190 into a beautiful sunrise. Nadine was returning our SAG vehicle to the service garage to repair the air conditioner. The garage found out an O ring was missing and all the freon had leaked out. They repaired it for free. In the meanwhile, I rode onto a bridge over what I thought was the Mississippi River . When I turned back to return to the motel the sign instead read Atchafalaya River . I found it is the largest river/swamp in the world. I finished the 42 mile round trip in under three hours. We ate breakfast, packed the car, and headed back to the trip route.

Nadine dropped me off for my second ride at noon . I rode the next 21 miles in heat from 100-108 on Louisiana back roads. At one point she stopped on the top of the levee on the opposite side of the road honking the horn for my attention. She had found an old ferry crossing on the Mississippi River . I rode up and over the levee and ¼ mile later we were looking at Ole Miss. It was a special moment for me. We took some pictures and got back on the route. (Song: Moon River , wider than a mile, Im crossing you in style.)

We ended up in the city of New Roads because there wasnt much in the way of good motels any earlier. I will have to see if I can send this out on the inter net at the local library. We also need to check out the ferry crossing for tomorrow and restock some food and drinks at a local store. Catch you later!

Thanks for your support and your continued prayers & thoughts,
Jim Barnes, torch1984@sbcglobal.net

Day Thirtyseven

2006-07-20T20:41:00.000-07:00

DAY 37, SUNDAY, JULY 16, DEDICATED TO:

OUR GOD OF SACRIFICE
Tomorrow is dedicated to: My Mens Bible Study Group (Mike, Steve, Paul)
& my brother JEFF. (a 49er fan forever)

TRIATHLON ACROSS AMERICA (TRAAM)
Rest day at Opelousas, LA

Todays Facts:
Opelousas , LA : Elevation: 150, Population: 16,910
Current support driver: Nadine Barnes, wife & best friend
Swim in motel pool, we walked 3 miles, bike: 0 miles
Highlight of the day: Giving helmets out at Wendys
Challenge of the day: Finding the First Baptist Church
Bike temperatures today: Low ?, High, ?, hot & humid
Helmets given away so far: 174
Flat tires: CA-2, AZ-4, NM-1, TX-5 (Total so far: 12)
Bible verse for the day: Romans 5:23-25 For all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God, and are justified freely by His grace through the redemption that came by Christ Jesus. God presented Him as a sacrifice of attonement, through faith in His blood.

Dear Family & Friends,

Sleeping in felt soooooo gooooood! Nadine and I went on a morning 3 mile walk looking at large estate homes made of bricks. Then we went to church and had a relaxing afternoon together. I cleaned the bikes and prepared for next weeks challenge.

I had arranged with Michelle, Wendys manager, to return tonight to giveaway helmets. Nadine and I spent two hours and handed out 22 helmets to happy customers during a huge lightning & thunder storm with huge raindrops. I have included some photos of a few of the recipients of the JBBIF helmets. It was so much fun!

I cant believe my trip is five weeks old with only two to go. The forecast is extremely hot weather and thunderstorms all week. Well see.

Thank you again for your support and your continued prayers & thoughts,
Jim Barnes, torch1984@sbcglobal.net

Day Thirtysix

2006-07-20T20:39:00.000-07:00

DAY 36, SATURDAY, JULY 15, IS DEDICATED TO:
Sponsor, Clearwire
Tomorrow is dedicated to: A GOD OF SACRIFICE

& my brother JEFF. (High school wrestler, football player, saxophone player)

TRIATHLON ACROSS AMERICA (TRAAM)
Opelousas, LA (Ride, Run, & Swim Here)

Todays Facts:
Opelousas , LA : Elevation: 150, Population: 16,910
Current support driver: Nadine Barnes, wife & best friend
Swim in motel pool, run: 6 miles, bike: 53 miles
Highlight of the day: Having the SAG vehicle air conditioner repaired
Challenge of the day: The SAG air conditioner does not work after all
Bike temperatures today: Low 78, High, 99, hot & humid
Helmets given away so far: 152
Flat tires: CA-2, AZ-4, NM-1, TX-5 (Total so far: 12)
Bible verse for the day: Isaiah 55:12 You will go out in joy and be led forth
in peace; the mountains and hills will burst into song before you, and all the trees
of the field will clap their hands.

Dear Family & Friends,

Randy Palmer and his son Derek woke me up at 5:30 AM with three more boxes of medium and large helmets sent by Cheri. I started my training at 6:45 . I rode 31 miles and returned to have breakfast with Nadine. Then I did another 22 miles and swam in the motel pool before lunch. After resting I ran/walked 6 miles before a great buffet dinner at a Ryans. We then searched for a church to worship in tomorrow.

After dinner I changed into my brand new tires that Mike Keller donated. They are Bontrager Hard Case Triple Puncture Protection tires. They look good and will serve me well during the last two weeks of roadwork. Thanks Mike!

Thank you again for your support and your continued prayers & thoughts,
Jim Barnes, torch1984@sbcglobal.net

Day Thirtyfive

2006-07-15T20:10:00.000-07:00

DAY 35, FRIDAY, JULY 14, IS DEDICATED TO:
Tanner Berbereia
As I was riding my bike in southern Louisiana this morning I was thinking of Tanners Memorial Service. Oh how I wish I could have been there for Tanners family and the Hurley Elementary family. I was wondering how I could keep his kind spirit alive even as I teach this coming school year.
I came up with the idea of the Tanner Berbereia Kindness Award. Each week the students or I could nominate someone from my class who demonstrates acts of kindness in the classroom, on the playground, or in the cafeteria. That person would be recognized in the Barnestormer Newsletter as the recipient, receive bonus Barnestormer Points, and the award (trophy or plaque) placed on their desk for the week reminding us of his/her kind actions. I wonder what my students think of this idea (Emma, Jazmine, Britt, Brielle, Tyler, Kasidee, anyone else)? Please e-mail your response to my email address.

To my brother JEFF...Remember when we would sneak down to the freezer with a large serving spoon and dip ice cream directly out of the carton?

Tomorrow is dedicated to: Sponsor, Clearwire

TRIATHLON ACROSS AMERICA (TRAAM)
DeRidder, LA, to Opelousas, LA

Todays Facts:
Opelousas , LA : Elevation: ?, Population: ?
Current support driver: Nadine Barnes, wife & best friend
Swim in motel pool, run: 3 miles, bike: 56 miles
Highlight of the day: The Tanner Berbereia Kindness Award idea
Challenge of the day: Getting the SAG air conditioner repaired
Bike temperatures today: Low 88, High, 100, hot & humid
Helmets given away so far: 150
Flat tires: CA-2, AZ-4, NM-1, TX-5 (Total so far: 12)
Bible verse for the day: Luke 18:16 But Jesus called the children to him and said, Let the little children come to me, and do not hinder them, for the kingdom of
God belongs to such as these. I tell you the truth, anyone who will not receive the
kingdom of God like a little child will not enter it.

Dear Family & Friends,

I rode 56 miles, ran & swam. Our car is at the mechanics for air conditioning repair. But the real story is about the owner of the Stagecoach Inn, Mike.

As you remember from yesterday, Mike paid in full for our motel room. I was wondering why he was so kind to people bicycling across America for a cause. He asked if I had 15 minutes to tell his story. It took him 30. I hope to get the main points across in a few short paragraphs. Here it is. Mike gave me permission. Are your tissues ready?

Mike has a theology degree and is an ordained minister. He promised God to serve as a circuit minister without pay, which Mike has done well for over 30 years. He earned a good living selling insurance before entering the motel business. Mike actually lives in Texas , over 110 miles from the Louisiana motel he owns and runs. He considered himself a good Christian man and a respected community member.
An incident changed his life to that of a practicing Christian on Christmas Day of 2001. At home on Christmas afternoon with his family in Texas, Mike said God told him to go to his motel in LA. It was sleeting outside. His wife questioned Mike when he began to pack his bag. Mike insisted God had a mission for him. He left in the sleet for the treacherous 110 mile drive. During that trip he passed only one car.
Some miles from his motel he could see a bum pushing a bicycle through the miserable weather. His racks had cardboard boxes lashed with burlap twine. God told Mike to stop and pick up that man. Mike stopped quite a ways ahead waiting for the man. As the man came near, Mike took off and left him. The natural man in Mike became fearful that the bum might hit him with a club and steal his pickup & money.
Mike arrived at the motel to the surprise of his employees. He was restless. Later that Christmas night a call came in from the sheriffs dispatcher. Mike told her if it was about that bum with the bike, to forget it. The bum will not stay in my new motel, he told her. She continued to plead with Mike and even offered to pay for the mans room. Mike finally relented.
When the bum arrived, Mike read him the riot act. He told the bum to shower and be out of his motel by 8 AM . The sickly man shared his sad story with Mike. He was coming from South Dakota where his life and been a total mess and was heading for Baton Rouge where he had accepted Jesus years & years before at a Salvation Army Church. Mike mellowed some & offered to wash the mans clothes. The clothes fell apart in the wash so Mike gave the man some of his work clothes and offered him $10 the next morning. He asked the bum why he was pushing his bike. The man said his tires were flat. Mike gave him new tubes other cyclists had left behind earlier and pumped them up. Mike had trouble sleeping that night.
Mike approached an employee and asked where the man was. She said the man had waited awhile for Mike & finally left. Mike jumped into his vehicle, caught up with the man 4 miles up the road and pulled over. Mike gave the man a 10 dollar bill and the man asked if Mike would pray for him. Mike did just that. The sickly man asked Mike if hed drive him the rest of the way to Baton Rouge . Mike said no (though he really had nothing else to do that day). Mike returned to the motel. He still felt uneasy and restless.
The next day Mike received a call from a different sheriffs office. Did Mike know the man on the bike? His body was found run over by a vehicle and the only thing on the man was a $10 bill and a motel business card. Mike was devastated!
Mikes life has not been the same since. He still blames himself for not listening to Gods voice and helping the man. He really had several opportunities. Mike shares the story with anyone who will listen in churches, community clubs, or to cross country bicyclists like me. I believe Mike is now very sensitive to Gods small voice, and in fact, looks for opportunities to help those in need or those who are in the process of helping others in need.

I hope for three things. First, I hope I have retold this true story to the spirit of its message. Second, I hope Mike finds it in himself to allow Gods grace to completely forgive himself and keep on serving his fellow man. And thirdly, I hope we can all learn to show love to the unlovely and not allow fear to rule our lives. Boy, I hope I've said this right.

Thank you again for your support and your continued prayers & thoughts,
Jim Barnes, torch1984@sbcglobal.net

Day Thirtyfour

2006-07-15T20:08:00.000-07:00

DAY 34, THURSDAY, JULY 13, IS DEDICATED TO:
Grandbaby #4: ITS A GIRL!!!
Our newest granddaughter will come around late November or early December. She will be the daughter of Brad & Betsy (our daughter) Robb of Visalia. Im already the proud PA PA! & my brother JEFF. Remember when I almost got beat up by the neighborhood bully because I was protecting you after you hit his dog with a rock? That dog was as mean as his master! Thank goodness an adult intervened!
Tomorrow is Tanners Day. His memorial service will be one of thanksgiving & praise. We who knew Tanner are all better people for it. He was a joy to have as a student and a young friend. His life made my life richer & my students and families from Hurley. Think of the attributes (behaviors) you liked about Tanner (friendly, happy, caring, trustworthy, kind, sincere, etc.). Copy them. You too will be a better person to others in this world.

TRIATHLON ACROSS AMERICA (TRAAM)
Kountze, TX, to Merryville, LA
Todays Facts: (Staying in DeRidder, LA)
Merryville , LA : Elevation: 175, Population: 840
Current support driver: Nadine Barnes, wife & best friend
Swim in motel pool, run: 3 miles, bike: 46 miles
Highlight of the day: Entering the State of Louisiana
Challenge of the day: Getting back on schedule
Bike temperatures today: Low 82, High, 106, hot & humid
Helmets given away so far: 144
Flat tires: CA-2, AZ-4, NM-1, TX-5 (Total so far: 12)
Bible verse for the day: Ephesians 5:1-2 Be imitators of God, therefore, as dearly loved children, and live a life of love, just as Christ loved us and gave himself up for us as a fragrant offering and sacrifice to God.

Dear Family & Friends,

WELCOME TO LOUISIANA ! Actually, thats how my day ended. I suppose I should start in the beginning. I picked my lovely wife, Nadine, up at the George Bush International Airport in Houston at 1:32 AM . I collapsed in bed around 2:30 and didnt awake until 7. I rode a fast 20 miler beyond Lake Houston and back before breakfast. Then we headed back to where I left off yesterday. I was dropped off in Bon Wier , Texas , and rode happily toward the Louisiana border. I loved my time in Texas , but I was ready to move on to another state. Nadine took some photos of me crossing the border at the Sabine River . I then continued the ride into Merryville as the bike temperature climbed to 106 degrees (not including humidity). We put the bike on the rack and drove another 20 miles to the next town with motels, DeRidder.

Arriving in DeRidder we saw signs referring us to the Stagecoach Inn. I walked in and asked about a discount for non-profit organizations. Mike asked me what I was doing & what group I was with. He has 300-400 bicyclists stay here each year. Upon hearing my story he said the room was paid for by himself; no charge. As a member of the Chamber of Commerce he called the local newspaper and had them come to the motel and interview me for an article. Mike accepted 3 helmets for his grandchildren and the reporter receive one for her 3 year old son. Quite an afternoon! Then I did my 3 mile run/walk and swam in water so hot it should have been in a spa!

OBSERVATIONS ON TEXAS . The western section was hot, full of deserts, mountains, wildlife, and bad roads for bikes. Mid-Texas had rolling hills, hot days, was very green, wildlife like crazy, and bad roads. Eastern Texas was humid, hot, green, filled with dead armadillos (16 I counted), and had bad roads. The people were friendly and very patriotic. Disappointments included no live sightings of rattlesnakes or armadillos.
I was ready to raise my feet off the pedals if I saw a rattlesnake.

Coach Kelly (Team In Training Marathon Coach) asked how I continued to get on the bike each day, and do my runs and swims. Is it a chore? How is my 56-year old body holding out? I mean, do you really want the truth? Here goes my tough guy, animal, All-American, The Man, or whatever reputations! There are mornings I DO NOT want to get out of bed and on the bike! I even wake up before the alarm goes off and dread the alarm. I may wake up still sore, tired, or dreading the heat & humidity. But...

I am DRIVEN WITH PASSION each day by;
PURPOSE: & the discipline to support that purpose.
PREPARATION: Seven years of TNT preparation for endurance sports and 1 ½ years preparing with the JBBIF Board for the TRAAM.
PRAYER SUPPORT: Uplifted by prayer for safety, strength, courage, stamina, and spiritual strength.
PEOPLE: I love & care about and know I count on them and they count on me.

Does that answer your questions Kelly?

Thank you again for your support and your continued prayers & thoughts,
Jim Barnes, torch1984@sbcglobal.net

Day Thirtythree

2006-07-12T20:02:00.000-07:00

DAY 33, WEDNESDAY, JULY 12, IS DEDICATED TO:
Frank & Sean Hilvers, SAG Texas
(Thanks so much for going so far with me & serving my every need through the great state of Texas . Your help made TRAAM possiblefor me & the Foundation!)

& my brother JEFF. Remember the wrestling matches? Did you fall out of that tree or did I really push you out? Who remembers?

& my student Tanner. I know youre in Heaven watching me daily.

& my students and families from Hurley. I know youre missing Tanner. It was fantastic that he was a special part of our lives. It is good to remember the impact he has had on us. Thanks for the messages you have put on the corner of Hurley & Akers. I hope you add my name to them also.

TRIATHLON ACROSS AMERICA (TRAAM)
Coldspring, TX, to Kountze ! , TX

Todays Facts:
Kountze , TX : Elevation: 50, Population: 1,570
Current support drivers: Frank & Sean (Franks son) Hilvers, TNT Teammates
Swim in motel pool, run: 3 miles, bike: 63 miles
Highlight of the day: Arriving in Houston for the SAG change
Challenge of the day: Hot, humid, mosquitoes, and a long road
Bike temperatures today: Low 72, High, 97, hot & humid
Helmets given away so far: 140
Flat tires: CA-2, AZ-4, NM-1, TX-5 (Total so far: 12)
Bible verse for the day: Ephesians 4:32 Be kind and compassionate to one another, forgiving each other, just as in Christ God forgave you.

Dear Family & Friends,

I forgot to tell you about the logging trucks. Yesterday & today these huge vehicles and their burdens zoom back & forth through the national forest area at top speeds. It is somewhat scary because the roads are only wide enough for two vehicle and no bike lane. They carry more trees than CA or WA, but thats because the trees here are tall and skinny. The day reminds me of my days riding from Port Angeles , Washington , to Cresent Lake (a 26 mile ride each way) where my eldest daughter, Heidi, and her family lives. The big difference is HEAT & HUMIDITY!

Todays ride of 63 miles included one 14 mile stretch of road towards the end of my ride that was as straight as an arrow. It became very boring and depressing. There was bracken water setting amongst the trees on both sides of the road during that ride. It smelled like riding by a winery and was loaded with millions of mosquitoes. I had no problem with those insects as long as I kept moving. I thought I was already in Louisiana !

We arrived at Kountze, had a picnic lunch, and headed SW for Houston . After getting a motel room, I walked 3 miles, and swam in the warm water pool.

Tonight is the big switch. Frank and Sean leave the George Bush Houston International Airport at 7:45 PM (Central Time) and Nadine arrives at 1:30 AM . I will have to flexible about my activities tomorrow. I have 20 bike miles, 3 swims, and 6 running miles banked just for a situation like this. Banked means I have done these miles & Meters ahead of time for just this purpose. I may have to use more and go in the red on bike miles.

Im very excited to have my wife back on the TRAAM with me, but I will miss the company of guys acting like guys, the Sonic Real Fruit Slushes, the muscles carrying baggage, the runs/walks/swims with Sean, and the eternal search for a dinner spot that everyone can agree upon. THANKS FOR THE MEMORIES!

To Louisiana & beyond!

Thank you again for your support and your continued prayers & thoughts,
Jim Barnes, torch1984@sbcglobal.net

Day Thirtytwo

2006-07-12T20:01:00.000-07:00

DAY 32, TUESDAY, JULY 11, IS DEDICATED TO:
Steve & David Callahan, Brothers
& my brother JEFF (Who is always proud of me, his brother)

TRIATHLON ACROSS AMERICA (TRAAM)
Navasota, TX, to Coldspring, TX

Todays Facts:
Coldspring , TX : Elevation: 350, Population: 544
Current support drivers: Frank & Sean (Franks son) Hilvers, TNT Teammates
&! nbsp;&nb sp; Swim in Lake Livingston , run: 6 miles, bike: 67 miles
Challenge of the day: Completing the bike ride
Bike temperatures today: Low 73, High ,106, hot & humid
Helmets given away so far: 140
Flat tires: CA-2, AZ-4, NM-1, TX-5 (Total so far: 12)
Bible verse for the day: 2 Corinthians 1:3 Praise be to the God and Father of
our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of compassion and the God of all comfort, who
comforts us in all our troubles, so that we can comfort those in any trouble with
the comfort we ourselves have received from God.

Dear Family & Friends,

I forgot to tell you about my short stop at the Washington on the Brazos River Historical Park . This is where Texas became a Republic and Washington was their capital for the first four years. I rode my bike down to their overlook. There the Navasota River joins the Brazos River to become one.

I awoke sick to my stomach a little after midnight and was awake for about an hour. Im certain it was a combination of being upset about my students death, the huge dinner we had, and probably too much root beer. Frank said I was tossing & turning in my bed all night.

The first 40 miles went fairly smoothly. Twenty-five of those miles were through the beautifully evergreen filled Sam Houston National Forest . The 2-laned road was surrounded by a thicket of pines, firs, and cedars. The first 30 feet on each side had grass and pretty wildflowers of blues, purples, reds, and oranges. The sound of cicadas (noisy insects) was at times deafening. There were times I found tears running down my face as I was riding, and I felt Gods comfort.

At mile 47 I was bonked (that means completely exhausted). After eating something Frank brought out my sleeping bag and I layed down for about 15 minutes. That did the trick. I was somewhat refreshed and could finish the last 20 miles in the heat & humidity. We arrived in Coldspring about 12:15 . After resting, eating lunch, and wiriting this & sending out through the library, Sean & I plan to run to the dam & swim in Lake Livingston . Thats all for now.

Thank you again for your support and your continued prayers & thoughts,
Jim Barnes, torch1984@sbcglobal.net

Day Thirtyone

2006-07-12T19:59:00.000-07:00

DAY 31, MONDAY, JULY 10, IS DEDICATED TO:
Sponsor, CareMeridian
& my brother JEFF (Who is sensitive to others who are hurting.)

TRIATHLON ACROSS AMERICA (TRAAM)
La Grange, TX, to Navasota, TX

! Todays Facts:
Navasota , TX : Elevation: 235, Population: 6,789
Current support drivers: Frank & Sean (Franks son) Hilvers, TNT Teammates
Swim: 200M in pool, run: 6 miles, bike: 75 miles
Highlight of the day: Skunk Family Crossing Country Road
Challenge of the day: Bringing my emotions under control
Bike temperatures today: Low 73, High ,106, hot & humid
Helmets given away so far: 140
Flat tires: CA-2, AZ-4, NM-1, TX-5 (Total so far: 12)
Bible verse for the day: Lamintations 3:25 The Lord is wonderfully good
To those who wait for Him.

Dear Family & Friends,

The new day started as I walked out of the motel at 6:20 AM with my bike. There to greet me was Randy Palmer and his son Derek. Randy is the son of Violet Palmer, a good friend and volunteer in my classroom., who currently live in Laffyette, Louisianna. Randy was in La Grange to bid on a truck today. He will receive four more boxes of helmets from the JBBIF this week and bring them up to La Bleau, LA, where we will be next weekend. It was good to see an old Visalian friend in Texas!

As I was riding my 75 miles through the rolling woodland hills of Texas today in the warm sultry weather I enjoyed the different ranches and farms with their large ranch houses and varieties of horses and catlle. The most interesting sight was around noon when I observed a skunk in the road with a baby in its mouth. As I rode toward it she returned to the side she had started on. I passed her with three babies. I looked back and saw her begin the process again of taking one at a time across the street. It was cute; even for a skunk!

After completing my ride and swim at the Super 8 Motel I received a call from Nadine. She said one of my 3rd grade students from last years class was killed in an auto accident yesterday near Hurley Elementary School . The 8 year old boy she named was one of the nicest, caring kids I have ever taught. I glad he hugged me so often. He made our class, our school, and our world a better place.

I am emotionally crushed! TRAAM now seems so meaningless compared to his familys loss. I felt so overwhelmed with emotion I went on my 6 mile walk instead of run. It gave me time I needed to grieve and pray. I dont question God, I just question what I can do from here. I called close friends and shared my sorrow. Please pray for the boys family and for renewed focus on TRAAM.

Thank you again for your support and your continued prayers & thoughts,
Jim Barnes, torch1984@sbcglobal.net

Day Thirty

2006-07-12T19:58:00.000-07:00

DAY 30, SUNDAY, JULY 9, IS DEDICATED TO:
A JUST & RIGHTEOUS GOD
& my brother JEFF (who swam with me for hours in our Doughboy pool, and we loved going in circles and making a huge whirlpool.)

TRIATHLON ACROSS AMERICA (TRAAM)
Day of rest at La Grande, TX

Todays Facts:
La Grande , TX : Elevation: 265, Population: 4,476
Current support drivers: Frank & Sean (Franks son) Hilvers, TNT Teammates
Highlight of the day: Visiting with Astronaut Rex Walheim & his sons
Challenge of the day: Finding a church with an early service
Bike temperatures today: Low --, High ,-- thunderstorm at times, warm & humid
Helmets given away so far: 140
Flat tires: CA-2, AZ-4, NM-1, TX-5 (Total so far: 12)
Bible verse for the day: Psalm 51: 10 & 12 Create in me a pure heart, O God,
and renew a steadfast spirit within me. Restore to me the joy of your salvation
and grant me a willing spirit, to sustain me.
! &n bsp;

Dear Family & Friends,

After a restful night and a quick motel breakfast of cereal I took a 3 mile walk just to loosen up my muscles. It was already warm, humid, and preparing for a thunderstorm.

We found the First Baptist Church in La Grange , Texas , had a 10 AM service. It was a very traditional conservative service with a dozen hymns sung from their well-worn hymnals. The people still wear suits, ties, and dresses. It was like walking into our church 20 years ago. The pastor introduced me and had me share what I was doing and that I was giving away Three bike helmets after the service. Several kids were disappointed after I gave the first 3 helmets away because they thought they would receive none. They were happy to find out the pastor meant Free helmets. The photo includes some of the children who happily have a new bike helmet.

Our special guests arrived soon after 1 PM . Rex Walheim, a NASA astronaut & an Air Force Colonel, and his sons, Alex & Jeff, spent several hours with us. We had a chance to watch his power point of his first Space Shuttle Mission and his recent trip to Alaska with his dad and brother. They signed my bike and Rex signed my jerseys and helmet and I gave them some shirts. Then Rex treated us to ice cream at the local McDonalds. While we were there I gave out another six including one to a boy visiting from Dueselldorf , Germany . We really enjoyed and ap! preciate d their encouraging visit. Rex wants Nadine & I to stop by on our way home when the TRAAM is over.

We had a pizza dinner and found 2 other happy girls to receive a JBBIF helmet. Today I worshipped, relaxed, and prepared mentally for week #5. I am ready.

Thank you again for your support and your continued prayers & thoughts,
Jim Barnes, torch1984@sbcglobal.net

Day Twentynine

2006-07-12T19:57:00.000-07:00

DAY 29, SATURDAY, JULY 8, IS DEDICATED TO:
Sponsors, The Zeeb Family (Jeremiah 29:11)
& my brother JEFF (Who plays a mean saxophone.)

TRIATHLON ACROSS AMERICA (TRAAM)
AUSTIN, TX, to La Grande, TX

Todays Facts:
La Grande , TX : Elevation: 265, Population: 4,476
Current support drivers: Frank & Sean (Franks son) Hilvers, TNT Teammates
Highl ight of the day: Completing Week #4
Challenge of the day: Finding my way out of Austin on freeway overpasses
Bike temperatures today: Low 73, High 93, overcast sky at times, warm & humid
Flat tires: CA-2, AZ-4, NM-1, TX-5 (Total so far: 12)
Bible verse for the day: Jeremiah 29:11 For I know the plans for you,
declares the Lord, plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give
you hope and a future.

Dear Family & Friends,

Today was easy! Thats right, easy! I left in a drizzle. In fact, as soon as I left the cool motel room my glasses and my speedometer fogged up with the high humidity. I left on Highway 71 East and it took me on a very high overpass. That was quite exciting! The reasons it was easy were 1) it was fairly flat (soft rollers), 2) light winds behind me (for once), 3) only 61 miles, and 4) good-surfaced roads. I am really looking forward to a relaxing weekend so Ill be ready for week #5.

As I have been running, swimming, and riding across America I have met the nicest people. I always enjoy coming upon other runners or bike riders (not too many swimmers in the natural water bodies). Two bicyclists this last week come to mind.

The first was a young man (about 30 years old) came from behind. He was tall, fresh, and in the middle of a short ride through the hills. He asked where I was from and where I was going. I told him I was triathloning across America . He said he always wanted to do that! And a friend of his did it from Alaska to the east coast last year. I thought I was the first to triathlon. I realized he thought I meant biking the entire way. When I explained the running, biking, and swimming, he asked how I could do that. I told him about the SAG help & the JBBIF. He couldnt believe it! He then asked if I wanted to come to his ranch for a meal. I declined because we had already eaten & I was behind on my schedule.

The second rider was a recently retired man from Dallas . His bike was personally built. It was probably worth over $10,000. He had been coming toward me and stopped to converse. I explained what I was doing & gave him a Tri brochure. He said hed read it later. I received an e-mail from him yesterday. He had read the brochure and sent in a small donation to the JBBIF. Cool!

I also love hearing whats going on at home too. My family really looks forward to my journal entries each day. They send encouraging e-mails and ideas for scriptures and dedications. Frank said the Maverick Running Club members collected over $200 today after their training run and plan to do it again next Saturday. WOW! I have been disappointed in celebrities & national response, but I am totally encouraged by the response to the TRAAM by my family, friends, and the people of Visalia and nearby communities. I believe thats what God had I mind in the first place.

We just finished our laundry as Sean & I ran three miles in the heat & humidity.

Just found out my astronaut friend, Rex Walheim (and his 2 sons) will come out from South Houston to visit us tomorrow (Sunday) afternoon. Were excited.

Something Ive learned about Texas : they are extremely patriotic and proud of their country & state. There are Texas flags all over including mailboxes, gates, and cars. Ive never seen anything like this in California .

I will close for today. Thank you for your continued prayers & thoughts,
Jim Barnes, torch1984@sbcglobal.net

Day Twentyeight

2006-07-12T19:48:00.000-07:00

DAY 28, FRIDAY, JULY 7, IS DEDICATED TO:
ServiceMaster by Benevento
& my brother JEFF (The biggest music lover in the world.)

TRIATHLON ACROSS AMERICA (TRAAM)
BLANCO, TX, to AUSTIN, TX

Todays Facts:
Blanco , TX : Elevation: 750, Population: 656,562
&nbs! p; Current support drivers: Frank & Sean (Franks son) Hilvers, TNT Teammates
Swim in Colorado River , 6 m. running, 70 m. biking
Helmets handed out to date: 115
Highlight of the day: Riding north on Congress Ave. to the Texas capital, Austin
Challenge of the day: Finding a way down to the Colorado River to swim
Bike temperatures today: Low 70, High 95, overcast sky at times, warm & humid
Flat tires: CA-2, AZ-4, NM-1, TX-5 (Total so far: 12)
Bible verse for the day: Psalm119:105 Your word is a lamp to my feet
and a light for my path.

Dear Family & Friends,

After I arrived back from my run yesterday Frank said we had been invited by some local people for a home-cooked dinner in Blanco. During our picnic lunch at the Blanco River a local bike rider approached us. Elaine was interested in what we were doing. After Frank explained she went home and asked her husband, Brian, if we could be their guests for the evening. We were greeted at the door by Elvis, their big adopted dog. The food and hosts were great! See the picture.

Got up, got going, got done. The air was so heavy with humidity I could actually see it. The morning was spent up and down hills again. I was mostly on country roads until I entered the Austin city limits. It was neat biking the last several miles north on Congress Ave. directly toward the capitol building of Austin , Texas . I stopped on the bridge crossing the Colorado River . Hadnt I already swam the Colorado Dave? I found a yachting pier and did my swim from it. The water was refreshingly cool. We finally found a motel, settled in, and I went for my run. Frank and I got worried when Sean returned extremely late for his 7-8 miler. Its now time for dinner, and prepare for tomorrow. I look forward to my day off Sunday.

Again, thank you for your continued prayers & thoughts,
Jim Barnes, torch1984@sbcglobal.net

Day Twentyseven

2006-07-08T14:04:00.000-07:00

DAY 27, THURSDAY, JULY 6, IS DEDICATED TO:
My Grandson Benjamins Day
& my brother JEFF (He loves children too!)

TRIATHLON ACROSS AMERICA (TRAAM)
KERRVILLE, ! TX, to BLANCO, TX

Todays Facts:
Blanco , TX : Elevation: 1,400, Population: 1,505
Current support drivers: Frank & Sean (Franks son) Hilvers, TNT Teammates
Swim in Blanco River , 6 m. running, 72 m. biking
Helmets handed out to date: 113
Highlight of the day: Riding hard the first 41 miles before 9:30 AM
Challenge of the day: Finding the correct roads
Bike temperatures today: Low 73, High 97, overcast sky at times, warm & humid
Flat tires: CA-2, AZ-4, NM-1, TX-5 (Total so far: 12)
Bible verse for the day:

Dear Family & Friends,

The SAG crew had a special moment yesterday morning before they left Leaky, Texas . They were just leaving when they saw a runner. They decided to give him a TRAAM brochure. The muscle guy was found to be an FBI agent on vacation. His job was gang suppression in San Antonio. He used a bicycle on his job. He needed a helmet because he had just recently crashed and destroyed his. Frank & Sean gave him a helmet as a gift from the JBBIF. The agent appreciated it and said he would send a donation to the Foundation when he returned home. COOL!

Today was the same & different. It was the same in that I got up early, ate, left the motel while the SAG guys were still sleeping. It was different because they did not catch up to me on my bike until I had already ridden over 40 miles. They had gotten lost and had to backtrack. After mile 50 I did the same thing to them. I didnt turn on the correct road out in the hills. I had already gone another 12 miles before we figured it out. We finally got it together and finished the ride down to the Blanco River where I swam in two feet of water (all the way across).

Again, thank you for your continued prayers & thoughts,
Jim Barnes, torch1984@sbcglobal.net

PS: Oh yeah, tell President Bush and Lance Armstrong Im close to Austin .

Upcoming Dedications:
Friday 7/7: ServiceMaster by Benevento
Saturday 7/8: The Zeeb Family (Jeremiah 29:11)
Sunday 7/9: A JUST & RIGHTEOUS GOD

PS. You may tell others to follow my progress on the JBBIF web site:
www.jbarnesfoundation.org (Spread the news about our web site)
PSS. You may still donate money to purchase bike and skate helmets:
Example: $100 will purchase 16 bike or 10 skate helmets.
JBBIF, PO Box 7392 , Visalia , California , 93290

Day Twentysix

2006-07-08T14:01:00.000-07:00

DAY 26, WEDNESDAY, JULY 5, IS DEDICATED TO:
CHERI BARNES, HAPPY BIRTHDAY
JEFFS WIFE, MY SISTER-IN-LAW, PRESIDENT JBBIF
& my brother JEFF and your children Gabi & Alex.

TRIATHLON ACROSS ! AMERICA (TRAAM)
LEAKEY, TX, to KERRVILLE, TX

Todays Facts:
Kerrville , TX : Elevation: 1,750, Population: 20,475
Curr ent support drivers: Frank & Sean (Franks son) Hilvers, TNT Teammates
Swim in Guadalupe River , 6 m. running, 64 m. biking
Helmets handed out to date: 112
Highlight of the day: Completing a very tough climbing day
Challenge of the day: Climbing four step ridges
Bike temperatures today: Low 70, High 91, overcast sky at times, warm & humid
Flat tires: CA-2, AZ-4, NM-1, TX-5 (Another flat today)
Bible verse for the day: Hebrews 5:31 For this reason a man will leave his father & mother and be united to his wife, and the two will become one flesh.

Dear Family & Friends,

Left the motel at 6:35 AM this morning. I didn't sleep well. I knew there were some steep hills ahead. The first hill started before I had finished my first mile. Up and over it and down the other side. Through the valley and up to the ridge. Each climb was 2-3 miles and steep. I did four of those climbs in the first 20 miles. Then I spent a long ride on a ridge. The view was terrific. I could see dozens of other ridges. Down below I could see misty valleys and smokey mountainsides from control burns.

I ran off the road watching a deer lope off. The good news is that I ran into foot high grass full of mountain dew. It was pretty funny.

The rest of the ride was down alongside of the Guadalupe River into Kerrville . When we got to a park, ate lunch, and I took a swim. The water was warm but unclear. The Guadalupe is dammed every so often to make small lakes all along the river. Lots of resorts and camps all along the way.

Took a nap, ran 3 miles, and swam laps in the motel pool too. Time to write this and prepare for tomorrow.

WAIT! ITS TIME TO CELEBRATE! TODAY IS THE -WAY DAY. 1,501 MILES BEHIND ME. WERE BREAKING OUT THE SPARKLING CIDER NOW!!!

Again, thank you for your continued prayers & thoughts,
Jim Barnes, torch1984@sbcglobal.net

PS: Oh yeah, tell President Bush and Lance Armstrong Im close to Austin

Day Twentyfive

2006-07-08T14:00:00.000-07:00

DAY 25, TUESDAY, JULY 4, IS DEDICATED TO:
MY WIFE, NADINES, BIRTHDAY.
SHES A FIRECRACKER!
& my brother JEFF!
Sorry I broke your drum set falling off the bunk bed when we were kids.

TRIATHLON ACROSS AMERICA (TRAAM)
BRACKETTVILLE, TX, to LEAKEY, TX (pronounced Lakey)

Todays Facts:
Bracketville , TX : Elevation: 1,700, Population: 385
Current support drivers: Frank & Sean (Franks son) Hilvers, TNT Teammates
Swims in Nueces River & Frio River , 6 m. running, 62 m. biking
Helmets handed out to date: 112
Highlight of the day: Racing a Black Buck Deer
Challenge of the day: Climbing on the bike the first 28 miles
Bike temperatures today: Low 73, High 95, overcast sky at times, warm & humid
Flat tires: CA-2, AZ-4, NM-1, TX-4
Bible verse for the day: Hebrews 5:25a Husbands love your wives, just as Christ
loved the church and gave himself up for her

Dear Family & Friends,

After sending my journal entry from the Brackettville Library we gave helmets to a librarian and a local tax assessor. They made a call and led Sean & I to the local newspaper, The Brackett News. The editor interviewed me after passing out helmets to each of the three employees children. We had a great time and they were impressed with the TRAAM concept and the Foundations web site.

Sean and I ran 3 hot & humid miles through town then went to their large spring-fed swimming pool (it was really like a huge pond). After dinner at a local golf course diner I decided to walk back to our motel room. I couldn't believe the number of deer and wild turkeys I saw along the golf course as I was talking on the phone with Nadine. Super day!

Today I awoke to the alarm, ate, and left by 6:20 AM . I knew that I would be on a gentle climb for the first 28 miles. Without a wind I flew along at 15-17 mph. The animals were out in force. I saw three different skunks, three more pronghorn antelopes, numerous deer, quail, and vultures feasting on a wild pig and an unfortunate armadillo (my first sighting of an armadillo).

The best moment was in a dip where there was an eight-foot fence. It seems they have eight-foot fences here to either keep in game animals on hunting club lands or to keep in Angola goats that some ranchers are raising. The normal fencing is only four feet for cattle, sheep, and goats. Anyway, coming up out of the dip there was a crashing sound through the chaparral and to my disbelief there was a huge black deer with a big rack of antlers running on the other side of that fence parallel with me. I dont know if he was challenging me or he was protecting his herd, but he ran alongside for about mile. It was a sight to see.

After topping the first hills and coming downhill a couple of miles I came to highway 55 and headed north (again a gentle uphill). At mile 46 I stopped and swam in the Nueces (pronounced NEW ACES) where it was dammed. I was intimidated because water was running over the dam the length of it & my swim was very close to it. It as very refreshing though. I continued up the hill and got a lift for my six mile run. I made it over the top and quickly down the other side into Leakey. We stopped at the local newspaper office (which is also an antique store) and was interviewed by Penny. She was hurriedly on a deadline, but listened to my story, took my photo, and gave me a black bike t-shirt from Leakey. It was suggested we take helmets to foster children up to a camp just 8 miles north of here. We attempted to but could not get permission from the director to do so.

The day finished with a 3 mile run and a swim in the Frio River nearby. Tomorrow is my halfway day. I cant believe it! Everyday has been special. I am well.

Again, thank you for your continued prayers & thoughts,
Jim Barnes

Day Twentyfour

2006-07-08T13:58:00.000-07:00

DAY 24, MONDAY, JULY 3, IS DEDICATED TO:
Sponsor: Visalia Runners Club. You people are great! You are the first group to jump on board & support my TRAAM. (A special thanks to Jeff for organizing the one-mile run fundraiser).
& my brother JEFF and all our great softball years. I remember when we played for Moore Business Forms. Steve played first base, I played second, Jeff played shortstop and Dad played third. The Barnes Family was a formidable foe!

TRIATHLON ACROSS AMERICA (TRAAM
DEL RIO, TX, to FORT CLARK SPRINGS, BRACKETTVILLE, TX

Todays Facts:
Bracketville , TX : Elevation: 1,180, Population: 1,876
Current support drivers: Frank & Sean (Franks son) Hilvers, TNT Teammates
Swim motel pool, 6 m. running, 62 m. biking
Helmets handed out to date: 105
Highlight of the day: Staying at an old historical Fort
Challenge of the day: Opening the Fig Newtons & Rough roads
Bike temperatures today: Low 75, High 8, very overcast sky, threatening 80% rain
Flat tires: CA-2, AZ-4, NM-1, TX-4
Bible verse for the day: Hebrews 12:1 Wherefore seeing we also are compassed
about with so great a cloud of witnesses, let us lay aside every weight, and the
sin that so easily beset us, and let us run with patience the race that is set before us.

Dear Family & Friends,

I was up at 6 AM , ate a very light complimentary motel breakfast, and was off just at the crack of dawn. I was cruising west at 16-22 mph with the breeze for 12.5 miles in 45 minutes and returned east to Del Rio 10-15 mph into that light breeze in 1 hour and 10 minutes. A BREEZE OR HEADWIND MAKES A BIG BIG DIFFERENCE! I did have the chance to cross the one-mile bridge over Amistad Reservoir twice. (Love those bridge crossings running or biking.)

After a full breakfast at our motel & checking out I continued my biking towards Brackettville , TX , 35 miles away. The wind died down and I made good time, even uphill, with a very heavy overcast. I must say, this is the first day I began to feel humidity. Its not bad, but I know its there. Frank thought it was going to rain on us any moment. The weather forecast is possible thunderstorms through the rest of this week in the San Antonio area.

The West Texas roads are not kind to the bicyclist! It is chip-sealed but with large sharp stones. I am surprised I havent gotten more flats yet. And to make matters worse, I had a mile and a half of construction of just gravel because the road was ripped up. It was shaking the bike to bits. Ugh! Thats hard on the bike and the rider!

We arrived in Brackettville just before noon and got a room at Fort Davis Springs. I have to learn more about this old frontier fort today. It has a pool and plenty of places to run. I need to complete my journal early because the only hot internet spot is at the local library.

Happy 4th of July tomorrow. I will be continuing east to Leaky where I am suppose to have a newspaper interview. And I have taken care of my wifes birthday card & gifts!

Again, thank you for your continued prayers & thoughts,
Jim Barnes, torch1984@sbcglobal.net

PS: Oh yeah, tell President Bush and Lance Armstrong Im getting closer.
PSS: The Fig Newton cookies kept falling on the ground when Sean was trying to
give me some while at a rest stop.
PSSS: Frank & Sean werent cold in their photo yesterday. That was a hug for their youngest daughter/sister Jade.

Day Twentythree

2006-07-08T13:52:00.000-07:00

DAY 23, SUNDAY, JULY 2, IS DEDICATED TO:
OUR GOD, WHO IS AN AWESOME GOD!
& my brother JEFF (who is a terrific brother).

TRIATHLON ACROSS AMERICA (TRAAM
REST & WORSHIP DAY IN DEL RIO, TX

Day Twentytwo

2006-07-08T13:51:00.000-07:00

DAY 22, SATURDAY, JULY 1, IS DEDICATED TO:
Sponsor: Pro Citrus Network, Thank you Alan Dodge
& my brother JEFF (Who loves networking with other people).

TRIATHLON ACROSS AMERICA (TRAAM
DRYDEN, TX, to COMSTOCK, TX (Staying ahead in Del Rio)

Todays Facts:
Marathon , TX : Elevation: 2,000, Population: 40,000
Current support drivers: Frank & Sean (Franks son) Hilvers, TNT Teammates
Swim motel pool, 6 m. running, 62 m. biking
Helmets handed out to date: 85
Highlight of the day: Dinner with Sean & Nick Family
Challenge of the day: Hills, Hot, Headwinds, & Help
Bike temperatures today: Low 70, High 105, sunny skies with a few clouds
Flat tires: CA-2, AZ-4, NM-1, TX-4
Bible verse for the day: 1 John 5:13 These things I have written to you who believe
in the name of the Son of God, that you may know that you have eternal life.

Dear Family & Friends,

Where do I even start to tell you whats been happening the past 24 hours? Last night we had dinner at a small Dairy King. Thats right, King! As we walked in I saw a cute little girl with her great grandmother. After explaining our mission we gave her a helmet and her great grandmothers friend one. A new record! Her friend is 73 years young and now rides a bike with a beautiful blue helmet. They were both thrilled to receive a simple gift and promised to wear them always. We gave three away as soon as we entered the lobby of our motel tonight too!

I ran my six miles at daylight, ate a light breakfast and was on my bike. Lots and lots of open land today. The rolling hills were made difficult with direct sunshine and a very constant wind in my face. I would attack the hills at 7 or 8 mph and had to pedal downhill to make 12-13 mph. It was very discouraging. A border patrolman said there were no accesses to swim in the Rio Grande or the Pecos River . That too was disappointing. The ride today was like an old army forced march. I didnt enjoy it, but it must be done. (My wife told me thered be days like this!)

At mile 50 I came upon our new friends Sean & Nick who are biking across America for the L&LS (Leukemia & Lymphoma Society). Sean is the brawn on the recumbent bike & Nick is the brains in the trailer. Their SAG vehicle had broken down again with transmission problems. They had had it replaced completely in Blythe , CA . We offered to help. They put Nick & his dad in my SAG with Frank & our Sean and followed me the last 12 miles of my day while Sean & his mom awaited the tow truck to lift them to Del Rio . They were able to get a room at the same motel and took us out to dinner as a thank you. We all enjoyed a great buffet together. I probably talked too much about my years of exploits, encouraged by Frank. (Hes the best!)

It is not all roses as you can guess. I was hot, tired, and whipped when I lit into Frank earlier for going 10 miles ahead of me on such a day. He thought he had only gone 5. Sean reminded him of a stop he hadn't added to the mileage. I wasn't nice! He forgave me. We made a new plan where he would wait 20 minutes before he left our last rendevouz, pass me, and pull over soon after. That worked much better. What can I say? My brains were fried.

Observations today included a dead wild boar, five live deer, Texas millipedes that are 6-8 inches long, and enough rabbits to know they are not on any endangered list. And did I tell you about the 7 foot rattlesnake that welcomed me in last nights motel lobby? Seems the owner collects all kinds of reptiles for resale.

I am now really, really tired, sore and blessed! I did my laundry tonight. We will attend a local church and rest tomorrow. Maybe well throw in a short ride to Lake Amistadt and picnic there. Tune in for the continuing (and hopefully not boring) TRAAM saga.

Thanks for your continued prayers & thoughts,
Jim Barnes

Day Twentyone

2006-07-08T13:48:00.000-07:00

DAY 21, FRIDAY, JUNE 30, IS DEDICATED TO:
Sponsor, High Impact Marketing, Dennis & Cathy Parker
& my brother JEFF (Who also has an adventurous spirit).

TRIATHLON ACROSS AMERICA (TRAAM)
MARATHON, TX, to DRYDEN, TX (Staying back in Sanderson)

Todays Facts:
Marathon , TX : Elevation: 2,800, Population: 861
Current support drivers: Frank & Sean (Franks son) Hilvers, TNT Teammates
Swim motel pool, 6 m. running, 75 m. biking
Helmets handed out to date: 82
Highlight of the day: Battle , Buffalo , Buddies
Challenge of the day: Blowout at 21mph
Bike temperatures today: Low 65, High 106, overcast 1st 40 miles, then sunny
Flat tires: CA-2, AZ-4, NM-1, TX-4
Bible verse for the day: Genesis 22:1 God tested Abraham.

Dear Family & Friends,

Sean & I started the dark Texas morning with another 6 mile run. After a quick cereal & fresh pineapple breakfast I began my bike hike. Frank & Sean stopped at the famous Shirleys Burnt Biscuit Cafe for some homemade fruit pies. They bought me an apple to eat later. It certainly reminded me of my moms (Fern Barnes) and grandmas (Mildred Erwin) homemade fruit pies. It was great!

Now while they are hugging the baker I'm moving along to catch up to our new friends, Sean Ryan & Nick Blankenship, from Arizona . They are biking the same route across America that I have chosen, but theirs is a whole different story. I'll try to share it without making this too long. They have been good friends since grade school. They are currently 24 years old and still good friends. Nick was in a car accident at age 17 and is mostly paralyzed, so Sean The Braun rides his low rider 81-speed recumbent and Nick follows closely in his homemade trailer. They have raised over $10,000 to donate to the Leukemia & Lymphoma Society in memory of their friend BJ who was killed in the car accident. They started from San Diego in mid-may and plan to finish in St. Augustine , Florida , in mid-August. We have given them our brochures, wristbands, and TRAAM running shirts because they epitomize I AM MY BROTHERS KEEPER!

Back to the days events. I called today the four Bs; Battle , Buffalo , Buddies, and Blowout. As I was attempting to catch up with Sean & Nick (they left an hour before me cause I was out running) I saw a battle in nature. A baby hawk was just learning to fly off the desert floor. A vulture swept down for a tasty meal. As it landed near the baby a parent of the baby crash-landed on the back of the vulture and ripped off several of the vultures shiny black feathers. The struggle continue for about a minute as the buzzard was finally able to escape the angry hawk and fly to safety. I felt privileged to witness a small struggle of survival in the desert. WOW!

I caught up with the buddies at mile 15 thinking they were just pulling over to talk to me. Instead, just on the other side of the barbed-wire fence was a head of 30-40 buffalo including several young calves. Sean took a photo of Nick and I on our bikes with the buffalo in the background. I sure hope he e-mails that picture to me. I then joined the guys for the next 20 miles and we talked about everything, especially the purpose of our treks across America and the preparation that went into them. The miles passed quickly.

As they stopped for a break I continued because I was to do 20-25 miles more today than they were originally planning. I was Cruising downhill at mile 46 low on the aerobars when a loud explosion caught my attention. IT WAS ME! (Really, it was my back tire.) Something had cut a one inch gash in the back tire that also went through the lining and ripped the tube. I had to McGiver the problem. I doubled the liner over the gash and only put 50-60 psi instead of the normal 110-120 psi. Frank had ridden 8 miles out to me so I drafter him into Sanderson and replaced the back tire with a new blue one.

I was bushed and still had 20 miles to go. We ate lunch and I rode 10 miles out & back to complete the 75 miles while the guys got settled into our motel room. I am really tired and sore and blessed!

Thanks for your continued prayers & thoughts,
Jim Barnes

Day Twenty

2006-07-08T13:46:00.000-07:00

DAY 20, THURSDAY, JUNE 29, IS DEDICATED TO:
Granddaughter RACHEL
(She is an intense 2 year old who loves to read to and loves music.)
& my brother JEFF (Who also loves all kinds of music).

TRIATHLON ACROSS AMERICA (TRAAM)
FORT DAVIS, TX, to MARATHON, TX

Todays Facts:
Marathon , TX : Elevation: 4,040, Population: 455
Current support drivers: Frank & Sean (Franks son) Hilvers, TNT Teammates
Swim in Motel Pool, 6 m. running, 55 m. biking
Helmets handed out to date: 79
Highlight of the day: Conversation with Union Pacific Conductor
Challenge of the day: Riding into a strong headwind for 30 miles
Bike temperatures today: Low 63, High 93, overcast
Flat tires: CA-2, AZ-4, NM-1, TX-3
Bible verse for the day: 2 Corinthians 12:9 My grace is sufficient for you,
for My strength is made perfect in weakness.

Dear Family & Friends,

I awoke from a great sleep at the wonderful Limpia Hotel. I ran my first 6-miler in a week. My back has really improved. I swam laps in the hotel pool and started on the bike after a quick breakfast.

My SAG drivers handed out two XS bike helmets to little girls they saw in the bakery after they gassed the vehicle. I had already left for the open road.

The first 10 miles under cloudy skies were through a beautiful canyon that had spiraling rocks walls and a lush green valley. I also spotted my first two antelopes. They were larger than jackrabbits and smaller than deer.

We arrived in the town of Alpine at mile 24 and turned left on Highway 90. The road was somewhat monotonous with wind in my face except for a train passing by once in awhile.

One of those trains was stopped at mile 39 awaiting 2 passing trains for 30 minutes. I pulled up to a man standing near the still Union Pacific engine and began a conversation. His name was Dale and he was the conductor for the Sanderson Line. I asked if I could take his photo in front of his engine and gave him a copy of the TRAAM brochure. His wife is also an elementary school teacher so we had something else in common. After several train photos I found a railroad spike & square nail for Dave Freitas (he & his twin brother are train buffs). It was a highlight for today.

I raced the final 17 miles into Marathon where Frank & Sean had already gotten our bungalow keys. Just as I pulled the bike in the rain started falling, and it has been thundering and raining sporadically throughout the afternoon.

Frank & his wife, Teresa, have been reserving motels in advance. During this time a newspaper lady in Leaky, TX, was found to be interested in writing an article about the TRAAM when we arrive there on the 4th of July. Its been another full and blessed day!

Thanks for your continued prayers & thoughts,
Jim Barnes

Day Nineteen

2006-07-08T13:42:00.000-07:00

DAY 19, TUESDAY, JUNE 28, IS DEDICATED TO:
Sponsor, Visalia Breakfast Rotary Club
& my brother JEFF (I remember when he was 17 and came home from a Christian music conference. Man was he on fire for Jesus.)

TRIATHLON ACROSS AMERICA (TRAAM)
VAN HORN, TX, to FORT DAVIS, TX

Todays Facts:
Fort Davis , TX : Elevation: 4,800, Population: 1,050
Current support drivers: Frank & Sean (Franks son) Hilvers, TNT Teammates
Swim in Motel Pool, 6 m. running, 75 m. biking
Helmets handed out to date: 77, three at the Van Horn motel
Highlight of the day: Riding within 50 of 10 Big Horn Sheep
Challenge of the day: Riding down the mountain in a downpour
Bike temperatures today: Low 68, High 79, during downpour 61
Flat tires: CA-2, AZ-4, NM-1, TX-3
Bible verse for the day: Colossians 3:17 Whatever you do in word or deed,
do all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through Him.

Dear Family & Friends,

I started the day by getting up at 5:45 AM , getting dressed, and having a motel continental breakfast. It was still dark when I finished and the gal in the lobby said it wouldnt be light until 7:30 ! So I went back to bed in our room. I awoke at 7 and it was light enough so I started biking at 7:05 because I had a longggg day, lots of miles, and a big mountain ahead.

I changed my ninth flat tire at mile #8 and my tenth at mile #22 (that was my first front tire to go flat on this trip). Then I had 16 miles on Interstate 10. The trucks provided lots of wind to help me up the hill. We stopped for a snack & photo op at an old stone school in Kent , TX .

Highway 118 headed me up a longgggg grade through Texas valleys where I was constantly buzzed by buzzards. At mile 52 I found 10 Big Horn Sheep within 50 feet of the road. When they saw me they bounded across the dry river bed and up the steep rocky cliff. They stopped to see what I would do. I stopped just to watch them. They were each on their own little outcrop of rock one above the other but not in a straight line. It was a special moment. Later, I found out it was very rare to see these creatures and they are called Aoudad Goats. These special goats had been planted in this part of Texas a few years ago. The goats had those thick coats and curly horns.

Further up the valley we picnicked and then drove up the nine miles to the McDonald Observatory ( University of Texas , Austin ). They had telescopes on two different mountain peaks that I could see. It started raining hard just before we left. I still had 17 miles to go. I jumped on my bike and headed down the Davis Mountains . I was in the clouds of rain and could barely see in front of me. I used the brakes frequently to prevent hydroplaning as there were rivers of water crossing the road. It was quite exciting! Within mile I was soaked, cold, and having the time of my life. I new this trip would be made of daily memories.

I sent my SAG vehicle on to Fort Davis to find our Hotel Bed & Breakfast. It is a great place and headed for a hot shower as soon as my bike was washed down with a hotel garden hose. I am tired, warm, and content. I want to send off yesterdays & todays journal entries and get some grub.

Thanks for your continued prayers & thoughts,
Jim Barnes, torch1984@sbcglobal.net

PS: Oh yeah, tell President Bush and Lance Armstrong Im getting closer.

Day Eighteen

2006-07-08T13:41:00.000-07:00

DAY 18, TUESDAY, JUNE 27, IS DEDICATED TO:
Sponsor, San Joaquin Valley College

TRIATHLON ACROSS AMERICA (TRAAM)
SIERRA BLANCA, TX, to VAN HORN, TX

Todays Facts:
Van Horn , TX : Elevation: 4,000, Population: 2,435
Current support drivers: Frank & Sean (Franks son) Hilvers, TNT Teammates
Swim in Motel Pool, 6 m. running, 54 m. biking
Helmets handed out to date: 75
Highlight of the day: Entering the Central Time Zone
Challenge of the day: Bike tires have tar and gravel stuck to them
Bike temperatures today: Low 75, High 97 degrees
Flat tires: CA-2, AZ-4, NM-1, TX-1
Bible verse for the day: Psalm 46:10 Be still, and know that I am God.

Dear Family & Friends,

The day again started with a three mile run with Sean.

Day Seventeen

2006-06-29T20:34:00.000-07:00

DAY 17, MONDAY, JUNE 26, IS DEDICATED TO:
Sponsor, Hurley Elementary PTA (I especially want to thank the students, parents, and staff of my school. They have been extremely supportive. I am blessed to work in such a terrific environment!)

TRIATHLON ACROSS AMERICA (TRAAM)
EL PASO, TEXAS , to SIERRA BLANCA, TX

Todays Facts:
Sierra Blanca , TX : Elevation: 5,100, Population: 251
Current support drivers: Frank & Sean (Franks son) Hilvers, TNT Teammates
0 Swim in Rio Grande , 6m. run, 68m. biking
Helmets handed out to date: 73
Highlight of the day: Quick bike trip to Mexico
Challenge of the day: Attempting to re-enter America without ID
Bike temperatures today: Low 63 degrees first 3 hrs., High 95 degrees
Flat tires: CA-2, AZ-4, NM-1, TX-1
Bible verse for the day: Psalm 107:30 He guides them to their desired haven.

Dear Family & Friends,

My day started at 5:45 as Sean (age 19) and I ran three miles in the dark through El Paso streets. It lightly rained then lightning & thunder, and finally pouring rain. Then I began my long bike ride in pouring rain and a head wind for the first two hours. Then I had light rain and head wind for the next two hours. Finally, the last two hours were sunny with light head winds. I ended the ride with my 8th flat tire at mile 68.

Around mile 56 I saw a road to the right that was a border crossing to Mexico over the Rio Grande . I decided this might be the best place to swim the Rio Grande today. I rode south around the American entry as my SAG team waited, and I crossed the bridge over the RG to Mexico . I couldnt believe it! The Rio Grande was just a dirty 12 foot wide ditch at this point. I wouldnt even put a foot in it. The water is taken by farmers from New Mexico , Texas , and Mexico leaving very little left.

As I arrived in Mexico a single guard with his 6 year old daughter returned my Hola
and I turned around to return to the USA. Oops! As I came to the America Border Station I was asked for ID to prove my citizenship. All I had was my Space Camp business card. No good! I thought they were joking with me for a minute. Then I realized they were serious. I remembered I had copies of my TRAAM brochure with my picture & name on it. They accepted that & wanted to know more about the trek. One of the five guards took my photo at the crossing and said his younger brother also has a brain injury. I shared the JBBIF web site with him and he was pleased to know their was info to help him. Hooray!

We then had a picnic lunch and I continued on my bike. We did some extra miles and planned to go farther until my tire went flat. We then drove to the nearest motel in Sierra Blanca and got a nice old western motel room. I washed my bike, changed my flat, oiled my chain, and tightened everything loosened by bad roads. We then crossed the street and bought some rocks & arrowheads from Rosendra, 61, who we had given a helmet to earlier in the afternoon.

I went on a three mile walk through the desert and met Frank & Sean at Curlys BBQ. After dinner we met our motel manager, Dana, 44, and gave her a purple helmet that matches her purple mountain bike. It has been another good day.

Thanks for your continued prayers & thoughts,
Jim Barnes

Day Sixteen

2006-06-29T20:33:00.000-07:00

DAY 16, SUNDAY, JUNE 25, IS DEDICATED TO:
Our God of Forgiveness

TRIATHLON ACROSS AMERICA (TRAAM)
REST DAY IN EL PASO, TEXAS

Todays Facts:
El Paso , TX : Elevation: 3,800, Population: 563,662
Current support drivers: Frank & Sean (Franks son) Hilvers, TNT Teammates
Swim in pool, 0 m. walk, 0 m. biking
Helmets handed out to date: 71
Highlight of the day: Handing out 28 bike helmets at church
Challenge of the day: Resting instead of trying to make up mileage
Bike temperatures today:
Bible verse for the day: Colossians 4:6 Let your conversation be always full of
grace, seasoned with salt, so that you may know how to answer everyone.

Dear Family & Friends,

Nadine & I awoke to my Big Ben Alarm at 4 AM . The hotel tram took us to the El Paso International Airport where she was to fly to leave for Fresno at 6:05 AM . After church she called to say she had arrived home safely. Her dad picked her up. (Thanks Dad!)

After getting some more sleep Frank, Sean, and I attended the Beth El Bible Evangelical Free Church 2nd service. Frank told everybody about us before the service and when the service was completed a line for helmets started to form near the pulpit. We handed out 28 helmets during the next hour for a new one-time record! We were truly blessed!

We returned to the hotel to eat, repair flat #7, and organize the SAG vehicle. Before dinner we hope to find an internet café to send off todays and yesterdays journal entries and new photos. A three-mile walk and swim may be in order yet this evening.

Tomorrow starts the long trek across Texas with fresh SAG people and an improved and rested back. In two days I hit the last set of mountains, but I continue to take it one wonderful day at a time. This journey is passing much too fast! Texas , here I come!

Thanks for your continued prayers & thoughts,
Jim Barnes

Day Fifteen

2006-06-29T20:31:00.000-07:00

DAY 15, SATURDAY, JUNE 24, IS DEDICATED TO:
Sponsor & SAG driver The Frank Hilvers Family
Thank you for your terrific support. I couldnt do the TRAAM without your help.

TRIATHLON ACROSS AMERICA (TRAAM)
LAS CRUCES, NM to EL PASO, TEXAS

Todays Facts:
El Paso , TX : Elevation: 3,800, Population: 563,662
Current support driver: Nadine Barnes (Wife of 33 ½ years, best friend)
Swim in Elephant Butte Lake (Truth or Consequences, NM), 1 m. walk, 14 m. biking
Helmets handed out to date: 43
Highlight of the day: Riding into Texas , giving helmets to 2 adults
Challenge of the day: Getting out of Truth or Consequences
Bike temperatures today: Low 95 degrees, High 104
Bible verse for the day: Colossians 1:29 To this end I also labor,
striving according to His working which works in me mightily.

Dear Family & Friends,

ON THE ROAD AGAIN,
I JUST COULDN'T WAIT TO GET ON THE ROAD AGAIN!

I awoke with the same two problems I had been facing for the past two days; my back ached and my SAG vehicle was still broken down in Truth or Consequences, New Mexico. I walked to the store for some bananas & rolls to add to our in-room breakfast. My back did feel a little better from the mineral spa I had on the hotel roof the night before. Nadine and I found a local Laundromat and washed my clothing (mostly biking & running gear). Then we headed 7 miles out of town in a borrowed pickup to Elephant Butte Lake . The island in the middle of this lake is suppose to look like an elephant (we didn't see it). EB Lake is made by damming up the Rio Grande River for a bit. The lake reminds me of Pine Flat or Millerton back home. It was brown and warmer than cool. There are no trees around it, but there sure were lots of people with campers and trailers enjoying boating & picnicking.

We checked out of the Charles Spa Hotel and waited again at Martin Motor Company. The mechanic & his helper had returned to work on Saturday to help us continue the TRAAM. The gas pump, filter, and sensors had to be replaced. They had to drop my full tank with gas to do the job. They completed it at 12:40 PM and we were on our way to Las Cruces .

Our vehicle pulled up at the pre-assigned McDonalds at 2 PM as we had scheduled it with the LAS CRUCES SUN NEWS. We gave out 11 helmets during the 90 minutes we were there in the name of the JBBIF. Besides the normal cute little kids were three special adults. One of the grill guys was a 17 year old who needed a helmet. Next was a 19 year old kid who had just finished raising money washing cars for five hours. He loves mountain biking & had only been wearing a cap on those trails. The final recipient was a former Visalian. Alice is 45 years old and has had a very very tough life. We saw her walking her bike by McDonalds without a helmet. She felt very blessed that we would be willing to give her one of ours. The photographer was so touched that she gave Alice money to purchase a water bottle holder for Alice's bike. It seems that every helmet has a wonderful story!

Nadine drove me to within 8 miles of the Texas border. I rode against a stiff wind in anticipation of my fourth state. We were very disappointed when we found no sign of crossing from New Mexico to Texas after riding over the Rio Grande bridge. I stopped after 14 miles happy to have been on my bike again without pain. As Nadine was about to take a picture of me looking out over El Paso a 10 year old boy came riding up the street on his brand new bike without a helmet. His mom, older brother & sister were walking up behind him. They said they couldn't afford a helmet after buying the new bike. They were thrilled with the new gift and offered to pray for our Foundation and my TRAAM experience and safety.

We met Frank and his son Sean at the Howard Johnson Hotel. They had a long day of traveling to get here and are excited to get started across the Lone Star State with me. Nadine will be flying out at 6:05 AM and passing The Torch to the guys. Ive had a great week with my wife and look forward to her return on the other side of Texas . She was a real blessing to me (as always)!

Thanks for your continued prayers & thoughts,
Jim Barnes

Day Fourteen

2006-06-24T06:28:00.000-07:00

DAY 14, FRIDAY, JUNE 23, IS DEDICATED TO:
OUR AUNTS & UNCLES & COUSINS & THEIR CHILDREN
Thank you for your love & support throughout the years!

TRIATHLON ACROSS AMERICA (TRAAM)
HILLSBORO, NM to LAS CRUCES, NM

Todays Facts:
Las Cruces , NM : Elevation: 3,200, Population: ? Lots
Current support driver: Nadine Barnes (Wife of 33 ½ years, best friend)
0 miles of walking, 40 miles biking
Helmets handed out to date: 31
Highlight of the day: Extreme peace midst a sea of anxiety
Challenge of the day: Extreme backache & SAG vehicle still needs repair
Bike temperatures today:
Bible verse for the day: Genesis 1:21 God created great sea creatures,
and every living thing that moves.
Dear Family & Friends,

PART 2: I will be flexible! I will be flexible! I will be flexible!

We are still stuck in Truth or Consequences, NM. I read, relaxed, and waited. Nadine did the same. Our Suburban was not repaired because other jobs had to be finished at Martin Motor Company today. The mechanics will come back in the morning and hopefully finished putting in the new fuel pump after dropping the full gas tank.

My back was worse than ever today. Frank and his son will be flying in with my medication tomorrow evening.

Nadine and I are at peace. We have been relying on Gods help with patience and wisdom. This is another day that the Lord has made.

Dedications:
Saturday: 6/24 Sponsor & SAG driver The Frank Hilvers Family
Sunday 6/25: Our God of Forgiveness
Monday 6/26: Sponsor, Hurley Elementary PTA
Tuesday 6/27: Sponsor, San Joaquin Valley College
Wednesday 6/28: Sponsor, Visalia Breakfast Rotary Club
Thursday 6/29: Granddaughter RACHEL DAY
Friday 6/30: Sponsor, High Impact Marketing, Dennis & Cathy Parker

Thanks for your continued prayers & thoughts,

Jim Barnes

Day Thirteen

2006-06-24T06:23:00.000-07:00

DAY 13, THURSDAY, JUNE 22, IS DEDICATED TO:
MY FIRST GRANDCHILD, ELIZABETH, AGE 4 ½, NW Washington

Elizabeth is a bright-eyed little cutie who wants to be a princess. She asked Jesus to be her Savior & Lord just last Thursday. Nadine & I are thrilled to be her grandparents!

TRIATHLON ACROSS AMERICA (TRAAM)
SILVER CITY, NEW MEXICO, TO HILLSBORO, NM

Todays Facts:
Silver City , NM : Elevation: 5,500, Population: 251
Current support driver: Nadine Barnes (Wife of 33 ½ years, best friend)
6 miles of walking, 48 miles biking
Helmets handed out to date: 31
Highlight of the day: 17 mile bike ride down Emory Pass , 8,228-5,500
Challenge of the day: SAG Car broken down & backache is extreme
Bike temperatures today: Low 75 degrees, High 99
Bible verse for the day: Luke 12:34 Where your treasure is,
there your heart also will be.

Dear Family & Friends,

I will be flexible! I will be flexible! I will be flexible! I am having extreme back pain and Im now stuck in TRUTH OR CONSEQUENCES, NEW MEXICO ! After arriving in Hillsboro our SAG vehicle (88 Chevy Suburban) wouldnt start. We had to have it towed to T or C where it will sit tonight and the mechanics will work on it in the morning. And now we got a call from a newspaperman from Las Cruces wanting to know when we will arrive tomorrow so he can do an article on the TRAAM.

Now to back up and tell you earlier events. Nadine and I went on a three mile walk last night and stopped for dinner at a local Arbys. I noticed the 30 year old cashier had gang tattoos on his neck as I ordered. He asked if I was from Anaheim as I was wearing an Angels baseball cap (from Miracle League). The Angels are his team! He left the LA area before he was to be killed by another gang. I felt God leading me to give him the hat after we finished eating. He was shocked and thrilled and couldnt wait to follow the TRAAM on the internet. He even gave us a free apple & cherry tart as appreciation.

I left the hotel at 5:30 AM in the dark to walk another 3 miles. It was peaceful. The sky was completely overcast with clouds & smoke. Saw a fantastic site on the way up an enormous copper mine. In fact the smoke bothered me during most of the ride today too. The wind was whistling up the canyon as I was zooming down 15-35 MPH. My helmet vents were making loud music. We spotted a large doe on the way up to the pass and I had to go around 5 Texas longhorns that were in my bike lane on the way down the mountain. Its open range with no fences during those last 15 miles. Crazy!

Dedications:
Friday 6/23: Our Aunts & Uncles & their children
Saturday: 6/24 Sponsor & SAG driver The Frank Hilvers Family
Sunday 6/25: Our God of Forgiveness
Monday 6/26: Sponsor, Hurley Elementary PTA
Tuesday 6/27: Sponsor, San Joaquin Valley College
Wednesday 6/28: Sponsor, Visalia Breakfast Rotary Club
Thursday 6/29: Granddaughter RACHEL DAY

Thanks for your continued prayers & thoughts,

Jim Barnes

Day Twelve

2006-06-22T06:46:00.000-07:00

DAY 12, WEDNESDAY, JUNE 21, IS DEDICATED TO:
BORAH, SPONSOR OF MY BIKE JERSEYS
(A special thanks to owner Chris & designer Raven)

TRIATHLON ACROSS AMERICA (TRAAM)
THREE WAY, AZ, to SILVER CITY, NEW MEXICO

Todays Facts:
Silver City , NM : Elevation: 6,000, Population: 10,000
Current support driver: Nadine Barnes (Wife of 33 ½ years, best friend)
200M swim in pool, 3 mile run, 40 miles bike
Helmets handed out to date: 30
Highlight of the day: Crossing the Continental Divide
Challenge of the day: Back problem
Bike temperatures today: Low 80 degrees, High 105
Bible verse for the day: Acts 5:29b . We ought to obey God rather than men.

Dear Family & Friends,

My back is still giving me problems. So I walked three miles again this morning instead of running 6 during the hour set aside for that part of my triathlon. Sorry Visalia Runners & Maverick Runners. I feel like Im letting you down. The sunrise colors are beautiful because there is so much smoke from the fires in the atmosphere. It was calming.

After a large breakfast I rode my bike east on Highway 180 for 20 miles passing over the Continental Divide to make up for the ground I had passed by yesterday. Then I turned around and rode over the Divide again. It was very hard but pleasing.

As I entered the Silver City limits Nadine had stopped at a skateboard park & pointed out kids with no helmets on. I approached a dad & his two young boys and they were happy to receive free bike helmets. Wish I had skate helmets for them, but they were pleased to have the helmets for their bikes.

Nadine then suggested we go to the local McDonalds during the lunch hour to give out helmets if I werent too tired. She was right again. With the managers permission we set up at a table and gave out 15 helmets along with our story during the next hour. It was very rewarding. Thank you JBBIF Board for this giveaway opportunity!

Can anyone out there help me? Some internet guru must be in the audience. I am approaching Texas within a few days and have still had no luck contacting President George W. Bush or Lance Armstrong to join me for a short ride while in or near Austin. Does anyone out there in cyberland have connections? Please try your own ideas and attach my schedule from our web site. Got ideas?

Dedications:
Thursday: 1ST GRANDCHILD, ELIZABETH KOOISTRA, AGE 4 (Asked Jesus 6/15)
Friday: Our Aunts & Uncles & their children
Saturday: The Frank Hilvers Family
Sunday: Our God of Forgiveness

Thanks for your continued prayers & thoughts,

Jim Barnes

Day Eleven

2006-06-22T06:42:00.000-07:00

DAY 11, TUESDAY, JUNE 20, IS DEDICATED TO:
SPONSOR MIRACLE EAR
(Thank you DAVE & JACKIE BENSON)

TRIATHLON ACROSS AMERICA (TRAAM)
BYLAS, AZ, to THREE WAY, AZ

Todays Facts:
Three Way, AZ: Elevation: 3,000, Population: 200
Current support driver: Nadine Barnes (Wife of 33 ½ years, best friend)
200M swim in pool, 3 mile run, 76 miles bike
Helmets handed out to date: 13
Highlight of the day: Crossing into New Mexico (Third State of Eight)
Challenge of the day: Backache & Flat Tire #6
Bike temperatures today: Low 75 degrees, High 118 degrees.
Bible verse for the day: 1 Tim 4:12 Let no man despise thy youth, but be an example of the believer

Dear Family & Friends,

My lower back was giving me some annoying pain throughout the day, but it was not enough to stop me. We traveled over 76 miles on the bike, some out of necessity.

My first 8 miles of riding out of the Gila Valley saw lush green farmland. There was cotton, corn, alfalfa among the crops. Then the landscape returned to Arizona desert with sand, cactus, & a few Yucca plants. I had another long 18-miler up and over a steep pass before coming down into Three Way (named for the 3 highways that meet there.

If you havent heard, eastern Arizona and western New Mexico have been hosting some serious fires in this drought-stricken area. I have seen Geronimo Hot Shots (top forest fire fighters) and other fire fighters zooming to and fro on the highways the past two days. Ive tried to get a good photo of the smoke to the north of our trek route this afternoon. I havent smelled the smoke my way yet.

It has impacted Nadine and me because all motel rooms have been reserved for these firemen. So we had to head all the way into Silver City, New Mexico, and spend the night here at a Bed & Breakfast. I did manage to reserve a motel room for tomorrow night her in Silver City. I will have to backtrack on the bike to make up for the miles I missed from Mule Creek to Silver City.

While eating a delicious chicken sandwich at the local Wendys I noticed a little guy running around the place with lots and lots of energy. His mom & grandparents had a tough time keeping up with him. I found little Gabriel Flores, age 2 of Silver City, rides a trike and had no helmet. JBBIF to the rescue! Gabe was fitted with a pearl colored helmet with that now famous JBBIF sticker across the rear left panel. Everyone was thrilled!

I am really tired and must head for bed now. We are now in the Mountain Time Zone.

Dedications:
Wednesday: Sponsor BORAH (Fantastic Bike Jersey maker)
Thursday: 1ST GRANDCHILD, ELIZABETH KOOISTRA, AGE 4 (Asked Jesus 6/15)
Friday: Our Aunts & Uncles & their children
Saturday: The Frank Hilvers Family
Sunday: Our God of Forgiveness

Thanks for your continued prayers & thoughts,

Jim Barnes

Day Ten

2006-06-20T22:42:00.000-07:00

DAY 10, JUNE 19, IS DEDICATED TO MY CHILDREN
WHO ARE BEAUTIFUL INSIDE& OUT FOR THE LORD.
TRIATHLON ACROSS AMERICA (TRAAM)
SUPERIOR, AZ, TO BYLAS, AZ

Todays Facts:
Bylas , AZ : Elevation: 2,929, Population: 1,219 ( San Carlos Apache Reservation)
Current support driver: Nadine Barnes (Wife of 33 ½ years, best friend)
200M swim in pool, 3 mile run, 70 miles bike
Helmets handed out to date: 12
Highlight of the day: Meeting full-blooded Apache Tribal Spiritual Leader, Kenton
Challenge of the day: Backache
Bible verse for the day: Psalm 63:8 I follow close behind you; your strong right hand
holds me securely.

Dear Family & Friends,

The day started off badly. I stressed the herniated disk in my lower back lifting the large ice chest into the Suburban. The rest of the day went great though!

I biked 70 miles with Nadines support, most of it through the San Carlos Apache Reservation. After the first 8 uphill miles the rest of the day was pretty much up and down rollers through many flashflood washes. I did ride past my second road-kill rattlesnake and first dead coyote.

As we took a break at a small convenient store in Peridot, AZ, I noticed a couple of children at their parents Indian taco stand. I approached them and asked if they could use a bike helmet. They were excited to get one. Miscee Buck is 10 and Jaden Harney is 4 years old. Their moms were very appreciative. Miscee loved my bike computer.

When I arrived at the rest stop in Bylas a gentleman drove up in a government green pick up truck. He approached me and had a seat at the other end of the picnic table where I was sitting. He had seen me biking down the road and asked where I was going. I told him Across the US. He then asked why. I then shared the TRAAM brochure & story with him. After listening he pulled a small eagle feather from his large western hat and gave it to me as a gift. Kenton shared that he is a tribal spiritual leader and it was a prayer feather that he wanted me have as a blessing for my brother and my trip. I thanked him and gave him a helmet for his granddaughter, Shuannia Kenton, age 10, a White Mountain Apache, and a JBBIF wristband for himself. It was certainly the highlight of my day.

I then rode another 5 miles before hopping in the SAG vehicle and finding a motel 20 miles further on Highway 70 in Safford. It was quite a day.

Dedications:
Tuesday: Sponsor MIRACLE EAR, DAVE & JACKIE BENSON
Wednesday: Sponsor BORAH (Fantastic Bike Jersey maker)
Thursday: 1ST GRANDCHILD, ELIZABETH KOOISTRA, AGE 4 (Asked Jesus 6/15)
Friday: Our Aunts & Uncles & their children
Saturday: The Frank Hilvers Family
Sunday: Our God of Forgiveness

Thanks for your continued prayers & thoughts,

Jim Barnes

Day Nine - Father's Day

2006-06-20T22:40:00.000-07:00

DAY 9, JUNE 18, IS DEDICATED TO THE GOD OF CREATION
TRIATHLON ACROSS AMERICA (TRAAM)
REST DAY IN SUPERIOR , AZ

Todays Facts:
Superior , AZ : Elevation: 2,888, Population: 3,254
Current support driver: Nadine Barnes (Wife of 33 ½ years, best friend)
200M swim in pool, 6 mile run, 0 miles bike
Helmets handed out to date: 9
Highlight of the day: Fathers Day
Challenge of the day: Stopping and really resting
Bible verse for the day: Psalm 42:1 As a deer pants for streams of water,
So my soul pants for you, O God.

Dear Family & Friends,

HAPPY FATHERS DAY! Thanks so much for the new Most Handsome Grandpa t-shirt with the grandkids handprints on it. I love it! And Brad & Betsy, the triathlon goodie bag is terrific. I especially like the water fan. Happy Fathers Day to all you other dads out there in cyberspace!

Its Sunday, my day of rest. I had to make up a run of 6 miles in the cool (80 degree) morning and swim my 200M just for cooling off and fun. We will be going to church at Desert Springs Bible Church where my son-in-law Phil had his first youth ministry job several years ago. Then we will say goodbye to Dave & Ruth Freitas as they return to Visalia and Daniel & Sue Freitas who will remain in their home here in Phoenix .

Dave Freitas is a man after Gods heart. He has a servants heart and is my hero. I want to publicly thank him for his help and encouragement as SAG driver during the first week of the TRAAM. And thanks to his wife Ruth who allowed him to participate with me.

Dan (Daves twin brother) & Sue Freitas graciously opened their home, their kitchen, and their hearts to us. Thank you so very much. May the Lord BlessYou.

Nadine and I will relax in a motel room in Superior and probably have quiet dinner at a local DQ (Dairy Queen). Im certain ice cream will be on our menu.

Dedications:
Monday: MY CHILDREN: PHIL & HEIDI KOOISTRA, BRAD & BETSY ROBB
Tuesday: Sponsor MIRACLE EAR, DAVE & JACKIE BENSON
Wednesday: Sponsor BORAH (Fantastic Bike Jersey maker)
Thursday: 1st GRANDCHILD, ELIZABETH KOOISTRA, AGE 4 (Asked Jesus 6/15)
Friday is dedicated to: Our Aunts & Uncles & their children

Thanks for your continued prayers & thoughts,

Jim Barnes

Day Eight

2006-06-20T22:37:00.000-07:00

DAY 8, JUNE 17, IS DEDICATED TO DAVE & RUTH FREITAS
(Dear friends & owners of Wilson s Cyclery)
TRIATHLON ACROSS AMERICA (TRAAM)
Tempe, AZ , to Superior , AZ

Todays Facts:
Superior , AZ : Elevation: 2,888, Population: 3,254
Current support driver: David Freitas, good friend
200M swim in pool, 6 mile run, 56 mile bike
Helmets handed out to date: 9
Highlight of the day: Helmet giveaway to family in Apache Junction
Challenge of the day: 4th flat tire (all back wheels)
Bible verse for the day: Psalm 18:32 God arms me with strength;
He has made my way safe.

Dear Family & Friends,

The early day started with an hour ride to Tempe for our start. The 56 miles was a gradual uphill for all but 3 miles. I leisurely rode through Tempe , Mesa , Apache Junction, Florence Junction, Gonzales Pass , and into Superior.

While riding through Apache Junction I passed a family with three young children. That small voice said to return to them. I asked them boy and his two younger sisters if they had bikes and helmets. Bikes, yes. Helmets, no. I called Dave who was about a mile ahead & asked if hed return to give away some helmets. Dave returned and sized the kids. They were thrilled. They also asked for the wristbands that have our web site on them. Their mom was very appreciative too.

I had my fourth flat tire: 1 staple, 2 steel tread wires, and one puncture vine. I figure I may have around 30 flats spread throughout the US . I will patch these until they have the third patch then they will be retired.

Today I want to share an observation. When riding on the bike you see roadside goodies all the time. I am attempting to start categorizing them.
Roadside remembrances: crosses, candles, stuffed animals for loved ones.
Garage Sale items: bungee cords, shoes, old ice chests, golf balls, coins.
Trash: bottles, retreads, couches, chairs.
Road kill: snakes, mice, rabbits, snakes, small birds, squirrels (did I say snakes?).

I am also observing Gods creation as marvelous: mountains, valleys, riverbeds, trees, flowers, cactus, sand dunes, rock formations, hills, gullies, washes, oceans, ponds, lakes, & streams. I am daily reminded to worship the creator & not the creation. I am developing a whole new appreciation for the desert too.

Tomorrow is my rest day. Im not certain I have internet access from Superior . Im not sure how I will be able to transmit from the mountains of AZ & NM. Ill send when I can. Be patient. I am.

Sunday is dedicated to: THE GOD OF CREATION
Monday to: MY CHILDREN: PHIL & HEIDI KOOISTRA, BRAD & BETSY ROBB
Tuesday is dedicated to: Sponsor MIRACLE EAR, DAVE & JACKIE BENSON
Wednesday is dedicated to: Sponsor BORAH (Fantastic Bike Jersey maker)
Thursday is dedicated to: 1ST GRANDCHILD, ELIZABETH KOOISTRA, AGE 4
Friday is dedicated to: Our Aunts & Uncles & their children

Thanks for your continued prayers & thoughts. I also enjoy the 30-40 e-mails each evening. They are very uplifting.

Jim Barnes

Day Seven

2006-06-20T21:48:00.001-07:00

DAY 7, JUNE 16, IS DEDICATED TO THE
JEFF BARNES BRAIN INJURY FOUNDATION BOARD
TRIATHLON ACROSS AMERICA (TRAAM)
Peoria, AZ , to Tempe , AZ

Todays Facts:
Tempe , AZ : Elevation: 1,200 , Population: 158,628
Current support driver: David Freitas, good friend
200M swim in pool, 4 mile run, 38 mile bike
Helmets handed out to date: 6
Highlight of the day: Biking with Dave in our TRAAM jerseys in Tempe
Challenge of the day: Running, biking & swimming with an upset stomach
Bible verse for the day: Revelations 19:6-7 (The Lord God Omnipotent reigns.)

Dear Family & Friends,

An upset stomach awoke me just after midnight . The huge BBQ ribs dinner was revisiting me. I didnt sleep well up to the 5 AM alarm. I went to do my 6 mile run and instead only accomplished a 4 mile walk/jog. Breakfast was only a juice.

My bike ride started on the ARIZONA CANAL BIKE PATH. If you get the opportunity to ride this path do it. It is especially a nice 14 mile ride early in the morning. The ride continued another sixteen miles through Phoenix and on into Tempe . I ended up a ASU Sun Devil Stadium (same place I finished the Phoenix Marathon a year and a half ago).

Dave removed his bike from the rack and joined me on a loop around Tempe Town Lake . The eight mile ride included the Kids Water Park , a train running over us (we were under the trestle), and a good view of airplanes landing at the nearby airport. I got a couple to finally take a photo of Dave & I together.

We drove to a nearby local park, had lunch, and rested before heading back to Phoenix to spend the night with Daves twin brother, Daniel, and his wife, Sue.

Its been a tough day, but Gods grace, your prayers, and Daves helpfulness has brought me through it. I knew there would be days like this. I can do all things through Gods power! Im certain there will be more hard days ahead. I will keep pressing on.

Thanks for your continued prayers & thoughts,

Jim Barnes

Day Six

2006-06-20T21:46:00.000-07:00

DAY 6, JUNE 15, IS DEDICATED TO
MY SISTER CHERYLS FAMILY
TRIATHLON ACROSS AMERICA (TRAAM)
Salome, AZ, to Peoria, AZ

Todays Facts:
Peoria , AZ : Elevation: 1,300, Population: 108,000
Current support driver: David Freitas, good friend
200M swim in pool, 6 mile run, 82 mile bike
Helmets handed out to date: 6
Highlight of the day: Lots of time spent riding 18-21 mph down on the aerobar.
Challenge of the day: 35 mile gentle climb (1/2 into wind) at the beginning of the day
Bible verse for the day: Mark 10:14 Let the little children come to me.

Dear Family & Friends,

The day started nice & cool at 5:30 AM on my bike. In fact the bike temp showed 59 degrees when I started and 113 degrees when I finished at 12:45 PM . The first 5 miles were slightly downhill followed by my longest consistent uphill ever for me; about 35 miles of it. That was followed by a short downhill to the city of Wickenburg , AZ.

I rode down to do my swim in the Hassayampa River in Wickenburg. The river bed was about 300 meters wide, but to my disappointment not one drop of water was in that motorcycle rutted sandy bottom. Agua Fria River was dry too. I guess my swim will be in the Quality Inn in Peoria tonight.

We saw lots of Saguaro Cactus, quail, huge lizards, and jack rabbits today (also saw my first road-kill rattlesnake too). I was finishing my last three miles when my back tire had its 3rd flat on a steep downhill. Fixing a flat in the hot Arizona sun after 80 miles of riding is a bummer also!

Daves brother, who lives in Phoenix , may be hosting us for the next two nights. Nadine & Ruth are to arrive Saturday evening for my first SAG switch. Ill miss Dave. He does a great job, but Nadine has taken care of me for over 33 years, so the TORCH will be passed into good hands.

Tomorrow is dedicated to: JEFF BARNES BRAIN INJURY FOUNDATION BOARD
Saturday is dedicated to: DAVE & RUTH FREITAS (Support driver 1st week & wife)
Sunday is dedicated to: THE GOD OF CREATION
Monday to: MY CHILDREN: PHIL & HEIDI KOOISTRA, BRAD & BETSY ROBB
Tuesday is dedicated to: Sponsor MIRACLE EAR, DAVE & JACKIE BENSON
Wednesday is dedicated to: Sponsor BORAH (Fantastic Bike Jersey maker)
Thursday is dedicated to: 1ST GRANDCHILD, ELIZABETH KOOISTRA, AGE 4

Humbled daily by your continued prayers & thoughts,

Jim Barnes

Day Five

2006-06-20T21:45:00.000-07:00

DAY 5, JUNE 14, IS DEDICATED TO CHERIS EXTENDED FAMILY
(DAD, MOM, BROTHER, SISTER, & EVERYONE ELSE)
TRIATHLON ACROSS AMERICA (TRAAM)
Blythe, CA, to Salome, AZ

Todays Facts:
Salome , AZ : Elevation: 1,808, Population: 1,690
Current support driver: David Freitas, good friend
5 mile run, swim in Colorado River , 55 mile bike
Helmets handed out today: 0
Highlight of the day: Swimming in the Colorado River ,
Getting passed in Quartzite, AZ, by Race Across America rider.
Challenge of the day: 12 mile climb on I-10 out of Colorado River basin .
Bible verse for the day: Matthew 6:23 Consider the lilies of the field, how they grow,
they neither toil nor spin.

Dear Family & Friends,

Today really started late last night. Dave rode a bike while I ran my 6 miles from 8:20-9:25 PM . It was a make-up run because I had done 86 miles yesterday & hadnt run. It was a dark, hot, windy evening with lots of traffic on the 2-lane road. We dont want to do that again. This got me to bed late, tired, and sore.

I was still sore and tired when the alarm woke us at 5 AM this morning. I decided to run the 3 miles to the Colorado River first. I left at 5:30 and discovered it was five miles to the river from our motel room. I swam from the boat ramp out to the river. I was surprised to get tangled in seaweed when I arrived at the main part of the river. It freaked me out! I couldnt tell how deep it was, but the weeds flowed back & forth wildly as I saw it through my swim goggles. I returned to the boat ramp, dried off & changed into my bike gear. Dave was there with the SAG (Support & Gear) vehicle (my 1988 Suburban affectionately called Tank II). He has been so very, very helpful. I really appreciate his wisdom on this trek.

My bike was stopped on the bridge under the Welcome to Arizona sign at exactly 7 AM . We stopped for fuel ($2.90/gallon) and had breakfast (that we had brought).

I then began the first of three climbs on my bike for the day. This climb was about 12 miles long on Interstate 10. The 18-wheelers helped me with their wind helping to push me up the hill. Dave stopped me near the top for a water & ice fill-up. Another rider approached from behind me followed by his SAG. The sign on his SAG read Race Across America: Oceanside to Atlantic City . WOW! You mean I was leading the RAAM until I got to Arizona ? They are using part of the same route I am? We saw several more vehicles (a couple even honked for me) but no more RAAM bicyclists.

We dropped into and through Quartzite and returned to I-10 and up the next hill. Just after topping that hill I had to change my second flat tire (actually Dave did this one for me). Another sharp piece of metal got this one.
The rest of the ride to Weldon was warm an uneventful. After the 55 mile ride we drove the 5 miles back to Salome to get a motel room and have a relaxing & afternoon in our air-conditioned room.

I ran my six miles at 5:20 PM . Dave rode his bike the same direction for 30 minutes and returned before me. It is so dry and windy out here that we hardly sweat. The day was made complete with a great Mexican dinner and the repair of my flat tubes.

Tomorrow is dedicated to: My sister, Cheryl Friend, and her family.
Thanks for your continued prayers & thoughts,

Jim Barnes

Day Four

2006-06-20T21:43:00.000-07:00

DAY 4, JUNE 13: DEDICATED TO JEFFS FAMILY
(wife Cheri, daughter Gabi ,& son Alex)
TRIATHLON ACROSS AMERICA (TRAAM)
El Centro, CA, to Palo Verde (Blythe, CA)

Todays Facts:
Blythe , CA : Elevation: ? , Population: 12,155
Current support driver: David Freitas, good friend
200M swim in pool, 6 mile run, 86 mile bike
Helmets handed out today: 0
Highlight of the day: Riding through 7 miles of Imperial Sand Dunes
Challenge of the day: Biking 22.5 MPH with bike temperature of 124 degrees
1st flat tire (staple in tire)
Bible verse for the day: Joshua 24:18b We too will serve the Lord,
Because He is our God.

Dear Family & Friends,

Dave and I decided to try something different to beat the heat. I started on my bike at 5:30 AM instead of running. I rode the 14 miles to Brawley where Dave treated me to a McDonalds breakfast of hot cakes, sausages, and chocolate milk.

The best part of the day was climbing out Imperial through the Sand Dunes. It was quite a surprise from the normal southern California desert. Beautiful waves of light colored sand separated by a climbing highway were before me.

The ride down into Palo Verde was long. We stopped for lunch at what we thought was part of the Colorado River . After I took a dip in it we found is was part of the Palo Verde Lagoon. Bummer! It was still refreshing.

We were to spend the night in Palo Verde, but there wasnt a good place to stay. We decided to go on to Blythe since it was only a bit after noon . As I rode with a nice breeze behind me the temperature gauge on the bike rose to a new record for me; 124 degrees. I was pouring icy CytoMax down my throat and cool water over my head through the helmet vents. This carried me another 15 miles. Dave finally pulled me over with 6 miles to go to Blythe and said time to climb aboard the SAG vehicle. I didnt argue.
We found a reasonable motel and I swam my laps while Dave went for ice & a 2L of Mountain Dew. Life is good!

I plan to run my six miles this evening when the sun goes down & hopefully the temperature too.

Tomorrow is dedicated to: Cheris extended family (Dad, Mom, Brother, Sister & more)

Thanks for your continued prayers & thoughts,

Jim Barnes

Day Three

2006-06-20T21:42:00.000-07:00

DAY 3, JUNE 12, IS DEDICATED TO MY WIFE, NADINE BARNES
TRIATHLON ACROSS AMERICA (TRAAM)
Pine Valley, CA, to El Centro, CA

Todays Facts:
El Centro , CA : Elevation: -25, Population: 37,853
Current support driver: David Freitas, good friend
200M swim in pool, 6 mile run, 77 mile bike
Helmets handed out today: 0
Highlight of the day: Cycling very close to the Mexican border
Challenge of the day: Heat (113 degrees on bike gauge)
Bible verse for the day: 1 Cor. 13:13

Dear Family & Friends,

The day started abruptly at 4:14 AM as the sprinklers in the county park hit my sleeping bag in hurricane status!

Ran 1.5 miles uphill on a cold morning. The next 5 miles were downhill with viewing of a small bobcat and several jack rabbits.

Biking still had a few hills the first 20 miles before an extremely steep 3,000 foot downhill grade at 6% on Interstate 8. I had to apply the brakes constantly to keep the bike under control from heavy winds. It was not as relaxing as Id hoped it would be. Then I had about 30 miles of headwinds in much higher temperatures.

After an hour lunch and rest break I arrived in El Centro at 2:15 PM . Dave & I got a motel room and I cooled off doing my swimming in the warm motel pool.

Dave & I shared a nice Mexican dinner and planned for tomorrows trek.

Thanks for your continued prayers & thoughts,

Jim Barnes

Day Two

2006-06-20T21:25:00.000-07:00

DAY 2, JUNE 11, IS DEDICATED TO GOD ALMIGHTY
TRIATHLON ACROSS AMERICA (TRAAM)
At Pine Valley, CA

Todays Facts:
Pine Valley , CA : Elevation: 4,100, Population: 1,506
Current support driver: David Freitas, good friend
REST DAY
Helmets handed out 4
Highlight of the day: Picnic with my family
Challenge of the day: Sitting still and relaxing
Bible verse of the day: Phil. 2:14-15

Dear Family & Friends,

Slept in until 6:15 this morning. Went for a short walk. Went to church service at a local fellowship. Gave out 4 helmets to two sets of brothers from Pine Valley I met after the service. Dave sized them for appropriate fit.

We had a picnic with Cheryl, Cheri, Gabi, Alex, Aunt Glenda, Teresa, and Lauren. It was a nice relaxing afternoon at the park. Dave and I made our own dinner and bought an ice cream at a local Frosty afterwards. We set our sleeping bags I the park to save motel money (worth 11 more bike helmets).

Thanks for your prayers & thoughts,

Jim Barnes

Day One

2006-06-20T21:12:00.000-07:00

DAY 1, JUNE 10, IS DEDICATED TO MY BROTHER, JEFF BARNES
TRIATHLON ACROSS AMERICA (TRAAM)
Ocean Beach, San Diego, CA to Pine Valley, CA

Todays Facts:
Pine Valley , CA : Elevation: 4,100, Population: 1,506
Current support driver: David Freitas, good friend
200M swim in ocean, 6 mile run, and 45 mile bike
Helmets handed out 2
Highlight of the day: running first 2 miles with Alex & Tyler
Challenge of the day: about 5,000 feet of climbing
Bible verse of the day: 1 John 3:16-18

Dear Family & Friends,

I have completed the first leg of my TRAAM. I am tired, have sore legs, and feel blessed to finally be able to begin the trek. Its finally happening!

The day started at Ocean Beach near Sea World with family (Cheri, my brother Jeffs wife; Gabi & Alex, Jeffs children; my younger sister Cheryl) and friends (David Freitas, friend; Tyler Caffee, student, and his dad, Tim).

Surf was up. Surfers were riding some big ones. Water temp was about 67 degrees. After several photo shots, I strode directly into the surf and challenged the waves. It was a lot of fun.

Next was the run up the river trail. My 6-year old nephew, Alex, and former 4th grade student, Tyler wanted to run some with me. They ended up jogging & walking with me the first two miles. They were picked up by their families and I continued east for four more miles.

It was now 11:30 AM and the temperature is climbing as the sun is exposing itself after several hours of cool overcast. The biking was warm and upward. I even followed the trail onto Interstate 8 for three and a half miles. With seven miles left of the 45 mile ride I was overheated and exhausted. I took a 60-minute break including a power nap and was ready to go again. The last seven miles were beautiful. Dave rode alongside the first 3 or so to make sure I was OK. He then turned back and retrieved our support vehicle.

I arrived in Pine Valley at 5:30 PM were I saw my Aunt Glenda, Cousin Teresa, and her daughter, Lauren. We had dinner and a wonderful visit together. The rest of the family pulled in at about 9 PM after spending a majority of the day at Sea World.

Tomorrow includes a church service, a family picnic, and lots of rest and preparation for next week.

Thanks for your prayers & thoughts,

Jim Barnes