The day has finally come! We’re taking off for LA in the early morning for the start of the tour. Here’s a quick update on what has been happening lately:
1. Training – Many miles have been logged around Grand Rapids and Holland. Though I love the beauty of West Michigan, I am excited to see new routes and terrain each day. Some of my rides were spruced up by riding with a group, listening the The Chronicles of Narnia, training with my grandpa, and spotting wildlife.
2. Fundraising – The goal of $10,000 was met and exceeded, thanks be to God! It was a huge burden lifted when the final gift came in that put me over 10k. Thank you SO MUCH to all who have contributed financially. You are all so generous, and I wholeheartedly appreciate your support. I am very excited to see the good work that will be done by the partnering organizations. To date, I have raised $11,835 – bless God!
3. Tour publicity – Check out this article by the Holland Sentinel. It helped further the purpose of the tour by raising awareness.
4. Bike Gear – Thanks to Grand Rapids Bicycle Co. for all the help with my setup and gear. I’m thankful for a knowledgeable staff and quality gear to get me across the country! Here’s a picture of just the bike, to which much has been added.
Looking ahead, we have 2 and 1/2 days of driving, a weekend of orientation, and we start riding on Monday! Words cannot express my excitement that has been building up for months. I feel very blessed to be able to share this experience with my Grandpa Wiersma who will also be riding the full distance and my Grandma Wiersma who will be a SAG (support and gear) vehicle driver.
Prayer Request of the post: safe travels for all cyclists who are making their way to the start of the tour.
Stay tuned for more. I’ll close tonight, the eve of the beginning of a beautiful journey, with one of my favorite verses. Joshua 1:9 says, “Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged, for the LORD your God will be with you wherever you go.”
Adam Wiersma 
Adam, Always amazing to see what God is up to, and it is such a blessing that you can be a part of it! Really excited for you man, blessings on the journey!