Hello all: Back safe and sound at Hope House, mind you a day late. Due to airplane mechanical problems and rain storms in Miami we missed our connecting flight by 10 minutes.....that was disappointing. But such are the vagaries of travel. AA gave us a hotel room and food vouchers so we headed off to the hotel to settle in for the night. It turned out I was traveling on the same flight as Patty Meyer and friend Jeanine who were headed to Marie's. So at least I had company along the way.

The event in Fond du Lac was a big success as Perry managed to keep that bike going for the 24 hours...he did 401 laps or approx 269 miles in the 24 hours. He now awaits confirmation that he dotted the i's and crossed the t's correctly for the Guiness World Record Book and to await the final tally for the funds donated to the cause. The turnout was a bit disappointing probably due in part to the rain and clouds that plagued us Saturday. Luckily the rain stopped just as Perry was to begin but it did not enhance the track conditions AT ALL....what a mess. The dirt was like clay and stuck like crazy. I managed to loose my shoes, lost my balance and fell in it, as I was heading up to the starting point to wish Perry well....that sure made a site!

But away he went at any rate. He had a great support staff and after each hour they would get out the power washer and hose off all of the mud. Perry said it felt like it added an extra 100 lbs or so to the weight of the bike (photos below).

While Perry was riding there were various other activities going on...DJ played for several hours, then a band..there was a silent auction and stunt performances by some fellows on their bikes. Everyone worked hard helping to ensure the success of the event.

I was pleased to be able to attend the church service at Ascension Lutheran Church and to bring greetings to the congregation from Haiti.

As soon as the event ended on Sunday I was on the road again to Naperville to attend a meeting with Pastor Scott and other church members at Wheatland Salem Church. My google map directions did not let me down and I arrived just in time to a warm welcome from the group.

Monday I enjoyed the sites and delights of downtown Chicago and Oak Park with good friends.

All seems to be well back here in Haiti.....nothing outstanding to report thus far. Will head out to the school tomorrow to catch up with Clovis and continue our planning for the school opening on the 4th of Oct.

Pictures for your enjoyment (hopefully)

Perry at the starting point...within seconds of taking off

The bike before and after a pit stop

Not the best of pictures, but at least is shows Perry in action on one of his 401 laps on Saturday morning...the sun finally came out around 4 which brightened everyone's spirits

The folks (at least some of them) who cheered him on and were there with him through thick and thin...wife Melissa stands beside him in the blue jacket

Perry and I at the finish line...a much nicer end than beginning with the sunshine brightly and no muck to clog him down.

so there you have it.....24 Hours for Haiti......if you wish to see the Fox news blurb about the event check out their website: 24hoursforhaiti.com

until next time...take care....Debbie