The journals and photos of Ride for Climate have recently passed 100,000 page loads for 2006. Every day, according to my statistics counter, between 50 and 100 different people look at the journals and photos, and there are over 300 page loads. Most of this traffic appears to be word of mouth (and not links from other sites) and return visitors.
It means a lot to me that people are following along. It means that my message — that global warming will affect all the people of the Americas — is getting out. But also, perhaps as important, these visits keep me going — when there are hard days, it is good to know that people are checking in. So, keep visiting, and keep telling your friends about Ride for Climate. And, of course, stay tuned for the upcoming announcement of Ride for Climate USA — the trip across the U.S.
I am currently on the east side of the Andes, in a land of dirt roads, jungle, and slow internet (see map). The road I planned to take across the mountains turned out to not exist, and I am finding the route as I go. Hopefully I will be able to post another update (and upload pictures) in a week, from the city of Huaraz, on the other side of the Andes.
Dear Dave,
I’ve been watching your progress with great intesest and came across your entry from 9/14/06 and I wanted to send you a brief note of encouragement and support. This may be some of the most difficult days of your journey travelling along the dirt roads of the Andes. Like a ripple in a pond, the stone you have cast is raising our collective consciousness to the effect of climate change and the distructive habits of our so-called advanced society. We are just begining to understand the mysteries of this living planet called gaia and the important role humans must play in protecting this life. Thank you for showing us how the power of the human spirit can be a force for good in this world. Your message is getting out.
BRIAN LANDES