June 26 Day 30, Halifax! Halifax! Halifax!

Today, Arvid Loewen dipped his special tandem bike into the Atlantic Ocean to complete his 7000 km trek from White Rock BC to Halifax NS. Only 30 days earlier he did the same in the Pacific Ocean in White Rock, BC to mark the start of Spoke2005. He has transported a rotating group of three African orphans: Mumina, Lydia and Paul, throughout Canada to demonstrate his passion for helping street kids.

Mumina Ndumi. "It was a good trip. More children are rescued from the streets."

The three children are from the Mully Children's Family in Kenya and came for the Spoke2005 tour.

Paul Gachoka: "[The rescued children] get water, shelter, education, food, clothing and all their basic needs." And, "when they see someone... sing about God... they will want to know about Him more and more."

Mully Children"s Family (www.mullychildrensfamily.org) was started by Charles Mulli, an abused child who was abandoned at the age of 6 in Kenya. He begged for food and scraped out a meager existence. He gave his life to Christ and through a dramatic turn of events became extremely successful in business. He subsequently sold everything he had and invested in the lives of street children.

Mulli said that God is in this project and there is absolutely no doubt that this project would end with a good result.

Arvid Loewen: "I have peace with myself... with society... and with God." But as amazing as cycling across Canada with an African orphan might seem, Arvid always had a different focus. "This wasn't about me. This wasn't about cycling. This was about the orphans."

Arvid also carried a special water bottle with him the entire journey. On May 28 Arvid half filled a water bottle with Pacific Ocean water. Inside he placed a picture of Charity, a girl from the orphanage, and a twonie which represents the wealth in the Western world. In a symbolic gesture, he filled up the bottle with Atlantic Ocean water. "When those of us who have reach out a helping hand to those who do not, then children's lives will be changed," Arvid has said throughout the trip at daily evening events.

His wife Ruth has been with him throughout his cycling ventures. Spoke2005 has been his greatest challenge and together in the ocean they gave thanks for the incredible mission.

Spoke2005 sought to show that rescuing children in Africa is a doable task and that Mully Children's Family is a viable option. The three children serve as proof that it's possible to rescue children from the bottom of the world and give them the life they need.

It was one long journey across Canada making it possible for children to make one giant leap out of the slums of Kenya.

Arvid Loewen arrives back in Winnipeg at the Airport on Wednesday, June 29 at 5:55 p.m.

Thank you to each of you for your incredible support throughout this trip. Thank you to the media for meeting us throughout this trip and showing your interest in Spoke. And thank you to each of you who have faithfully prayed, financially supported and encouraged us in this mission.

And most of all, a big thank you to God for making all of this possible.

June 25 Day 29, Sackville, NB

The eve of completion.

Arvid Loewen cycled into Sackville today to mark the second last day of his travels. Somebody please explain how this guy keeps going.

George: "It's super human. A person should not be able to do this."
Arvid: "I'm being carried by prayer."

When asked what it feels like to almost be done, Paul G says: "It's exciting."

Tonight, new stand up comedians Paul Gachoka and Mumina Ndumi gave a comical look at the trip thus far, imitating Arvid and trying to recite the promotional video. The team laughed their guts out at these two guys who have never had much trouble keeping us laughing during the trip.

We welcome back David and Hermine Olfert who will be taking the motor home back. We also welcome Stephanie back who will be part of the team taking the car back. Great to have you guys back on board!

The only 'injury' on Spoke2005 is thanks to Sandy. Sandy is a sand mannequin who doubles on the bike during inclement weather - simulating the weight of a child. Late at night Paul B went to take Sandy from the motorhome storage and put her in the car. Her foot got caught on a box and as he pulled it out, her foot smacked him right square in the nose.
George: "Are you all right?"
Paul B: (checking his nose, relieved there was no blood). "Yup, I'm okay."
Then, just moments later as they are lifting her out.
Paul B: "Oops. I can feel it. My nose is bleeding."
George (trying desperately hard not to burst out laughing) "Seriously?"
Paul B: Can you believe that? I've been drilled by a mannequin!"

The team had one final group prayer meeting before tomorrow's send off. It's exciting to say the least.

Well Spoke fans. This is it. You've stood by us and believed. Without you this last challenge would not even be possible. So stay tuned. Here it comes folks...

Tomorrow we're heading off to Halifax!!!

June 24 Day 28, Fredericton

Arvid trekked 211 kilometres today under sunny skies from Grand Falls to Fredericton. A shorter day for him. 4:30 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.

Paul L gave his dad a bottle of ice water during the day to help cool him down.
Arvid: (after taking a drink) Ahh. That's nice.
Paul L: I make a mean water. What can I say?

Yesterday we ran into some bike trouble at the end of the day. The spindle had worn through and we needed to get a replacement part. The bike shop on Portage in Grand Falls helped out as did Jessome's Sport in Edmunston. The bike was fixed (yahoo!) so a big thanks to them (and to Jodi and Paul for the trek back to Edmunston) for their help.

This morning on the early shift, Paul Loewen and Ruth and Arvid had a close encounter with a pick up truck that went out of control on the highway. It swerved and lost control around a bend and rammed into the railing knocking out about 6 posts. It missed the bike/support car by about 500 ft. They stopped after the crash and the semi driver was a bit shaken up, but alright. Good thing the team was slowed down by having to fix a loose chain earlier on.

Later in the day, Arvid caught up to the motorhome which was stopped up ahead on the road. He had a bit of tailwind and flew by giving instructions to the crew to meet him 7 km further up the road. The motorhome got started and as George saw how fast Arvid was traveling he said: "He's going to reach 7 kilometres before I do!"

Arvid's kids Jodi and Paul consider their dad to be "redefining cycling one rotation at a time."

Spoke fans, it's coming down to the wire. Only two days to go! Tomorrow we press on to Sackville for our final program.

See you then!

And thank you for your neverending prayers that make an eternal difference in the lives of street children in Kenya.

June 23 Day 27, Grand Falls - New Brunswick

With 4 days left Arvid led the spoke2005 team through the Quebe New Brunswick border into Grand Falls. After a cool morning temperatures rose to the mid 20's under sunny skies and moderate winds. An unexpected bike repair sent support vehicle crew Jodi and Paul back to Edmunston for repairs, no problem for the brothher and sister duo. They made it back safe and sound to get Arvid on the road by 4:30am tomorrow. At this point we are planning to arrive in Halifax at Point Pleasant Park on Sunday afternoon.

Folks its down to the wire now. Only three days left until Arvid reaches the Atlantic. Stay tuned spoke fans the team thanks each of you for your faithful support and prayers.

June 22 Day 26, Riviere Du Loup

The team made a stop today in Quebec. Arvid is closing in on the 7000 km finish line. Some 6000 km's after dipping his bike in to the pacific ocean, Arvid is going strong and manages to push on toward the goal. He had a bit of a tail wind today an ever welcome sign.

Tomorrrow the team heads out to Grand Falls New Brunswick. Thats BC, Alberta, Manitoba, Ontario and Quebec all done. Six down folks. Six down and two to go. Until tomorrow, thank you to each of you for your support.

June 21 Day 25, Trois Rivieres

Arvid pressed on through Trois Riveres today. Day 25 is complete leaving five more days for the ultra-marathon cyclist to make it to the finish point of Halifax, NS. At one juncture he stopped and asked the support vehicle:

Arvid: "Is this the right direction? I just went this way because it was with the wind!"

Quebec is another gorgeous province. Tonight, some of the team was in Trois Rivieres for an evening event at St. James Anglican. The kids gave another super program. Lydia gave her testimony.

Big thanks to Motel Deauville for their generous discount and help in providing accommodations.

Well folks, the countdown is on. Five days to go! Tomorrow we make our way through Quebec City for a stop in Riviere du Loup!

See you all then.

June 20 Day 24, Ottawa

The Nation's Capital. Nothing short of dynamic. Ultra marathon cyclist Arvid Loewen pressed on to Ottawa making a stop on Parliament Hill. We gathered around the flame, sang O Canada and prayed for the country. It was a great moment to be celebrating this cross Canada venture in the heart of our Nation.

Afterwards some of us made a short visit to the Parliament Building while Arvid cycled on to Montebello, Quebec. We saw the Peace Tower. Then we sat in the public galleries to catch a segment of question period. It was great to see MP Joy Smith seated down below. She had given a speech at our Winnipeg event on June 7 that marked the completion of the first third of our Canadian Safari. Today, we had a chance to see her with the other MPs. To think that only 6 weeks ago she was heavily involved in walking the halls of Parliament campaigning for our Kenyan friends to be granted visas to come and be part of Spoke2005. And now, Paul Gachoka, Lydia and Mumina looked in on question period.

All along the way we've been taken in by people who have been simply incredible with their hospitality. Hospitality is a gift. And through this trip we've been blessed by people who have used their joy in hosting us. Just the other night we were with the Kehlers in Toronto. Maureen has been invaluable in helping with the media set ups across Canada. The Kehlers hosted us at their home. Thanks so much Maureen! And the Super 8 chain across Canada has been very helpful. We've received discounts there the whole way. Last night, the hotel even made posters for us and put them up around the hotel and left brochures at the front desk to let other guests know about the mission.

A very big thank you to all those of you who have given discounts or free services to our team as we've gone across Canada. You've given genuinely and with a lot of joy. Spoke2005 thanks you for your help.

We had an evening program with the Ottawa Mennonite Church. There was even an immigrated Kenyan with us tonight. Mumina gave his testimony tonight. People stayed afterwards to learn more about Mully Children's Family and the mission of rescuing street children.

Tomorrow we make a stop in Trois-Rivieres to begin day 25!

June 19 day 23 - Kingston

Arvid cucled into Kingston today. He is doing well and in good health. the weather today was fairly good. Arvid came in today for a lunch break and he had Ugali (an African dish made by our friend in Oakville). Ndondo encouraged him to give it a try. Arvid laughed and said, "Will this make me faster or slower or will I fall over?" Needles to say our fearless and mentally tough champion finnished the day with flying colours.

We had an interview with the Toronto Star who showed keen interest in the cross Canada project. The evening before we were on CTV Toronto which gave great exposure through out the greater Toronto area. We also gave an interview on God Talk where Ndondo had the opportunity to discuss her views about Spoke 2005 from a Kenyan perspective.

The team is doing well. Thank you to each of you for your prayers and support. We look forward to being in our nations capital tomorrow.

June 18 Day 22, Toronto Ð Traffic, friends and singing.

Arvid had quite the challenge negotiating through Toronto traffic. Lots of lights (which always seemed to be red when Arvid came to them :0). Paul Gachoka rode through the GTA and amidst the sprawling metropolis consistently asked "Are we out of Toronto yet?" The media did a great job picking up the action. Thank you so much for your hard efforts. We appreciate it.

The team joined MCF supporters at Harvest Bible Chapel in Oakville today to give a lunchtime presentation. The good people at HBC even made ugali! - an African dish that brought a lot of joy to our Kenyan friends. The kids gave a presentation after which people stayed and talked with them to gain a better perspective of their lives before and after joining MCF. Thanks so much for having us.

George, our 'Pa' for this leg of the trip has been doing some insightful thinking about Spoke. "So the next Spoke trip will be in Spokane?"..."We'll do it on October 31 and then it'll be Spokane!"

African choir Soul Influence opened the evening event at Bayview Glen Church. They have a CD out and sound just fantastic. In fact, the Spoke team has listened to their CD throughout the trip to TO and sung along with the band during their performance.

Arvid gave a testimony in which he said he was "at peace with God," and recognized the power of prayer that has been upon Spoke throughout this journey. Ndondo gave a testimony as well followed by the three kids. The crowd loved them so much they even got a standing ovation! Way to go Lydia, Paul and Mumina!

Following the evening event there was a combined CD selling, African jewelry sale, biography of Charles Mulli signing. People hung out until late in the evening catching up with old friends and sharing the passion for rescuing street children.

Tomorrow the team is off to Kingston!

June 17 Day 21, St. Catherines - Kids, Donors, Niagara Falls.

"Today was a lighter day for me," Arvid says. "I only cycled 10 1/2 hours." The ultra marathon (actually, there has to be a new term for that. Whatever the boundaries of ultra marathon are, it seems nearly 5000 km in 21 days exceeds that) cyclist Arvid Loewen made it all the way to St. Catherines today with a stopover at one of Canada's most famous attractions...

The other part of the team started the day off with a morning event at Silver Heights School in Cambridge, ON. Lydia and Paul shared with more than 300 students aged 5-13 about their lives. The students loved it and were especially amazed to hear that these Kenyans had more than 800 brothers and sisters. Students from the school remarked how much they enjoyed having them there. Molly was instrumental in organizing the effortst to support MCF. As well, Ruth and Katelyn commented that having the kids here enabled them to see their money in action - that there was a direct connection between what they do here and what happens in Kenya.

A very big thank you to all of you who have generously donated along the way. There are so many stories. Here are two of them. Yesterday, King Street Cycle in Waterloo donated their services to repair the bike and get it in tip top shape. And today, Vine Street Automotive gave us free repairs on the motorhome. Thanks very much for your willingness to support this street childrens effort in Kenya.

So the famous attraction was none other than Niagara Falls! The Kenyans just loved it. Ndondo couldn't believe it was that big! Arvid came in for a brief stop:

"So Arvid, how was the ride today?"
Arvid: "It was good. We had a tailwind."
"Wow! Finally. How much of a tailwind?"
Arivd: "Don't know. All I know is it wasn't a head wind."

"The Canadian falls are on the right, and the American falls are on the left."
Paul L: "So the people on the other side would be Canadian?" (Very far away)
Kevin: "Yeah, they look Canadian to me."

The team gave an evening service at Scott Street MB Church. Paul gave his testimony tonight and Arvid shared about his vision for making a difference in the lives of street children. After the kids sang and recited poems and verses, the rest of the team joined them for a rendition of This Little Light of Mine in English, Swahili and Kamba. (We're still fine tuning the last two languages :0)

The team says a very big thank you to Bob and Donna and Kevin. Bob and Donna were the Ma and Pa for this leg of the trip. They looked after our food and travel and accomodations. Thanks to both of you for your help. And we also say farewell to Kevin who was part of the support vehicle for this leg of the trip. Kevin and Paul got up at 4:00 a.m. each morning to drive behind Arvid all day. We'll see you guys again soon when we're back!

We're pleased to welcome George, Erika and Laura as our Ma and Pa. Jodi, Arvid's daugther joins her brother Paul in the support vehicle. A very big welcome aboard to each of you.

Tommorow we set a course for Toronto for a combined event with special guest Soul Influence.

Thank you for your prayers.

Until tomorrow!

June 16 Day 20, Kitchener/Waterloo - Children

Today, Mumina and Lydia gave a cool program to some 400 students at Admiral Collingwood School in Collingwood, ON. MCF supporters Frank, Jane and Sarah together with rotary friends organized the effort which provided the Kenyans with an opportunity to share about their lives. One of the students, Tara, got the vision to help MCF a while back and spearheaded a fundraising project for Mully Children's Family. In speaking with her afterwards she remarked how happy African children are and how much she has enjoyed the challenge of encouraging fellow students to take on the mission of supporting MCF.

Arvid cycled in to Guelph at 6:30 p.m. In keeping with the excellent, supportive and oh-so dependable weather throughout Spoke2005, Arvid battled through pouring rain much of the day. Way to go Arvid! You're an inspiration!

As Arvid comes into the hotel in Kitchener
"Hey Arvid! How are you feeling?"
Arvid: "I'm tired," he says, and then gets off the bike (which he's been riding since 5 a.m.) and proceeds to horse around with the boys flipping them in the air and telling jokes!

Please, someone, tell me where this man gets his energy!

Country Hills EMC in Kitchener hosted us for the evening event. Faith, Sharon and Colleen had all been to MCF and came out to see Ndondo and the kids again. It's such a great feeling to connect all across Canada with people who share the passion with MCF. It's also great that people hang out afterwards and talk with us about the vision for MCF.

The support vehicle people (i.e. Kevin and Paul) needed to accomodate two extra passengers today to allow the other team to go ahead to Collingwood. So to augment their oh-so long evening sleeps they traded off trying to find at least some time in their day to get some rest. Space was at a premium:

Kevin (after sleeping in back seat) "My torso hurts!"
Paul: "You haven't been doing your trunk rotations".
Kev: "This position is one big trunk rotation!"

Tomorrow marks the end of our second of three legs. We'll be making a stop in St. Catherines!

June 15 Day 19, Gravenhurst

Seeing Arvid on the bike is something behold. Day 1 was one thing. We kind of expected that an ultra marathon cyclist can do a day of this sort extreme biking. But 18 days and counting worth? We shake our heads. We see a man going up hill carrying a combined total of between 280 and 320 pounds. He's absolutely right when he gave an interview on the roadside via phone today. He sat down on what we figure was a garbage bin and told the interviewer what he does challenges "mental toughness." As if the physical part wasn't enough!

The kids find creative ways to have a good time on the bike. They went through some smaller highways giving them a chance to see some of the cottage country here in Muskoka.

We had our evening event at Calvary Baptist. Lydia shared her testimony. And Ndondo got to meet some people who had been to Kenya and also some who are going to be in Eldoret in a couple of weeks! Small world.

A big thanks to Sue Thiessen of Eastview for your hard work in coordinating all the greeting cards. We read them each day and they are such an inspiration. Please say a very big thank you to all the kids who made them for us. We appreciate them.

Tomorrow we are off to a school event in Collingwood and an evening event in Waterloo/Kitchener!

June 14 Day 18, Sudbury - Ice Cream, Observations and T-Shirts

Arvid issued a challenge to our three young Kenyans who, even in the warm weather, wear a few layers of clothing. "The first kid who has the courage to wear shorts on the bike gets an ice cream," he said. And, sure enough, the future accountant Paul Gachoka, braved the 30C weather and donned a pair of shorts. Mmmm. Mint ice cream with chocolate is sooooo good. Gachoka says it tastes "sweet." Arvid then finished cycling 206 kilometres in humid, hot weather in to Sudbury.

Bob and Donna joined the Spoke team in Winnipeg and are taking us all the way to St. Catherines. Says Bob: "So if you're a part of this team, does that make you a spokesperson?"

The kids have had a number of astute observations of Canada in comparison with Kenya. Sitting back there on the bike gives them an opportunity to see some of the differences with their home country. Here are a few of them:

1.  There's electricity everywhere.
2.  Clean public toilets with tissue paper.
3.  Trees all over.
4.  It's clean. Streets and cities don't have garbage
5.  No beggars on the sides of the road.
6.  Good roads and highways.
7.  People are in cars. There aren't many people walking to their destinations.

We had our evening event at the All Nations Church in Sudbury. Paul Gachoka gave his testimony. Pastor Josh Sklar and Francine gave the team Sudbury t-shirts on behalf of the church and the City of Sudbury. Afterwards Josh and some of the team had an impromptu basketball game. Thank you so much for having us.

Tomorrow we are off to Gravenhurst!

June 13 Day 17, Thessalon

Yesterday at the campground was a biking first for Paul and Mumina. They found a kid's bike at the Twilight campground in Montreal River. It's official. They rode a bike for the very first time! "I did it! I did it!" shouted Mumina.

On the bigger bike, Arvid cycled through Sault Ste. Marie and stopped in Thessalon. The weather today was quite humid. Arvid also passed through the famous 1 mile hill that Terry Fox did from the other direction. At the motel we had a pizza supper where Arvid wolfed down 9 pieces... at last count.

Ndondo and Paul B gave an update on 100 Huntley Street this morning. As the team was not in cell range they stopped in at the Voyageurs' Lodge in Batchawana Bay. While Ndondo and Paul gave the interview, the owners turned 100 Huntley Street on in the restaurant for everyone to see! Afterwards, the kids came in a gave a short program to the patrons. What a cool, unplanned thing to have happen.

A few comments from today:

Ruth: We've had some incredible views already this morning!
Paul L: I know.
Ruth: Lake Superior...
Paul L (interrupting): The back of my eyelids were just beautiful!

Paul L to Arvid in Sault Ste. Marie during a media shoot: Don't worry about the paparazzi! ÊJust bike!

Paul L: No hotels 'til Toronto.
Kevin: Oh, better buy some more "Red Bull" (Red Bull is a powerful energy drink).

A big thanks to all the media who came out. We really appreciate the help you provide in getting the word out about helping street children in Kenya.

The evening event was at the Thessalon Bible Chapel where Mumina gave his testimony.

Have a great day everyone and thank you for your prayers and support.

Tomorrow we are on our way to Sudbury!

June 12 Day 16, Montreal River - Perseverance

Day 16 proved to be a watershed day. In pushing from Marathon to Montreal River, Arvid exemplified the kind of courage warriors are made of: "This will be a character building day," he said. "Given the distance required, the hilly terrain and the strong head winds, it will give us an opportunity to increase our ability to persevere under challenging circumstances... We must keep sunshine in our attitudes."

And persevere he did. Wawa was the midpoint of our journey. So Arvid has now made it just over half way to our destination of Halifax.

Arvid: How far from Wawa to Montreal River?
Team: About 103 km.
Paul L: That's only a hop, skip and a jump for you.

Arvid has a short brush cut. In relating the OT story of Elisha and the bear that attacked the men who made fun of him for being bald, Arvid says: "You know the moral of the story? Don't make fun of the bald guy!"

The team gave an update on GodTalk and will also give an update Monday morning on 100 Huntley.

May you be encouraged in the challenges you are facing today and continue to persevere.

Thank you for your prayers and support.

June 11 Day 15, Marathon - The Final Frontier Begins

Fifteen. The final frontier. These are the voyages of the Spoke2005 team. Today Arvid has boldy gone where he has never gone before. He has previously cycled 14 days straight. But on this journey he is breaking new ground. With hills and some steep pedaling he has succeeded yet again and continues to defy the team with his ability to press on to his mission. We've reached the halfway point of the Canadian Safari.

Keen observations continue to flood the Spoke2005 team. Particularly in the support vehicle. Says Kevin about watermelon: "It's water food...you know...crunchy water."

We made it in to Marathon safe and sound and had a great evening. Special thanks to the Marathon Baptist Church for hosting us. It was fun to hang out with you. Lydia gave her testimony tonight and it was great that Arvid could be with us. In fact, our whole team was here! Featured below is the Leg 2 team.

Standing (l to r): Lydia, Bob, Ndodno, Kevin, Mumina, Paul L, Arvid, Ruth
Ground (l to r): Donna, Paul G, Paul B

Thank you to each of you for your ongoing prayers and support. It means so much not simply to us, but to orphaned children in Kenya.

Tomorrow we are plotting a course for Montreal River.

Engage.

June 10 Day 14, Thunder Bay - Nearly half way!...

Arvid continued at a great pace under decent weather (and by decent we mean not having to climb the rockies in 35C weather, or having to battle brutal winds and torrential rain in the prairies!) He made it past his destination of Thunder Bay and continue on eastward.

The Spoke2005 adventure continues to be an impact on the crew. Our Ma and Pa for this leg of the trip are Bob and Donna. Says Donna: "I'm reminded of the power of prayer and I'm reminded to pray for all things including lost glasses... and to thank God for everything He is doing."

The day was filled with interesting road side stops to say the least. Plus, we've seen a lot of bears. Mmmm...maybe that's why Arvid is cycling so fast.

Thank you for your encouraging comments and faithful prayers.

Tomorrow we're off to Marathon!

June 9 Day 13, Ignace

Arvid had an exceptionally fast day today. He started this morning at 4:30 and made great time. He travelled past the day-end stop point of Ignace and continued further east. The support crew took notice of the speed:

Says Kevin, "Today's uphills are faster than yesterday's flats!"

Arvid, feeling good and healthy, joked to his son Paul and driving mate Kevin in the support vehicle: "You must be getting poor gas mileage at that speed."

In spite of the staggering distances Arvid covers each day, he has an innate ability to keep focused and yet relaxed. ÊHe even manages to catch the crew off guard:

Arvid: Did you see that heard of bison in the ditch?
Paul and Kevin: No.
Arvid: Neither did I.

Genorosity. That's a one word description for people we've met all along this journey. Today a promoter heard about us and donated a case of water to the cause. Thanks very much to you and to all the others who have given us discounts on rooms and who have stopped us to give donations to rescuing street children.

Tonight's program at Igance Gospel Church featured Paul Gachoka giving his testimony. We had a great opportunity to talk with people afterwards and share more about the work of MCF. And, as usual, the kids made instant friends. Lydia, Paul and Mumina have been just fantastic.

Tomorrow we're off to Thunder Bay! So stay tuned for further updates and thank you for your prayers and encouragement.

June 8 Day 12, Kenora

Arvid battled through pouring rain in much of Manitoba today. But a bright spot came when a group of workers from a Manitoba nursery invited him to stop in. The kids gave an impromptu program under grey skies to warm people. Arvid then continued all the way through to Kenora facing head winds much of the way. Bob, Donna, Kevin and Paul all had their first day on Spoke and really enjoyed it.

At the restaurant prior to the meal a family overheard the Kenyans speaking Swahili. He inquired about what we were doing and when we mentioned we are supporting a street children's rescue in Kenya he gave us a donation. Thank you to each of you throughout this trip who have stopped us and given a donation. Your genorosity goes a long way.

We had our evening program at First Baptist. Mumina gave his testimony. It continues to amaze people how these children have been transformed by MCF and the great work that is being done there. Mumina wants to become a pilot.

Tomorrow we're heading on to Ignace! Stay posted and thank you for your support.

June 7 Day 11, Winnipeg

What a great day in our home town of Winnipeg. Arvid was busy doing interviews on his only non-cycling day of the journey. We got realy good exposure in Winnipeg and throughout Canada. In the evening we had supper at church followed by our evening program. Joy Smith, MP made a special trip to support the Spoke2005 project. She gave great words of encouragement to the team in raising support for orphans in Kenya. She had special presentations and also flags for our Kenyan friends. It also marked the official release of Father to the Fatherless, The Charles Mulli story. After the evening event we had a booksigning and a time for people to get together.

A big thank you to each of you for your support. It was great to see so many of you out. What a super send off to the second leg of the journey!

Tomorrow the team begins leg two of the journey with our first stop being in Kenora

June 6 Day 10, Winnipeg - First Leg Complete!

A triumphant Arvid Loewen cycled down Memorial Blvd onto the Legislative property today at 5:00 p.m. to mark the completion of the first third of his White Rock, BC to Halifax NS journey. That's an average of 240 kilometers over 10 days! He was greeted by friends, family and media as he completed this milestone event. Arvid says he's doing well. He'll be taking tomorrow (June 7) to conduct media interviews and will be speaking at the 6:30 p.m event at North Kildonan MB, 1315 Gateway Road.

Today also marks the last official day of the Leg 1 Team of Spoke2005. Our crew is: Top Row - Stephanie, Ruth, Arvid, Ndondo, Josh, David, Paul Boge. Bottom Row - Hermine, Paul Gachoka, Munina, Lydia. A very big thank you to each of you for your dedication, persistence and passion for this venture. What a great opportunity its been to work together to make a difference in the lives of children in Africa. Be blessed in all your endeavours and know that your contribution has changed the lives of children. Continuing on for the next two legs will be Ruth, Arvid, Ndondo, Paul Boge, Paul Gachoka, Mumina and Lydia. We welcome Bob, Donna, Kevin and Paul Loewen to Leg 2 of our journey that begins Wednesday, June 8.

MLA Bonnie Mitchelson met our African friends and the Spoke2005 team in front of the Leg. The media had a great time intervieweing Arvid and the kids both on the grounds and on the way in about their adventure so far. Thank you to all of you for your time.

A big thank you to everyone for your prayers and encouragement.

Tomorrow is a media and rest/prep day. There's also an evening event. Then on Wednesday Arvid is back in action as he leads the team to Kenora en route to our goal of Halifax!

June 5 Day 9, Brandon - Go West Winds Go!

Today Arvid was finally helped by the weather! After eight days of battling unexpected heat in BC, pouring rain through Alberta, and cross winds in Saskatchewan, a tail wind helped our ultra-marathon cyclist through part of the journey today. Below is a landmark Manitoba border picture which shows Arvid with Paul Gachoka.

Says Arvid Loewen, "As cyclists we're pretty tough. Rain, cold, heat, we can handle these things. But what can you do with wind?"

Still, even while battling brutal conditions, Arvid is an example in attitude and mental toughness who never misses an opportunity to joke around with the kids and crew before taking to the highway and pursuing the mission.

It was also a big day for Paul Gachoka who gave his testimony to the people at McDermid Drive Alliance in Brandon. He talked about being on the streets and being rescued by MCF. The kids brought another enthusiastic program to the people complete with a developing repetoire of improv actions :0)

Well Spoke fans, tomorrow is Day 10 and we'll be arriving in Winnipeg! For those of you in the 'Peg, don't forget to stop by and see us at 6:30 at North Kildonan MB, 1315 Gateway Road. We have a great event planned for you.

Thank you again for your continued prayers and support. We recognize that those of us privileged to be on the road are only the tip of the iceberg of the network of people who are behind this project seeking to helped orphans in Africa.

See you soon!

June 4 Day 8, A man on a unique journey

It's beyond description to see what Arvid is doing. How can a man cycle this long and be in as good health as he is and still find time to joke around with the crew on breaks? He's a man on a unique journey with a consuming passion for helping street children in Kenya through Mully Children's Family. And he's doing it right here in Canada. Cross winds played a roll today but Arvid still made it to Regina.

Our crew is privileged to have the daughter of orphanage founder Charles Mulli with us. In reflecting on what it's like for her to be watching Arvid on his Spoke2005 mission, Ndondo says: "I see a person who is living beyond himself. He is living for others. The faith in Jesus and the heart he has for the children is what is keepig him on the bike."

While we have three African children rotating on the bike we thought we'd take just a second for Stephanie Loewen to get on board. She and Josh are in the support vehicle that follows Arvid.

The children were interviewed prior to the evening event. It's so great to see how comfortable and genuine they are with reporters. Tonight Lydia gave a compelling testimony about what life was like before MCF and what it is like now that she has a future. 15 year old Lydia plans to become a Pediatrician.

The Spoke2005 team thank you for you faithful support and prayers.

Tomorrow we'll be back in Manitoba with a stop in Brandon! Stayed posted, Spoke fans, as we'll let you know when we'll be arriving in Winnipeg.

June 3 Day 7, Good Health

Arvid's health is as good as he was hoping for after seven days. He's been averaging 14 hour days so far. Today saw a mix of cloud and rain. The wind was light and the ground was flat :0) Arvid still manages to crack jokes with the crew when he comes in for break.

The kids are doing well and are a real joy. They always draw a great response from the media and the people at the evening programs. Says Arvid's wife Ruth "We have met wonderful folks at each evening venue and look forward to sharing this message with more people as we head east".

The media continue to be great and show keen interest in this Canadian guy helping internationally. Arvid comes off his bike for short meal breaks then will hit the phone or get stopped on the way for an interview. Thanks media!

The evening program featured Mumina Ndumi giving his life story about being rescued as an orphan. He spoke in Swahili and Ndondo translated.

Tune in tomorrow Spoke fans as we venture on to Regina!

June 2 Day 6, Can anybody say RAIN!!!?

Arvid did yet another amazing job today battling brutal 'liquid sunshine'. The wind shifted between west and northwest which offered some solace to our water-soaked champion. The children were protected from the rain and were not riding during inclement weather. They are doing so well it makes us wonder if they've been here for years already.

A taxi happened to stop the motorhome and offered us a donation. He said he saw us on tv and was really proud of what were doing.

Speaking of media, the local and national media have been just fantastic. People have really taken to Arvid's international cause. A big thank you to all those of you today who braved the rain to come out and see Arvid.

For those of you across Canada we'll be on 100 Huntely Street on Monday June 6. We'll also be on CTVs Canada A.M on Tuesday as well as It's A New Day on Tuesday. We'll also be doing weekly updates on GodTalk (Sunday nights at www.godtalkradio.ca) as well as on 100 Huntely Street on Monday mornings.

The evening event went really well. Ndondo gave a testimony about what it means to give 100% of what you have to serve the poor. Arvid gave a great illustration of what it means for the west to help the poorer countries. Paul Gachoka gave his testimony and the kids sang songs which are always a big hit. One of the families is putting us up for the night in their home. Thanks very much.

Thank you to each of you for your undying dedication and prayers.

Tomorrow we're off to Swift Current!

June 1 Day 5, The only sunshine today is in your attitude.

Spoke2005 continues to make progress under Arvid's consistent and faithful pedalling. Arvid cycled under rainy skies through Calgary and continue on the way to Strathmore before returning to the Dalhousie Community Church event in cowtown. 15 year old Kenyan Lydia braved most of the rain. After coming off her shift Arvid told her "The only sunshine today is in your attitude". And the same can be said for all of our African friends as the pictures below will show.

We had an evening event at Dalhousie Community Church where Lydia shared her testimony.

Thanks to everyone for your faithful support.

Tomorrow we're off to Medicine Hat!

May 31 Day 4, A battle through the rain.

Arvid and the team made it safely to Lake Lluise. Arvid had to battle through some rainy weather which proves to be the unique experience for Mumina who was riding at the back at the time. Arvid is in good health and made it safely through Rogers Pass.

Arvid and Lydia gave a great interview with the Calgary Sun which will be printed in the edition in time for the Calgary event.

Tomorrow we are off to Calgary for a 7:30 event at Dalhousie Community Church!

May 30 Day 3, Another intense day of climbing.

It was another intense day of climbing as Arvid cycled from Vernon to within 15 kilometres of Glacier. It afforded him the opportunity to join us at the evening event at Revelstoke Baptist Fellowship where he shared his story of the water bottle that is half filled with Pacific water. Having Arvid at the event was a great touch as people got a chance to meet the man who is taking on this unique challenge.

The motorhome needed a transmission repair and so in order to keep our evening event, Bob Cowan of the Vernon Mennonite church offered to drive the Kenyans and Paul the 2.5 hour distance from Vernon to Revelstoke. He stopped on the highway on the way over for the Kenyas to touch frigid river water Ð quite the change from the Thika River back home!

The motor home was repaired by a Christian couple who got David and Hermine on their way so that they made it safe and sound to the event on time. A big thanks to them for their generous help.

Tim Loveday of Revelstoke Fellowship was a big help in organizing the event and helping us with transportation. He even fed us a lasagna supper at the church. The people at the Super 8 hotel, who attend the church, offered to give us our rooms for free because of the cause. The generosity seems to have no end.

The evening event was a real blessing to people Ð especially a girl who is interested in becoming a missionary to Africa.

The kids were really excited to see their story in the Globe and Mail. We also had a front page picture of Arvid and Paul Gachoka in the Daily Courier, Vernon Edition. A huge thanks to the media for their continued enthusiasm.

Thank you to each of you for your ongoing prayers and support.

Stay tuned as we travel tomorrow to Banff/Lake Louise!

May 29th Day 2, Finding time for Jokes

Hello everyone! We've had a great day today. Arvid is doing well and has shown incredible stamina throughout the climbs today. He even finds time to crack jokes when we stop to rotate the children. The picture of him with the trees in the background tells the story - a man determined, a man with a mission that we are rallying around to support for this great cause of rescuing street children.

The Globe and Mail interviewed us via phone today. It will be in the May 30th paper (Monday). They spoke with us for nearly half an hour while we were stopped on the highway for a break. This is a real break through because it is national media. A friend of ours, Maureen Kehler, has been very instrumental in lining these up. (Thanks so much Maureen!) Mumina had a great time chatting it up with the reporter. He told her his favourite food is hamburger!

There's a shot of the MCF kids and Ndondo praying. It was such a cool moment that it needed to be in today's update. The kids are doing really well. Laughing a lot and having a good time. Always willing to help and go the second (and fiftieth) mile.

We had lunch in Kelowna with some friends courtesy of Rick and Emily Wilgosh. It was good to catch up with old acquaintances and be encouraged in our work. The kids gave a presentation just as Arvid rode in to town. Perfect timing.

Dave Balzer and Jerry Bowler had a live update up on us on GodTalk. They will be doing live updates every Sunday evening throughout the trip. We had a great time with them. You can catch the interview on the archives at www.godtalkradio.ca.

We had our evening event at the Vernon Mennonite Church. We are continually impacted by the willingness of churches to take us in to their hearts and show their support for Mully Children's Family. The pastor at VMC, Bob Cowan, has actually been to Mr. Mulli's home in Eldoret back in 1983 so it was great for Ndondo to have another connection here. The evening was great. It's a privilege for our Spoke2005 team to be a part of this. There's something very rewarding at the end of each day when we realize that we've been used to be a part of making a true difference in the lives of street children.

Thank you to each of you for ongoing support in all we do.

Tomorrow we're off to Revelstoke!

May 28th Day 1, The official start of Spoke2005

Today marks the official start of Spoke2005! Arvid dipped half of his water bottle in the Pacific ocean. Inside that water bottle is a picture of Charity, a girl from MCF as well as a Twonie. The twonie represents the wealth of Canada. And when Arvid reaches Halifax he will fill the remaining portion of the water bottle with Atlantic ocean water symbolizing the joining of the material wealth in the west with the need in Africa.

Arvid got off to a good start. The steep climb up the Coquihalla proved to be an even greater challenge as Arvid battled temperatures about 30. He made it in to Merritt and is set to leave again tomorrow (Sunday) morning at 5:00 a.m.

The event at Merritt Baptist Church went very well. The congregation had us down in the basement afterwards where people got better aquainted with Ndondo and the children. In fact, a group of them even took them out to their ranch! Quite the treat for our African friends.

We continue to thank each of you for your prayers and support.

Until tomorrow!

May 27th, Evening at Juergen and Marylu's

Today started off with a big boost from the media. The Globe and Mail, CityTV and 24 hours came out to interview us at Stanley Park. They took a lot of time with us and asked insightful questions about MCF and the Spoke2005 journey. There were also additional media contacts in Western Canada who have already requested interviews as we're travelling.

We spent the evening at Juergen and Marylu's who hosted us for the second consecutive evening with a fantastic supper (thanks Juergen and Marylu! - excellent getting to know you). It was nice to be in their backyard setting. We also had a chance to share the Spoke2005 vision with their guests who came out to support us.

Well folks, tomorrow morning it begins! We'll be leaving White Rock at 5:00 a.m. to begin the 7000km trek across Canada. Our official start to Spoke2005!

Thank you to each of you for your continued support. Talk to you again tomorrow as we press on from White Rock to our frist stop in Merrit.

May 26th, South Abbotsford MB Church

We're off and running! The team met together in Abbotsford and had our first event at the South Abbotsford MB Church. The event went well as we had a chance to meet with friends and a youth group. People have generously hosted us for meals and for lodging. It's been a great start. Tomorrow we have media events lined up. The media have been very receptive and we'll have more updates tomorrow to tell you who we spoke with.

Thank you for all your support.The team is healthy and happy and we're looking forward to our first day on the road this Saturday.

Stay tuned... the Canadian Safari is just beginning!