Life back in Michigan

Hi everyone, thank you for looking on the site. Its been cold and snowy up here. A storm system is coming in tonight, and it may leave 10 inches. I've contacted my ex wife, and I may see the children this weekend. I'm still looking for work, so if God so leads you, please pray that I'll find work so that I can take care of my financial responsibilities. If I can pray for any of you please email me at daniel.gibbs@yahoo.com. I thank God for his provision and for the opportunity to met so many nice people. Merry Christmas, and have a happy new year. Yours in Christ, Daniel

Back in Michigan

I'm back where the journey started. Several people I have met on the journey have recently told me that they though it was time I go back home to Michigan and to reunite with my children. All the conflict that was in Michigan when I left is still here now. Some of the problems seemed to have gotten worse. God is still in control. The last week, he has mercifully lead me, and enabled me to make it back to Grand Rapids. I had a meeting with a court worker today, and there going to put me back in to a work program. I've learned so much in the last 16 months. I thank the good people from Johnson City who so generously provided transportation and food for my trip back to Grand Rapids. So many people have helped me over the past months.
When I left Grand Rapids I had around three dollars, a bicycle and a back pack. Three days later all that was taken. Twenty one bicycles later God still provided. I've purposely not given names of those who have helped. Once in a while I would mention an organization. I believe by experience that God will bless people who give unconditionally with a loving heart. So many people have shown me God on earth. God is Love. Thank you all for all your prayers and support. Yours in Christ, Daniel

Has the journey stopped?

I've been praying for an opportunity to reestablish myself and get in out of the heat, the cold, and the rain and snow. It appears my prayers may be being answered here in Keokuk IA. God's Way Christian Center is allowing me to stay in their transitional house, and I've found work thru a temp service. The company I'm working for does hire in. Its a lot of heavy lifting, and you get quite powdery. Please pray that if this is God's will that the doors will continue to stay open, yours in Christ, Dan

Working in Iowa

I've been working in a food processing plant here in Keokuk. A local church has been so kind to let me stay in their transitional home. A nice lady has offered to give me a ride back and forth to work. As I asked you to pray if this was God's will, have it go smothly. It has gone smothly. Please continue to keep me in your prayers, a I will you as well. Daniel

God's Will?

I'm currently in the city of Keokuk IW. There may be a job opportunity here for me. I pray if its God's will it will go smoothly, if not I pray the door closes. I was able to take part in the Crop walk yesterday. Some friendly people from the local Presbyterian church have helped me with a motel for a couple of nights and food. It has been so nice to see fellow Christians helping me. The world views them as fools, but I believe the Bible that plainly states that they will be blessed. I do hope God will bless all the wonderful people who have helped me over the last 14 months. Please pray God directs my steps today. Have a great day, daniel.gibbs@yahoo.com

Winters Closing In

I'm still in Iowa. It rained most of the day yesterday, it was supposed to get down to 38. Tonight down to 33. Its a beautiful sunny day. I purchased Green Slime to re pair a flat front tire and bought bug spray. I was getting eaten up by mosquito's. I've been unable to come across clean gym shorts or sweet pants. I was able to get a sweet shirt for tonight. I'm still trying to arrange a shower, but its not looking good. The county bought be some groceries and I'm ready to start moving South. I have a new Cold Sore and my neck is really stiff from sleeping on some tree roots. It was really muddy, but I had to put the tent up fast for rain was approaching and the mosquito's were bit ting like crazy. I'm continuing South, have a great day, your friend Daniel

Sleeping in Davenport

Last night I slept near the Davenport, Iowa that is, swimming pools and nice people. The social services I have been allowed to share in have not once made me show my social security card or any thing. They just helped. It's so refreshing. I know communities can get over whelmed and must come up with a way of controlling social services, and not duplicate services, for some people do take advantage of charities, and people that need the help can't get it. I tried to post in Rochester MN., but the computer wouldn't allow me to. I've had such an adventuresome couple of weeks. The road thru MN. and Iowa was very hilly with often, no shoulders on the road. I'm trying to follow a designated bike route called the MRT.( Mississippi River Trail) Its still under development, so I end up losing it. A nice Grandma, daughter, and grand daughter directed me to the Illinois side of the river where I found a nice trail the last 60 miles or so. Now I'm back in Iowa, I think, following the trail again. The trail is so fragmented, it will be wonderful when they complete it. Nice bicycle shops in Bellevue and Debueque Iowa have helped keep my 26 inch bicycle going. Its to small, and over burdened, but continues to provide for my transportation needs. Yesterday I was able to share with a man from Clinton Iowa how God has been working in my life. His daughter, like myself, has had addiction problems, she'll be getting out of prison in the spring. They say you stop, or you'll end up in prison or dead. By the grace of God I write to you today. He is so kind, faithful, and forgiving. I left town with 3 dollars, thru the kind acts of loving people I've been able to be out here for over 400 days. Please pray that God will give me clear direction for my journey, and that his will, will be done in my life as well as for our country. May our needs always be met, and some of our wants to. Thank you all for your sharing your lives with me. Please remember if its not love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self control, its not God. This applies not only to our personal lives, but to our government and law makers to. May he continue to cover us with his grace and mercy, all of us, have a great day, Daniel

38 States, 19 bikes, 6000 miles

Greetings from Wisconson. I crossed the Mississippi about 20 minutes ago. Its been cool and rainy around here. My bike is down to 1 gear and the chain keeps locking up. Over night the cold rain has caused the hard woods to start changing color. Yesterday I stayed in the tent and prayed and read all day. I read the last half of Mathiew. The roads are hilly and narrow, I'm happy traffic has been light. I didn't imagine this part of the country being this beautiful, but it is. The hills seem as high as mountains and the valleys are deep and the roads curve thru them.On a more serious side, a few people have suggested it might be time for me to go back home. Although the thought of maybe sleeping in doors for a while is apealing, I just wonder if it's time to go back yet. When Saul was trying to kill David, David didn't hang around town, he waited for God to work. I honestly feel this is why I'm on the road. I see many changes going on, I know all things work for the good". Maybe if enough rich lawyers feel the pressure of this ecconomy, they might trickle down some grace and compasion. Maybe not, thats in God's hands. Pray for my direction, Daniel

Twin Cities

The 70 or so miles along the Mississippi are part of the National Park Service. It is such a treasure. I was traveling a long The Minnesota river right before it merges into the Mississippi and felt such a peace. I went to a overlook area and read a sign that explained that the native American people considered this spot sacred. It was weird. I sensed a strong spiritual presence before I read the sign. Experiences like this help convince me that God is bigger than a book. I love the Bible, but I've experienced So much God in nature and in the world thru miracles that happen daily. St. Paul is a big city. As in most big cities homeless services are stretched thin and its hard to get social services. When you get to organizations there usually quite impersonal and cold. The homeless population can be a little grabby towards my worldly possessions. ( my bicycle and tent) I like hanging around small towns and suburbs because they don't want my stuff. Unfortunately they usually don't want me. Its getting cooler around here. Last night it rained. Highs will be only in the 60's and lows in the 40's. Its good riding weather. I'm planning on riding out of here soon. I visited university of MN. campus yesterday. A lot of bikes. The National Park trail cuts right thru the campus. Beautiful view of downtown Minneapolis. I hope everyone is doing good, have a great day, Daniel

Beautiful Minnisota

I continue to be so impressed with the beauty of this area of the country. I went to a library yesterday and they had a county bike trail map. It is so nice to get trail maps. Quite a few states have had state bicycle maps. Wisconsin and Minnesota have not. It makes it harder to get around on bike. I'm in a different county now and I wish I had one of their maps. Often the Internet offers maps, but the sites want money for them. I'll probably try to find a visitors center and see if they have a map. I've already been on some nice trails around this city, I would just like to know where they lead. Down town St. Paul is so modern and clean. The library here is quite old, but its so elegant. Its going to be in the mid 80s today, then cool off tomorrow. My clothes were getting a little stale. I stopped at a St. Vincent Depaul and they very kindly, gave me a new set. To marrow is only going to be in the 60s with lows in the 40s. I was given a sweet shirt to help keep me warm. Thank you God for all your blessings. I was reminded again yesterday that just having my bike, my back pack, and my tent I'm wealthier than 90 percent of the world. I'm not sure I've always been appreciative of this fact. I'm not sure on how many of us thank him for all he has given us. Thank you for reading and have a great day, yours in Christ, daniel.gibbs@yahoo.com

Hi from the twin cities

I finally made it to suburbs of St. Paul. Last night I was in Hastings. For a small community they have a real nice bicycle trail system. The Gorge that the Vermillion river cut through this town is impressive and beautiful. Today in Inver Grove I met a nice man at a MacDonald's and I was able to witness of God's love and faithfulness. I've been fighting a resentment in my heart. I keep forgetting that with my bicycle and back pack I'm richer than 90 percent of the world. God has blessed us as a country and people so much. I pray our leaders have wisdom and discernment during these troubled times. May God always provide for our needs, and may he touch our hearts to be more like his own. May he have mercy on us. The sign has said " Peace" with a cross for over a week now. I don't have a real good way of fastening a bigger sign at this time. I would like to change the sign to " great is His faithfulness" I kept hearing that song over and over as I rode down the road yesterday. Have a great day, daniel.gibbs@yahoo.com

Its beautiful up here

The bicycle ride along the Mississippi has been wonderful. Theres been a nice shoulder to ride on, and its been basically flat. I ducked into Wisconsin at Lacrosse. I found some terrific bicycle trails, but as seems to be a trend, they were pay to use. I would have to come up with 20.00. Being this is more than 1/3 of my net worth I had to decline. Even the library here in Lake city made me pay for computer access. This is the 1st library any where in the country that has done this. If our government doesn't bail out the investment companies their might not be any one around to pay to use the trails. The country clubs may have to shut down, or God forbid open their doors to the public. That will bring a lot of prayers up. God, please don't let the poor on our trails or our golf clubs. If congress doesn't act immediately many will lose their golf carts. To hear they want to spend a trillion dollars and not help one person save their house is not only baffling, but I must admit I got angry. God forgive me. I truly don't ever want to condemn any one. If I was a rich investor I would want the government giving me a bunch of money also. God is in charge, what I think, probably makes no difference to any one on this planet, the only person that gets hurt by me getting angry is myself. I'm sorry if any of you lost money during the past year , months, and weeks, I reassert no body will take it with them, trust God, not any government, church, pastor, or investment company. I love my country, I pray God has compassion on me, you, and our country. May he always provide for our needs, and may our wants become closer to his wants during this time of trouble in our. Love in Christ, Daniel

Night in doors

I often feel convicted when I judge others, or institutions. I spent the night at the Salvation Army in La Crosse WI. I've criticised this charity because I didn't like how they run things several times during my journey. I have noticed, as a whole this charity seems to be focusing on helping families rather than homeless men. In actuality the Salvation army has helped me with food, clothing, and even shelter a few times. I remember back in the early 90's you could count on getting a bunk at any given lodge. Like the rest of the world they've changed. I do thank God the Army is still here helping others. I lay ed on my mattress on the floor last night and I watched this 60 some old lady go around and make sure the 25 or so men were behaving and doing what we promised to do by agreeing to stay at the lodge. This lady 2 hrs. earlier gave me a voucher for a change of clothing. What a blessed man I am that I live in a country where this is still available. The bigger the metro area the harder it probably is to run a service like the Army offers in a compassionate and intimate way. It makes such a difference where you are, with how they run things. I thank God that He's taken care of my needs through so many different institutions and people. I got a chance to witness of God's love to a man named John today. I'm at a public library getting free Internet access. God is good. I hope everyone can go to and experience God's peace during this difficult time in our countries history. May we all thank him and appreciate all he does for us, and may He have mercy on all of us. Have a great day, yours in Christ, daniel.gibbs@yahoo.com

Beautiful weather beautiful trail

South East Minn. has a wonderful trail in the root river trail. I've been on 53 miles of asphalt trail. The res another 6 mile or so extension I have not been on. The res been so many friendly people on the trail. The res been a nice mixture of rolling farm land, prairies, forests and rivers loaded with fish. I've seen many deer. They call this area the bluffs. All along the root river there are high bluffs overlooking the stream. I've talked to quite a few locals that went through a bad flood 13 months ago. A lady at the visitors center in Rushford feared the town wouldn't make it through another. The Central Iowa area had it worse this year, this area had it worse last year. Today a very generous donor donated my 19th bicycle. I'm recovering from a cold, its been hard to motivate myself to get up and go. They have a wonderful nature center here in Houston. The town and people are so bicycle friendly. God is still working in the hearts of many. May he be with all of us and draw us closer during this time of uncertainty. have a great day, daniel.gibbs@yahoo.com

Hot to Cold

It is chilly today. It wasn't long ago it was so hot I couldn't sleep. Today I've been fighting a bitter North wind blowing in my face. I've been zig zagging through Iowa. They have so many nice rail trails here. Its been such a nice surprise to see so many nice trails and trail systems. As I found in Virginia, they have nice cycle trails here, but their state highways have very few shoulders for riding. Here I've been able to take county roads that are less traveled and in better repair. I expect to make it in to Minnisota today or tomarrow. It will be nice to see the sun again. MY bicycle sprocket came loose again, a man at a Ford dealership let me use a wrench to tighten it up again. I tried to stop at a Mc Donolds for Coffee and a warm up, but it was closed for repairs. I'll go now, have a great day, daniel.gibbs@yahoo.com

Thanks for the tent

Boy did it come down last night. I'm staying in a woods off a bicycle trail. Its a little muddy, but seems to be remote enough so that I won't be bothering any one. My warm up suit got quite muddy yesterday. I rode around 40 miles or so. I escaped most of the rain during the day but it was wet enough to have the back tire splash me pretty good. The mugginess and humidity had me very uncomfortable by the time I stopped. The big news around here is that Iowa just beat Iowa State. I stopped at a garage sale and bought a fresh shirt and a pair of pants. Its nice to feel clean again. I was able to clean up at the library restroom. I still must find a clean pair of socks, this is way over due. If I found a very cheap pair of shoes I may buy them also. Iowa Falls has a wonderful bicycle trail system, theres some type of festival going on. I was able to witness of God's faithfulness to a nice young lady from Minnesota. I pray God continues to draw all of us closer than that he will have mercy on all of us. Have a great day, daniel.gibbs@yahoo.com

Skys are still dark

I was able to ride 50 miles or so yesterday. A church let me stay on their property last night. I was woke up this morning to a large back hoe removing trees from the Iowa river. It was a beautiful stretch of river. I'm grateful the church let me stay on their property. They were very reluctant. Most church around the country would say no. They would not let me use their rest room. The fear that has entrenched our country is very cold and hardening. I some times feel sad when I see coldness in the Church's. We have such an opportunity to stick out in this day and age. We are suppose to be different. Like no other time in my life time society has made it so abnormal to show love and affection to strangers. It can be such a cold world. I thank God and the people that He's used for all the love they've shown me over the last months. He who helps a prophet will get a prophets reward. I stand on God's promise that he will do what he claims and I rejoice at how he will bless so many. Have a great day, yours in Christ, Daniel

Rain day

I'm currently in Ames Iowa. Home of Iowa State University. I was able to take a bicycle trail 28 miles North of Des Moines to a place called Salorville. It is an Army Core of Engineers dam project. It is a beautiful area. Last night a Baptist church allowed me to camp on their property. The pastor shared some bread they had in their kitchen. Its a growing church. It was nice to see a church with a mid week service. Around the country its getting harder to find them. It looks like heavy rain comming this way on radar, I'll wait for it to go thru before going further North. Have a great day, Daniel

DesMoines Trails

The sign still reads "soon" with a cross. It rained last night. I'm grateful for the tent. I stayed next to a creek 30 miles from DesMoines. I went on a bicycle trail that extends 18 miles south of town. I've seen many nice trails in the city and on the map. Its cloudy and around 70. I'm thinking I may try to find a place to take a shower and change my shift. The bikes still hanging in there. A nice guy gave me some bread sticks for lunch. I hope all of you are having a great day, your friend Dan

Another State

Today's sign reads " Soon" with a cross. I woke up this morning to a flat tire. I thank the nice man from Cameran that bought me a pump. I was able to pump up the tire and make it to Walmart to put green slime in the tire. It looks like it finally sealing it. I've had to put air back in it 3x or so. A lot of farm country. I made it through Missouri and I'm now in Iowa. My tooth is pretty much healed. My shoulder is still sore. The road is mostly rolling hills with farms. The cows and horses get entertained when I ride by. I've went by quite a few Amish buggy's. My email is daniel.gibbs@yahoo.com. I hope all of you have a great night, your friend Daniel

Thank you God

Riding thru Kansas was tougher than it looked on the map. By the way its not totally flat. The hot temps that have followed me from Washington State continued up until this morning. Yesterday afternoon a cold front came thru and it rained all day today. I was very cold. I stopped by a church around 11 to see if they had coffee and a preacher took me out for lunch. I went to a church this evening and a very nice guy took me to Walmart, bought me a tent and supplies and paid for a motel. Missouri is proving to be a state with some real nice people. This has happened just in time. I have so many mosquito bites. The abscess in my mouth is healing. My shoulder is still sore from the bicycle accident I had earlier in the week. I really needed this night inside. I want to thank the special person who has generously provided for me this evening, and thank you God for your faithfulness. "If my people who are called by my name humble themselves and pray and turn from their wicked ways, then I will hear from heaven and heal their land". I'm riding across the country I love and we need to pray and turn to Him. Thank you for reading the site and I pray you pray this prayer with me. Have a great day, Daniel

Its Hot out here

Hi, I've made it thru Colorado and into Kansas. was hitch hiking along I 80 when a man in a truck picked me up ant took me to his house in Hutchinson. He let me work a couple of days, which enabled me to buy a used bike at the salvation army. I went NE from there. My seat fell a part so I detoured to the city of Emporia. A nice lady at a down town cycle shop gave me a used seat on the house. I spent 2 nights at their mission and cleaned, and rested up. The heat has been Waring me out. I have so many mosquito bites. Yester day my bike was broke down on the side of the road and a man that owned a bike shop stopped and picked me up and fixed the bike. He is 75 years old and participates in 20k races. So many nice people out here. Today I entered my 30th state on this adventure. I've made mistakes, spiritual, physical, and mental, but God is faithful, he has not left me nor forsaken me. Late last night going down a hill my front brake broke and wedged in my tire , which cause me and my bike to tip over. I had a hard time with the accident. My shoulder is still sore. There was a few minutes where I was much less than happy about what happened. I'm so sorry God for blaming you, and thank you for being there with me. Rain and cold is cumming next, this will be a big change. I'm battling lack of sleep due to mosquitoes and hot temps. When I get overly tired I'm pro an to have negative attitude. Again God is faithful. All ready today I was able to shower and change my clothes here in St. Joseph. I told a group of young insurance agents I would give them a mention on the blog. Four early 20's young people in an insurance co vehicle picked me up hitch hiking and gave me a ride to Colorado Springs. They bought me lunch and gave me a 20. Looking at their car, age, and prosperity, I would say this was close to impossible. People are still allowing God to work thru their hearts, thanks guy es your friend Dan








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Bicycle problems/heat ground bike

I left the SanJuans on bicycle heading for Colorado. Fifty or sixty miles down the road my bicycle broke down. I caught rides thru the Northern Cascades, which is beautiful, into Cordelene ID. I bought a bicycle for 10 dollars. It made it 100 miles south. Temps over 100 and to small of bike helped me to decide to catch rides again. I spent 2 days in Boise ID. St. Vincent Depaul gave me a voucher for a bike. Like many its rear rim was to weak for heavy travel. I've been used to 60 degree temps in coastal WA. This 100 degree desert heat is difficult for me, as far as riding is concerned. I went over 100 miles on public transit thru the Utah Valley. What a nice prosperous place. An LDS church let me spend the night n their picknick area. I've met many nice people on the road here. I've been on the road 11 days now. So many rides, so many nice people, so much beautiful scenery. I clearly heard God tell me to come here, after I asked for prayer for direction. Have a great day, and thank you for reading the site, God bless you all. Daniel

Bike lands on SanJuan

Some times you can just feel divine intruvention. I was headed down a road towards Oak Harbor WA. and I stopped at a hurch picknick and one thing lead to another and I was at a church dinner then on a ferry to SanJuan Island. They have a state park devoted to watching Killer Whales. I was on a cliff over looking the ocean and I saw about 10 of them. I think about 80 make the island's their home. Todays sign reads " Because of Him" With a large cross using the I as the upright of the cross. God is so faithfull. I had another tire and tube go out and he sent a man to help me with in hours, hes so faithful. I love you all, please pray God will lead my thought pattern, yours in Christ, Daniel

Back in Bellingham

What a few weeks. After staying in Bellingham about a month I felt lead to head down the coast toward San Diego CA. I started off on buses then road some trails between Seattle and Tacoma. Then I was on buses again till the Oregon border. From there I had every intention to ride to San Diego. It was cool and rainy. Oregon has a bicycle route along hw 101 that has camp sites and every thing. There were dozens of other cyclists along the route. On the 4th of July my tire developed a split and the inner tube started squeezing out the side. I stopped at Cannon beach, a popular tourist spot, but the bicycle shop owner was unable to help me with the repairs. He suggested a recycle center in a town 30 miles away or so. While trying to make it there the tire gave way. In Oregon you get 5 cents for pop can returns so I had been collecting them to try to pay the repair bill. As fate would have it my bicycle broke down in front of a church having a pot luck. The ladies at the church were very kind and fixed me a plate of food and a much needed cool beverage. The pastor reluctantly allowed me to stay behind a shed on the church property. Looking at a 40 yr old bicycle with bad brakes 1 gear and a bad tire and tube I determined it was not Worth fixing, so I began to hitch hike. The 2Nd day hitching a Christian man gave me a ride to Ashland OR. A week earlier a bus driver had told me if I had a chance to go to Ashland to go. So when this man offered to take me there I said lets go. The man's father and mother are self supporting missionaries and listening to my story they decided to donate a real nice bicycle. That night I road long after dark trying to find a place to sleep. The next day it was close to 100 degrees. I went over 3 passes before sleeping at a closed rest area in CA. The next day it was mostly down hill. It was over 100 degrees. I had an afternoon swim in the Smith river before hitting a Red Wood Forrest. After a 15 mile ride thru the Forrest I was in 70 degree weather. I was at Cresent City. I was out of food so I found a St. Vincent Depaul. They were unable to help at that time



, but did have some suggestions where I might find some help. The feeding mission there had stopped feeding 5 days a week to 3 days because of lack of funding. The man at the desk was very helpful. He found some food for me and we prayed. He explained to me that no feeding organization had ever made it in Cresent City. They had sold fire works to try to help with the bills. I stopped at a church and they wouldn't allow me to stay on their property. I found a beautiful spot on a cliff over looking the Pacific to sleep. The next day a kind lady gave me 28 dollars out of her own money and an evangelist that preached at the meal gave me 20 dollars. I thank God that he touched some kind hearted Christians to support his sign. I parked the sign in front of the MacDonald's and the Burger King. The air in Cresent City was mixed with the smoke from the forrest fires that plagued the area. Almost every river valley you could see smoke comming in from the mountains. While sitting at Mac Donald's I watched fire vehicles go by. I went up a steep hill out of Cresent City, a family sopped me and inquired about the sign. They were from VA. I made it as far as The Avenue of the Giants. I spent the night in the Red Woods praying. Faced with closed roads to the South and 199 closed to the East and the smell of smoke I decided to head back to Washington. I rode the bike and used public transport to make it back to Bellingham. God used so many nice people to get me back. In this day and age we can really stand out by doing to others as we would want done to ourselves.

Biking Again

I started down the Pacific coast, I used public transportation and bicycle. It was raining a lot. On the 4th of July my bicycle broke down in Mansanita Or. A day later a man gave me a ride to the Medford area and his mother and father gave me a bicycle. From there I went down the Red Wood Highway back to the California coast. On one side of the coastal range it was over 100, on the other it was around 70. To days sign reads " Just a closer ride with him" then a cross. Then the words "savior this my plea". Thank you for your prayers. Your friend Daniel

Riding in Washington

Its been a long time since I've posted. So many things have happened. I haven't felt lead to put the sign back up on my bicycle, but its not impossible it could happen again. I'm entertaining the thought of writing a book. Up till this point I just haven't felt lead to do it. An idea for a book came to me this morning and I'm going to run with it.
I'm currently in Bellingham WA. I'm riding a 1970 JC Penny bicycle that has only 1 gear working. God continues to take care of my needs. There are so many wonderful bicycle trails in this area. I've considered riding from the Canadian border to the Mexican border a long the coast. I just have not heard the call to do it.
I doubt if anyone is still checking the web site, but if you do, I thank you for your prayers and concerns. I pray God continues to show all of us mercy. Have a great day.My email adress is daniel.gibbs@yahoo.com

Trail Walk Ends?

I just can't seem to get my strength back. I've been eating a lot of power bars and taking a lot of vitamins, but I'm still real tired. I got a ride into Damascus early. I'm really considering to get off the trail. If any one reading this feels I shouldn't get off the trail, please pray and/or let me know. I prayed last night and I believe I got a clear answer. Have a great night, your friend Dan

Still Going

God is so faithful. When I've needed him the most he has provided love and support. I'm still fighting fatigue. Some days I feel strong and others In get real tired. It is improving every day.
We had 5 days of rain and clouds, then 5days(about) of sunny weather. Now a cold front has come thru and I've been staying down in Irwin in the lower elevation. This is a wonderful town with many nice people.
Thirty miles back I questioned if I was doing what God would have me do and I was tempted to leave the trail. He again re encouraged me to keep going. Unlike riding a bicycle, You don't see a ton of people to encourage you up on the trail. Please pray God continues to guide and lead me where he would choose. Thank you everyone for every thing you have done int he name of God.
I must go now, May God's will be done here as it is in heaven, and may he have mercy on all of us as he guides us closer to himself, Love Dan

Under the weather

I caught some type of bug a couple of days ago. I've been able to stay in Gatlinburg 2 nights now. Its Saturday, and I'm hoping to be able to spend 1 more night in the lower elevation here. This would allow me to attend a church service. It was raining for hours earlier this morning. They say the temperature will drop 4 degrees every 1000 feet. The 1st shelter is at 6000 feet plus. That would mean 35 instead of 51 and raining. I'm enjoying the festive atmosphere of Gatlinburg. A Catholic Monsignor bought a motel room for me last night. There are so many nice, and caring people still in the world. There are so many things to do in this town. Almost all of them involve money, but it is fun to watch others stroll the streets in this festive atmosphere. The aquarium here sounds kike it is a very special place. There are so many other attractions, to many to mention. I hope all who read this will have a great day, Love Dan

200 miles and counting

We had snow again. We were at Fontana Dam and it snowed at 1775 feet. I was going to go up to 6500 feet. It would of been in the single digits in temperature. God continues to meet my needs as I travel the trail. I'm able to get a motel in Gatlinburg with a man on the trail tonight. Its nice to shower and clean up at least once every 10 days. Its usually in the 20's at night. My sleeping bag is a 40 degree bag so it leads to problems. I've met many nice people, and some believers. I do daily devotionals, and witness of Gods faithfulness often. My trail name is Stake and shake. It has many personal meanings. Please pray God continues to bless me with opportunities to serve him and that he continues to keep me healthy, Love Dan

Witnessing on trail

I'm getting into the smokies. God is taking care of all of us here. I've been able to witness to many, many people including 19 college students yesterday. I love you all. Daniel

Now Walking

I've given up the bicycle to walk with the Lord on the Appliation trail. God is so good. I'm able to share of his goodness and mercy daily. I love all of you, I will post, but it won't be very often. Please continue to contact me at daniel.gibbs@yahoo.com.

Kidney Pain gone

The back pain I've been experiencing the last week or so turned out to be kidney pain. It kept getting worse. I prayed to God where he would want me to go to church and he lead me to a church I had been passing several times while in the Houston area. The service was about speaking in toungues, and how God's power can be stirred up through the gift of speaking in tongues. I really wanted some prayer on behalf of the kidney pain. I was real close to going in to the emergency room. After going up and having prayer the pain seemed to deminish, but late last night it was real bad. I started speaking in tongues and then I felt what I hope was a kidney stone passing. It just sort of droped. I still feel a little discomfort , but nothing like it has been. Thank you God for the healing. I so much believe that our emphesis should be on loving God, and loving each other, and that many people major on the minors, but I clearly felt lead to that church, and what I said did happen. I often testify that until I heard God's voice I never really believed he talked in this age. I've spoke in tongues before, but I never got results like this before, I think differently about the practice now.
Todays sign reads " Hes still knocking, Let him in to your heart." After collecting enough metal to pay for the trailer I've been looking at, I was able to go to buy it. I asked the manager if she could help me with the price, and after she noticed it was in disrepair and she donated it to the minstry. Thank you God. Thank you, everyone who has been praying for me and the sign. I pray God contnues to put a hedge of protection around the ministry. I've talked to 2 relatively young in the faith Christians lately so I know God is still at work. A young boy leaving church yesterday asked about he sign and what it met, his mother then talked to him about the sinners prayer. I still see the sign working. Saturday night a couple of cars asked me about the sign. God is still at work. Thank you God for allowing me to continue working for you in this manner. I'm still at daniel.gibbs@yahoo.com , yours in Christ, Daniel

Sign up and riding

Today's sign reads " He is still knocking, Let him in to your heart" Its a beautiful day in the Houston area. Its a little windy, but not a cloud in the sky. I rode about 10 miles in to the wind to Target to get a foam board for a new sign. The wind was with me on the way back, it was a lot nicer. I stopped at a second hand store and I saw a used bicycle trailer for sale for 30.00. I'm going to try to save enough money for the trailer. 30.00 is a real good price. I could fasten a better sign to the trailer, and releave a lot of stress on the bicycle. God willing I'll raise the money and it will still be available. I hope you all are doing good, have a great day, Daniel

Day 180 ( Wind attacks sign)

I've been riding around NW Houston picking up cans and displaying the sign. They said in the paper that the maximum wind gust was only 20 miles an hr. , it sure seemed stronger than that. I would secure the sign where people could read it going by, I would turn around and it was on the ground. This morning, I secured the sign to a piece of card board, and rode down the road and when I looked at it, it was gone. The wind had ripped it off. I had been praying that God would give me the words to display. Maybe I had it wrong. It did say " Come now is the time to worship, give your heart" I was able to witness to a hispanic man at the recycle center. He didn't understand the word worship. The pastor at the church I attened on Sunday said that this community is 80 percent hispanic. I'm thinking I should consider this in my prayerful decision on the next sign. My card explains one of my main focus points of encouraging people to love one another. I hope to continue with this theme. Thank you for reading, have a great day, yours in Christ, Daniel Gibbs

Day 177 4100 miles ( Thank you Father)

I'm sorry I haven't posted for a while. The rain and cold wiped me and the sign out. I spent a couple of days in motels, and a week in the rescue mission in Brenham TX. The good folks there allowed me to stay for 6 nights and I was able to assist them in reorganizng their furniture store. Today I'm in Subberban Houstin. I thank God that despite my sin he has allowed me to continue this journey. I really have made this my purpose. I don't know how long I'll be able to keep going, but I do thank God that his grace allows even a sinner like myself to serve him. I know I'm not rightous enough to represent him, but I also know that his Son is rightous enough to represent me. I'm humbled again by his grace.
Todays sign did read " soon and very soon, make room for him" , it has now been changed to read " Now is the time to worship, now is the time to give your heart." May God bless the sign, and may people be drawn closer to him through it. Have a great day, your friend Dan

Riding in the rain

I woke up this morning to rain and 37 degrees. I was able to find an open "What a Burger" and display the sign for about 3 hrs. The sign reads " If God leaves who comes in?" The high temp is only suppose to be 41 today , with rain.
I met a nice family at a Bible church that let me stay at their house on Wednesday. I was given a nice meal, able to do my laundry, and for the good of society was able to take a shower. They helped me financialy and sent me on my way. I thank God for all the nice, gracious, and generous people I've met the last several months. I hope all of you have a great day, your friend Dan

Day 159 (3900 miles)

A lot has happened since my last post. Leaving Dallas, trying to go East, I met several obstacles. I ended up going in circle several times. Finding a place to pitch my tent, I decided to take a Sabbath days rest, and I prayed and meditated. After attending church on Sunday, I again got on the road. This time I went in my original direction which is South. I had a good experience at a Church of Christ, they let me stay on their property, and gave me food and drink, as well as some clothing.
Waking up today in Waco TX. I've been faced with a trial. There seems to be a group of spirits causing me problems. I am so grateful that my Lord and savior is with me, that its not just me that's being attacked, but the very body of Christ. Thank you God for your great sacrifice. I pray you give me the strength to battle these forces which are greater than my being. Thank you that you are in me and you are able to battle these spirits, because truly greater is he who is in me, than he who is in the world. Thank you for your help God, I'll put this situation in your hands. You do know the hearts of man, I come before not you alone on this planet, knowing my only hope is in you. May your will be done here in Waco, as it is in heaven. Not the will of selfish lying spirits, but of the God of truth. I love you father,I hope you have a great day, your son Daniel

Cyclists invest in ministry

I am so grateful for the men who updated my bicycle and sign. I pray God will bless them, and the sign ministry because of their faith. I'm going to be going over the road again. I've ridden about 15 miles so far today. I may not be posting as regular. I hope all of you continue to stay close to God. The bicycle now has 4 signs. The one in front reads "unto America", on the sides read " because he lives", on back reads " Love God, love your neighbor as yourself". The signs were made by a professional who donated the time and resources. Thank you God for another chance to serve you. I hope all of you have a great day, yours in Christ Daniel

Time to Go?

It appears I'll be moving out soon. I'm heading to a bicycle shop in which a believer has agreed to help me with a sign. The Northern suburbs of Dallas seem like a really nice place to live. I know my friend and ex-coworker Rich from Garland missed this area so much while we worked together up in Michigan. I do thank everyone here who have shared their lives and resources. I hope all that read this message make a commitment to love God with all their hearts, souls, and minds, and they love their neighbors as themselves. Have a great day, yours in Christ, Daniel

Bicycle remolded

What a good few days its been. Limping into the Dallas area, my visions for the sign ministry were very dull. Thank you God for the faith of the believers who have gave of their personal resources to give the ministry new life. It rains on the rich and the poor, and the sign has been the victim of wind damage. I currently have a temporary sign up that reads " God is love, joy ,peace, patience, kindness, goodness, and gentleness." That's all the room I had. I hope to get a more durable sign in service tomorrow. The wind here in Texas is very hard on the signs, and the ones I've been using haven't been able to withstand it.
Again I don't usually mention the names of the people or institutions that help me, the last thing I would ever want to do is to hinder their personal walks. I do believe God will bless them for their faith. Thank you again for your help. I hope you all have a good day, your friend Daniel

Dallas saved from toxic foot odor

Three weeks without a clothing change. Thank you father for all the people who are involved in the ministry that provided me with new clothing. I really wanted to encourage the ladies that were working there. I've heard several times on my journey that volunteers meet ungrateful people. To see a ministry like this one that gives less fortunate people clothing for free seems to be rare.
I mentioned I read a book called "Jesus did it any way" by Kent Keith. He wrote some thing called the paradoxical commandments when he was 19. It sure does seem to explain a lot. At very least, I think it would be profitable for anyone to read these 10 commandments. Its funny how God can work, this guy wrote these things when he was 19, and some of the biggest names spiritually in our generation have used them and acknowledged them. The simple sign still reads " Blessed are all those that need God?" I have a lot of peace with this message, and until God leads me to change it I'm leaving it alone. Have a great day your friend, Dan

Out of place

I had a wonderful experience at a church today. I attended a Sunday school class where I was able to give my testimony to 12 people or so. They let me take a shower, gave me food, and several individuals gave me money in which I hope to have new cards printed.

During the Sunday school time we talked about the experience I had yesterday and that morning about being followed by policemen. My place is down town with the rest of the homeless not in suburbia. I must admit I was uncomfortable in the area I was at. No body wants to be made feel inferior, and often I feel that way around a bunch of huge houses. I was able to escape the area with the police 30 ft behind me at one time. It must be a scary thing to have a man with a bible and a sign proclaiming the "B" attitudes, even if not any word, let alone a discouraging word came out of his mouth. It is not my mission at all to intimidate anyone with the sign. God's unconditional love is for anyone who can admit they need him. "Jesus come into my heart, I'm a sinner and I'll never be able to be good enough, please help me". The sign still reads " Blessed are those that need God?" I really need him. Please pray that God will give me clear direction, weather to stick around here or move on, have a great day, Dan

Still going despite mechanical opposition

I've had tire problems today. I keep getting flat tires. I found out you can't return merchandise at Walmart with out valid ID. During this trip my ID has become expired. It doesn't matter that they are selling defectctive products, they can do that to you if you don't have proper ID. I don't mean to pick on Wall Mart, there exchange policey is probably better than most. Its just another example of how far America has strayed from God. Do unto others as you want done to yourself rarely exists. I don't know if our nation has ever truly been one nation under God, but I would dare say if we were sued we would have to remove this statement from our advertising. I thank the good people who continue to keep the sign and me going. I ask God for forgivness about getting upset about the situation. Its funny how one situation can start a chain of events. Lets all try to be nice to someone and see where it goes. God bless you all, Dan

Hundreds view sign

Hi all,
Thank you for visiting the site. The dead end that appeared in CA. seems to have gone away, at least for now. When ever I've needed any thing on this journey, it has always been provided. This is now my 8th bicycle. This is why my experience in CA. was confusing. After one night at the Salvation Army Shelter, I again realized how grateful I am for warm blankets and fresh air. I am glad they have the shelters, but please people don't ever think people who stay at them have very much comfort as any personal dignity. You can say "those people deserve what they get and they should be grateful" well, I will remind anyone who reads this "blessed are the merciful". I do thank God that I was able to get out of the cold, and I thank the volunteers and workers who help keep the shelter open. The unpleasant enviorment which is present at almost all shelters is not their fault. I'm on this journey for a reason, and I hope by me telling you that these places are hard on the spirit and could be nicer for the clients.
I woke up this morning to a flat tire. The family that purchased the bicycle also provided 2 spare tubes, and a wrench.Thank you God for your provision. After getting on the road, I counted cars going by the sign at about 35 cars a minute. I made it to a MacDonald's after about a 3 mile bike ride. Before I was able to lock the bicycle up, a lady gave me a 1.00 for my soft drink. I feel God's blessing on the ministry returning. Several people noticed the sign.
Last night I was able to witness to a man named John for about an hour. Please pray fro him he is in a wheel chair, has lost feeling in his legs and arms. One leg is already gone. A few weeks ago they thought he would lose his other one. He has lost his faith in God and the church. I reemphasized that the way some people who claim to be Christians act is not Christ's fault. He taught Love God, love your niebhor as yourself as the most important aspects of our existence. We all need to continually check our own fruit, but also not condemn our savior for those that don't live by his most important teaching. "How would I want to get treated if I were this person?" We can't please everyone, but loving God with all our hearts, souls, and mines, will go along way pleasing him. I', reading a new book called " Jesus Did It anyway". I'll let you know how I liked it. Sign still say es " All that need God are blessed?" It invites thoughts on the "B" attitudes and the psalms.

Cold Wind in Dallas

Thank you God for that warm blanket I had last night. The access roads that are along the interstates are wonderful places to display the sign. So many people slow down and read it. Many, many people nod in approval. On the other hand the opposition often attacks.
Because of choices that I have made in the past, as well as others, I feel the best use for me in this world is to display the sign. I realize by doing this others are affected in a negative manner. Again some of the others, also made choices. One of my friends has reminded me more than once that I must live with the consequences of previous choices. The biggest one has been accepting Christ as my savior. Most of the world will condemn me for this choice.
This is my testimony, When I was 23, I was riding down Kalamazoo ave. in Kentwood MI. and I said the word "Jesus" a warmth came into my body that has never left. The bible claims there is no other way to Salvation. I have lived by the words of the Bible and still try to live by its teaching, and often fall short of it. I don't limit God in any way, has he taught other people in other ways through other means? Its his world and he can do as he pleases. The sign remains the same, My email is daniel.gibbs@yahoo.com. Have a great day, Daniel

Day 146 (3800 miles)

Thank you to the family that has put the bicycle sign back on the road. The sign was parked in front of a grocery store in Sweet Water TX. for 3 hrs on New years day. After a 3 hr ride in a SUV itwas parked in front of a MacDonolds for 3 hrs this morning.
The sign ministry is going through some changes. I don't plan on riring as often. I'm planning on staying in cities longer and concentrating on locating the sign in good locations. I'm also thinking I'm going to put the message in the form of a question. Today's sign reads " Blessed are all that need God?" I came up with this while looking at the B attitudes and thinking to myself. Those who mourne, the poor in spirit, the meek, those that are persecuted. If our eyes can be opened,we can be blessed. I don't claim to know all the answers, I hope the new sign will invite God into many hearts, and work on a new level of gratefulness in my heart. I'm God's property, I believe the best use for me is still doing the sign. My foremats will also change, have a great day, Daniel