Simple Steps Walk

Hello Again

2008-10-28T08:32:00.003-06:00

I've been thinking about you lately; thinking how I have abandoned you and how much I used to love talking to you here. (Maybe because I got to do all the talking and you always listened so well).

So I'm back. It was kind of you to wait. I want to say though that I don't get time very often to write but I will as often as I can.

Paul & I are enjoying driving truck together. We have been getting experience on the mountains and building our stamina on the long hauls. This month we did about 19,000 miles which isn't a huge amount but its good work.

The most exiting news is that God is speaking to me about an area of my life that has brought me consistant pain. I can be going through a day, happy when suddenly its there washing over me. Taking away my breath and peace.

I was reading 1 Cor 13 and it was the same as always until I came upon this phrase, "keeps no record of wrong." Me? keeping a record of wrong? The Holy Spirit put his gentle hand on the truth of what was there. Yes, I was keeping a record of wrongs done to me by a varied group of people. But is not that easy to get rid of something you tediously collected and came to treasure. So now I am working on cleaning out my attic. As those memories come back to me I stop the emotional tsunami by repeating and remembering, "keeps no record of wrong." I speak out loud, "I forgive you. Jesus taught me to forgive and gave me the right to forgive by forgiving me."
Little by little, memory by memory the sting of death is being emasculated by the power of forgiveness.
Working on becoming a beautiful old lady, denise

The New Adventures of Denise & Paul

2008-03-31T12:40:00.006-06:00

I said goodbye to Paul 10 minutes ago. He's heading for Delaware and then will be out on the road with Hendric, his over the road trainer, for 11 days. I wait here in the Schneider National Operating Centre to meet my over the road trainer, Bonnie. I have no idea where I will be going but we will be out for the same period of time.
Since Easter Sunday we have been training here in Aberfolye, ON at Schneider. Our goal of driving as a team together is closer than it was yesterday. So many people here have helped us to move forward; Rick, a generous and gregarious classroom instructor; Mario, a patient driving trainer; Kim, a super encouraging range work trainer; and everyone else who support us as we train. Thank you to all!
Schneider has overwhelmed us with support, care and generousity. We are working for a great company. I want to make them succeed in return for the way they wanted us to succeed in our training.
So many trucking companies are in need of drivers but won't take anyone without experience. Schneider however steps up to the plate and puts money (approx. $8,000/driver) on the line to train their drivers. We are so privileged to be part of that program.

We also want to thank everyone who prayed for us to get on with Schneider. Those who spent their whole holiday praying for us whenever they spotted a big orange truck on the road! Thats a big commitment especially when you go into the States for your holidays! We still need those prayers.

Driving a car well is not easy. Driving a truck well is harder yet. That 60' of truck/trailer carry up to 80,000 lbs of potential. When you pull out in front of an oncoming truck you are really in much more danger than you could ever guess. Please give drivers lots of room and lots of time...it might be your grandmother driving :)

Today we read in Matthew when Jesus sent his disciples out into the boat and a storm came up, so he went to them walking on the water. We are trusting the Lord as he sends us out on the road to keep a close eye on us.
So, as Diane used to say to me as I stepped out of the RV, "See you down the road!"

Hello Again Friends

2008-02-19T18:29:00.002-06:00

Hello all, not that anyone is out there reading this ignored and dusty blog. But some of you might have put on a feed alert and be surprised when you see my new blog pop up!
NOTE: We only have dial up internet at home and are not able to include photos on the blog unless we drive at least a half hour into town and sit in a coffee shop with wireless. It took me at least 20 minutes to get to this screen. So when I can I will include photos but not alot...sorry.

So what have you been up to lately? Well, I have been stepping into a new and unfamiliar experience...Paul and I are at truck driving school. We have spent two weeks in class and two weeks in the trucks learning, learning. All together though we really have only spent a small amount of time behind the wheel on the road. I felt that I was doing pretty well and confidence was growing until today!
Our trainer Pierre is a great guy who has a wonderful french accent. He grew up in Kapukasing and loves the outdoors. He has been training truck drivers for at least 10 years and most of that with the military and colleges. Unusual for the school they put Paul and I in the same truck to train together. We are so happy with that and are enjoying our training.
Today however I got behind the wheel first and Pierre said that we were going to "play in traffic" today. I really didn't do well. After a four day holiday from driving I somehow left my brain at home or forgot to connect my head and body. I missed almost every shift - EVEN UP SHIFTING! Down shifting...well nevermind. I cut corners and ran over curbs (that could have had a person standing on it). Then a supply air hose got a huge leak. We could hear it in the cab and we made a B-line for the shop. I was under alot of pressure, as was the governer that had to keep resupplying the air tanks as the air evacuated out of the ruptured airline. So as I took the last turn on to the road where the shop was I forgot to flip the paddle down to low and ended up in 10th gear and promptly stalled it while my cab was over into the oncoming traffic. No one was in any immediate danger just held up but I had overshot my turn and I was facing a snowbank. I had to back up! Pierre was so great, and Paul is so encouraging. I am praying for help to learn this profession. I would really appreciate ANYONE'S prayers for me (don't worry about Paul he's doing really great :) What I wouldn't give to borrow a tractor and trailer and get on a private road to practice. All my friends that own them live 36 hours away.
So tomorrow I am going to, "turn down the sucks and turn up the awesome," as Andre another trainer says. But only with God's help.
Depending on Him to get me home (in more ways than one), denise

Moving

2007-12-05T21:47:00.001-06:00

This is Paul & I moving to the Ottawa Valley, Golden Lake to be specific, to live with our son Josh and his wonderful wife Becky. We are in Sudbury tonight and will be making it to Josh's tomorrow.
This move has come after many long hours of tears, prayers, and counsel. It is our desire to walk an authentic spiritual life and God has been doing a great work in our marriage. So we are following what we have come to believe is God's will for us.
The path to this place has been through some very dark days of emotional and spiritual turmoil. Our church in Melfort was very supportive and kind, even though they couldn't understand what was happening they allowed us to leave with their blessing. We regret all of the hurt we have caused anyone due to this life changing decision we have made. We do pray daily that God will bring His best from these events and that Satan will be hindered in his efforts to destroy.
Today, I was driving (for the first time) the rig you see in the photo above. We were just starting into Lake Superior Provincial Park which runs along the shores of the largest body of water in Canada. It started snowing, and accumulating on the road. The other factor was that I was negotiating some really long steep hills that included in sharp curve with a 50 ft drop to the water on one side. I told Paul, "I wish you were driving." and then, "Oh well we will just pretend that God is driving." So I called out loud to the Lord, "Could you help me here?"
Then the phone rang, (NO, it wasn't God calling!) but since we were in the park the call was dropped due to a weak signal. When I retrieved the message it was from Burkina Faso!! Pastor Michel had called to say that he was praying for me! How I needed his prayers right at that moment!
Isn't God amazing! He not only heard my prayer for help driving but He let me know He was looking after all the details of getting someone to pray for me....someone who doesn't even really know what snow is, and for sure has never driven in it! It was 41+ degrees when we were there three weeks ago.
Thank you Lord, I know you will look after all the details of our life on the uncertain road ahead.
ps I know I promised more Africa photos but the cds are packed in the UHaul...later ok?
pss I did an interview with CBC Regina today at 6:40 am. Another opportunity!

There and Back Again

2007-11-20T12:51:00.000-06:00

Our Burkina Team at the Boa-boa (pronounced bowbow) tree.
First snow welcomes us home! Looking out our balcony door.

I probably shouldn't "borrow" this title because you might think you have before you a piece that is as well written as Tolkien could write...not at all. I simply want to say that we have been to Africa and are back again.

Upon arriving in Burkina Faso the gracious welcome began with a visit to the VIP lounge at the airport while our documents were expedited through customs in the hands of a police officer assigned to us. Pastor Michel met us and led us out into the night where over 100 children from the village formed two double rows and marched in unison along with a brass band playing "Onward Christian Soldiers", cheerleaders leading the way we walked down the streets of Ouagadougou in a parade fashion! What an overwhelming welcome we had. During our stay in Africa we were introduced to many political officials. The first was the King of Burkina Faso. His role is one of tradition and formality but his genuine concern for his people was evident.

He was very grateful and sincere. I felt very privileged to be able to present the necklace I wore on the walk to him with my prayers for his country. He accepted both the soccer ball our whole team had signed and the necklace with grace.

We also were granted audience with the Prime Minister of Burkina Faso. This man is one of the men who will make changes happen in that country. He is a committed Christian man who sees the needs of his country as those of the heart. While we met with him we prayed together for the country and for his leadership. What a blessing to meet this man and to be congratulated by him personally.

We also met the Minister of Territories and the Governor. Both of these men were very kind and grateful for the walk and the work that Pastor Michel is doing there in Burkina for the children.

Paul & I worked at breaking the ground for the new highschool. The school needs to be ready for next year as the first grade 6 class is going to write their government exams at the end of this school year. Their teacher has set the goal for 100% of the class to achieve 100% on their exams. He brought the class back a month early to get a head start on studying. Our sponsored child is in grade 6 and seems to be doing very well. What a blessing to have watched him grow from a little fellow to the young man he is now.

I will post more photos and write more soon.

On the way to Africa

2007-10-26T14:50:00.000-06:00

Hello my friends and neighbours! Paul and I are getting set to leave for Africa on October 31. We will be working at the Village of Hope and will be symbolically presenting the proceeds from the walk to the children at the village. It promises to be a great time of closure for me. Although large sums of money continues to come in as recently as today someone dropped off a cheque at Careforce office for $3000.00!!!! Thank you my friends!
What is it like to be home?
Thats a question alot of people ask me and I don't think I do very well at answering the question. I loved walking and I felt very much at home the whole time-except for the fact that my dear husband was too far away. Coming home just seems to be natural and easy. I do miss Diane now and again.
Do you still walk?
I haven't been walking because of this Bell's palsy - my neck and ear are very susceptible to the cold now and I want to be well to get to Africa.
What is Diane doing?
She has a great opportunity to drive truck with her husband in the north for a couple of months. So she is trying to get everything ready to LEAVE again! I am so happy for her and Carmen.
What do you miss the most?
I miss being outside all day, everyday. I have been trying to think of a job that would keep me outside...not coming up with much. I miss meeting new people everyday. I miss sleeping beside trucks, grain bins, walmarts, train tracks (:) and streams. I miss morning prayer with Diane.
How did the walk affect you?
I can't mention all the ways that I was touched by the walk. But Ido know this, God intended the walk to do more than raise funds to build a school in Africa. He is ever pursuing my heart, ever molding my will, ever guiding my purposes. I am changed and in some ways that I don't even realize.
What is next?
We have no plans for more adventure yet...one thing is FOR SURE it will be with Paul along next time. We have played with the idea of walking from the Arctic ocean to the Pacific and then across to the Atlantic. One couple did it in 8 months and they are older than we are.
So, I will write again when we get back from Burkina Faso. God bless you til then.

Now for something completely new!

2007-10-06T13:53:00.000-06:00

I woke up on Sunday with some strange pain in my neck (no, I don't mean Paul). The pain was also in my ear and was accompanied by dizziness and spasms of sharp pain. On Wednesday I went to our Dr. who thought I might have been grinding my teeth while sleeping. He told me to stop chewing. But by Friday morning my right side of my face had started to become paralyzed and my outer ear was swollen. We were visiting Amie at Caronport so we went into Moose Jaw to a walk in clinic. The Dr. there diagnosed it as Bell's Palsy. This is a result of trauma to the 7th nerve in your brain. The trauma was caused by a viral infection in the ear. The swelling debilitates the nerve and you loose control of your face muscles. Today the paralysis is worse than yesterday and my loving daughter and husband can't stop the peels of laughter at the faces I accidently make while trying to sip tea from a cup or even laugh. The photo below is one of me laughing at them laughing at me. Now that I know it is just Bells Palsy I am not afraid and can enjoy this funny time too. One web site we looked at says that about 1 in 5000 people get it. Funny enough, my father-in-law had it about 20 years ago! Maybe it runs in the family but it skips a blood line every 20 years. I should have my face muscles back under control within a month just in time to smile at the kids in Africa without making them run screeming, "What is that thing!"

Bell's Palsy makes my smile one sided.

So I wanted to tell you about coming home. The thought of walking into Melfort, was packed with the emotion of 1. completing a long term goal, 2. living with Paul again, 3. beginning a change of lifestyle (no longer living with Diane in the RV moving along the road everyday), 4. being welcomed home by friends and the celebration that ensued. When I spoke at Calvary Church in Saskatoon the Sunday before arriving home a little missionary lady, Flo Salaway (she and her husband Owen worked with NCEM in Prince Albert) told me, "dont worry honey, Jesus will be with you." She was so right. I was just blessed by all of the love and encouragement not overwhelmed. The job was done, Diane and I had kept the goal of getting home as the focus and let everything else fade into the background. We had done what God had asked us to do.

I believe we are at $133,000! Donations on the last day amounted to $17,000.00!!! Thank you Lord.

Wanna see where we live? This is one of the streets Paul and I walk on in the mornings.

And this is the Melfort Post Office.
And this is the door to our new place. It is apartment D - handy that our name starts with D too eh? And that is my bike that I love to ride around Melfort. We are happy to be together and I thank God for His great work in our lives.
Sorry it took me so long to blog. I am still trying to give away and pear down the stuff that clutters the little place. But living there feels so right.
Paul just bought me a new book that we started reading together on the way down to Amie's. The byline of the title is: Moving from Affluence to Generosity. I am looking forward to getting into this book as this is what I have been thinking about and Paul & I are working toward in our life. This book is an updated book first published 10 years ago.
Rich Christians in an age of Hunger, follow this link to more info about this book.What is God talking to you about these days? Ask and listen, its an exciting journey. Thanks for being my friend on this journey. denise

Some pics from the last seven kms and celebration

2007-09-27T16:21:00.000-06:00

The Melfort Journal gave the Simple Steps Walk front page coverage. You can read the article on their website, "DeGraaf Welcomed Home from Simple Steps Walk."

Thank you to Cindy Neilsen for taking photos. Here is a brief overview of the day.

I will write more but for now...

2007-09-24T21:24:00.000-06:00

I will write more about getting home tomorrow - hopefully - I still haven't even taken my things out of the RV! But tonight just before I go to bed I want to share my heart with you.
I want to tell you something I am thinking about right now, that I have been thinking about all day…not that I can tell you everything…but I can tell you that our God is so incredibly amazing (words are so pitiful) that He can take what was completely broken, ruined, shattered and like He has turned back the hands of time, repair it!!! Today, I have seen this in my own life. It is true – NOTHING is past his healing, NO ONE one is past his touch. He is the God who is called, “Create Anew.” This God is our God forever and ever.
Sleep peacefully in His arms of love and forgiveness. For He has said, "There is nothing you can do that will change how I feel about you." THAT IS WORTH LIVING FOR my friend.

7 km more to finish

2007-09-21T22:51:00.000-06:00

This road is now acting as a breakwater. I guess the drought is over. Thank you Lord.
Can you see the two grain terminals in the background - thats Melfort! Almost there.

Friends join us from Burlington, Ontario and walk the last couple of kms yesterday.

Approaching the end of the second last day! Sleeping at home tonight.

Today we walked to the junction of Hwy #41 and #41A. That's where we will start tomorrow. People are going to join us for the last 7 kms and we will end at a park where we will have entertainment, a program, a chance for us to say thank you and a celebration.

I am pretty disoriented tonight but I know that I will begin to find some balance as time goes by. My mental health plan includes writing thankyou notes to all who donated, spending time organizing our home, and then in November 1 we leave for Burkina Faso to visit the Village of Hope.

As we approached the last 2 kms today a strange woman approached me and wanted to give me a donation! She turned out to be the Director of Careforce International and I just mistook her for a strange person because she's from Ontario :) She had come for the celebration with 3 other of our friends. What a blessing to see them!!

All I could say was, "Look what the Lord has done!" I will try to write in a couple of days about my feelings etc - right now I am dizzy with the events of the day and tomorrow coming up.

Love you, denise

Denise on Bcast

2007-09-21T21:11:00.000-06:00

Listen here to Denise speaking at the Briercrest Bible College chapel service on September 10th.

Bcast

Lot's of Help Covering Familiar Territory

2007-09-21T09:08:00.000-06:00

Yesterday Denise and Diane (Paul writing again for Denise) started the day walking just west of Yellow Creek along Highway #41.

They were joined early in the day by Etta Taylor who walked all the way to Ethelton (approx. 25 kms). Here they are walking past the old McCloy Creek train bridge.

Diane had the joy of the company of a few passengers throughout the day. One of them was one her Sunday School students, Tyrelle Audette, who also walked over 6 kms.

As the day progressed the crowd increased to include Linette Audette and Brian Stevenson. Throughout the day many people from the community stopped to bring words of encouragement and give donations.We finished the day at the town of Ethelton, just 27 kms from Melfort. We could see the grain terminals to melfort on the horizon. Great job to everyone who joined the walk! In the evening we were treated to a warm meal and a visit from some of our friends from the community. Thank you to Brain & Linda Stevenson for their generous hospitality.

Three Days to the Completion of the Walk!

2007-09-19T22:53:00.000-06:00

Here's where the day started. Walking North-east on Highway #41 into the rising sun.

Stacey Meyers joined Denise (Paul writing here again) for most of the day. She walked 21 kms with Denise. Great job Stacey!!! Wednesday was a busy day for visitors. Many friends from Melfort and region stopped to bring food, offer words of encouragement, pray and make donations. One group was from the town of Meskanaw. They brought hugs and left a generous donation for the Village of Hope.

I showed up around 5PM. It looks like I'm doing all the work here, but don't be deceived by appearances. Denise still has plenty of energy for the remaining 50 kms. We were treated to a warm meal at Denis & Victoria Borsa's home at the end of a long day of visiting and walking. Thank you to everyone who brought words of encouragement and acts of kindness to help make it through another day on the journey.

Only 4 more sleeps!!!

2007-09-18T15:25:00.000-06:00

Yes we are only four sleeps away from Melfort! We have spent the whole summer (and parts of the spring and fall) walking across three provinces and here we are almost home.
People ask me what I have learned from this experience. I often speak about the surprise that people are not as cynical as I thought but there is something more important. . . I have learned that taking risks is worth the reward of walking with my Lord. Peter stepped out of the boat onto the water and took the risk of a lifetime. He even realized the truth of the risk when he began to sink. But Peter is the only person who knows the experience of walking with Christ ON the water. Knowing Christ like you have never known him before is the reward of risk.
When I started thinking about the walk all of the risks were considered. And if I didn't think of one, someone else would be sure to let me know of a risk that I had overlooked. But the desire to help others and make a difference in people's lives motivated me to step out into risk.
Go ahead and take a risk.
This advert placed by Sir Ernest Shackelton sparked the interest of some 5000 people who responded with a desire to sign up for this expedition. "Men wanted for hazardous journey. Low wages, bitter cold, long hours of complete darkness. Safe return doubtful. Honour and recognition in event of success."
Are you considering a risky step? If you are following God's direction for your life you will NOT be disappointed! The rewards are worth the effort and risk. The best reward will be postponed until you stand before your Lord and you hear Him say, "Well done thou good and faithful servant!"
Don't waste this vapour of life you have been given. I know you have thought about this too. So do what God is asking you to do. Don't keep your life all safe and secure and then in the end find out that it didn't matter.
Take a risk and lose your life for Christ. I promise you He will not disappoint or abandon you.
Jim Elliot said, "He is no fool who gives up what he cannot keep to gain what he can never lose."
I believe in you, you can do it! denise

On the HOME Stretch!!

2007-09-18T14:12:00.000-06:00

On Monday, September 17 (Paul here writing for Denise) Denise and Diane started the final steps toward home on Highway #41. It was a cold, wet and windy day. However, the warmth of many Melfort friends stopping to visit brought comfort and encouragement to the day.

Denise started walking at Aberdeen just south-west of the Louis Dreyfus Inland Terminal.

These two large crosses are a familiar fixture on the road between Saskatoon and Melfort. We (Denise & Paul) took some time to walk up the hill and investigate. They stand as a constant reminder of the thousands of lives of unborn children that have been taken due to abortion. We knelt to pray at the foot of the cross to recommit our lives to God and His service.

At the completion of twenty-eight kilometers we reached the town of Alvena and then drove ahead to Wakaw to be treated to a warm supper at the Crossroads Restaurant (thank you Sandy). While we were eating a trucker walked in with a big smile on his face. Carmen and Diane stayed at the Kenilworth motel, while Denise and Paul returned to Alvena to stay in the Community Centre parking lot in the RV (thanks Alvena for your hospitality). We'll try to keep you posted each day of the progress on this final week.

Disasterous Flooding in Burkina Faso

2007-09-15T15:14:00.000-06:00

Torential rain is causing disasterous flooding in Burkina Faso. Check out the following news stories:

Burkina Faso: Lots of Rain, Little Aid (irinnews.org)

Flooding Causes Misery in Several African Countires (cbc.ca)

Saskatoon!

2007-09-15T00:14:00.000-06:00

This is Paul posting for Denise. Yesterday was a big day for Denise & Diane. They had two media interviews: CTV News just south of Saskatoon and CJWW just east of the city with our good friend Dan Bushman. Denise walked through Saskatoon and started east along Highway #5 and then north-east on Highway #41 towards Melfort.

Later in the day Denise had an interview with Heather Almas over the phone. Hadrian Manufacturing in Burlington, Ontario, held their annual golf tournament and Simple Steps Walk was the designated charity. The participants raised over $20,000!!!!! (I'm sure Denise will want to follow-up with her own slant on the story).

A weekend in Caronport

2007-09-10T22:11:00.000-06:00

DONATION UPDATE!!! $89,600
With only two weeks to go I was able to spend Saturday evening, Sunday and Monday with our daughter and family in Caronport. It has been such a wonderful time with our grandchildren and sharing with Amie and Jon again. They have just moved to Caronport so that Jon could continue his studies at Briercrest. It was nice to see their new house and where they will spend the next year while at school. These are photos from the weekend previous that the kids came to visit me in Regina.
On Sunday it was my privilege to speak at Ashley & Lisa Taylor's church, Sunningdale Community Church in Moose Jaw. (You can see photos on Ashley's blog HERE) They were a warm and generous congregation. They had a special gift ready as well . . . the worship team sang the Brian Doerkson song, You Will Lead Us Lord (the song that the title "Simple Steps" came from) and had a slide presentation with photos of the walk. What a kind and generous gesture. Thanks Ashley and Lisa for all your support!
On Monday I spoke to the students in chapel at Briercrest and felt the Lord filling my mouth with His words. What a humbling experience to know that God is using you. Thanks to Cal McFarlane the chaplain here at Briercrest who invited me to join the students in chapel.
We were then spontaneously invited to speak to a Micro Economics class about the plight of Burkina Faso. Paul joined me for this presentation.
Well, tomorrow I hit the road again. Diane and I have agreed to meet at Davidson at 10 am. Five days of 30 kms to next weekend will take us to Aberdeen (north east of Saskatoon) and then the next weekend we will be home!
Thanks for hanging in there with us all this way! We will continue to blog when we get home as Paul & I will be taking a trip to the Village of Hope i.n Burkina Faso on November 2 - 16. We will put photos and stories from the trip here.

Our first Melfort sign

2007-09-07T19:40:00.000-06:00

Leaving Regina we saw our FIRST sign for Melfort. It was really a milestone for me.
I walked by these "diggers" as my grandson would call them and thought I would take a photo for him.
This is a photo of a land formation called a coulee.
The restaurant is closing so I can't write any more! Home soon.

The Prince Albert Daily Herald: article about Simple Steps

2007-09-04T10:39:00.000-06:00

The Prince Albert Daily Herald: News Walking for children

photos from this week

2007-09-03T21:07:00.000-06:00

A morning photo of the moon that didn't want to go to bed for the day.

A very friendly and generous town, Broadview was indeed a pleasure to visit. While returning some recycling this man came over and offered us some water! He and his wife run this water bottling company and they invited us in to see their operation and gave us water. Thanks!
We were blessed with many kindnesses and donations here. The town also runs a FREE camp ground where there is plugins and water at each site.

In the town of Wolseley they had this cool suspended foot bridge. Another generous little town! When we stopped for some propane the owner refused to take any payment and then later we stayed the night (Thurs Aug 30)at a restaurant, Al Kevino's, and they even let us plug in! Thank you Wolseley!!!

In the morning photo above these two combines were waiting to start their day of work and looked so impatient I tried to quell their anxiousness by suggesting I take their photo. (whew)
In the south here the harvest looks like it is nearly done. Not sure what is happening at home in Melfort.

Can you see Regina downtown off on the horizon?

We have really made it to Regina today (Mon Sept 3) and Diane was away for the day. Paul was driving and when we hit the city proper we left the RV at a Husky truck stop and just walked together to our day's end destination which was the intersection of Albert and Victoria Streets.
Diane later picked us up when we were done for the day.

There is some beautiful achitecture downtown Regina. I am standing on the steps of Knox United Church (I believe that was its name).

Another downtown Regina photo. The building behind was originally the Land Titles Office. Thanks Paul for the great couple of days. I admire and respect you more everyday. Thank you for your friendship and committment that is not changed by circumstances.

Just relax and walk!

2007-09-01T20:12:00.000-06:00

Hi everyone. As you can see on the GREAT google map that my dear husband has worked so hard on (thanks Paul!) we will walk into Regina on Monday and walk out on Tuesday. I am presently sitting in the RV writing to you from the Husky truck stop on the east side of Regina.
As you know from my other blogs I always have trouble with my mind when I reach milestones - and the Saskatchewan border was no different. All of a sudden I wanted to be home immediately. I felt discouraged and flagging in enthusiasm - it honestly scared me. I thought, "How can I do 2500 kms and then fizzle out when I'm so close to home?" The mind is our best tool and can be our worse hindrance. In the survival acronym S.T.O.P. the first instruction is stop followed closely by think. Survival is a matter of using your mind to provide all you will need to get you through until help arrives.
To make matters worse I was beginning to get a consistent ache in my right hip, and left ankle. It pained to the point that I wondered if I would be accompanied by this new partner until I got home.
So I prayed.
The next day I wore my ankle braces and took the orthopedics out. The hip and ankle pain left without so much as a wave goodbye. Then I took myself to task. Seriously talking out loud to myself as I walked. "Now listen Denise. You can't sprint home! You still have 500 kms to do! You have a job to do just like everyone else and yours is to walk 30 kms everyday. You only have to do that for another 20 days. So just relax and walk. Do your work diligently and without complaining. Look at what a great work environment you have! If you keep up with this bad attitude you are only working against yourself. So do the daily goal and eventually you will achieve your goal of being home with your husband again. UNDERSTAND?" And I did understand and I did settle down and now I am content to walk each day, happily strolling through our great province.
The mind has to be bridled and managed in all circumstances. Where has your mind been lately? And where is it taking you?
New topic: I saw a badger the other day. It was such a blessing to see such a mysterious animal. I have also see three snakes (just garters) in the past week which is surprising because I haven't seen one yet.
Diane is with her family tonight. Today marks the day that Logan (Diane's first grandchild) was introduced to his Baba Hawreschuk. Logan is happy contented little fellow and his mom is a natural. I hope they have a wonderful time together.
Only 16 more walking days! Can you believe it? I am really finding it hard to understand that I have really walked all that way. I know that may seem strange - I find it strange too.
Next weekend I will be staying with our daughter and her family at Caronport. They have just recently returned to school after pastoring a church for 4 years (is that right? maybe 3 yrs?). Anyway we will be at the Sunningdale Community Church in Moose Jaw and then on Monday we will be at Briercrest for their chapel. I will get an extra day off there and then start toward Saskatoon on Tuesday. The following weekend (Sept 16) I will be presenting at Calvary Church in Saskatoon and then starts the one week walk to Melfort. ....

More photos from Manitoba

2007-08-25T21:56:00.000-06:00

This poor little sunflower got lost and couldn't relocate it's field. So he's hitch hiking to find his way home.

Diane with Audrey who owns a wonderful little ceramic and gift shop in Oak Lake. This town was so welcoming we thought of buying homes there and settling but our men would be too far away. Someone bought our breakfast at the restaurant, and made a donation too! Wonderful people all along the way have made our journey such a joy. Audrey outside her quaint and welcoming store.

We slept beside this grain bin. Thank you Lord for providing for another night.
In the morning there was a rainbow. Beautiful as it was we knew it would mean rain later.
Sure enough it poured later in the day.
I believe this called the "Grand Valley." It is beautiful and the photo can't show you the fullness of it.

NEW TOTAL RAISED

2007-08-25T21:43:00.000-06:00

Just wanted to let you know that we have now raised $85,000.00! Thank you to all who have been part of this great adventure of faith. We are also the charity of choice for the Hadrian Manufacturing golf tournament to be held on September 14 in Burlington, On! They are excited to be a part of Simple Steps - again Thank you.
OK, you need to get to bed so get off this blog and close down your computer. Yes you! :)

First time since April 23

2007-08-25T20:40:00.000-06:00

My best friend and soul mate of 29 years believed in me and said it was OUR project from the start. He has the harder part - staying at home.

Jean Serviss was the FIRST person to pledge $100 to cover 1 kilometer. She believed I could do it immediately. Thanks Jean!
Diane, Lois, Denise, Darlene, Nancy, and Gwen.

For the first time since April 23 we are back in Melfort. NO, the walk is not finished - nearly but not quite yet. With a month to go we have taken a day off, left the RV in Yorkton to get an oil change, and met Diane's husband there who drove us back home on Friday night. Thanks Carmen!

I write you my friends from the comfort of our new dwelling. After selling our home and having to move, Paul has found a lovely apartment (actually a fourplex) and made it into a welcoming home (with some help from Amie and Jon). It was a great encouragement and blessing to Diane and I when we were met at the border on Thursday, Aug 23 by two van loads of people who came to welcome us to our home province! These people drove 12 hours total to spend a couple of hours with us! Thank you!

At the Saskatchewan border with friends from home!

It was then that someone had mentioned that we should think about coming home for the weekend. After the seed thought was planted it sprouted very quickly and was full blown by the next day. So tomorrow we will be in church at Park Avenue Church and they have even given us some time to speak :) It will be a busy service with a baby dedication, as well as special guests from Teen Challenge who will be singing, giving their testimony and preaching too. The congregants will sure get their money's worth this Sunday!

Thanks for keeping up with the blog. I want to say a special thank you to Running Room for their kind and generous support. Please support them when you need any sports fittings.
We will be back on the road Monday morning walking our way from 10 k east of Wapella to Balgonie in the week. Regina will be on Monday next (Sept 03). Oh, just a note that we have decided to walk up the 11 and not WALK to Moose Jaw. We will be at the Sunningdale church on the 9th of Sept but will be driving there. This will save us a day and two thirds of walking time. Good decision! Thanks to Diane and Paul we are saved some steps - simply! ha xoxo denise

Warm Hospitality in MacGregor, Manitoba

2007-08-20T23:09:00.000-06:00

Denise and Diane had the blessing of being at the Westside Community Church in MacGregor, Manitoba on Sunday, August 19. They had the opportunity to share about the Village of Hope in the morning worship service. After the service a few of the churches in the community gathered in the yard for a barbeque, corn boil and a baseball game. Thank you MacGregor for the warm prairie Christian hospitality shown to the Simple Steps Walk Team! Here's a few pics supplied by Bernie & Edna Toews.

Special Offer From Scott Orr Music

2007-08-18T22:49:00.000-06:00

Our nephew, Scott Orr, has just released a new recording. We think he's a stellar musician with some artful folky tunes. He is offering a free copy of his new record, Miles From Today, to anyone who makes a donation to Simple Steps Walk in support of the Village of Hope. Check out his blog for more details at scottorrmusic.blogspot.com

Thanks Scott for your generous offer for the kids in Burkina Faso and in support of Denise!

Hello from Brandon, MB

2007-08-18T19:56:00.000-06:00

I found the name of this cemetery rather ironic.

This may seem morbid to some but I treasure the chance to admire the animals along the road. This beautiful bird (cedar wax wing???) was only one of many we had admired. I have seen two dead humming birds along the road. What a privilege to see them up close.

Kathleen Hay and I talked our way from Winnipeg to Portage la Prairie! Congratulations on your amazing stamina - you held up your end of the conversation the whole way. :) No really Kathleen showed amazing determination and stamina as she jumped into the walk completeing a 32 k day and 70 k in total for two and a half days walking. Thanks for coming my friend.

The pregnant land waiting to yield her bounty.

My favorite photo I took in Winnipeg at Portage and Main.

Hello everyone! We have made it to Brandon but I should tell you about getting here!

Every day is a new adventure in patience and surprise! After crossing the Manitoba border the land began to show us more and more of herself. She laid back her covering and revealed so much of her bounty and beauty. The land is indeed pregnant with crops and it is wonderful to walk though this busy, industrious time. Combines, airplanes (alot of potatoe crops in the MacGregor area which are sprayed with planes), and semis all producing a strong sense of work being accomplished. The 'atmosphere' (not quite the right word) is noticibly different from northern Ontario which definately gave me a summer vacation feel.

The weather has cooled as August came upon us and both Diane and I are MUCH happier: Diane because we are in the prairies again and me because its not hot at night anymore!!!! Plus we are excited that we are only 5 weeks away from being home!

We have had a couple of visitors: my girlfriend Kathleen Hay from the Ottawa valley and Diane's mom, Lillian, is with us right now for the weekend.

I want to thank Diane and Kathleen for their joint effort of talking me into buying the new shoes. I do find it very hard to spend money when we are trying to raise money for the village. They were right though - I knew it well after only walking for a couple of kms in the new shoes. Like the proverbial frog in the pot they had lost their support and much of their sole so slowly I couldn't tell why my feet were hurting! Thanks girls you are good friends.

Well, I regret that this blog has to be short as I have an hour drive ahead before I sleep and it is past nine. Keep praying and we'll keep walking!

Just an update on the fund raising: we are at $79,000 and we have been notified that we are the charity of choice for the Hadrian Golf Tournament in Sept! Looking forward to updating you on that!

Oh, wait! I want to thank ENDURANCE PLANET.COM. Kevin was just a wonderful host and made me feel so relaxed as we chatted. He has brought me such education in the field of endurance sports and I respect the podcast and his vision for it. I hope all of you will support and enjoy enduranceplanet.com.

Love, denise

Wearing Out Shoes!

2007-08-16T23:48:00.000-06:00

This is Paul writing on behalf of Denise (she's not been able to find a wifi connection for a while). This week Denise realized that the four pairs of running shoes she was walking with were worn out. On returning to Winnipeg on Wednesday, they made a visit to the Running Room Store. Denise picked up two new pairs of Asics Gel-Kayanos. She was able to get a 20% discount with a Vector cereal box coupon. This saved her $80! Running shoes don't seem to last as long as radial tires. I'm guessing she got about 750 kms per pair of shoes.

They are gaining some kilometers above the planned walking log due to the fact that she walked through Winnipeg rather than around it on the Perimeter Road. She has also been adding two extra kilometers to her daily total of 30. The reason for this change is that she would like to take an extra day in Caronport, SK. to visit with our grandchildren (and daughter & son-in-law).

Denise has been enjoying all the encouragement from the prairie drivers. She said they are alot more expressive with their honking greetings than the Ontario travellers.

Interview on Endurance Planet

2007-08-13T15:34:00.000-06:00

Check out this website for an excellent interview with Denise about Simple Steps Walk: Enduranceplanet.com

TO HONOUR SENIORS READING THIS BLOG

2007-08-08T17:32:00.000-06:00

One of the surprising delights of the walk is the stories I have been told by friends and family members of their senior relatives who have learned new skills so that they could keep up to date with Simple Steps Walk!
My son and daughter-in-law, Josh and Becky DeGraaf have told me of Becky's grandmother who, determined to keep up with the walk had her son install and teach her to use a computer. Hello Selma, I am looking forward to giving you a big hug when I reach Saskatoon!
Then there was the family who's senior loved one couldn't be contacted by phone and becoming concerned they sent someone over to the house to see if there was any problem. "No problem!" she explained, "I was just reading Denise's blog!" Sorry to the Hay family and a big hug and kiss to Ruby for your support and prayers.
To all the other seniors, thank you for your interest and support. I couldn't do this without the prayers of so many. Every step is a gift from God.
So if you are a senior who reads this blog could you please comment and let me know who you are. Or if you are a family member of a senior leave a comment to tell me of your relative who has made it a point to read this blog. Lets make a list of seniors who read this blog.
NOTE: you have to sign up for your own blog to leave a comment. That doesn't mean that you have to blog (although my Mom has enjoyed the experience) you just have to "register" with blogspot to leave a comment. Its an easy process and worth the effort.

2000 KILOMETERS

2007-08-06T15:37:00.000-06:00

"All that I have has been given to me. There is nothing that I have that has not been from His hand. No effort, no striving, no human pluck or fortitude has brought me anything. I am His servant, in His battle, for His glory." At 2000 k, Manitoba border, August 3, 2007 Denise DeGraaf

Yes, we have indeed passed the 2000 km mark! On Friday, Paul and I walked and Diane drove across the Manitoba border that we had set as our virtual 2000 k mark (actually 2000 k had been crossed about a half hour before the border.)

I have to talk to you about a troublesome bit of brain matters. I have been noticing a trend in my mindset...as I approach a milestone (I noticed it first at the half way mark) a kind of depression (not severe but notable) begins to swarm above me. I can dodge it, and even ignore its looming presence for sometime but as the days bring me closer to the achievement the threat becomes more intense. I respond by pushing harder, avoid discussing the mark and by indulging in a bit of panic (you know the look in a horse's eyes when he's spooked by what he can't see?)

I used to ride a horse (just barely a horse) called Dapper Dan. He thought himself to be all that and would like to strut his stuff. It was always a constant battle for who was going to control his head - or so I thought at the time. In hindsight, I believe he was just frustrated by my lack of riding skills. I was probably sending him conflicting signals, such as squeezing with my legs and pulling back on the reins at the same time. Poor horse, now I realize how patient he was. I'm grateful he didn't attempt to dismount me regularly.

That is the same feeling I am struggling with now - excitement to have achieved 2000 k and a sadness without explanation (squeezing with my legs and pulling back on the reins). A double minded person is unstable in all her ways!

On Sunday, Paul and I attended a Baptist Church in Kenora and the whole service was centered on the word FAITH. Without having the answer about the cloud of darkness that accompanies a success, I will continue this walk the way I began - in faith. This walk is not about me, I could not have come this far without Him allowing me to walk everyday. In Africa, after we visit a village (usually the village of Bankan), we follow custom by going to the elders and they "give us the road." (They also usually give us a live goat which gets tied to the roof of the vehicle for the ride home, but that doesn't have anything to do with my story). God has "given me the road" and I am blessed on my way.

I also need to say that when I set out my log before leaving, at 2000 k we worked in an extra day off. BOY DID I NEED IT. My emotions were soggy, my feet were feeling thick, and my head was not focused. That last day was extremely hard. But my friend (Paul) had come to walk with me - God knew how much I would need him. I felt like those pictures of people coming in after doing the triathalon at Kona - blind with exhaustion. I thought of another picture too, when God laid Elijah's head on a rock and gave him sleep. I needed rest, it was time to rest. Not only did I have a place to rest, but I also had my best friend with me!

Tomorrow morning we start the last 1000 k. I feel ready. My mind is focused and my heart is armed with faith. God only gives us one day at a time for which I am very grateful.

Come with me back to the beginning (Fri Dec 22, 06 Blog entry) and lets see what I wrote:

Shackleton made a commitment to his men when (their boat) the Endurance was finally swallowed by the ice, he said, "Well men, lets go home." He spoke these words of hope to his crew as they stood on an ice flow, the summer was coming in hard and hot, and their vessel had just abandoned them giving itself up to the sea.Words of hope, commitment to each other, hard hard work, and faith. Do we still have any remnants of these virtues within? Do I have any of Shackleton's love for his men, commitment to my goal, willingness to work harder than I have ever worked, and faith that will sustain my hope?

I believe its there inside me waiting to be worked out by a consistant commitment to obedience and endurance.

Well men, lets go home.

New friends in Kenora

2007-08-05T20:34:00.000-06:00

Kenora librarian and Denise: Upon arriving in Kenora our first stop was to the Public Library where I met (oh dear Im sorry I have forgotten your name!) this lovely librarian. We both thought we knew each other and had no idea from where. So we just settled on being friends as is. Too bad I'm not a very good friend to forget her name! Their library is a beautiful mixture of old architecture and new, a feat that is not easily achieved. I was able to blog and wasn't charged the extra fee. Thank you.

The Plaza Staff and Denise: Then we happened upon this wonderful family owned restaurant. The staff took us in and treated us so well. We were well fed when we left. The Plaza offers aeuthentic mediterranean dishes made by the owners. I enjoyed the Greek combo and a large piece of baklava for dessert. Hmmm.

Sharon and Denise: While we were out smoozing with the meditteranean set someone was waiting at our RV. Sharon Scharfe is articling in Kenora after having passed her bar exams (CONGRATULATIONS!). We had met years ago through her family in the Ottawa valley. It was sooooo much fun to spend the evening together. We all said we hadn't laughed so much in a very long time. All the best to a very dear lady!

Clare and Diane: Sharon treated us to a wonderful meal at Haps in Kenora. The outdoor patio was full and this was our hard working waitress. She had a great attitude under such pressure.

We were so blessed in Kenora and are taking many happy memories with us as we push on to Winnipeg.

2007-08-01T16:38:00.000-06:00

Just wanted to share some of the beauty of the morning with you. These were taken about 12 kms west of Vermillion Bay on Monday I believe.

This morning (Aug 1) I was exhausted, my feet ached and my body still thought it was in bed! At 6 am it was hot and muggy, so much so that I began to pray that God would take the humid dank away! We stopped for bfast after 9kms and had a nap and then made some french toast for myself. While I slept a storm broke the back of the humidity and I stepped out into a fresher world. I was extremely grateful but still tired - last night was a little late and it was stifling hot. The generator ran out of gas and I was too lazy to get up and go out to fill it. As Paul reminds me, God is teaching me patience. Adrian Rogers says that patience is the number one necessary character trait if you want to attain maturity in your Christian walk. So when Paul reminds me of the opportunity to learn/practice patience I try to settle into the situation with some sense of availability and contentment.

So finally, after walking toward Kenora for what seemed to be a very very long time, we arrived here around 3 pm. I still had 3 kms to do to finish my day but went further and did 28 something today.

TWO more days and we will be at the Manitoba border!

Diane was excited to find out that there is a big celebration here tonight to commemorate 100 years of Scouting in Canada. That is pretty cool. The event is being held under a beautiful open sided tent on the waterfront and she is determined to go. Because I was so tired today I might pass up the opportunity? But I hate to leave Diane by herself to experience this occasion.

Kenora is one of THE MOST BEAUTIFUL lakeside towns I have visited. It is bustling with visitors this week because of a number of conventions all taking place here on the same weekend. They have trimmed, and plucked, and fluffed until the town has the appearance of a newly groomed teenager. Kenora's history is fun too. Originally called "Rat Portage" the name had to be changed when a flour company wanted to move to town but felt the name would be a deterant to their corporate image. They didn't want to PRINT the word RAT anywhere on their product. So the town came up with KE (from a neighbouring town of Keewatin), NO (from another neighbouring town of Norman), and RA (from the original name Rat's A?? - humm). Now these were not city rats it was named by the natives because of the large number of Muskrats that populated the area.

The lake which Kenora is on, Lake-of-the-Woods, has so many islands that it has more shoreline than all of Lake Superior. We were told in the information centre that navigation on the lake is very dangerous as it is sooo easy to get lost. "It is a very serious problem." said she.

When she asked if we would be staying in Kenora for the night we said yes and then she wanted to help us to find a campsite. Diane skillfully avoided telling her that we had reservations at the Walmart parking lot. We stayed there last night too and noticed the large signs that stated the City by-law that there is no overnight parking allowed. When we left at 5:30 am there were 7 other RVs spending the night. In Perry Sound the Walmart even allowed us to plug in.

I wanted to say how much your comments bless me. Your words are precious drops of encouragement to me. Keep praying for my stamina.

Paul is coming on Friday (he's going to meet me at the Manitoba border), and after walking on Saturday we have scheduled two days off. So we will be in a hotel room for Sat, Sun, and Mon nights. Today as I walked I really felt the need for a real bed and a hot bath and a couple of days off. Looking forward to that.

Well, my friends and all God bless you in your walk today and may you know God's presence, his promise, and his peace. (hey, that might preach eh?) ha ha

Lovin' you lots and lots, denise

2007-07-29T11:27:00.000-06:00

On July 24 it was soooo hot that we stopped after only 18 kms and went into Dryden. We didn't get back to the RV until 7:30 pm. It was considerably cooler by that time and I was determined to finish my 27 kms for the day. But it started to get dark. You can see that with the lights of the support car (Carmen was working on retrofitting the RV with the bracket to hold the generator) on my back Diane was able to illuminate my safety vest even before passing car lights would reach me. I did feel a bit concerned about animals who like to come out a dusk but Diane followed close behind and called out encouraging words.
At 26 km there was a side road and I thought, "This would be a good place to stop. I've done 26, one less isn't too bad. Nobody would expect you to go further. Besides its dark and dangerous."
Then I saw a road sign further ahead and I told myself, "You are going to walk to that sign and then we will see how much further you have to go. I am not giving in. This is nothing, your body isn't injured, you have support, your lighted and relatively safe. And like Mom said God will shut the "lions" mouths. So just relax and walk."
So I did, and at the sign... I had walked 27 kms. We marked the spot and drove back to where Carmen was working. My bed was calling.
It has been really hot this week. And next week is supposed to be hot again. I am trusting the Lord for His provision.
I have been enjoying Dr. Adrian Rogers podcasts lately. But today I just found out that he has been promoted to glory since 2005! I was surprised and Paul said, "Though he is dead yet he speaks on." or something like that. His sounded smarter than mine... So, yesterday I listened to a sermon called Peace in Your Storm. I learned something very important: the word COMFORT is made up of two ideas 1.com means with 2. fort is strength. Why would we think of being calmed and cared for by a word that means with strength? Well, Rodgers was talking about the disciples in the storm. He points out that the very waves which they thought would go over their heads were under Jesus's feet as he walked out to them. The situation was infused with a new strength. Which element in the story was stronger now? John 16:33These things I have spoken unto you, that in me ye might have peace. In the world ye shall have tribulation: but be of good cheer; I have overcome the world.
If you need comfort, if your heart is in a storm that threatens to go over you remember that Jesus comes to you, walking on the storm for He has overcome. Invite him into your boat "and the things of earth will grow strangely dim."
Psalm 37: 23 The steps of a good man are ordered by the LORD: and he delighteth in his way.
24Though he fall, he shall not be utterly cast down: for the LORD upholdeth him with his hand.
Take heart my friend, we can go together through the storms of life. Looking towards our Saviour who has overcome this world.
Just as a bonus I wrote out the rest of Dr. Rogers sermon. It may be of some help to you as it was to me.

PEACE in the Midst of Your Storm
Providence: His purpose brought me here.
Jesus sent his disciples into the storm. The storm didn't surprise Jesus. Some life storms are perfecting storms and some are correcting storms but in either case His faithfulness remains.
Entreaty: His prayers protect me here.
He was on the mountain looking at the disciples and prayed for them. First notice he was "looking" at them, he isn't too busy to notice you are sinking in your storm. He isn't wasting time, he is praying for you. Do you think he is praying for your ease? I don't think so, I believe he is praying that you will SEE the glory of God in your storm. That you will take the opportunity to grow in faith. I think he was praying that Satan who lies to you about the faithfulness of God would be held back so that you will have a chance to believe the truth.
Assurance: His presence comes to me here.
He is not far off, but walking right there beside you. If he is here, what can you be afraid of?
This is the one who has given all, suffered all, purchased all for you. Do you suggest by your fear that he witholds all that from you now? No, he is near by. Call on his name.
Comfort: His power sustains me here.
This word comfort is the infusion of power into a previously hopeless situation. He hasn't sent you into the storm to hurt you or destroy your life (as Satan is suggesting). You are here by his good purposes. Stay here and learn from the teacher he has sent you.
Expectation: His promise assures me here.
We do not live by explanation but by promise. Find a promise and stand on it. Here is a promise that I stand on: Heb 7:25 Therefore he is able to save completely those who come to God through him, because he always lives to intercede for them.
And sometimes when all I can remember is one little song, there is enough theology in it to rescue me from any fear, "Jesus loves me this I know, for the Bible tells me so. Little to ones to him belong, they are weak but he is strong." This was the song that Daniel was singing at the top of his lungs in the bottom of the pit; and the song that these disciples were singing as they pulled at the oars and the waves roared around them; and Paul and Silas sang while rats and cockroaches ran over them while they were chained to the walls of the prison; and Steven sang as he received his crown of rocks and stones; and shall I go on? Come my friend, hold my hand and we will sing that same song together... Jesus loves me this I know, for the Bible tells me so. Little ones to him belong. We are weak but He is strong. Yes, Jesus love me! Yes, Jesus loves me! Yes, Jesus loves me! The Bible tells me so.
Comfort, comfort
Walking home with Him who loves me, I remain His handmaid and your servant, denise

LATEST BLESSING

2007-07-27T14:42:00.000-06:00

During the 41 degree days we were really cooking in and out of the RV. Diane and Carmen were like two little peanuts roasting to perfection. While I felt like my legs were next to a wood stove in the sun. Walking was dangerous in that heat - I couldn't drink enough. Diane ended up with heat stroke one day just from being in the RV all day. So when we got to Dryden to celebrate Diane's birthday they began discussing the idea of purchasing a generator for the RV.

And so before we left Dryden that night I was sharing the backseat with this red beauty. Carmen is a genius and built a bracket to support the generator on the back bumper. He did this all out of his trunk in a parking lot. AMAZING WORK CARMEN! Thank you to you both for buying this gift. It will make everything so much easier. May God bless you both doubly good.

2007-07-27T12:51:00.000-06:00

For the last two weeks Diane's husband, Carmen, has been with us. He has been a great help as he has installed a new starter, fixed the driver's door, fixed the back door, fixed screens, and bought a new 5600 watt generator and built a support bracket on the bumper to hold it.

At Upsala Diane and Carmen spent a fun time building this sand castle on the beach.

During the first weekend Carmen was here they spent time visiting the sights. Here they are at the Terry Fox Memorial.

This has been our mascot for the past two weeks. Brandy is a very smart, obedient and patient poodle. I have nicknamed him "Brandybuck" of the LOTR fame.

They also spent a hot evening playing under the falls at Raleigh Falls (between Upsala and Dryden).

Tomorrow morning (Saturday, July 28) Carmen will be heading home. Diane will take over the driving responsibilities again. I know Diane will miss having her best friend around. Only another 2 months before we get home (Sept 22).

The other day, Wednesday July 25, Carmen was working on the support bracket for the generator and Diane was supporting me with the car. So when I had to go pee I started asking the Lord for a good place to go into the woods. At just the right time I came across this "road." Thanking the Lord for his provision I started down the road.

I quickly came to a clearing with a BACKHOUSE in it!!! It was brand new and I was again very thankful - to both the owner and the Lord. After using it I thought how grateful I was and wanted to leave a message of thanks. So we left one of the Bibles, some tracts and a thankyou.

On Thursday morning we came across this truck in the ditch. Carmen thought the driver must have fallen asleep and just drove off the road. Again, this work place is dangerous and I need your prayers.

Look where we got to yesterday! But before we arrived we had a very exciting visitor.

Ray Perriman who is the International Project Advisor for Careforce Int'l stopped to walk with me. We had a great time of encouragement and then prayer. May God bless Ray as he serves the Lord with Careforce.

Then for supper we ended up at the Lovenuks. They are Carmen's 2nd cousins on his mother's side. Micheline and Ken were very generous and gracious hosts. They invited us back for a pancake breakfast this morning. Their son Phil is going to Brock U taking Kinesiology. We had such a wonderful time with them. In fact we are going to stay with them tonight too.

Guess who this is?

2007-07-25T16:17:00.000-06:00

Who is this. Take your guess by commenting. The correct response will win a you-pay-the-expenses day walking with Denise. I love you Lucy!!!!

NEW FEATURE!!!!

2007-07-24T11:50:00.000-06:00

New feature: Paul has taken the time to add a Google Maps map of our walk with daily goals and updates. Just click on the link to see up-to-date news about where we are!!! Thanks Paul.

On Sunday we were in Ignace and I had noticed a sign in a store front that said, "Redemption Baptist Church." So on Sunday we went to the service. It is a new work that the Pastor (I'm sorry I forget his name) and his family has just started. The Pastor also works fulltime as a EMS at Pickle Lake. He had a wonderful sermon for his small congregation (the three of us doubled the number of those who were in the chairs.

After church we went out for lunch to celebrate my anniversary (29th) and Diane found an other animal friend. On Monday the heat (as it probably was for you) was incredibly hot. Diane had a touch of heat stroke since its so hot in the RV. When we got to a picnic area at Raleigh Falls we decided to stop and finish the last 4 kms in the cooler evening. This photo is just one section of the falls but it was so exciting and cool to get in behind the falls.

Behind Raleigh Falls.

Oh Oh I am getting closer!

I JUST COULDN'T RESIST!! SO MUCH FUN AND SO COOL.

Today, July 24 (Diane's birthday) it is 33 degrees and 41 with the humidex. As I walked this morning the heat just became too much. So I had to stop at 10:30. We left the RV in a large parking area and took Carmen's car into Dryden. Its hard to give in to the heat. I can beat anything, except heat. I can walk through torrents of rain, cold weather, snow even but the heat ... I have to give in and submit to its demands on my body. We will return to the RV and do the last 9 kms before going to bed tonight.

Happy Birthday Diane!

Feeling dizzy

2007-07-21T16:32:00.000-06:00

Hi friends, Its the weekend and we have walked into Ignace. Today was a short day since 1. I had walked 33 km one other day this week, 2. I wasn't feeling too well, a bit of a sore throat and dizzy again, 3. Paul told me not to throw the log off by adding kms to the week! So I only walked 18.8 km today. But we had a an eventful day.

This is Rich Ralph from Vancouver (earlier from Kingston, ON), he is roller blading across Canada followed by his dedicated parents in a RV. They are working really hard to raise funds for cancer research. It was great to talk to the Ralphs; Diane and Carmen exchanged notes with Rich's parents while we discussed the road and fund raising trials. He has a great attitude and I hope he does well. He does approximately 100-120km per day. He will be the first person to blade across Canada! Way to go Rich!!!

Yesterday we came across a dead bear. She was small (probably a yearling). I thought her paws were beautiful. Hwy 17 is a dangerous road. Seeing road kill always reminds me that I work in a dangerous place.

Wednesday morning of this week I turned over in bed and the whole RV turned over with me. I put my hand on the wall trying to stop it from turning. I was finally able to open my eyes. (Even writing about this brings me more dizziness) I got up and went outside and tried to vomit but wasn't able to "be productive" as a nurse might say. I pushed myself to start walking and eventually the dizziness went away. But I have never fully recovered - it doesn't stop me but its there. I had thought that first day that it was sun stroke as I had walked late, the sun was low and yet still strong, and I hadn't worn my sunglasses. But I have been very faithful to wear hat and sunglasses since. This afternoon, I was REALLY dizzy again. I ate and then slept for 1.5 hours. Diane encouraged me to get some medical care and I finally gave in. We went to the supermarket here in Ignace to ask if there was a walk in clinic. No, only an ambulance station. They suggested we ask them for help. They were excellent! They took my blood pressure -fine, my blood sugar - fine, and a heart something or other - she looked at the paper and said that I had a nice "P" curve? I told her thats cuz I had kids and the bladder just aint what it used to be. The other thought I had was a potassium deficiency. So I am eating sardines, bananas, and mandarin oranges. I don't know whats wrong but I am not going to walk without eating first - new rule. And although it is counter intuitive I have to eat more...not as easy as it sounds. I could really use your prayers about this.

Thanks for all your prayers and concern. We will be just resting tomorrow and then heading for Dryden on Monday! and Manitoba in two weeks!!! Yeeee

Friends of mine

2007-07-18T18:51:00.000-06:00

Hello from Ignace. We have not yet walked here but drove in tonight to celebrate two very special occasions.

On Saturday evening we waited along the side of the road for Carmen (Diane's husband) to arrive. He will be with us for two weeks. He is a trucker by trade and has taken over most of the driving. This brings a fresh dynamic to our days. But he is a subtle task master...today he said to me, "You are doing a kilometer every time I catch up with you." So of course, I made SURE that I did a kilometer by the time they caught up. I don't know if he is playing mind games with me or just commenting on stats...:) either way it made me purposeful about how fast I was walking.

Diane is very thankful for the little holiday. But she isn't idle, she is cooking up a storm! Cooking is one of Diane's gifts. It is their anniversary today and so we made a special trip into the nearest town! Congratulations Diane and Carmen on your 3rd Anniversary. May your marriage be a living description of Christ's love for His church.

We also celebrated reaching half way with a dinner at the PetroCan!!! Not a bad meal for having to walk 1590 something kms to get it! So we are thanking God for His faithful presence and care.

Since Thunder Bay we have been surprised by all the flat land.

This photo was taken while crossing the Kaministiquia River on Hwy 102 (north of TBay).
I like the three modes of transportation which are descriptive of eras in Canadian history and economic development: the river, the train, and the road.

For a couple of days now we have been walking beside a train track. I haven't told you about my friend the train. Every day my friend meets me along the road. Sometimes I can only hear it calling from deep within the bush but it's always there. Always there working harder than I am pulling long long lines of double high trailers to destinations beyond the north. We meet and pass knowing that we will meet again tomorrow or even later in the day. Lately, while the tracks have been so close to the road I have taken to waving at my friend the train and it always responds with a very very loud blast or two from its red engines. Why this brings me such pleasure and comfort I am unsure and I know the personification of this object is irrational but fulfilling. I have other friends too, they have had a bad rap (witches and stuff) but they also have an honourable history (God used them to feed Elijah). Forgive me if I have written about this before. Every morning (we are usually on the road by 6 am at the latest) the ravens come and say good morning. I imagine them to be watching over me as the eagles do for Gandalf in the LOTR. I speak to them and always ask how they are. They often move from tree to tree with me while I walk along. Then they move off to start their day. It is nice to feel like (if only in one's imagination) part of the life that goes on along the road. Then there are the truckers that pass me and let me know they recognize me by honking and waving. And lots of other vehicles honk and give me the thumbs up too.

Then there are the people who are really my friends, like Diane who has been so faithfully committed to her calling to drive the RV for all this time. Although we have had (it goes without saying it is inevitable) our differences and have had to construct our own personal space within the confines of this small world, we are very well suited to work together. I could never do what she is doing and she has no desire to do what I am doing and yet together we will get the job done. Thanks Diane for all you do.

Paul asked me this morning on the phone (we have had amazing cell phone coverage in the north) if I was getting tired of getting up everyday and walking. I can honestly say every night before I go to sleep I think, "I get to walk tomorrow!" Every day is different and I look forward to seeing my friends along the way, talking to Paul, seeing new sights (every stream is different, every town a new outpost) and accomplishing my goal for the day in different ways. Like today, I started at 10 to 6 and walked for 17kms before stopping at 9:30 to have bfast. Then I only had 2 more hours of walking to do to finish the day. So after a long break, I finished the day at 1:30. I think I will do that for a while, its so nice to get so much done in the early morning.

On another blog I started to give you an outline of our day...I will try again.

5 am Alarm rings (bedding stashed, Diane does circle check on vehicle, I get ready to walk)

6 am Prayer together, on the road (short breaks decided by necessity to use the washroom, or change clothes-hot/cold/raining) Diane sets a timer for 7 min and when it rings she catches up to me.

9:30 am Have stopped for a long break (1 hour) and have bfast (look at maps, chat, laugh)

11 am Back on the road

3 pm Done for the day, park along the road or whatever is happening that day

As I look at the schedule it seems sparse but each day is really full! I'm not sure I can explain that but... There are always things that happen that we can't anticipate. Yesterday, friends from Melfort came by on the road and then shortly after we helped a grandmother and her two grand daughters who had broken down along the road. Carmen assessed their problem and then unhitched his car and followed them to the nearest town to make sure they made it there. They wanted to give him some money for his kindness but he refused so they made a donation to the Walk! These are the roses along the way and missing them would be missing the best part.

I want to say thank you for the wonderful care package that I picked up at the Upsala post office. Along with the candies, gorp and body care products (just what I needed) your words, all of your words took their place in my heart and will be the fodder for many a mile.

Excuse me Canadians the alliteration of "many a mile" works better than the practical: many kilometers :)

After our rad gave up and Canadian Tire couldn't help we were towed into Thunder Bay by this semi. It was my first ride in a semi. There was only one passenger seat so I sat on the bunk in the back.

It was a privilege to walk this section (100 kms from west of Nipigon to T Bay) as it is dedicated as the Terry Fox Courage Highway.

Sorry about the poor quality of this photo of us at the Terry Fox Monument.

We made it to TBay!

North of TBay we came across an RV dealer that was willing to fix a leak in our roof that was dripping on my bed. I was sleeping with a dishpan beside me, not to mention the permanent damage be done by the water to the RV. So while Diane waited with the RV I walked on alone. This was my lunch: sardines, bagel (very stale but I dipped it in the sardine juice), and I didn't get around to eating the granola bar. Eating sardines in the middle of the bush isn't the smartest thing to do but the wind was at my back, the road in front and there was lots of traffic so I could hope someone would stop to help if a neighbourhood bear smelled my lunch. I got to day's end before Diane came. The roof has not leaked since, and it has had plenty of opportunity! There is a great sense of adventure in walking unsupported. However, it is only because I know it will only be for a short while. When the RV was getting the rad fixed and we were camping in my tent we dearly missed its amenities. I even got caught relieving myself on a side road. The person was kind enough to wait at the end of the road until I appeared and explained our predicament to him. He understood and didn't mind.

Construction on a bridge causes a long line up to form right where Diane had decided to get out and get some sun and finish her book. What an intrusion! As I crossed this bridge the traffic was flowing with me and someone leaned out their window and gave a $5 donation. People are so trusting and caring! I deposited that money today and will send a cheque in along with other spontaneous donations tomorrow.

Milestones pass day by day. Here we have come the the artic watershed, and then a few days later a time zone change.

These last two photos are of the Kakabeka Falls. They usually run at between 11 to 13 cubic feet per second but at the time the photos were taken it was rushing at 100 cubic feet per second. It was an amazing and chilling sight. This is a wonderful destination for a vacation, come see Canada! Forget the cruises in the winter...this is where its at boys and girls!!! While Diane and Carmen took off for some alone time I stayed (very comfortably) at the Kakabeka Falls Provincial Park.

Well, my friends. I love you and want to thank you for all your prayers, support and encouragement!! This journey is a test of my faith. The evil one has not been sitting idly by while good things are happening. External circumstances (outside of the walk) have threatened to leave me undone but your prayers, and God's faithful compassion and provision have sustained and strengthened me to keep moving west. I was explaining to my Mom the other day that when you are beginning to expect more from your body you have to break it and then allow it to rebuild, then go back and break it again and then allow it to rebuild. I feel that my character is going through that process. I would not be a friend if I let you believe that I am tripping happily along without days of tears and hours of fear. But I would only be telling you a small part to not include God's grace in my heart. The tears are wiped away and the fear is dissipated as the threatening clouds. He gave me these verses the other day, "We put no stumbling block in anyone's path, so that our ministry will not be discredited. Rather, as servants of God we commend ourselves in every way: in great endurance; in troubles, hardships and distresses;" 2 Cor 6:3,4 I am privileged to know that many of you reading this blog have endured much hardship in your lives. We are blessed as we have drank deeply of his rich grace. I respect and honour each of you as you keep on serving your families, your churches, your co-workers, your communities. You are Christ's hands and feet.

HEY! He's promised to come back and make it all right. Thats our hope, thats our goal, thats when we finish the journey. Until then I remain His servant and your friend. Denise

The Moose Gallery

2007-07-17T23:17:00.001-06:00

These pics are in honour of our son, Corporal J. C. "Moose" DeGraaf.

Diane took this shot after the moose crossed the road behind Denise. Denise didn't even know the moose was there.

A familiar sign all over Northern Ontario.

Another of Diane's pics. Taken early in the morning just north of our campground from the bridge crossing the Agawa River. This appeared to be a very big bull moose. Take my word for it.

We're not sure if we should venture in to get a close look at this one?!

This is a favorite stop for travellers in Wawa, the Young's General Store. Thanks for supporting our troops!

Here's a close up shot of our main focus on this blog entry. A baby bull standing on the front porch, a little stiff.

There's a lake named after everything in Northern Ontario, even our soldier son!

We kept looking for you Josh, but we never did see you. Maybe next trip. We're proud of you son. Thank you for serving our country and for standing against those who perpetrate evil and violence in our world. We're praying for you.

Approaching Half Way! July 17, 2007

2007-07-17T22:42:00.000-06:00

Denise has had some difficulty finding an internet connection these days, so this is Paul writing. Here's a good shot of the Walker: And here's who she is walking for: the children of the Village of Hope in Burkina Faso, West Africa.
Tomorrow is another milestone in the walk. Denise reaches the half way point. We're not sure of the exact total distance, but we are estimating it at 3180 kms. Tomorrow, just 22 kms west of the town of Upsala, ON. Denise will walk the 1590th km. Tonight they are parked at the Upsala Can Op Campground. A couple of special highlights for today were meeting friends from Melfort on the road. Pastor Paul & Rose Dubois are fellowservants whom we are blessed to share ministry with in the city of Melfort. They are travelling by car as a family all the way to the Canadian Atlantic coast. Thanks Paul & Rose for your encouragement! The second blessing was receiving a care package at the Upsala Post Office from all of our friends at Breadalbane Baptist Church in the Ottawa Valley.

We both wept tears of gratitude as Denise read over the phone to me each of the notes of encouragement that were written by children and adults. Thank you for your thoughtfulness and prayers.

Thank you to all who are praying and have supported Simple Steps Walk by your donations. People and churches all across Canada have given sacrificially to the children at the Village of Hope. The current total of donations is $78,000.

We're all in this together.

Amie Here

2007-07-15T20:16:00.000-06:00

Mom wanted me to tell you that she has been unable for some time to get any Internet connection. She is so encouraged by the number of hits to the blog. Jon and I were estimating 50+ a day. Thank you to everyone that is showing an interest in Mom's hard work.

When I talked to her today (Sunday, her day off) she was standing beside a waterfall that was very loud. She told me how fast and how much water was going over per minute, but sadly...I've forgotten! sorry not a very good reporter...good thing I didn't follow that childhood dream. Anyways, sounds like she had a good break and of course sounded optimistic about getting back out on the road tomorrow. So keep checking the blog, she will be back soon.

thanks again,

Amie Chalmers

a.k.a. proud daughter of the walker!

ps I thought I would put up a picture of Gracie...gotta put a picture of my kid, what kind of mother would I do otherwise. Grace and Elijah were asking for Nanna the whole time we were at Dad's last week. We miss you mom!

One more hill

2007-07-06T06:45:00.000-06:00

Yesterday (July 5), we stopped at Gravel River. It has a river (which has sand banks, and sand bottom, but not a bit of gravel to be seen), a restaurant/gift store/gas pumps/motel, and the two people who run the place. The owner told us that there is one more big hill to climb on our way out of Ontario! That was very encouraging because there is a great sense of accomplishment with hearing that.
Well, just wanted to share that exciting news. The Canadian Tire has agreed to take the RV in right at 9 am. And they even have a thermostat in stock if that is what is wrong. Please pray with us that is all thats wrong.
We will let you know how the day turned out tomorrow.

Accidental wireless

2007-07-05T19:46:00.000-06:00

We have wireless accidently tonight. We are parked at the Canadian Tire parking lot in Nipigon. After only having done 18 km Diane got out of the RV and came walking toward me on the shoulder. The engine was overheating and the rad was spewing out of it's overflow tank. We had been suspicious of the thermostat for a couple of days but now the engine was spiking to HOT while driving. It was time to take this seriously. So I completed the last few km (only did 25 today because of the circumstances), and Diane waited for 45 minutes twice before starting the engine and coming to where I had walked. When we reached a snowplow turnaround we knew that going further would put the engine in danger of permanent damage. So we sat in the RV trying to decide what to do. We had already asked the Lord for wisdom and so now we were weighing out our options:

1 We had NO cell phone coverage to call CAA.

2 Nipigon was 34 kms away so riding the bike there (up very long steep hills) was not an option.

3 Hitching a ride was an option but both should go as one alone could be dangerous.

As we sat considering our plan of action a car drove right up to the RV and a man stepped out. "You having trouble?" he asked. The licence plate said Manitoba so that was our first reason to trust him. Plus he had his wife in the car! And when we asked which way they were headed he pointed west! Our decision was made for us. Both of us would go into Nipigon to phone CAA, get a shower (thank you Husky truck stops for having showers!), and have some supper.

After some discussion with CAA they finally confirmed that a truck would be coming from Thunder Bay, he would pick us up at the Husky truck stop and then we would go with him to the RV. The Lord sent someone who was very nice and knew what he was doing. He had to remove the drive shaft to tow the RV so under he went to get it off.

So now we sit here waiting for Canadian Tire to open tomorrow morning at 9 am.

I am concerned about getting my mileage in for the day and I have considered catching a ride with someone at the truck stop out to the start point and walking 34 kms back to Nipigon UNSUPPORTED, ON ME OWN, ALONE!! Ok I have to admit I am a bit scared to 1 find a ride out to the spot, 2 walk by myself (bears, heat, bugs). So many excuses. Maybe I should do that. I was going to do the whole walk like that at one time. The other problem I have is that (foolishly) I didn't bring my backpack. So I would need to pack all of my water, lunch and snacks somewhere. I guess I could wait til Canadian Tire opens and buy one and then leave.... I am going to pray about it tonight while I sleep.

Well, we know we are safe in God's hands. There is nothing that surprises Him and He cares for me (and you right where you are).

July 4: Let me introduce you to Harry & Patti-Ann from Melfort. Due to the fog in the morning i was walking late in the day (5:30 pm). I saw a man coming toward me and he shouted out, "Are you the lady from Melfort?" What a boost for the day! This couple treated us like special friends. And within a half hour I felt we were waving goodbye to people we had known for a long time. A special thanks to you both for your kindnesses. I completed that big hill that night before we bedded down at the snowplow turnaround at the top of the hill.
This really doesn't show the hill very well but I wanted to point out that the height of land that makes up the horizon in this photo was where I had walked earlier that afternoon. Isn't is amazing how far just these two feet can take you?

I am always amazed that these sweet peas grow wild along the shoulders of the road. They are lovely (I forgot to see if they are fragrant). Often as I walk I am shocked by the beautiful smells that waft past me.

Well, must go. Thanks to all who comment and all who are praying. I believe your prayers send people along at the right time, and help us in all our little day to day decisions. Keep up the hard work! We need your support in this way.

My time in the Word

2007-07-04T07:10:00.000-06:00

Thought I would share my time in the Word with you today.

Isaiah 30:15-26
In repentance and rest is your salvation, in quietness and trust is your strength, but you would have none of it. You said, “No, we will flee on horses. Therefore you will flee! You said, “We will ride off on swift horses.” Therefore your pursuers will be swift! A thousand will flee at the threat of one: at the threat of five you will all flee away, till you are left like a flagstaff on a mountaintop, like a banner on a hill.
YET, the Lord longs to be gracious to you; he rises to show you compassion. For the Lord is a God of justice. Blessed are all who wait for him!
O people of Zion, who live in Jerusalem, you will weep no more. How gracious he will be when you cry for help! As soon as he hears, he will answer you. Although the Lord gives you the bread of adversity and the water of affliction, your teachers will be hidden no more; with you own eyes you will see hem. Whether you turn to the right or to the left, your ears will hear a voice behind you saying, “This is the way; walk in it.” Then you will defile your idols overlaid with silver and your images covered with gold; you will throw them away like a menstrual cloth and say to them, “Away with you!”
He will also send you rain for the seed you sow in the ground, and the food that comes from the land will be rich and plentiful. In that day your cattle will graze in broad meadows. The oxen and donkeys that work the soil will eat fodder and mash, spread out with fork and shovel. In the day of great slaughter, when the towers fall, streams of water will flow on every high mountain and every lofty hill. The moon will shine like the sun, and the sunlight will be seven times brighter, like the light of seven full days, when the Lord binds up the bruises of his people and heals the wounds he inflicted.
Observations and encouragement:
What a strange and mysterious God He is!
Vs 15-17 says that they wouldn’t repent. Instead they ran from God. They wanted to provide safety for themselves. But God responds with care and compassion (vs 18 – 26) to their rejection and stubborn self sufficiency. Vs 18, “Yet the Lord longs to be gracious to you,”
Thoughts,
1. I need to imitate God: longing to be gracious when people reject me.
2. I need to count on His mercy: he has good and kind intentions toward me, even when my sin has me running away from His face.
3. He responds out of HIS OWN CHARACTER not in response to my actions.
4. In verse 16 we are fleeing; in v 21 it says or implies, “even on your way fleeing, I will still guide you.” (reminds me of the verses: where can I go from God, even if I go to the depths of the sea you are there)
5. He will answer my cry for help. When I run he sends teachers with me who will make me wise enough to cry for his help – vs 20 “bread of adversity and water of affliction, your teachers.” Wise enough to throw away any foolish ideas of help from any other god (vs 22).
6. Although His teachers might bring hard lessons He will always repair what has been broken. Vs 26, “when the Lord binds up the bruises of his people and heals the wounds he inflicted.”
I am so thankful for a faithful God who sends trials to bring me wisdom. I am consciously trying daily to practice the discipline of embracing my trials as my precious gifts from a loving God. It brings strength and peace.

Catching up on photos

2007-07-04T06:14:00.001-06:00

We are bound by fog again. The thickest I've seen since we lived in New Brunswick. We are in the Voyageur Restaurant again and I just over heard someone say that there was no fog where they came from. So Diane and I are going to drive ahead to see how long the fog hangs on. Hopefully it clears soon. Then we will come back to today's start point and at least know we have clear skies ahead!
Here are some photos that I haven't had time to share with you.

Approaching the Hwy 17 bridge over the Little Pic River. Looking north from the bridge. Stunning. From the bridge looking south. Can you see three kayakers?

This is a dangerous road. There are hundreds of these memorial crosses along the way. Each is a reminder of the perils of this transportation route.

Always wondering whats around the next corner.

Train tresel and hwy 17 bridge behind it. Taken from Neys Prov Park

Ready to celebrate 1000 kms at Wawa. Done for the day. I've heard you should never turn your back on a goose - especially on that big!
Leaving Wawa the next morning. Today (July 4) Thunder Bay is only 219 km away! And Terrace Bay is 27 km behind us!

Some beautiful Birch? Aspen? Poplar? I have a hard time telling them apart. Especially in a photo.

Just the every day scenery!

Fog bound

2007-07-03T19:28:00.000-06:00

Leave the road to the trucks in this fog!

A wet day too.
Last lake of the day.

This morning I woke at 5 am as usual but when I looked outside it was so dark I decided to keep sleeping for another half hour (I had only had 8 hours of sleep !!!). By 5:30 it was light enough to think about being on the road but there was quite a bit of fog. I wasn't feeling great but I dragged my "feelings" out the door with me to the road and got to work.

As we approached Terrace Bay the fog began to get thicker and thicker. I started to feel unsafe so I decided when we got to Terrace Bay we would wait for the fog to lighten up before going any further. So after bfast I got my hair cut, got a roll of loonies and two rolls of quarter (for laundry), did some grocery shopping, picked up some Calcium/Magnesium (w Zinc and vit D) vitamins, mailed some letters and got a cancellation stamp in my journal from the post office, oh yes and had lunch at a very good chinese restaurant. So by then we had spent about 5 hours there and the fog had lifted enough to walk.

We passed Schreiber but returned to this restaurant which has free wireless internet. The Voyageur Restaurant owner, Linda Jackson was more than hospitable as she agreed to allow us to stay in her parking lot overnight and even give us a place to plug in so we could watch a movie. Thanks Linda! We have chosen "The Queen." I just heard someone say its almost 10!!!! Yipes.

I am just going to put some photos up and call it a night. Had another great day walking home today!

He plans the steps

2007-06-28T19:18:00.000-06:00

At Montreal Harbour in a small restaurant we met this nice Stoney Creek resident who worked teaching hazardous spill cleanu up. His company had worked on the Mississauga train derailment. He gave us all hats! Thanks Cliff!
Street signs in White River.
Did you know that Winnie-the-Pooh (the real bear) was purchased in WHITE RIVER, ON by a Captain of the Canadian army who took her overseas to England as their mascot. When the regiment was sent to fight Winnie was cared for by the London Zoo. She became a favourite of many children who visited the zoo including A. A. Milne and his son Christopher.
I went into the Post Office at White River for a cancellation stamp she used a special stamp with Winnie on it and then gave me 4 free first day covers with Winnie stamps on them.

When Paul first arrived he had planned to return on Thursday June 29 (today) but as the time went by he decided to stay with me for an extra day. Tomorrow he drives west and we drive east back to our starting point.

After walking today we drove into Marathon and planned to spend a special evening together - this isn't as easy as it sounds. We drove around the town looking for a "nice" restaurant. We really couldn't find anything, and then when we finally decided on one there was a sign on the door, "Due to unforseen circumstances we will close at 6pm." We laughed and got in the truck. We headed out to the highway to a place we had seen on the way in. There were no other cars in the parking lot and it seemed a little strange but we were hungry. When we went in the waitress/cook told us to sit anywhere. She seemed a little under-dressed in flipflops, lounge pants, and a t-shirt. Then her two boys (both under 6 years) were dropped off at the restaurant because their father, who was supposed to be looking after them, was no where to be found. The waitress/cook/mom told the boys to sit at a table and they weren't to move (remember they are under 6). Paul said that this gives a whole new meaning to the term "Family Restaurant."

Although I felt uncomfortable, and disappointed with our "special" night out together, my heart really went out to this mom. Yes, she has probably made alot of bad decisions, and she might need some time management advice but compassion meets people right where they are (right where compassion and mercy met me).

Another plan that the Lord had was to arrange for me to sign papers for the transfer of the ownership of our house. It is the last day Paul is here, the only lawyer was in town (he serves 2 other communities) and he agreed to wait for us before he left for home (Thunder Bay). So Paul will take the papers home signed by the notary public, a witness, and us. Another detail arranged by a precision master.

This is Gracie Chalmers my grand-daughter. I hope that she will believe that she can do anything God asks her to do. And that she will find as much joy in serving Jesus as she does in her late night snack :)
OK my friends, I have to get to bed so we can be on the road early. We are going to be staying at Neys Prov Park this weekend. It is only supposed to be 14 degrees tomorrow - that will be chilly but thats sooooo much better than hot.
Congratulations to Paul M. DeGraaf for his 560 kms! accomplished in a month of walking. Paul and I are waving goodbye.
Thanks for all your comments and prayers. They are such an encouragement! Talk to you soon.

Paul, Paul, Paul

2007-06-26T09:00:00.000-06:00

Have I ever mentioned that my husband is a genius with a camera? He took these two photos along the Old Woman Bay hill. Which we all agreed was a harder than the Montreal Harbour Hill. (Way to go for the shot Paul, laying it on the line and all.)

These lakes are all together in one area in Lake Superior Prov Park.

Morning glory along the road. Its so hard not to take more photos of all the awesome glory of God revealed along the road.

I want to share with you how God provided for our need on June 22. We knew that Friday night didn't hold an easy stay over. We were finishing the day in the middle of nowhere but we knew God would provide something. We were walking 27 kms that day so as we came close to the end of the day we started looking for possibilities - logging road? a wide shoulder? no our provider had prepared something better. In the picture Paul is approaching 27 kms and our private pull off - well we had to share it with a brand new high hoe. Although I knew He would provide when this construction site was exactly at 27 kms I was overwhelmed with His loving care.

We have also missed some big "flash bang storms." He keeps looking after us.

Paul is leaving us on Friday. I wanted to write about that but . . . We have arranged that he is going to come to visit when we get into Manitoba -the first week in August. So thats only 6 weeks away.

I do want to say how much I appreciate my best friend. Although he has been a pastor for 21 years he is growing and becoming a man of God. This is not easy work. It takes alot of humbling, alot of wisdom. It is a hard road but he has given himself to this work. His teacher at NBBI, Mark Bredin, told the class, "It just gets harder class." Paul is in the "getting harder" stage of life. There is no easy road to becoming.

You know we are all on a long journey - all of it is hard. But we have this hope. Christ is returning to take us home. Heaven is our destination.

Keep fighting the fight Paul, don't give up. I'm so proud of you. And I'll be proud to stand beside you at the throne.

We have been listening to this song by Brad Paisley alot,

When I get where I'm going on the far side of the sky.

The first thing that I'm gonna doIs spread my wings and fly.

I'm gonna land beside a lion,and run my fingers through his mane.

Or I might find out what it's likeTo ride a drop of rain

Yeah when I get where I'm going,there'll be only happy tears.

I will shed the sins and struggles,I have carried all these years.

And I'll leave my heart wide open,I will love and have no fear.

Yeah when I get where I'm going, Don't cry for me down here.

I'm gonna walk with my grandaddy,and he'll match me step for step,

and I'll tell him how I missed him,every minute since he left.

Then I'll hug his neck.

So much pain and so much darkness,in this world we stumble through.

All these questions, I can't answer,so much work to do.

But when I get where I'm going,and I see my Maker's face.

I'll stand forever in the light,of His amazing grace.

Yeah when I get where I'm going,there'll be only happy tears.

Hallelujah!I will love and have no fear.When I get where I'm going.

Yeah when I get where I'm going.

Kilometer 1000 !!!

2007-06-21T18:51:00.000-06:00

The past few mornings have been very chilly. So the mist has be beautiful. We can hardly walk for taking photos!

Dressed for walking at 6 am in Lake Superior Provincial Park.

Today we walked out of the park. It is 86 kilometers from one end to the other, so it took us four days to get through it. We have really enjoyed walking through the park. The views are spectacular and I am constantly wondering why anyone would want to go the Hawaii or Florida to see amazing views. Canada has it all.

We not only walked out of the Park but also covered kilometer 1000!!! We have completed one third of the walk!!!! Paul was asking me how I felt about getting this far. Really, it is very surreal and almost out-of-body for me. The mental acknowledgement is there of course but the feelings are flatline. But that is very typical for me. The higher the excitement the lower the emotional level. I am built funny that way. So, yeah we have covered 1003 kms so far and we are in Wawa, ON. It took us 38 days to get to 1000 which means we cut the time down by 2 days. Thats great.

We were warned about the hills in the north but so far it is going down the hills that I really find the most challenging. Paul was experiencing pain in his back as he walked until he started using my walking poles. They cause you to stand upright, walk with a gated pace, and also takes pressure off the rest of your body by adding a pushing motion (you are virtually using your hands to help you walk).

When I was doing research on long distance walking I was disappointed to not find the details that would help me prepare for the daily routine. So I decided that I would include a daily schedule here.

5 am Alarm goes off. Take apart bed and stow bedding under the seat. Get dressed in walking clothes: walking socks, shoes, tight leggings or shorts, warm up pants (if its cold), technical shirt, zipped sweater (if cold), hat (AGC cap if I want to put my hood up, or the Tilley if its sunny), safety glasses (clear if overcast, dark if sunny), safety vest, and my favourite piece is my belt. On my belt hangs my cell phone, walkie talkie, pouch (which carries wet ones, keys, ipod, camera, and info on the walk. I like my belt cuz I feel like bat woman with her utility belt :)

5:30 Drive out to start point. STRETCH (I have had trouble being disciplined to do this with consistancy). Get on the road and walk for two hours. The morning is the worst time for having to use the washroom so these two hours are regularly broken up (frustrating).

Well, I have to go because we are being kicked out of the hotel lobby that we are working in. But I wanted to thank everyone for their comments and also wanted to comment on "scraping." Before we left Melfort the church showed a video series called, "The Star, The Cross and The Crescent" by Andy Stanley. A woman giving her testimony said, "Our God is so big you don't need to scrape for anything." Diane and I were both struck with this statement and it has been our motto for the trip - "We don't need to scrape for anything." It is so true. God has provided as we rest in His promises, protection, and provision. (Hey, you can use that as your sermon outline Ashley - find your own poem :)

Well, I will finish the daily routine later - promise. God bless you.

Lake Superior Prov Park, Agawa Bay / 1000 km mark

2007-06-19T14:00:00.000-06:00

I am writing from the guest station at Lake Superior Provincial Park, so I wont be able to upload any photos.
We are being challenged by the big hills here. Monday we did the Montreal Harbour Hill, I should be able to tell you how long it was but I only can tell you it was rather loooonnnngggg. Today was cooler, in fact we even felt cold.
We have increased the daily distance by 2 kms. So we are doing 27 km per day now (today we did 28 just because there was no place to stop until then). We needed to catch up to get home on time so we will continue with 27 per day.
Paul is doing wonderful! He didn't train but he has come and jumped right in. What an athlete!
On Sunday night there was a terrible storm. So much rain fell that roads were washed out and even parts of hwy 17 were damaged. We walked past a couple of mud slides and cave ins along the shoulder. The streams are gushing still and its Tuesday now.
We are soon going to pass the 1000 km mark!!! On Thursday we will be getting to Wawa and will have a celebration there!!! 1/3 accomplished.
Well, I am tired but Paul wants me to tell you that this morning at 6 am we saw a hugh bull moose standing in the water at the mouth of the Agawa River. Paul loves moose.
Ok, Paul just said that my writing is terrible cuz I'm so tired. I need to eat. We need to get gas. I am leaving you now. :) zzzzzzzzzzzzzzzz

Scraping instead of trusting

2007-06-15T05:59:00.000-06:00

You can see Batchawana Bay way off in the distance. By the end of the day we had got to the other side of the Bay.

Wanted you to see the rock face cliffs in the distance.

Leaving the Soo, Wawa 212 km and Thunder Bay 680.

Tried to let you see how steep this hill was - not sure I succeeded. We have mostly been going down all the hills. One day all that will change - Paul and I look forward to the Montreal Harbour hill with the excitement of a big challenge.

Yesterday started early. We decided to rise at 4:30 am and we managed to be walking by 5:15 am. I was so excited about our change in routine I could hardly sleep. Besides it was really hot and we were parked in a rough turn around area. Diane thought it may have been a gas station at one time but now all the traces of buildings were gone and all there was left was a gravel drive that arched from the highway across the property and back to the highway again.

It is always so rewarding to be up early. By 11 am we were having lunch at Chippawa Falls picnic area having done 21 kms of our day! We were all elated with our progress.

Back on the road we only had another 4 kms to do but Paul and I decided we would walk for an hour and then be satisfied with whatever kms we ended up with.

It was extremely hot once again (at least 30), but we were blessed with a good breeze that enticed us on. At the end of our last hour we had a diversion: our first indication that something was happening ahead was the way a semi slowed to a crawl as it came to the corner ahead. Our interest piqued we strained to see around the corner and finally we caught a glimpse of a police cruiser with its bank of lights flashing. Was it an impromtu inspection station? No, there was a semi trailer on its side in the ditch. It was on the same side as we had just been walking! We stopped to thank the Lord for His protection and watch care. There was a crew transferring the cargo from the disabled trailer to another, and a large tow truck waited nearby to upright the box. We spoke to a very nice policeman who explained the situation. The trucker had pulled onto the shoulder which was deep loose gravel. When he was unable to free his truck from the soft trap his decided to separate the truck from the trailer (which was a good idea in another situation). As soon as the trailer was on its own, the legs that usually provide stability sunk into the soft gravel and the trailer just laid down on its side.

The officer was very jovial and encouraging but we thought since Diane wasn't arriving with the RV we might as well keep walking. Thinking we were at the end of our day doing more mileage was that much harder. The other option, standing in the sun, was no option at all. So we picked a road sign as a short term goal and headed off. Diane still hadn't shown when the sign was passing our shoulders so we picked one more sign and walked forward. Arriving at the sign we began to understand that Diane was having trouble. We decided to wait a bit and then hitch a ride back to where we had last seen her. But it was not necessary as Diane had flagged down a cherry-picker (what she thought looked like some kind of service vehicle). She never ceases to amaze me by her resilience and resourcefulness. The truck pulled onto the shoulder and the driver, a Newfoundlander who lives in Toronto said, "Your partner in crime is broken down. She sent me to take you back to her." What a great guy! He did all he could with that special easterner happy attitude. So I says to Buddy, "tanks eh!" and he drove off the happiest driver around.

I wish I had thought about it then, but it was only this morning as I walked that I wanted to tell him to go home to Newfoundland. I want to ask him if he wouldn't rather live poor at home than poor in Toronto? Go home.

So the RV wouldn't start, no click no nothing. So after a series of unfortunate events (were I to write them each one, all of the books of the world would be unable to contain them) we picked up Paul at the Canadian Tire in the Sault. The RV had an appointment for 10 am the today. Putting three sun scorched heads together, we decided to get a hotel room for Diane and leave her in the Sault to wait for the RV, while Paul and I returned to the cabin we had rented earlier in the day (don't ask - its a long story).

So today, Paul and the Ranger is my escort. We have only gone 6 km and came upon this haven on the shores of Batchawana Bay. The Voyageur's Lodge has THE BEST HOMEFRIES Paul and I have ever had in our lives. This is not an exaggeration. They also have free wireless internet!!!

We will do the days mileage and then return to the Sunset Shores where we have arranged for Diane to do the RV chores for the day (dump sewage, fill water tanks, and do her laundry). Not sure where we will stay tonight but every day is a whole new adventure all wrapped up in a single rotation of the earth.

Yesterday was the first day I succombed to "scraping" as the events of the day tumbled out of control. I regret my lack of faith and letting go of my confidence in the Lord's providential care.

2007-06-12T21:07:00.000-06:00

This moose has everything under control.

The person who designed the loonie lives (or lived) in the Sault Ste Marie area.

Another beautiful morning shot just outside Espanola.

Here comes Diane crossing the Spanish River. (June 1)

Somewhere south of Sudbury on hwy 69 (date ???) Never tired of those rocks, trees, & water.

2007-06-12T18:45:00.000-06:00

Look where we walked to today!

Today we walked into and through "the Soo," as the residents call their city. It was again very hot (29) but we kept hydrated and walked slowly. We had lots to keep our attention as we were in the city from about 10 am.

Concerned about a slow leak on a rear inside tire, Diane & Paul struck a plan for Diane to drop us off at our walk point and then take the RV to a Goodyear shop. We would walk to meet her there. As it turned out 1. it only took an hour to get it fixed, 2. it only cost $22.50. So we met at a designated spot and we continued on walking and sent Diane on to WalMart where she would be able to get into some air conditioning. The thermostat in the RV said it was 93 degrees!

We arrived at WalMart and joined Diane at Chez MacDonald's. Leaving Diane to wait for us to call we continued on to Fourth Line - our 25 km destination for today.

It just so happened that we ended our walk at an ice cream shop! So I went in to get cones and only after they were in my hand realized that they didn't take debit! She was going to give them to me for free but I assured her that our driver was coming and then we would pay her.

So while Paul sat in a breezy porch I laid in the sun to try to even out my odd tan. My legs are three shades of brown and my face puts one in mind of a racoon! Paul suggested I should try to not wear my sunglasses when not walking.

Lupins grow wild here!

Did you know that lupins grow wild around here? I had no idea - I thought Nova Scotia was the only place they thrive like this. There is so much to listen to and see I feel like I am missing so much when I wear my ipod.

Now Paul! no hitch hiking!!! We wanted to give you a glimpse of the road we walked on Monday.

Last night something amazing happened. We were camped at the Ojibway Campground and another RV pulled in beside us. When we came back from our walk the two men were sitting outside. I said hello but they didn't respond. Later when I went out to video tape I spoke to them again. They said they were from Holland touring Canada for a month. I told them that I would have to get my husband because his name is DEGRAAF. They looked surprised. I thought it was just because he was of Dutch heritage. But they said we are DeGraaf too! with 2 a's not 2 f's. We had a wonderful time chatting and taking some video of the three DeGraafs.

Diane is waiting to be picked up so I will have to go. Starting to walk north of the Soo tomorrow. Lots of people say how bad the hills are going to be. I am excited to meet the challenge ahead. I know who lives on those big bad hills - my Lord. He will be there waiting for me. And I am going to imagine all my friends cheering me on.

See you at the top! Hey don't forget Christ is coming back!

Mish Mash is easier to spell than Miscellaneous!

2007-06-10T15:53:00.000-06:00

Written in Sault Ste Marie, June 10, 2007
We are sitting in the parking lot of a sister AGC church here in the Sault, Bible Fellowship Church. Pastor Craig & Kristi Buckner were warm and welcoming and I was offered to share the walk with the congregation. We were blessed with $365 of donations which are already on their way to Careforce.
The church has unprotected wireless, so we are sitting in the parking lot doing our laptop work, me writing to you. So I wanted to take this afternoon to share some photos that I haven't posted yet - so you can see what we are seeing.

Dad & I walking, Diane driving in the background.

When my parents came up to visit on May 23, 07 my Dad parked ahead and walked back to walk with me. Mom stayed at the car and took the photos. Later that day the door of the RV fell apart and if Dad hadn't been there I really don't know what we would have done. We took a campsite at Grundy Lake Provincial Park, a place where we camped when we lived in this area (south of Sudbury). He jiggered the door up for the night and then the next morning we went into Sudbury to get the things he needed to repair the door (drill, screws, 2x2 piece of spruce, caulking). I am so thankful that God knew that we needed my skilful father to fix our door that day and put it on his heart to come. It was Dad's birthday that day, May 24 and my birthday on May 22 . So Mom brought a decadent turtle cheesecake! Thanks Mom and Dad. It was great spending time working with Dad on the door.

Dad & I working on the door.

I am wearing my bug shirt (and pants) while working on the door with Dad. Since then we haven't had any problems with pestilance. There have been almost no mosquitos or black flies. OHHHHH yes we did! Diane and I were sitting at the table, her coat was hanging on the back of the drivers seat when I spotted THE LARGEST SPIDER I have honestly ever seen. Diane wanted to get a photo....I went in for the kill with the bottom of the kettle. It escaped but reappeared and after putting all my weight on it to kill it under the kettle took a peek and it started running away!!!!! Paul finally got out of the bathroom, cued by all the screaming and excitement. He grabbed a paper towel and handily killed the vermit! I believe he used a move he learned from Josh's how to kill an enemy silently tips. Just then my phone rang and it was Steve from CJVR!

Free parking has it's draw backs :)

On Friday May 25, we parked under this hwy overpass. We were tucked away so that no one could see us from the hwy, but when the trains went by (every hour) they were only meters behind us and it was very loud. :) The train in the photo is rolling by at a good speed. Saving money means inconveinence. A small price for a simple life.

Pastor Gary & Marg Landers and Diane, Val Caron (north of Sudbury).

On May 27 we spent the Sunday with Valleyview Community Church in Val Caron (just north of Sudbury). Diane and Pastor Gary and Marg Landers are pictured here in front of their new property, a closed Catholic school who gave the church a wonderful deal on the building. These people have watched over us, prayed over us, blessed us with donations, and took us out for meals, had us in for a shower and a meal, offered us a plug in and a place to park for the night. What a welcoming church! May God bless all of their efforts in reaching out to their community through this new building! Thank you Valleyview for your hospitality!!!!

Paul found the Canadian flag in the ditch and put it to good use.

It is so great to have Paul walking with me. We were pulling the Ranger with a homemade tow bar but somehow (no blame to anyone) it got torqued and Paul is unsure of it's safety. So now, Paul drives ahead 10 kms, parks the truck (he seems to always find a little spot) and rides his bicycle back to the RV, secures it on the back and starts walking with me.
I would be terrified to ride a bike along this highway. This is the shipping lanes of the north and trucks constitute at least 70% of the traffic. The speed limit is 90 but I am sure they are travelling at 100 km/hr. He wears his bike helmet and safety vest but... I am praying for him while he is riding.

An early morning shot along Hwy 17. What wonder and beauty I see.

We saw two or three horse and buggies in this area near Desbarats (50 km east of the Sault).

We are a happy lot, moving along Hwy 17 every day. Some of the truckers have come to know us as they transport between points with regularity. Those ones start honking a long way off and give a big wave. It is beginning to feel like we are part of a unique community. Its a funny aggregate of those who meet over and over as they move along together. I am NOT going to use, "this stream of humanity!" no! I will not. But now I have written it... what shall I do.
(move on to a different topic)

Morning beauty.

Just walking home!

On the way to Thessalon. A beautiful little town on the north shores of Lake Huron. We had lunch there at a little restaurant and were told by locals that a tornado had gone through the night before. I have to tell you about the date square I had there. I asked how big it was and she laughed. It was 4" x 4"x 2"! I must say, WOW! It was excellent. Something I will dream about for time to come. We certainly did hear a big storm (thunder, lightening, big wind) during the night but again we were spared the full brunt of the weather. They had quite a bit of damage done in their town that night. We found the town to be welcoming - in fact at the post office we were invited to come and settle there!

Friday, June 8 - Really early to swim in Lake Huron! Anytime of the year is early to swim in Lake Huron!

Just outside of Thessalon we stayed at a private campground. Both Paul and Diane went swimming!!! Later while walking through the camp people asked Paul about going swimming. The news had travelled around pretty quick. It was a beautiful beach and excellent price ($20). We had showers, emptied our sewage, washed our clothes. But, then when Paul and I slept out in the tent we had to listen to people talking around their campfire until 1:30 am. That comes awfully close to 5 am.

This photo is for Ryan Nelson.

A free wheeling couple from Maine.

Meeting people along the way is one of the highlights for me. This couple are from NW Maine. They won the GoldWing in a raffle. Their licence plate is "OUI 1" (we won). We welcomed them to Canada and answered their questions about the walk. They trusted us with a donation right there on the spot.
We also learned at that picnic site that people do stay overnight at picnic sites and are not told to move along. Thanks to an RV couple from St. Catherines we now have one more option open to us for overnight!!!

On Saturday June 9, Catherine, a reporter with CTV Sault Ste Marie, came out to where we were walking and spent about an hour with us interviewing and filming. The piece ran on the 6 pm news on the same day. I am sorry I didn't think of calling people to let you know to watch. She said we could email her and she'd send us a copy. We had fun doing talking with her.
Diane gave an excellent interview. She isn't often in the front & center but she really shone as she spoke of how the walk has impacted her and hopes it will make a legacy for her family (and newborn grandson). Its great to see my ministry partner being used like that. God also laid it on Diane's heart to speak to some street kids here in the Sault (we are in the city for the weekend, parked in a church parking lot). She went to talk to these kids begging at a traffic light and ended up praying for them right there and then giving them a tract!!!

Diane being interviewed by Catherine of CTV, Sault Ste Marie.

Denise being interviewed somewhere west of Bruce Mines, Saturday June 9, 2007.

We have covered 730 kms so far. This brings us only one day short of being a quarter of the way home! Seems pretty amazing to me. If you do something everyday and put alot of those days together you get something pretty big done in the end!

My sweet kids, Becky and Josh. Thanks to Josh, and his great advice my feet are in much better shape! Its so nice to get to the place where your kids are advising you. This photo taken April 29 at Breadalbane. THANKS TO ALL WHO HAVE PRAYED FOR MY FEET!

Something I have been thinking about while I walk:

A good friend of mine said before we left, "I think this thing your planning to do is humanly impossible, but I think you can do it!" What a wonderful blessing. Those words have been an encouragement to me while I walk.

But I know walking 25 km per day isn't impossible. Many people have done bigger things. But something that is humanly impossible is forgiveness. When you have been offended, sold for a bowl of porriage. When someone has gained at your expense it feels like you have no power - like you are a victim. And it is true, if you don't have the supernatural power of the Holy Spirit. Forgiveness is humanly impossible but each of us is called to do it. "And forgive us our debts as we forgive our debtors."

So many people have said that they wish they could be sharing the adventure with us. But the adventure of trusting God in the everyday interactions of life is waiting for you. He will supply your every need, even the need of being willing and able to forgive.

Your future, my future is in the impossiblility of forgiveness. God bless you as you walk the road with him.

Self portrait.

Well, I guess I have to say goodbye. Its almost time for bed. I will pray for you and I know that you are praying for me. I will talk to you next time I find internet! We were told that north of the Sault there is hardly any cell phone service until you get to Manitoba. So we might have a long dry spell ahead. Don't give up, and neither will I.

Journal Entry June 4

2007-06-06T08:23:00.000-06:00

The temperature is dropping. After many days of high 20's and low 30's the forecast is for 5 degrees and maybe snow. What a shock. It rained all day today which is fine with me - I'm well equipped and cozy in my rain gear. But if it snows we'll have to make decisions one moment at a time.
There is a strong wind rocking the RV, but I feel safe & cozy here inside. Thank you Lord! Time for bed.
(This night we parked at the Serpent River Trading Post. It is on the Serpent River First Nations Reserve.)

Algoma Mills, ON

2007-06-06T07:38:00.000-06:00

I am sitting in the township offices of Algoma Mills in a room they have provided for free internet access and I am crying. Crying because of all the love and encouragement you have sent my way - through notes, gifts, phone calls and comments on the blog. There are so many of you that I am shocked at how large the family of God is. Your words of hope and encouragement are like a strong wind at my back moving me gently forward. EVERY word and prayer is important and needed so please don't give up. Stay with me all the way.
And then there is our faithful God. Nothing changes in Him. Nothing is frightening or overwhelming. I am without words to describe the way God has provided in every little detail - and as I write those words I am thinking, "They won't understand what I mean. Those words aren't big enough." But all I have is the feebleness of words to express God's faithful provision. The psalmist says, "How majestic is your name in all the earth!" Was it a question? Not really, just an open ended way of saying that there is no way to express how majestic, powerful, gentle, loving, providing, attentive .... our God is. My heart bursts with gratitude that He thinks on me.
I am happy walking everyday. Each morning we pray that God will provide a place for us to park for the night. And every night there is somewhere - last night it was a snowplow turn around. There was a big no parking sign that read SNOW ROUTE. We did hear of snow forecast for east of Sudbury but not where we were (how strange after so many days of 30 degree temps). So parked and played a game of scrabble (yawning and not able to sleep - I did get 125 pts for one word). We went to bed thinking that the police might ask us to move along in the night and that would be ok. Instead when we woke up (slept in til 6 am)we had two neighbours (2 semis sleeping in the turnaround too). We hadn't even heard them pull in. We must be getting used to sleeping through the highway noise. We have an ongoing joke about needing to have a train go by so that we can sleep. EVERYWHERE we stay is close to a train track. This is more of an indication of the north's dependance on the train system than our propensity to find a noisy place to sleep. Although that night beside the train tracks under the hwy overpass was very very noisy. One train took 4 min to pass that night, and trains passed every hour.
Sorry that I am unable to post any photos today as I am working on their computers which don't have the capability to download the photos from our cameras.
Today we have got our first good view of the North Channel. This is a historic waterway that runs along the north shore of Lake Huron. It was a beautiful vista and will post the photos asap.
I have mentioned blisters - with Joshua's advice I have stopped soaking my feet every night so that they can get hardened. Am also use Gold Bond Body Powder on my feet and in my socks to keep the moisture down. The blisters are hardening now and there is no pain. Josh also told me I should be changing my socks at breaks. This has been excellent advice.
Also, there was a problem with the top of my right foot - to remedy this I began wearing my orthotics (should have been doing this all along) and changed sides of road that I walk on - now facing traffic so I can walk on the pavement until I see a car/truck coming and move off onto the gravel. Changing the sides of the road has also helped with the slant on the shoulder - my right foot was carrying the majority of the weight on the right side of the road.
We have also changed our schedule for the day. We get up at 5 (unless we sleep in :) and I walk for about 2 hours. Then we stop for a long bfast. I am back out on the road for another 2 hours and then we have lunch. One more hour of walking gets me to 25 km but some times we go on for another hour. This seems to work best - stopping every hour just seemed like more of an irritation than a help.
Well, I hate to leave you but I am on my way to Blind River today and Paul is coming back from Josh & Becky's today. He is also visiting his parents in Huntsville.
Some exciting news is that yesterday we found out that Diane & Carmen's daughter Charmane is in labour. She will be delivering early but not to early to worry the Dr.s. In all the excitment Diane went to start the truck and it was dead in the water! I was quite a ways ahead and she sent me a text message to say she thought the battery was dead. Talking to Carmen he thought the solenoid was gone and Paul suggested the same diagnosis. Diane had the forsight before we left to purchase RV CAA coverage. So she called for assistance. Within an hour (to my surprise) a young fellow named Eric showed up in a small tow truck. He tried to boost it but no response. He had another idea and came towards our truck with a hammer when I suddenly thought, "I wonder if its in PARK." I asked Diane and to our relief that was the only problem. In the excitement and confusion of becoming a grandparent Diane had forgotten to put it in park when she turned off the ignition. We thank God again for all His care and provision. We all had a good laugh and were none the worse for the incident.
We do laugh alot throughout the day. What a blessing to be here. Keep writing your comments - our love to all.
Denise

Summary of Week Four, May 28 - June 3

2007-06-05T21:26:00.000-06:00

Monday, May 28. Today Denise continued to walk along the Highway 69 north to the town of Estaire. This is where Denise's dad built a home for their family. They lived there until she was five years old. Today she walked 28.2 kms. For the night they drove back into Sudbury to stay at Rauno and Maya Jokinen's home.

Tuesday, May 29. This was another no-walk day. The RV needed some repairs (tune-up and replace a rad hose), laundry and shopping for supplies. Today Paul arrived in Sudbury to be reunited with his sweetheart after five weeks!

Wednesday, May 30. Denise resumed the walk (joined by Paul) from Estaire to Sudbury, covering 28.4 kms. We parked for the night in the driveway of Marilyn & Bob. They have a beautiful lake front home on Long Lake in Sudbury.

Thursday, May 31. Denise and Paul walked from Sudbury to Whitefish, 25.6 kms. This evening we stayed at the Centennial Park Campground near Whitefish. This day we walked along Regional Rd 55 to bypass the restricted access part of Highway 17 west of Sudbury. Today Denise crossed the 500 km mark.

Friday, June 1. This was the longest day that Denise has walked covering 36 kms. finishing the day in McKerrow. Paul left the walk for a visit with Josh and Becky DeGraaf. This night D&D stayed at the Nairn Centre Truck Stop.

Saturday, June 2. Denise completed her walking this week with 25.7 kms in the town of Massey. The total for the week was 143.9 kms. They camped at the Chutes Provincial Park.

Sunday, June 3. This was a well-needed rest day at the Chutes Provincial Park. So far Denise has walked 572.8 kms.

Summary of Week Three, May 21 - 27

2007-06-05T20:55:00.000-06:00

Monday, May 21. Denise started her third week of walking by completing 26.6 kms, stopping in the city of Parry Sound, on the east shore of Georgian Bay. They stayed in the Walmart parking lot overnight.

Tuesday, May 22. Today is Denise's birthday. She walked 26 kms north on Highway 69 to Pointe Au Baril Station. They parked at a Information building for the night.

Wednesday, May 23. Today Denise was met on the road by her dad & mom, Bill & Ruth Orr. When she reached the bridge where Highway 69 crosses the Magnetawan River, the walking was done for the day. It was a big day completing 30.4 kms. They stayed the night at Grundy Lake Provincial Park. This was a nostalgic few days, for Denise's family has many fond memories of camping here when they lived in Sudbury. Check out Ruth's blog to see photos of Denise and her dad walking together.

Thursday, May 24. This turned out to be a rest and repair day. The door on the RV fell apart. Denise's dad was there to save the day and make the necessary repairs. They stayed another night at Grundy Lake.

Friday, May 25. Today they got a late start at the walking, so Denise only covered 17.6 kms. However, Denise was very thankful for the encouragement from her dad & mom. They headed home while she continued her walk north west to the town of Cranberry. Today she broke the 400 mark. This night they parked under a railway bridge.

Saturday, May 26. Continuing north along Highway 69, Denise walked 24.1 kms. They stayed in the parking lot of Valleyview Community Church in Sudbury for the night. This week they have completed 428.9 kms in total on the walk.

Sunday, May 27. D&D attended the Valleyview Community Church. Denise was given time during the worship service to share about the Simple Steps Walk and the Village of Hope. they received a few individual donations as well as a special offering for the project. We would like to thank Pastor Gary Landers and his wife Marg for their gracious hospitality and encouragement. D&D stayed in the church parking lot one more evening.

Summary of week two, May 14 - 20

2007-06-05T19:56:00.001-06:00

Paul writing here for Denise. She is having difficulty finfing a wireless connection. I'm visiting with Josh & Becky at their home in Golden Lake, ON. I'll be back with Denise tomorrow. Here's a catch-up summary of the walk.

Monday, May 14. Denise walked from Stayner to the little town of Anten Mills. Covering 25.1 kms. They stopped for supper at a typical small town chip stand, The Fry Guy (see previous blog post for photo). The Fry Guy graciously invited them to park in his lot and hook up to his electrical for the night.

Tuesday, May 15. This was a big day covering 28.5 kms. They traveled north east on Horseshoe Valley Rd intil they reached #12 highway (about 6 kms. west of Orillia). That evening they stayed at the old faithful: Walmart parking lot in Orillia.

Wednesday, May 16. The most direct route north (400 highway) is restricted access. So Denise had to take a route that would wind along the back roads of cottage country. Today she proceeded north to a small town called Hamlet, just before a bridge crossing the Severn Canal. They accomplished 27.1 kms before setting up camp at the Lauderdale Marina. Today Denise broke the 200 km mark.

Thursday, May 17. Denise walked along Regional Rd. 13 for most of the day completing 27.7 kms. They stayed in the yard of an abandoned cottage, where they were about 10 kms west of Gravenhurst as the crow flys.

Friday, May 18. Today they continued north west through cottage country to the town of Glen Orchard, covering 25.3 kms. From here they drove into Port Carling, on the shores of beautiful Lake Rosseau, and stayed for the first time in the walk at a motel: the Crestwood Inn.

Saturday, May 19. From Glen Orchard Denise walked 10 kms along Regional Rd 169 until she reached highway 69 at Foots Bay. From here she proceeded north on Highway 69 ending her day and week at Hayes Corner. Today she walked 28.5 kms, making a total of 304.2 kms (that's a tenth of the way!). Tonight they drove north to Oastler Provincial Park praying for an open camp site. This is one of the busiest weekends of the year for Ontario Campgrounds. They had their choice of eight open sites when they arrived.

Sunday, May 20. This was a rest day at Ostler Provincial Park. They stayed here another night.

The Lowest Day

2007-05-30T02:51:00.000-06:00

I knew there would be low days - it is inevitable. But some valleys are lower than you could ever imagine. Circumstances pile up one ontop of another and there you are at the bottom. Faith that God knows the way through this deep valley is all that I am walking on today. Faith that the one who PROMISED to be faithful will actually BE faithful and will guide me through this time. It has to be true now or it is not worth Christ's death for. So, today I will put one foot in front of another and keep taking one breath after another - that is enough.
There is a better home, a new city, another country that my hope is laid up in. Until then, denise

Tuesday May 22

2007-05-22T14:10:00.000-06:00

Its my 49th birthday today! And yesterday my sweet husband ordered 24 long stemmed red roses! During the morning walk I recieved a phone call from a florist asking me to stop by when I walked through town that day. Paul was disappointed because he had asked them to deliver them on the road. That would have been shocking! But, the roses speak to me of his EXTRAVAGANT love for me. Thank you Paul.

Paul's parents, his sister Joy and one of her daughters, Hannah have driven up twice now to visit us on the road and bring us gifts of food and other necessary items. Thanks to them we have a little item that tells us if there is wireless available in the area. We also have lots of Tim Horton gift certificates. Thanks!

If you ever find yourself in Port Carling make sure you stop into this beautiful restaurant! Ella, her husband and lovely daughter were more than hospitable to us when we landed on their doorstep an hour before opening time. They gave us free breakfast and a large donation to the walk! What a special time we had together. Ella said that she had been a long distance runner but now her hip was bothering her. I am sure she has enough to do with this enterprise under way.

I wanted to share this with you all. What interesting things I pass along the way. This tree must have grown around a rock. It reminds me of the Ents from Lord of the Rings.

Al stopped us on the road to bring us words of encouragement and friendship and give us a donation to the walk! Thanks Al for your smile. God bless you.

The Ontario flower, the trillum, is blooming on the forest floor everywhere. It is against the law to pick these.

This makes me so sad. Please take your garbage home and deal with it. Dont dump it in someone else's back yard!

Just walked by the Shawanaga River today. Near Pointe au Baril, ON.

First time for everything

2007-05-18T19:30:00.000-06:00

Tonight I was afraid. We met a group of 5 men three times throughout the day and I felt rather stalked. So I asked Diane if she would mind if we could spend the night in a hotel. Here we are and there happens to be wireless internet! It is the May 24th weekend so I expected to not be able to find a hotel room but the first place we stopped at was able to give us a room. Pricey enough, but it is very, very clean.
My feet are sore with blisters. Someone suggested tea bags and I meant to do that tonight but I forgot them in the RV.
What a great day today. Perfect weather and I talked to Steve at CJVR on his morning show and Logan at CJVR for his news spots.
Yesterday, I ducked into the woods to go pee and Diane drove past me without knowing where I was. When she couldn't find me she started to panic. I felt terrible when she finally came back and with tears in her eyes said, "I was so happy to see that orange vest! I didn't know what I would tell Paul." We decided if I ever do that again I would leave my vest and sticks by the side of the road for her to see.
Scott phoned me today. He was caught in a traffic jam near Cobourg because of a bad accident on the 401. He was on his way to my brother's Bookstore Cafe to do a gig there and then spend some time with Uncle Al. He was feeling trapped. We talked about when Paul & I are windbound while canoeing and how irrational it seems but I get that trapped feeling too. We have everything we need and only need to wait out the weather but its not as easy as it seems. It was nice talking and it was nice that he called me to chat. He called back later estatic with his freedom. He had taken a risk and used an emergency vehicle turnaround and got into the west bound lanes. HE WAS FREE! He couldn't believe his joy as he navigated through small towns to get to Al's. It was so nice to share that moment with him too.

Pics of the week

2007-05-18T12:06:00.001-06:00

Here are some picture of the past week.

Breakfast in the Endurance taken this morning (May 18). Diane is an amazing support to me as she spends so much time making meals and having it ready for me when we are done for the day. Thanks Diane, you are a servant of God.

Walking through a peaceful woods on a small winding road I heard a train approaching from a long distance off. It came closer and closer. The woods were so thick that I couldn't see it but knew that it was running parallel to the road. Then it blew it's whistle. The sound crashed through the woods and my shoulders shot up, my head ducked down, my knees bent and I couldn't even breathe. You would think that I would be ready for the next time it blew, but it was as frightening as the first time! The train is gone, but the shock is still with me.

I wondered if that whistle was supposed to make people get off the tracks - it made me freeze in shock and confusion. I don't think I could move even if I knew the danger it warned of.

The end of the little forest road was at Torrance. This cleft rock was just outside of that town.

On the rainy day we had two visitors, this is Ian. He was riding his bike from Manitoulin Island to Barrie. We turned around to chase him down and then invited him into the RV for a coffee. Diane is a wonderful hostess.

Sarah, Simon and Gabriel came all the way from Barrie to visit us and bring us lunch - which we ate for two days. It was so exciting to talk about Mike and Sarah's call to missions work in Mozambique! You don't often see young people entering the missions field FULL TIME any more and I was so happy to see a young couple with two little ones drop all that is in their hands to say yes to the call of God. Remember, "If God calls you to be a minister, don't stoop to be a King." May God bless the Thessien family with all His provision and joy!

After a full day's walk, The Fry Guy gave us a free supper and a free place to stay for the night and plug in too! Always exciting when we get electricity!

Morning departure (6:00 am ) from Hamlet, ON. The Severn Canal goes through this vacation land.

Sunday, May 15 at Craigleith Provincial Park on Georgian Bay. It was very moving when I came over the last hill on Airport Rd and saw the shores of Georgian Bay. I had walked from the shores of Lake Ontario to the shores of Georgian Bay. Just one of many landmark moments.

Before the launch of the walk we stayed at my sister & brother-in-law's (Ron & Joan Germain). They had a new batch of puppies and Diane spoiled one little one that wasn't well. They are both beautiful creations of our heavenly Father.

Well ok, I have 2.5 more hours on the road to go today so I am on my way. Lots of love to all.

From Muskoka Lakes, denise

Passing Through Cottage Country

2007-05-17T23:15:00.002-06:00

This week D&D have been passing through the beautiful cottage country of the Muskokas. They have not been able to access wireless internet so I (Paul) thought I would post some pics of the beautiful landscape that they are seeing everyday. Below is an ariel view of Morrison Lake (borrowed these photos from www.morrisonlake.ca).

The next photo is a satellite view of the same lake. To the east of the lake you can see the route they travelled today (Southwood Rd.). The large island in the lake is called Mile Island.

They are travelling northwest and should reach Parry Sound by the weekend. Today Denise walked her 250th kilometer! Tonight they are parked 10 kms. south of Torrance at the junction of Southwood Rd. and Old Stone Rd.

Tuesday May 15

2007-05-15T16:47:00.000-06:00

Simple Steps Walk May 15, 2007 Written in Barrie ON
Kilometers covered: 28.1 km
After walking from Anten Mills to Hwy 12 we went into Barrie tonight. I am realizing (with Paul's help) that I can't do anything after walking until I have eaten. He is right. My brain is fuzzy, can't make decisions, I am a mess until I have eaten. So I have to work that into my schedule.
I apologize to all who have not received any emails. It is only because I don't get to a place to send or receive emails often. So, don't think I am ignoring you - I am mostly just walking.
Pastor Michel called today to encourage me.
The day went by quickly and I felt strong the whole way. I am fading now though so I will say goodnight.

Donors, Radio, Blisters

2007-05-15T16:45:00.000-06:00

Simple Steps Walk Monday, May 14, 2007 written in Anten Mills, On
Kilometers covered today: 25.1
We slept in and got a late start as planned today. I finally started walking at 8:45 am in Stayner. Diane caught up with me soon after and in good time cuz the morning is full of washroom breaks. Sometimes I really get frustrated with how many times I need to get into the RV to use the washroom.
The day went by one hour of walking at a time. The breaks that we planned (before leaving) to be 15 minutes have turned out to be half hour breaks. So the day goes by and I am usually just finishing up by 5:30 or 6 pm. I am hoping that this will change as we move into a routine and my body gets stronger.
I have two blisters, one on each heel. But it would have been unreasonable to think I could get away without any the whole trip. They haven’t caused any problem – they are just sensitive but don’t inhibit my walking at all. One thing I do when I finish for the day is have a foot bath. This started with Jay doing this for me for the first three days while we were staying there. Thanks Jay.
Some good news came today: Running Room is sponsoring the walk with 2 pairs of Kayano running shoes and some technical shirts!
Also, Darren stopped to talk to me today. When he drove by he noticed the signs and turned around to come by to get a donation envelope! Then a couple of hours later the Barrie Christian Radio station called for an interview! Darren had called them to let them know about the walk. They called back again and said they were going to sponsor the walk. So tomorrow we are going to drop by to pick up a sticker to put on our vehicle!
Tonight at the end of the walk was a chip stand, “The Fry Guy”. Diane did her magic and asked if we could park in his drive way and plug in – of course he said yes. We were so excited to have some of his French fries and I ordered “The Hungryman(woman)” which had chicken strips too. When Diane went to pay he wouldn’t take the money! Supper was on him. I told him that every night we ask God to provide a place for us to stay and he was our angel tonight. He thought he had more devil in him than angel.
Tomorrow we will get a very early start and hopefully make it to hwy 12. We will also go down into Barrie to visit the CAA office and the Christian radio station. Maybe Jayme will be able to get it worked out so that I can pick up that stuff from Running Room too.
God’s provision is astounding! Thank you Lord.

Week 1 Down 145 km

2007-05-15T16:25:00.000-06:00

View of Hamilton going south on hwy 6.

Kelly and Denise walking on Monday May 7.

One of the many hills north of Orangeville on the Airport Rd. I have started using my walking poles and it has seemed to bring a consistancy to my pace and taken pressure off one of my heels.

Simple Steps Walk Sunday, May 13, 2007 written in Anten, ON
To summarize this week is simple, it was a miracle. I have trained, yes. In the part of Saskatchewan where we live there are no big hills. Since January my training has taken second place to recovering from an injury and to the Saskatchewan winter weather (-35 degrees is a ripe for injury). So since then I have been moderately training. I thought for sure I would need to work up to the 25 km per day required. But, the week went by day by day and except for taking a day off for getting a tire changed on the RV (Thank You Glen Colling!) we were able to do 30 km days from Thursday to Saturday. These kms were done at the same 5 km/hour as the others but Aiport Road is a road of huge hills and valleys. I am so glad no one warned me about this road. I was able to take one hill at a time. It was on one of these hills that I felt the presence of Jesus in a way that I have never experienced Him before.
Some of the highlights of the week were:
1. The launch, pretty overwhelming but a good day
2. DeGraafs meeting us before Stayner on Saturday
3. Glen Colling replacing a tire for us on Wednesday
4. A farmer getting out of a bin (he was putting seed into the seeder from the bin) coming through the field to give me what he had in his pocket $70
5. Patrick the Viceroy guy who let us stay on his construction site and plug in for the night.
6. Saw the new Spiderman in Collingwood on Saturday night
7. The presence of Jesus as I walked the hills
8. Erin radio station reception: they treated so nicely and did an interview
9. Erin Chocolate shop: free chocolates thank you guys
10. Christy and Jay Lehman gave us a new camcorder for the walk.
11. Graham Line and kellie’s husband installed a satellite tracking system
12. Charlotte McAlpine presented me with a beautiful quilt from the Careforce Office
13. Moe from 1Hour Signs on Harvester Rd, Burlington donated a caution banner!
Saturday night we pulled into Craigleith Prov Park and stayed for two nights. It was great to dump our waste and fill up our water tank. The Sabbath was excellent. I really needed the break. We didn’t even go to church.

Summary of Week One

2007-05-13T21:30:00.000-06:00

Denise hasn't been able to find a wireless connection, so this is Paul writing. She asked me to do a summary of Week One.

May 6: On Simple Steps Walk Launch day They covered 10 kms. from Compasspoint Bible Church, Burlington, to the small town of Lowville. That evening D&D shared the SSWalk with the Crossroads Community Church in Burford. They traveled back to Carlisle to park over night in the driveway of Jay & Christy Lehman.

May 7: They continued to travel straight north on the Guelph Line from Lowville to Darbyville covering a distance of 19 kms. That evening they returned to the home of the Lehmans to park for the night.

May 8: Continuing straight north on the Guelph Line from Darbyville crossing #7 highway and proceeding to County Rd. 124. They ended their walking day at a little town called Ospringe, covering a total of 24 Kms. Once again they returned to the Lehman's home for the night.

May 9: This was a day for getting some necessary tasks completed. In Oakville, they had one of the rear tires replaced and looked after some other errands and appointments before parking for the last evening at the Lehamn's RV park.

May 10: Denise felt that she wanted to make up for the lost time on Wednesday, so she walked 31.5 kms. Passing through the Town of Erin and finishing the walking day at the junction of Airport Rd.

May 11: Proceeding north along Airport Rd. they begin to encounter some very steep hills, especially through the Hockley Valley (see photo below; these photos were borrowed from www.bowjamesbow.ca who gives a overview of the drive along Airport Rd. from Toronto to Stayner).

At the end of a long day they had completed 30.5 kms. at the town of Mansfield. This night they stayed in the Walmart parking lot in Orangeville.

May 12: Saturday was a challenge because of the rolling hills of Simcoe County. Mom and Dad DeGraaf met them on the road with a very generous care package and loads of encouragement. They traveled north to the end of Airport Rd. in the town of Stayner (the photo below shows the approach to the town).

Here's the corner where they finished their walking day covering a total of 28 kms. The total kms. for the week was 142.

From Stayner they drove 25 kms. west to the Craigleith Provincial Campgrounds on the south shore of Georgian Bay. There they found a campsite within walking distance of the shore (below is a photo of the shale rock shoreline).
May 13: This was a rest day at the campsite and doing some necessary shopping in Collingwood.

Passing Through the Town of Erin, Ontario, May 10, 2007

2007-05-10T09:57:00.000-06:00

Today D&D passed through the rural town of Erin, Ontario (Km.63). They were greeted with a warm welcome by everyone they met. At the local pharmacy they were given permission to stay in their parking lot and another resident invited them to park the RV in his drive tonight.

On Main Street they stopped at the post office to get a post mark in their journal and the postal attendant made a donation and encouraged them to go to the local radio station, Erin Radio, 101.5FM, across the street. There they met Jay Mowat, who hosts a daily program called, Main Street. The program highlights interviews with the people who contribute to the character of the town of Erin. I think the interview with D&D will be aired today at 5PM Ontario time (3PM Saskatchewan time). You can listen on line by going to erinradio.ca and clicking on the Listen Now button. they also visited a chocolate shop where the owner gave them some goodies. Sugar is fuel! They are hoping to do 30 kms. today to make up for the lost time yesteday. If you are following on a map, their goal for today is to reach the junction of Charleston Rd. (County Rd. 24) and Airport Rd. (County Rd. 7), just 4.5 kms. south of the town of Mono Mills (the bearings are N43 55.050 W79 55.873).

Here's a pic of the kind of countryside they are enjoying as they travel. The temperature has been in the high 20s.

Paul 4 Denise

Short update

2007-05-09T12:43:00.000-06:00

Hello good friends and neighbours!
This is the first time in a long time that I have been able to update you on what is happening.
I have walked 10 k on Sunday, 20 k on Monday and 25 k on Tuesday. My base training is paying off as I have no pains, no aches - but I do sleep well.
Today, we are in Burlington as Glen Colling got us a new rear tire as one of the four was worn and bald. He owns a garage but because it was a dual tire he got a tire service to replace it with a brand new tire! Thank you Glen.
Also our last prayer request was answered as Jay & Christy Lehman bought us a digital camcorder! It is excellent quality. Thank you guys.
And our RV is now outfitted with a satellite tracking system. Graham Line purchased the unit and Bert Allen installed it. Bert will also try to keep a map up to date online.
We met Scott for lunch today and said goodbye as we won't be turning around anymore! I'm coming home.
Did another interview with CJVR this morning. I am so grateful for their interest and coverage.
Well Diane is waiting for me in the RV as I finish this up. God bless you all and keep us in your prayers! Denise

Launch Day, May 6, 2007

2007-05-07T22:05:00.000-06:00

Here's some pics of the Launch that started at CompassPoint Bible Church, Eaglesfield campus, Burlington, Ontario. Thank you to Michelle Varga for taking these pics and sending them to Paul to post on the blog.

This is a great shot of the beautiful woman whom God is using to raise money and awareness for the children of the Village of Hope (this is Paul writing).

Pastor Michel Ouedraogo, from the Village of Hope, Burkina Faso, West Africa, prays for Denise, asking for God's protection.

Jim Houston, AGC Canada West Superintendent, shares words of encouragement for Denise from God's Word. Pastor Michel and Lydia Ouedraogo are standing on the right.

Denise listens on the cell phone to the children of the Village of Hope in Burkina Faso praying for her as Pastor Michel prays.

Denise breaks the starting ribbon to officially begin Simple Steps walk. She is joined by many others walkers the first day (Jennifer Wilson-Bridgman, the President of Careforce International, is on Denise's left). She was blessed by the support of family and friends who came to see her off (Denise's mom, Ruth Orr is at the left of the picture with her camera in hand. You can check out her blog for more pics).

Sue Page and Donna Leung, on staff at the AGC national office, joined Denise for the first 10 kms of the Simple Steps Walk. Check out Sue's reflections on the day at the AGC website.

Day 7

2007-05-01T21:17:00.000-06:00

Photo: Breadalbane Baptist Church, 1816 Paul & Denise's first pastorate located 1 hour east of Ottawa.

Simple Steps Walk Sunday, April 29, 2007 written in Centerville, ON

Three hours of driving east took us through Ottawa and on to Breadalbane Baptist Church in Glengarry County. As we drove up I said to Diane, “Everyone thinks we are from the big city, but this is where we are really from. This is home.”
And it was so good to be home. Before we were out of the RV the door was swung open and an extended arm reached toward me! So much time has passed, so many miles have been travelled but so much is the same. The church was full of sweet faces but a special few were missing. Some were at a meeting in Cornwall, others at a graduation in Winnipeg and one has gone on to be with her Lord.
Photo: Pastor Bruce introduces Denise.

I was blessed with the opportunity to lead the adult Sunday School class and then we went in to the morning service. Pastor Bruce has been doing a 3 part series on Our Resp
onsibility to the Poor. He did an excellent object lesson with ladies serving bountiful trays of fruit, chocolate, cheese & crackers. Although Pastor Bruce explained that there was enough for everyone and that he wanted everyone to sample the bounty of our country the servers only ever served the first two rows. At one point someone did take pity on the rest and threw a bag of rice to one onlooker. The morning was a very powerful statement of our need to be good executors of God’s provision.

Photo: Denise presents Simple Steps Walk.

And this is what the message of Simple Steps boils down to – we need to share what we have with the rest of the world. This life of sharing will lead to a previously unexperienced health for all of us.

After a wonderful potluck (where the kids served the adults dessert before they could indulge- good idea Kathleen!) we left for Denise’s parents home 3 ½ hours away in Centerville (near Napanee). We had a bit of a scare with the oil pressure but everything turned out fine.

Day 6

2007-05-01T18:07:00.000-06:00

Simple Steps Walk Saturday, April 28, 2007 written in Centerville, ON

Sleeping in was the first order of the day. Obediently I slept until 10 am. Becky leaves early for work every morning so on Saturday she treasures her morning sleep. While Josh & Becky made a beautiful breakfast of pancakes, fresh fruit and yogurt I chatted with them. They work so well in the kitchen together (along with Massey and Ferguson who lay at their feet the whole time).
At noon, Josh & I started our list of jobs on the RV – change oil & filter, flush water lines, light hot water tank, paint mounts, attach mounts and lights. So we got all that done, and it was time for supper. It had been raining and overcast all day which made us chilled. So when we finally came in a nice cup of hot tea was such a treat! Again, Becky had made a wonderful meal and we sat listening to Josh’s stories.
Sunday was coming and we four looked forward to visiting Breadalbane Baptist Church – Paul & Denise’s first pastorate. So after a short evening we “hit the sack.”

Day 5

2007-04-30T13:49:00.000-06:00

Simple Steps Walk Friday, April 27, 2007 written in Golden Lake

It was raining again today so we had a really slow start. I started working on my journaling while sitting at the kitchen table this didn’t work so well. I woke with a stiff neck that was very unusual – it hurt when I swallowed!? Not IN my throat – but the muscles around my neck have been strained somehow. Even still it hurts – which probably means I should go to bed!
Josh & I went for a walk down to the Bonnechere River that runs behind their place. Their two dogs are beautiful Springer Spaniels and they were great to watch as they worked patterns through the fields looking for some quarry to flush out.
We spent the evening just talking and catching up. When Paul called we had a four way conversation with him on speakerphone. That went on for a half hour before they decided to go to bed.
Tomorrow the plan is to sleep in and then work on the RV: mount warning lights, flush water system, change oil, repair leak on roof, try to get the CB working. If we can’t get it all done I will see if my Dad can help out with these things.

Day 4

2007-04-30T13:46:00.000-06:00

Photo: Denise, Becky & Joshua

Simple Steps Walk Thursday, April 26, 2007 written in Golden Lake

By eight in the morning I was taking the computer over to the restaurant to see if the wireless would work (it didn’t). I called Josh and asked him to meet us at Irving’s for bfast. I was surprised when I spotted a very handsome man and immediately turned my eyes away (as is my habit when my mind registers a man as handsome)and then with a laugh realized it was my own son I was looking at! What a blessing to be together again! He looks so much like a man. We talked about some of our experiences of late and we encouraged each other. I thank God for his wisdom, friendship, and straight forward honesty with me. We will be staying with Josh & Becky until Sunday. Paul has asked him to do some work on the RV.
I was anxious to get to Ottawa to go the Mountain Equipment Coop as I had a $200 gift certificate. (Thanks Colleen for that great gift!) Diane didn’t come as she wanted to spend some time doing wash, working on her scrap booking, and getting organized. Josh & I stopped in at Becky’s work to trade vehicles as his truck is hard on the gas. She gave us a tour of her work place and I was jealous. She is working at a large printing company in the pre-press dept. I am so proud of her.
I was able to get a breatheable waterproof coat and pants plus a few other small items at MEC. I am very thankful for this generous gift!
While Diane continues to sleep in the RV, I am taking advantage of their guest room.

Day 3

2007-04-30T13:45:00.000-06:00

Simple Steps Walk Wednesday, April 25, 2007 written in Golden Lake
Kilometers covered today:
DEPARTURE I woke up at 5:30 Saskatchewan time, changed my clothes and started driving while Diane continued to sleep. It was a beautiful morning and the sun was making my eyes burn with its intensity. But my sun glasses were hanging in the back and so I just kept driving.
I realized that the gas was extremely low and that I should have stopped at Marathon to fill up. I didn’t know how much further the next town was and so I began to ask the Lord for a pull off spot. One came up and I was glad to pull into a very large graveled area where a semi driver was resting as well. I emptied the two jerry cans into the gas tank.
Diane was up and we boiled some water to make ourselves a bfast of oatmeal and bananas (the ones the ladies at the church gave us for on our way). We also started our lunch by making up some couscous salad. (Thank you Amie for the recipe – that bowl of salad has provided many meals!)
We stopped at White River at a Husky and took a shower ($4: includes two towels and no time restriction – although my water went cold and I figured it might be time to get out). There was one small item missing in my shower – a LOCK on the door! So I place the chair in front of the door so I would at least hear if someone was coming in. Leaving my socks on so I wouldn’t pick up plantars warts I enjoyed my shower and was ready for another day on the road.
At Wawa we stopped at a Tim Hortons around noon. They have just opened a new one there, what a beautiful store. We promised we would come back and enjoy the enormous goose, the great little store, and the new Tim Hortons again on our way home. We decided to set our goal for Pembroke tonight.
By Sault St. Marie we were again desperate for gas. The Husky station that is situated in front of the WalMart parking lot was our choice. The lady behind the counter asked where we were going. I explained the walk to her and she was very excited, shook my hand, and wished me well. She said she’d be looking for us coming back through so I hope to stop in there and shake her hand again.
I have been failing at hearing God’s voice telling me to speak to people. I think about giving someone a Bible or tract and then make reasons why they wouldn’t be interested. I will keep trying and working on my skill of engaging people in conversation.
It was 1:30 am when we pulled into the Irving truck stop on Hwy 17 in Pembroke. The manager (Mike) told us if we want to park there for the night we should park in the far corner. I thought that was very nice of him. There must have been 50 semis there all backed in neatly in a row and then our RV tucked in over in the back corner by the dumpsters. We slept well again. Both of us are very comfortable in our beds. And we are warm too.

Day 2

2007-04-30T13:34:00.000-06:00

PHOTOS: Having fun at the Ontario welcome sign.

Simple Steps Walk Tuesday, April 24, 2007 written in Golden Lake

DEPARTURE Got a late start from Winnipeg this morning but then we made up for it by travelling into the night.
Just outside Winnipeg we stopped at St. Anne’s to get gas and bought a 20 litre jerry can. Last night’s host, Jim, lent us another 20 litre jerry can. Now we carry 40 l of gas in our outside compartment. This will extend the reach of our gas card, allow us to drive through the night and feel secure about never running out of gas.
The terrain began to change thoughout the morning. The trees began to stand closer together and move in toward the road. They became taller and rocks were scattered about their roots. My emotions swelled as we approached the Ontario border. I settled into the peace that coming to a familiar place brings to the soul. That feeling of home encompassed me for hours, kilometers, and a day until we reached Josh & Becky’s (my son & daughter-in-law) home in Golden Lake in the Ottawa valley.
Passing by our goal for the day, Thunder Bay, we went on to Terrace Bay. The description of the Thunder Bay Husky truck stop gave us a false impression of what we would find. What we found was a dumpy little place with a parking area that was dimly lit. Neither of us felt comfortable parking for the night at this place and so we agreed on driving further. Thunder Bay was also a disappointment because it was to be our last fill up on the gas card but the Cardlock only carried diesel.
I would say I am very flexible with changing plans on the go but tonight I was disappointed with my frustration with these developments. This is an area that I am going to work on over the next five months. I will choose to focus on finding doors to maintain momentum and not stand staring at the wall in front of me.
In Terrace Bay we stopped in the parking lot of the Tourist Info place which shares its pavement with the public library. We decided we would bed down and if a police officer woke us and asked us to move on we would have at least gotten some sleep. And so we settled.

Day 1

2007-04-30T13:16:00.000-06:00

PHOTOS: top - saying goodbye from Melfort, below - the elders commission Denise & Diane

Simple Steps Walk Monday, April 23, 2007 written in Winnipeg, MB

DEPARTURE As decided early on, we went to Crossroads restaurant for breakfast on the day of our departure. Amie and Jonathan (my daughter and son-in-law) and my grandchildren, Elijah and Grace were with us. We talked about nothing important but it was an extremely important time together. Diane and I would get into the RV and drive south while the rest would just go home – our lives taking separate directions for a time and in God’s will. The goodbye’s were shortened by the cold rain but they were warm and my last glimpse of Paul was in the side mirror.
GAS MILAGE It is a large vehicle we have been blessed with and it seems to lumber down the road. We have tried to figure out our gas consumption and it seems to be about 24 – 26 miles/gal. That seems unbelieveably good and so I wonder if I did the calculations properly? One segment was 310 km with a fill up of 86 litres (I am giving you litres and kms it needs to be converted as well). Can someone send me a formula for this calculation?
DAY OF FIRSTS So this was a day of firsts. Our first try at using the cardlock system – everything went great! Thanks good Nabers. We also had our first lunch while driving. We both spent time driving while the other napped. Our first stay in someone’s driveway and our first night of sleeping in the RV. I had originally thought that I would sleep on the couch but then decided to fold down the table and make a bed. Although we had no heat it was very comfortable and cozy in our sleeping bags.
Overwhelmed with thankfulness Diane and I both expressed to each other many times yesterday at how grateful we were to be chosen to do this walk. That we were the least of all who God could have laid His hand on, but He graciously chose us! And then we were overwhelmed with thankfulness when we looked through the cards and gifts that we have be showered with. THANK YOU to everyone who has said words of encouragement, “You’re doing the right thing!” or “I believe in you.” Thank you to everyone who has given to us out of your own need. May our Lord richly bless you in return for all you have done. Thank you to all who have said they would pray – we are counting on those prayers for every leg of the journey. Thank you to our husbands who believe we are following the calling of our Lord to do this work for Him and who have sent us with their blessings.
And so arriving in Winnipeg at about 9pm we found Jim and Heather’s house, backed into their driveway and went in for a visit. They have recently renovated and their bathroom is like a spa. While I went out to get my things, Jim was so kind to draw a bath for me in the oversized Jacuzzi tub. With candles lit, I lay in the hot water thinking about the times I would crave a hot bath while on the road ahead. But for now I would just enjoy it and thank God for this surprising moment of tranquility and happiness. I thought about Paul and prayed that he would have peace and joy in his journey. I thought about all the faces that populate my heart and I asked God to return the blessing they have sent with us to their hearts until they are overflowing.

Computer for the Walk

2007-03-22T14:04:00.000-06:00

This is the largest industry in our area. They are infact one of the largest manufacturers of agricultural implements in the world. Many people from our church work there and one is Norris Rusling. He is the head of IT for Bourgault. So when Diane (again, the woman of vision and forsight she is) decided we should really have a laptop to take with us on the walk we talked to Norris about a source he has for refurbished computers.

Paul however was moved by something beyond himself (because this is not like him) to ask if Bourgault might donate a computer to the walk. Norris directed Paul to the right man and Paul simply asked if they would consider donating a computer. Last Sunday, Norris told us the good news that Bourgault has offered us a loaner (which is wonderful) for the walk. So we have a wonderful computer to be able to update this blog with photos and daily dialogues during the walk.

Thanks goes out to Diane, Paul, Norris, and Mr. Fagnon at Bourgault who said yes!!!

Bryson & Katz

2007-03-21T14:55:00.000-06:00

I just finished "A Walk in the Woods" by Bill Bryson. Why did I start crying? I think it had to do with them finishing. Bill Bryson and Steven Katz had set out to walk the Appalachian Trail (2200 miles) but they come to realize that finishing is not a definitive word.
Then again, it might not be about finishing as much as the changes that take place along the way. At the finish you take stock of what has happened. For Bill and Katz (as Bill refers to his companion throughout the book) there were many landmark moments when opinions, physical responses and relationships were reassessed. These two men are as unalike as a poem and an axe. In the beginning of the book Bryson describes Katz with a sharp pencil – there are few attributes that bring you to believe that this man is going to bring anything of worth to the journey. In short he was a liability. But a useful one since Bryson was literally afraid to be alone in the woods. At first, I was uncomfortable with their relationship. I didn’t like the way Bryson was always laughing at Katz’s stumbling stupidity. It made me remember a relationship that I have since absconded from. She repeatedly mentioned my sloppiness, my unattentiveness, my absent mindedness. It was all a source of great humour for her.
But, we all know that Bill is a brilliant writer and thus my suspicion that he was employing literary device was confirmed when Katz left the walk (and the book) to work for the summer. Many long chapters passed while I waited again for Katz to return (just as Bryson had so often described his waiting along the trail). I missed him, and something was missing from the narrative. I slogged through Bryson’s rants on conserving everything from trees to toads, believing that soon (maybe the next chapter) Katz would return and we’d get back to the trail for real.
Bryson needed Katz, he faltered in his walking, doing bits and pieces of the AT but never with the comfortable routine of the time spent on the trail with Katz. Bryson tips his hand as he describes the time on the Maine trail in the Hundred Mile Wilderness that the two become separated. His writing is understated to an extreme (but that is how writers express the largest and loudest emotional trauma). At times I felt the fear and panic rising in my own throat and wanted to scream at Bryson for his quiet words and description of his surroundings. What would I have done? So many decisions, only one right one. After experiencing what Bryson and Katz indicate might have been a miracle the two decide not to continue. They call it FINISHED. And they were both happy with that. I would suggest they stopped hiking the AT because they had found something much more important to them – each other. Last night, my theory was confirmed in my mind when I breezed past the dedication of the book. It goes like this, “To Katz, of course.”
So there you are, that’s why I cried, that’s why I was satisfied with the book.
When I write my book on the walk who will I dedicate it to?

BIG BIG DEAL!

2007-03-15T20:52:00.000-06:00

WOW, March 15, 2007 is a big deal day!

A couple from our church who wish to remain anonymous (Todd & Colleen Naber -you dont always get what you wish for) have purchased a motorhome for the specific purpose of lending it to us for the walk. Todd has been looking for the perfect vehicle since December '06 and today he found the deal of a life time. The lovely lady who sold it to him was ever so sweet and generous! Here are some pics.

Todd is going to get his mechanic to go over it to check all the essentials are in good order before the trip. And one more thoughtful little detail they are looking after is all the gas!!! How do you say thank you for a gift like that!

So that makes us officially ready to go! We don't have a computer to keep updating the blog and my ipod or a dvd camera to document the whole walk and maybe get it edited down into a documentary??? Thats ok. God has been so generous that I am shocked.

Our sons, Josh & Scott have purchased an expensive cell phone for us with 10-4 capabilities so that Paul and I can talk for unlimited minutes everyday. It works great and is crystal clear. So all we need now is patience - to wait the 5 weeks and 3 days to pass.

We will probably do some test runs - say three or four consecutive days at 25km/day just to get warmed up.

I should also mention that a friend who was in the middle of buying a home called tonight to ask about our house. Wouldn't that be wonderful if we could sell the house before I leave!!!

Well why shouldn't I expect amazing things to happen today - after all it is March 15!

Three more good things!

2007-03-09T12:15:00.000-06:00

1. While having coffee at our favorite coffee shop (the BookStop) this morning, the two ladies at the counter asked for donation envelopes for Simple Steps and thankfully I had them in my coat pocket!

2. Got a message today that Bayer Chemicals of Saskatchewan is donating $500 to Simple Steps. Arie Vandertweel is the man who asked them for their participation!

3. A lady who works at the christian bookstore here in town has offer to buy 20 New Testaments for us to hand out while we are travelling!!!

4. One more for good measure - I went back to Extra Foods this morning and bought another pair of glasses exactly the same as the ones I got yesterday. I really like my new glasses. Scott will like them too once he catches on to the new styles :)

All simple steps leading to the walk.

I love my nephew Scott

2007-03-08T22:20:00.000-06:00

My nephew Scott Orr sent me this picture explaining that he too got new glasses (at Value Village) and although there was some built up grime left on the arms of these glasses he was able to clean most of it off. He thought that he too looked pretty cool. Infact he thought we sort of looked alike and indeed we do!

My dear nephew has had some tough deals in his life but he has manged well with the brain damage and as you can see he is the head clerk at the Staples just down the street from where he lives. Its nice that the store is so close so that he can walk because taking buses is beyond his ability to cope.

What a great guy though when he was out here in Saskatchewan he didn't mind the cold (-35) too much, I guess I'd mind it too if I peed my pants and they froze solid making it hard to walk. Which wouldn't have been too bad if he'd had some underwear on.

I love my nephew Scott. We have been best of friends for a long time and have lots of fun together. But I must say he has lost alot of weight and its because he's picked up his pace. No longer can we describe him as fat, melancholy and lazy as boiled cod fish! Nope, he's up and about. Gone are the days when the expanse of his backside was such that you could have projected motion pictures for, lets say, an army base.

I love my nephew Scott.

Note: some of the slams in this fictious rebuttal are direct quotes from the book I am reading by Bill Bryson.

New glasses, new book, new experience

2007-03-08T17:59:00.000-06:00

I got new glasses~ they cost me $399, I know you are thinking thats not very much and you're right cuz I forgot to put the decimal in they were $3.99 at Extra Foods. Paul loves them and so do I. They are of course only readers but thats all I need! I think I look like my cool cat brother Allen in them! Cool glasses old lady :)

Today I had my first ever massage. I wondered what all the hype was about and now I know! Carmen, who graciously offered me 2 one and a half hour appointments, professionally worked through my muscles one by one. What an amazing experience! She also encouraged me by telling me that I had excellent muscle tone and that I was extremely flexible - well suited for endurance sports!!! Thank you Carmen for the uplifting morning. I go back next week and I am looking forward to it. She suggested that other therapists may want to donate time while I walk. That seemed like a good idea to me :)

Last night Paul lit a fire (in the fireplace) and we spent the night in the living room. I started reading a GREAT, GREAT book. In fact I am going to buy it for Scott for his birthday (which was on the 6th). While Paul worked on his blog, I began to read, "A Walk In The Woods" by Bill Bryson.

Well, I laughed so much I had to set the book down at times while I sought composure.

Closer than ever before!

2007-03-07T16:47:00.000-06:00

Today is the first day the sun has shone in Melfort for a very long, long time. I really have no idea but the way the sun has lifted my spirits seems to indicate it has been too long. I walked today, in the sun and it was encouraging. I felt so good I found myself out by the grave yard (5.60km from our house), when suddenly the familiar rumblings started. Pulling out my cell phone I called Paul even though I knew he was visiting an older gentleman and would never answer it. So I left a message and hoped he would go to the washroom to listen. After a few more minutes my bowels caused me more panic and I called Paul's cell phone again. He did come to pick me up and there was no mishap -for which I are extremely thankful. Thank you Paul for rescuing me again.

We are closer than ever before to having a camper van for the walk! Todd Naber has promised a camper van for the walk and the gas too! This businessman goes to our church and has been working on getting a camper van for a couple of months now. The other day he said within the next two weeks he would have to buy something or the prices will be going up. As soon as we get our hands on it I will of course post a photo here for you. I am really happy about this as today’s little walk demonstrated…we need to have a toilet close by during the walk.

Diane and I were invited to the Bagley Baptist Mission Circle meeting to share Simple Steps with them last night. We were so blessed by this group of eleven women (at least two were missing). They told us their mission circle had been going for 63 years. When the offering was taken this small group of believers gave us $305.00!!! They also promised their prayer support which will be of the most value to us on the road. What a beautiful spirit of godliness was felt at that meeting. Both Diane and I felt honoured to have been with them.

I am intrepid!

2007-03-03T20:11:00.000-06:00

Sufferin suckatash! I just wrote a whole blog and went to look for the poem that is below and realized that the blog was gone! Argggg. Ok, I will try again.

I am walking again. With only 7 weeks left to departure it is imparitive that I get more training in and a few 25 km days in a row under my belt. So, today when I really did not want to walk and Paul asked when we were going to go for a walk I pouted and said - its my sabbath. He didn't fall for that. Early on in our planning this walk I had asked him to be my trainer. Well today he shone!
He left what he was doing, came to the room where I was and kneeled on the floor before me. The he gave the greatest, "What Every Endurance Athlete Needs to Know" speech ever. If you had been able to listen hard enough you could have heard that music they play during all of those terrible American sports movies where the underdog coach challenges the underdog team and they win the all-state championships. You know the movies. You know the music.
But honestly, what a gift he gave me today. When we got out there in one especially exposed area the wind was blowing so hard Paul had to cover his face with two hands. I had fortunately worn sunglasses which protected my eyes and my neckwarmer was pulled up to my nose. I was intrepid! so indomitable! exactly like what Paul had told me - I WAS AN ENDURANCE ATHLETE!
How our words have power. Thank you Paul. I am going to need your encouragement every day on the walk. Counting on the best trainer any woman (any endurance athlete) could ever have!

GROW old along with me!
The best is yet to be,
The last of life, for which the first was made:
Our times are in his hand
Who saith, ``A whole I planned,
Youth shows but half; trust God: see all, nor be afraid!''
from Robert Browning's Rabbi Ben Ezra

A Bad Day In Mongolia

2007-02-27T22:27:00.000-06:00

It has been a "bad day in Mongolia" day. A "who thought this would be a good idea day." (Watch Ewan MacGregor & Charlie Boorman's, Long Way Round, to understand.) But even if you havent been blessed with seeing that great series...you understand.
But Jesus did hear my cry, and gave me strength to stand up and move. Thank you Lord.
Emotional crap is worse than anything physical...absolutely. And I have had more than a lifetime's worth of emotional crap in the last 4 months. But I keep believing God is up to more than my mental training for the walk. And he is! So I submit. Wow, big girl "submitting" to God. I think the bible calls that my reasonalble service. Yep.
Weeping endures for the night but joy comes in the morning. Come morning come.
Only 8 weeks until we leave Melfort. What needs to be done??? hummm

Jon Krakauer

2007-02-26T21:01:00.000-06:00

Jon Krakauer first introduced me to extreme adventure books. I don't remember...oh yes I do...I heard an interview on CBC with Jon about his book, "Into Thin Air" which told of his assignment as journalist for Outside magazine on a tragic assent of Everest. It was the first book, that I couldn't put down. It was too soon over and I was hungry (ravenous) for more.

Since then I have read nothing but adventure/travel genre. I was going to name them all but the list is long and if you really are interested (which I doubt) you can leave a comment (which no one seems to do anymore on my blog) and I will compile a list of some excellent books for you.

All that to say: I am reading another of his books, "Into the Wild." It is the true account of a young man who gave away all his savings, burned the money he carried, and walked into the Alaskan wilderness only to be found months later by a moose hunter. It is estimated that he had died two weeks before his rescuers appeared on the scene. Again, Krakauer draws out facinating and disturbing evidence of a seemingly "normal" young man who although living on the edge of extreme for some of his life could be any one of us if we would let our childhood fantasies of escaping to the wild become reality. It doesn't seem to be a long road from one side to the other.

Well, maybe it is shorter for some of us than others ;)

So, again we see the moral of the story is that I AM NOT CRAZY AFTERALL! This little walk of mine is fraught with all kinds of safety features, safety nets, and safety considerations. Our "happy band" will walk the daily route and savour every human encounter (good or bad), every wildlife encounter, every coffee counter (woops slipping off there).

I am into these triplets tonight. Ok enough. Paul is out playing basketball and I am home alone writing to you - being crazy.

Something I can tell you that is very serious - a massage therapist gave me a gift certificate for 2 - 1.5 hour sessions for deep tissue massage and stretching. I have never had a massage before but I know I have the MASS and the AGE for it so I look forward to her gift. I would like to put her logo on my website and the chiropractor who gave me the orthodics as well. Very generous.

Naomi and Ruth

2007-02-25T16:39:00.000-06:00

Our ladies retreat was an exceptional blessing this weekend. Our speaker, Gloria Daum is well taught in the scriptures and had many spiritual insights for us to digest. Along with her humble spirit her teaching was clear.

The thought that spoke to me most was that when Naomi returned home the women of the community said, "Poor Naomi! Look what your husband did to you." But she had a clearer vision of the reality in her life. She responded, "It is God that gives me good and bad. I will not blame anyone for the circumstances in my life." How mature, how wise.

Naomi could have said things about her husband that was true - how he had led them astray into Moab. How his children had married outside of the Jewish culture because of where they were living and then they both died there. In fact her husband died there too.

He had not been a good spiritual leader, he had done things that hurt Naomi, he had not been a good provider. YET, she spoke of God as the one who had brought her into this season of "winter" as Gloria described Naomi's situation in Moab. The winter was a time of pain and loss. We have all had winter seasons but moving out of those seasons into spring time is crucial to our continued health.

What stimulated Naomi to leave Moab? "She heard," that there was bread in Bethlehem. She heard of the Lord. Are you listening for God's voice calling you home? What will that sound like? I am sure you will know it when you hear it for it will come with the want to get up and go, a new energy that feels like springtime.

Having just passed through a deep time of winter in my life I feel a surge of springtime as I begin training again and setting my face towards the challenge ahead.

No news about a support vehicle but keep praying.

2007-02-23T13:28:00.000-06:00

I am starting to dream about what I will do after the walk. Say about a year later - giving me time to plan. I have been thinking about walking or paddling to remote villages in Saskatchewan to teach the Word. That would be very dangerous as there is a lot of aggression in the north (we are told).
But blood sometimes has to be let to bring other missionaries and souls to eternity.
This poem was a favorite of John Stam. He and his wife, Betty were martyred in China I believe. It has been visionary for me.
This poem was written by E.H. Hamiliton, after hearing of the death of his missionary collegue Jack Vinson. Vinson was martyred in 1931 and showed no fear of death to his Chinese captors, telling them, "Kill me, if you wish. I will go straight to God.

Afraid of What?

Afraid? Of what?
To feel the spirit's glad release?
To pass from pain to perfect peace,
The strife and strain of life to cease?
Afraid? Of that?

Afraid? Of what?
Afraid to see the Saviour's face,
To hear His welcome, and to trace,
The glory gleam from wounds of grace,
Afraid? Of that?

Afraid? Of what?
A flash - a crash - a pierced heart;
Brief darkness - Light - O Heaven's art!
A wound of His a counterpart!
Afraid? Of that?

Afraid? Of what?
To enter into Heaven's rest,
And yet to serve the Master blessed?
From service good to service best?
Afraid? Of that?

Afraid? Of what?
To do by death what life could not -
Baptize with blood a stony plot,
Till souls shall blossom from the spot?
Afraid? Of that?

Esse Quam Videri,
Denise-Lucille DeGraaf
Esse Quam Videri is Latin for "To be rather than to seem."
www.simplestepswalk.ca

Confluence

2007-02-23T12:42:00.000-06:00

Confluence - meeting of streams: a flowing together of two or more streams, or a point at which streams combine- stream: a stream formed by others combining- meeting of two or more things: a meeting or joining of two or more things, or the place where two or more things meet or join
My definition of confluence is when you have the flu and responsibilities that you need to attend to coming together on the same weekend. Like this weekend: Ladies Retreat at my home church, I am part of the planning committee, I am invited to speak at a near by (45 min south) sister church at their Ladies Retreat tonight; it is snowing and blowing; and I do have the flu (or cold thing). That is the confluence I am at right now. We know that there are strange and wily currents at confluences and so we need to navigate carefully through them.
I like that word: confluences. We'll make it and the weekend will be over and .... only 8 weeks til we leave Melfort!
Living in green pastures with my Pastor, denise

OH MAN!!! GOLIATH EXPEDITION

2007-02-22T23:44:00.000-06:00

Goliath Expedition is the first expedition ever to attempt to forge a path of unbroken footsteps from the southern tip of South America back to England without using any form of transport. Karl Bushby, whose idea and dream became this expedition, will take no fewer than 12 years and 36,000 miles to traverse some of the most remote and challenging places on earth.
His website is attractive and user friendly. Find out more at,
http://goliath.mail2web.com/Plan/

CAN YOU BELIEVE THIS! I am totally blown away by this guy's vision and stamina. Everytime I read about someone else who is doing more and harder I am encouraged and strengthened.

Not sold

2007-02-22T22:56:00.000-06:00

Well, the prayer was either childish and demanding or just not in His will for the time. In other words our house didn't sell today. Too bad it would be really nice to get everything moved before I leave. Only 8 weeks away on Sunday. The days are getting longer which brings a great smile to my heart and the temps are rising.

My friend owns a magnet sign business and was so nice to put simple steps on one. Thanks Ryan! It is really great how the church especially is behind me 100%. No nay sayers, at least not within ear shot. :)

A local chiropractor, Dr. L. Siwak called and asked if she could assess my feet and provide orthodics if I needed them. It is all done with a computer - you walk across a pad on the floor a thousand times (hyperbole) and then the computer takes all the info and gives an assesment of your foot. My left foot is good but the right was a bit off. Not too bad. But since I have been wearing the orthodics I have noticed improvement with my problem on the inside of my ankles.

Well, we will see how the orthodics work and if they will make it the whole way. She was so generous and I appreciate her thoughtfulness.

Hangin at our place

2007-02-21T22:56:00.000-06:00

Amie & Jon, Elijah and Grace were here at the same time as Scott and we spent alot of time just hanging out. It was good medicine. I am looking forward to spending time on the road with my kids. They have promised to come and join me for bits of time. My Mom and Dad too. Of course Paul is coming for the whole month of June. Which is so exciting to be able to share the experience together. I am secretly (not a secret any more) hoping and praying that he will be able to join me for a longer time... but a dreamer knows that dreams are only dreams.

Mom gave Paul a book ages ago by J.Edwin Orr called "Can God." I began to read it today and was most encouraged. He was a tramp for God too. He biked, walked, and travelled over 10,000 miles on the supply of God for meals, bed, clothing and a monthly allowance for the widowed mother he was responsible to support.

After reading is account of need and a prayer of faith, Paul & I prayed the same prayer as he - to provide our need (Orr's was his mother's allowance, ours is to sell our home) by the next day at 11 am. So we wait on God. If this is a prayer of a selfish demanding child I ask for forgiveness, but rather I believe it is a prayer of faith. I will tell you tomorrow which kind of prayer it was.

Also reading this book. What a wonderfully detailed account of the physical feats of these men. I am kept busy reading, not bored in the least. These three started for San Francisco on January 30, 1906 on a bet that they could reach San Francisco and return to their home town in 366 days. They had to start off with no money in their pockets and return with $200 each. If successful they would receive the $600 each placed in a bank account on the day they left. These are mighty sums in those days when 25 cents equaled five dollars today.

There are many good tips for my time ahead and I am much encouraged by their willingness to just step out and do. There were no technical shoes, not even good outer wear (they were given wool toques and leather leggins by stores in their home town of North Sydney, Cape Breton) to brave the -35 degree storms on the way through the maritimes, Maine and to Montreal. The book mentions Vankleek Hill twice and there is even some betrayal and underhanded business!

Of all the pedestrians I have researched I have always found they were at some disadvantage to me. Take for instance Kyle Pickering and Bobby McDowell who walked through the winter and walked from Vancouver to Newfoundland: so they walked in the cold and 3 xs farther than I will. Their website is just plain beautiful and even entertaining (check out the videos). www.walkcanada.com

Then there is Ole Olson and Helen Viel who left Tuktoyaktuk on the Arctic Ocean on 30 March, 2000 bound for St. John's, Newfoundland by way of the Pacific coast, in the longest sanctioned volkssport event ever. They made it - three weeks ahead of their schedule, finishing on Tuesday, November 13, 2000. I couldn't find their ages, but from the photo you can see they are older than I am and they set themselves a much higher goal - touching three oceans!!! Way to go you two!

You might also want to read about Dave Kunst who walked around the WORLD! His brother, John joined him, and later another brother Peter walked for a year with him. They left on June 20, 1970, Dave completed the trek on October 1974. Sadly, John was killed by bandits in Afghanistan. The newspapers had mistakenly written that the brothers were "collecting" money for Unicef. The bandits thought their mule and cart was carrying a load full of money collected. By playing dead, Dave was able to escape the same fate. There is alot of information on his site: http://home.earthlink.net/~earthwalker1/

So as you can see I am not doing anything extremely wild - moderately wild? Perhaps.

Finding someone who looks like Jesus

2007-02-20T20:52:00.000-06:00

Paul and I discussed the potential problem of becoming selfish while we are apart. Living alone without anyone else to care for or think about it will become easy to start to think only about "me" (both of us will have to fight this). We brainstormed about ways to overcome this easy slide and didn't come up with anything we could literally "do" to prevent the selfish bloat. But today at our ladies Bible study we were looking at Matthew 25:31-46. Jesus is talking about being a servant and that our actions reveal who we are. He also talks about doing acts of kindness to people because we see His face in theirs. That was the wicked servant's problem, when he left his Master's home forgiven of the debt he could never have paid he walked out with a right relationship to his Master. But when he failed to see his Master's face in his brother who owed him a small amount he destroyed that right relationship with his Master and fell out of favour with the Master. He then was punished according to his debt. Matthew 6: 14,15 tells us clearly that if we want to be in right relationship with our Lord we need to forgive as we are forgiven.
I began to think how Diane and I could ask the Lord to send us someone to give to, or help or encourage every day on the walk. And we could keep a journal of all the ways God sent us into people's lives along the way.
Being unaware of themselves the righteous are good to others.
"Small things with great love." is a quote my daughter passed on to me from Mother Theresa.
I am excited about looking forward everyday to meeting a new person and discovering how I can touch their lives with God's love. Its a simple step away from self occupation to God orientation.

A Tribute to Wanda Hay

2007-02-19T22:41:00.000-06:00

Someone died the other day who was a woman of God, a woman with influence and kindness. Her last days were spent sharing the gospel with others around her. Her boldness impacted her young grandson to speak out for His Lord. She is with all those who have gone before now, rejoicing at the throne. Do I regret her home going? I can't be sad to think what a blessed woman she is at this moment and forever more. She has led the way and I will gladly walk in her foot steps one day. But for her family I grieve. Those who cared for her in so many ways, those who will find an empty chair, who will have one less on their Christmas list, who will look absent mindedly for her to come through the door and then remember. For those I ache, and as their friend I pray for their healing to come in time. Not to quickly because love deserves time to weep as it did to laugh. We are the ones who need healing now, not Wanda! And so we wait for time to wash over our hearts-a constant lapping of the ocean of God's love on the shores of our pain - to replace that pain with the hope that we will meet again. As she was so fond of singing at New Year's Eve,
Blessed be the tie that binds our hearts in Christian love;
The fellowship of kindred minds is like that to that above.

Before our Father's throne We pour our ardent prayers;
Our fears, our hopes, our aims are one, our comforts and our cares.

We share each other's woes, our mutual burdens bear;
and often for each other flows the sympathizing tear.

When we asunder part, it gives us inward pain;
But we shall still be joined in heart, and hope to meet again.

This glorious hope revives our courage by the way;
While each in expectation lives, and longs to see the day.

From sorrow, toil and pain, and sin, we shall be free,
And perfect love and friendship reign through all eternity.

So until then, my dear friends may God bless you and keep you. May the Lord make His face to shine upon you and grant you His peace as He has so recently done for Wanda.

Spaghetti Supper and Concert

2007-02-18T23:41:00.000-06:00

In an effort to let Melfort know what we are doing we held a Spaghetti Dinner and Concert. It was an amazing success raising about $3000 for Simple Steps!!! The night featured a celebrity cook - Steve Bohan, who was the chef of the sauce. What a great sauce it was, with cream cheese, cottage cheese, sausage and hamburger! We had a disclaimer for heart patients displayed at the event. Friends, Tracey and Seth MacNaughton who are expert food service coordinators jumped into the deep end and pulled it all together. What an amazing couple! They are humble servants and serve their God with a beautiful attitude.
Ray Sargent, pastor of the Apostolic Church of Melfort and radio show host of "Sunday Side Up" on CJVR was our MC and was excellent at keeping the night moving and informative! Its so great to see our churches in Melfort moving toward each other.
Scott Orr (scottorrmusic.com) came to sing and everyone was incredibly impressed and greatly entertained as he sang the song he wrote for me called "Dreamer," and then ended his set with "King (Queen) of the Road." From crying to laughing, his set had the audience's heart the whole time. Scott was only able to be part of this dinner because Tim & Corina flew him out on their AirMiles. Their thoughtful generousity was ... words become so small and cheap when your heart is so full of gratefulness.
Then I got to say something about the walk, and becoming people who live a simple life so we can share what we have been given.
Trevor Baker (trevorbaker.com) took the stage and had some encouraging and challenging words to introduce his songs.
After the dinner we had lots and lots of food left over, so it was decided that we would have a lunch after church and take donations. Ray invited everyone to join us at Park Ave at 12:30 pm to have some more spaghetti. We also auctioned off 5 cakes of various sizes that Deanna Unruh decorated so beautifully. They went for a crazy amounts from $250.00 for one cake to $55.00. The whole lunch brought in another $1000.00! I was speechless again.
The generousity, hard work and support that our church, Park Avenue Bible Church has shown Simple Steps is unbelieveable! They are my home team and I am counting on them for prayer support the whole way.
I didn't mention all the volunteers who came out to do the prep work for the sauce, or every one who helped in the kitchen, or carried, or purchased supplies, or prayed for success...
I didn't mention that Amie & Jon, Elijah and Grace came all the way from Plenty, SK to be at the dinner. It felt so nice to have them there - it was an important night for the walk.
This was going to be a short blog. But, here you are - I am humbled, and wish to walk as your servant, for His glory and will and that your investment (whether that is money or time or prayers) will be fulfilled and grow into what God blessed it to become.