Well – it’s official – I’m part of the “Dog Team!” This is an endearment designated to all who participated in the this 184.5 bike adventure down the whole length of the historic C&O Canal - and had a “dog gone” good time doing it! How many of you have seen the complete “depths & breath’s of our longest National Park? Would you like to – while feeling safe – spoiled – AND contributing to the well being of girls who have experienced family dysfunction or the trauma of abuse? This home has given many of them a second chance to a normal life underneath the leadership of Bruce Anderson AKA – “Top Dog.”

There are so many storied to tell – I realize how busy everyone is – how verbose I am – therefore anyone who would like to learn more please call me and I will happily express the rest.

To recap – “briefly”: We were transported to Cumberland MD for the start of our ride via Charter bus from the San Mar Children’s Home in Boonsboro on Saturday after being served a warm breakfast by staff.

I had much trepidation – How did I get through it? The weather was perfect…

One 9-year-old boy – Kevin became my riding pal beginning on the second of four days. I was feeling somewhat sore and he kept me riding (at a steady pace of about 10-12 miles an hour) by ringing his bell every mile marker – singing – playing guessing games and encouraging ME by saying, “Miss Susan – we only have a little further to go!” He said that periodically – no matter how many miles we had to go! He was determined – never said he was tired (unlike me) and kept pedaling consistently. How can you add to that? And I thought I was the adult!!! His brother, sister, mom and dad have done this the last four years – (which means Kevin, the youngest, has been participating since he was 6)! This is one family who will steal your heart twice over – I hope you can meet them next year.

Incredible food and goodies at about an average every 10 miles – smiles – laughs - I don’t recall 1 bad attitude of over 70 people – not one.

Camped two of the three nights – the latter night we were graciously put up in a very nice hotel in Leesburg. During the evening we laughed till it hurt while playing different games that were brought by past Dog Team members.

Wildlife – almost ran over a black snake – and a few turtles trailside as well as basking in the sun on branches in the C&O – heard the bullfrogs – many geese and mother ducks with her ducklings – and fish – and horses – dogs – cows, and many kinds of birds.

Mexican food in Leesburg the last night…Italian food another…and staff preparing great American food the first night.
This group of people is a very special one – and it gave rise to the “what” and the “who” that brings this collective group of people together – and back again, year after year…the answer?

LEADERSHIP! Bruce Anderson is a man that has a heart of gold. He loves people. Is impeccable with his organizational skills – has a playful spirit – does not take himself too seriously – and simply draws the best people to work for him as well as his many friends who aid him in this huge endeavor each and every year to meet budget. He always tells you what the money is going for and how much he is able to raise. He has been doing this tour for the last 19 years.
Thank you Bruce for this opportunity and please pass along my thanks to Ellen and Bill and others who assisted.

I appreciate you all and thanks for allowing me to share some of my C&O Adventure!

Susan C. Perkins