The past 48 hours have been quite restful and restorative. We pulled into Berea to be welcomed by a few care packages from Mrs. Klevorn, and Dorothy Prins and the kids at Walloon Church. What a great welcoming!
It was cool, overcast, and slightly raining so we decided we would stay the night indoors on our day planned of rest. Through the week we had left a lot of messages on church answering machines looking for a place to stay and a church to attend but we did not have any luck. We decided on staying at the Holiday motel in Berea, which had tv so we could watch our tigers game, and wifi so Josh could watch his Michigan football game. Gene, the manager, gave us quite the deal with a two bed non-smoking room for $30 instead of $60 normal. We originally had a small smoking room, but I think after a bit he realized we were nice guys so he gave us the free upgrade to the last open room. Thanks Gene! A bed, soft pillows, warm shower, television (weirrrrd!), a fridge, coffee machine, and a microwave, it all seemed like a different life. haha.
Unfortunately my night was turned from pure relaxation to stress during the finally of the tigers game. What an intense series, too bad we couldn't come out on top.
The morning consisted of a continental breakfast (WOW!!!), some down time, bike work, devotions, and then off to church at Berea Baptist. It was youth sunday so the youth literally led everything, even the preaching. It was such a breath of fresh air to see the youth so empowered even though their words weren't super polished with a seminary degree. What amazing stories they had to share, and inspirational ideas as well. We had fun talking with a handful of the youth after the service and got to pray with a few of them. A super sweet family (The Allens) consistint of Dave, Kathy, and Robbie (their other three daughters were away) took us out for a pizza at papalinos in Berea. It was quite the historical place right next to the Boone tavern. I feel like we got to experience some of the city actually and see a few of the art studios along the way. We had a great time of fellowship with the Allens and they blessed us more than they can even know. God has really answered my biggest desire, and prayer, that I had prior to the trip; that being that I could meet many amazing Christians all across the country to realize even more how big He is and how great His people are in this awesome country. Thank you GOD!!! I couldn't have imagined it being so powerful all along the way.... every day..
The riding has been easier, probably becuase we are in pretty good shape these days. I was a little worried about running into the appalachians, but todays riding put me at ease. I found the longer climbs to be easier than the short and quick up and downs we have been riding the past few weeks. So here we go!! Bring on the mountains and the fall colors and brisk (some may say cold) temps! We are ready to love our last week and a half of riding....... ..... wait.... what!.... only a week and a half left??? Yeah... It's crazy I can't believe it. Our lifestyle is so habitual now; wake up, pack up, eat, ride, eat, ride, set up, eat, sleep, repeat. What is normal life like again??? I guess we will find out soon enough.
We made it to a great Presbyterian Church that has a great pavilion out back for cyclists to stay at. What a blessing.
May God be with you and go before you,
blessings and tailwinds,
Mark
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