that this blog is my link of communication to the outside world (and a
lot of people read it!), I want to thank mom and dad for all the
stuff. It rocks. Then I want to thank Ms Kim Thompson AGAIN for the
second batch of brownies they are phonomenal. I love it and the fact
that you sent more. And then I also want to thank the Wetzig family
for following my blog closely and sending me some much needed energy
gels. I love strawberry. Seriously, all you blog readers thank you I
was pretty happy today. If you keep sending me stuff, I'll keep
blogging... Heh heh heh
Anyway, just had a burger and hot dog dinner at First Presbyterian
Church in Durango, CO. Nice. And before that we had our family meeting
(talk about the week, highs and lows, announcements). Before that we
had our building day and then yesterday we rode 80 miles into Durango
and before that 100 miles into Ouray. It was some BEAUTIFUL and
breathtaking rides. Colorado wins for most scenic place in the US.
Family meeting:
We have these almost every week, but I thought todays was real good.
Not for any particular reason, but just because everyone is so
comfortable around each other now and gets very well along. We goof
off so much. Everything has fallen into place quite nicely and a lot
everyones "Low" was the fact that this journey is over soon. Rebecca
said it best - I've never laughed as hard as I have on Bike and Build.
Similiarly related, we went over our budget from this trip after about
7 weeks. Believe or not, for 31 people we've traveled this far and
spent only $113 per PERSON for everything. I'm talking lunch,
breakfast, dinner, laundry, gas etc. That's amazing. And it would not
have been possible without all the donations of food and dinners
provided to us by churches, armories, and various restauraunts. Man...
113$ is a tiny number think about that for a second.
I've been told repeatedly that the older generation looks at the
younger generation as being a lost cause - maybe thats why so many
older adults so warmly receive us. We're doing something. It feels
good. I've said it before and I'll say it again, I love it when
strangers stop us and ask what organization we're with and where we
are going. The reactions we get always make me so happy. We got a 40$
and 100$ donation on the road in the last 2 ride days.
Ride to Ouray:
100 mile ride into this mountain town that was sweet. I'll post
pictures of it. Hot Springs Pool to play in. Awesome shops. Tummy
tacos. Good views
Ride to Durango:
Left the church and immediately started a 12 mile climb up a mountain.
Woah. Nice view, but also terrifying because there was no guard rails.
Got to the top, did some celebrating....Descended the climb... Then
did another 7 mile climb, then took this picture at the top, descended
and THEN did another 3 mile climb. 3 mountains in one day... Awesome.
We are so extreme.
And right now a Bike and Build alum (rode one year, led another) has
stopped by and brought us ice cream. She happens to live in Durango
and decided to stop by. She's chatting with us and we're swapping
stories about Bike and Build. Do I even need to explain any more how
sweet Bike and Build is? !!!!
Hi Sharif,
ReplyDeleteI am enjoying viewing your pictures and reading about your experience. Judging from these pictures, I agree with you that Colorado is the prettiest place. I have not seen such blue skies for a long time. I bet you the air over there is very fresh too.
You guys (bike & build riders) are doing a great job building houses. I was most impressed with the ramp that you built for the lady in Tennessee. I am sure being able to walk on the ramp to her trailer made life easier for her.
Keep sending these pictures and keep telling us your stories in your blog. We all enjoy both.
Love
Mom