Last night we arrived in Spokane, WA and today we're all enjoying an off day resting and sightseeing in Spokane with our amazing hosts, Whitney and Josh. Even though we've only been on the road a few days, everyone is completely worn out due to the fact their bodies haven't fully adjusted to the harsh reality of tour life.
Over the past week the team has been bonding and just focusing on getting to know each other. It's been pretty clear from the first day or two that this group is very tightly knit. Even churches have commented that of all the teams they've hosted over the years, this one seems especially close and laughs more than others they've seen. Everyday I am more and more appreciative to be apart of this community. It's truly a joy to get to know each and every one of this people and to hear their stories while riding and serving/supporting along side of them.
Although the first days of tour have been fun and full of amazing scenery and experiences, we've already had a couple of participants get injured. While all are using extreme caution on the road, sometimes accidents happen. One girl in particular had a really nasty fall from hitting a pothole. However, she's handled the whole situation like a champ and has been such an inspiration to the entire team.
We continue on our journey tomorrow morning and will be crossing our first state border into Idaho. The team will continue to interact with churches, schools, and random strangers on the road as we connect with various communities across the country.
Prayers for safety are our greatest request right now. Road cycling is fairly new to many of the participants, and over the next couple of weeks we'll be encountering some pretty difficult terrain.
Here are a few pictures from the last few days that will better show what life has been like lately. If you have any words, verses, prayers, or quotes of inspiration or encouragement for me and the team, please pass them on to me either on Facebook or send them to my email: saraba1991@gmail.com. It's great to get feedback from family and friends that are following our journey. It's those little thoughts and prayers that help us move on down the road everyday.
Blessings,
Sara
P.S. If you would like more consistent updates, follow me on Instagram. I post out there multiple times a day due to the easy accessibility. Blogging is great, but it's much more time consuming and I don't always have wifi.
Sometimes after you climb a killer hill you have to play on the playground at the top and ask all the kids to push you.
Post training ride to Seattle
Seattle and Mt. Ranier
Parking like a pro
They're off! Beginning the first official ride east.
Riding is tough, but naps are great.
The team heading off for their last leg up Stevens Pass
Post climbing stretches with Amanda
And now, for the well deserved descent down the Cascades
Anxiously awaiting a group of very tired cyclists at a rest stop.
Tour life= showers at a campground and walking back to the church with towels on your head. I'm so very thankful for Carmen and all she contributes to the team as one of my co-leaders.
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