Off day...

We were planning a trip to Philly today, but after church and lunch there was not enough time to do any tourist things, so the trip was cancelled. So I did laundry at my host's house, and looked forward to the dinner planned for this evening at another host's house, which was an outdoor BBQ. Hamburgers, brats, salad, etc, and a marshmallow roast of s’mores -- yum! We were all sitting at two picnic tables, and of course “the kids” were just goofing around. Allen started laughing at something Kelsey said, and soon we were all laughing so hard I could hardly breathe. Something about a black olive that was too small to be a bowling ball, and then Brian doing Allen's laundry and finding a pink bra wrapped up in his shirt. Turned out to be Nadine's bra (that Nadine graciously said I could wear any time I wanted). Evidently something I did made her think I might need it? Never mind, you had to be there!

Then we all gathered in the guest room for a super surprise! They started singing happy birthday, and a cake with lots of candles was enjoyed by all. They were a day early, but it was very special for me, turning 70 tomorrow. It could only have been better if Lois had been here.

This affiliate community has just been wonderful. The Lutheran church has been the primary host site, keeping our bikes safe; the Methodist church joined with the Lutheran church in supporting our efforts; and the families who have opened their homes to take small groups of us in for three nights have been amazing. We have had meals at the Lutheran church, provided by the congregation, meals as a full group in individual homes, and breakfast at each host family’s home. Such outpouring of love and faith is what makes this ride and adventure so phenomenal.

Up early tomorrow, as we have to be at the church by 6:15 to get our bikes ready and be off to ride through Philly and on to Avondale, PA., a ride of only about 76 miles. We already have some cases of poison ivy, so we need to be much more careful on the rest of the trip. But, life is good!

Peace...