Sheridan Inn

One hundred eight miles, or 104, my butt can't tell the difference. We can't really count 108.5 miles, though that was our distance traveled. Before we reached 35 miles there were signs saying "Road construction ahead- motorcycles suggested to take alternate route". It didn't say anything about bicycles, so onward we forged. Around mile 35 we were stopped. We weren't allowed to continue down the road, and quite frankly, I'm okay with that. It wasn't really a road but a dirt path snaking through the countryside. It would have been incredibly difficult, especially with all the heavy equipment moving the road around as we traveled. We loaded five bicycles on the van and inside it, with riders, and had to wait about a half hour before we could proceed. It was only by following the pilot vehicle that any traffic could go, and it was one-way. The pilot picked up one more of our cyclists, and various other traffic of construction workers carried the rest of the riders 4-5 miles. Once on pavement we continued.

Shortly after re-starting, the Bighorn Mountains came into yonder view, still capped with snow. The countryside was rolling, light traffic and good roads. At mile 62 it gradually started going uphill and the day wore on. Not a cloud in the sky could be seen, and visibility was forever from the highest point at mile 92. From there it was much downhill, though a few more climbs, but we made it to Sheridan Wyoming early. My Strava recording malfunctioned, so here is a link to another's that gives similar statistics. Though we had some light headwind and the miles long it was an enjoyable ride, especially upon arrival at Sheridan's First Presbyterian Church. Showers are in the building, it has a kitchen in which we will be cooking dinner for ourselves, and plenty of room to spread out.

Some riders are napping, others heading into town for whatever they might find, others are writing their journals or blogs. Obviously I like to write, for it is a way for me to record this trip, and share it. Recording it is important, for the days are so full it all becomes a blur; often times by day's end we have to ask another what town we started in, or where we were yesterday. Sharing it is important too; perhaps it is presumptive to think anyone finds this stuff interesting, but a few do from time to time. The important part of sharing is to get the word out for the Fuller Center for Housing, and remind readers and myself of what this is all about. I'm learning much about all of this, and have many thoughts on the road regarding society's role in helping other people.

From fundraising efforts and sharing my enthusiasm for this foundation I have learned much about generosity. I have 25 donors, big and small, who provided toward my Fuller Center fundraising efforts. It is important to approach everybody, and do so without expectation- letting God and the individual decide how to help. I am very fortunate to have these people (you) behind me. We are constantly bombarded with requests- from our employer pushing the United Way toward us, our church, friends and family making requests, and then general solicitations. I was one of those who ignored most of them for years, essentially because of the sheer amount of requests numbing me to any cause, and basically I'm selfish like the majority of people. Being on the receiving end has changed all of that. I give when I can to various causes, without expectation. Sure, I'm prudent in researching the receiving party, but after that give what I can. I'm rather partial to my cause, and animal rescue. We all have emotional reasons motivating us. What I have learned to do is look beyond my personal interests and consider the heart of the solicitor- often my friend, and think about them. Though I may not be particularly interested in their cause, I am interested in them, and therefore make a donation to indicate support. It may not be much, but it is support and I know how that feels.

That is what I've asked many of my friends to do; make small donations. It's difficult to motivate people in that manner, though, so it ends up being a small number making all the contributions, some rather large. I'm still trying to raise what I promised to the Fuller Center for Housing of Central Florida. I'm asking everybody, for like I said I can't do this with expectations, for to do so would only result in disappointment. A small token of support sent via my fundraising page would help immensely in rationalizing (if not relieving) this pain in my butt. Any support is greatly appreciated. I thank you, the Fuller Center for Housing thanks you, and my butt thanks you for your support.