Climb! Climb! Climb!

Today we had quite a challenge ahead of us. Wake up was promptly at 5:30 AM and I think everyone was eager to face Stevens Pass! The morning was very foggy and cold as we started our ascent. The first 16 miles of our 75 mile day was all uphill, we gained 3,000 feet. The top of the pass still had snow on it as it was about 37 degrees and foggy. It was crazy coming down the other side, there is nothing like going 40 mph on a bicycle. Once we headed down the weather immediately changed and all of the sudden it was 70 degrees and not a cloud in the side, welcome to the east side of the mountains. The rest of the ride was breathtaking, filled with “oo’s” and “aw’s” as we glided down towards Levenworth and Wenatchee. The road follows a river that is set between mountains filled with evergreens that make perfect picture opportunities. Everyone finished safely however I think the worst of luck came to Dan who had four flat tires that day. Looking back now it is pretty funny because he was stopping and going all day with because of those flats, poor guy just couldn’t get a break.

Once we made it into Wenatchee we had lodging set up for us in one of the local churches. That evening we worked with one of the local disability centers that sponsored a pizza feed. We got to talk with a lot of people with disabilities, many of which were athletes in the Special Olympics. Every one of them are so interesting to talk to, after talking to them you get to know their interests and some of their favorite things to do. It is a blast getting to be a part of their life for a day and I always feel refreshed and blessed for the abilities that I have. It makes you realize how fortunate we are to have two arms, two legs, a high IQ, or fine motor skills.

Above: Where we stayed in Wenatchee.

Right: Larry and I did a little rap together at

the disability center...California Love,

his favorite song