Tejas

We're still in Texas. Ever since my high school days when Miss Christine Paulu played her Dixie Chicks and SheDaisy CDs for me, I have liked country music. Being in this land undoubtedly makes me think of songs like "Wide Open Spaces." This journey also makes me think of the Martina McBride song that goes:

I have been blessed, and I feel like I've found my way. I thank God for what I've been given at the end of every day. I have been blessed.

Some people in my life deserve special attention:

Our kind and generous hosts: Sara, Bernhard, Eva & Sophie; Grandma & Grandpa; Gene Robert, Joy & Mons; Pat; Jenette & John; Charley & Kamala; Julie & James; Wes & Travis; David & Jonnye; Lisa & Jake

My Mom: This trip is her nightmare (both her daughter AND husband off galavanting in strange places), but she supports my dreams. Her motto is, "slap on some lipstick and go face the world." For this trip, lipstick is a burdensome luxury because of its weight. I do slap on the SPFs and face the gargantuan hills of Hill Country.

The countless friends and family members who have kept my Mom company: The Hartleys deserve extra special attention because they just decided to move in with my Mom. They claim their move was because of the fumes of a kitchen remodel, but my Dad and I think they must have been inspired by our warmshowers.org/couchsurfing.com adventures.

Dale: He is probably my biggest cheerleader. He is big: he's 6'3" and muscle-y and he is apparently growing a Wyoming mountain man beard. He seems genuinely impressed by our progress (perhaps its because of shock or disbelief), but he makes me feel like he's truly proud of me. Perhaps we've achieved a number of our mileage goals because I'm motivated to get back to him. There have been a million moments I wish we could share. I miss my valentine!

My friends at CES: You inspire me! I wear the red bandana just about everyday. Thanks for getting all the signatures Amy Linn. Congratulations for your success at the Special Olympics.

Geralynn: A couple days ago we were leaving Leakey, TX and we encountered some road construction. The road, in fact, was gone. Just as we were pulling off to figure out how we would traverse the muddy miles ahead of us, a woman named Geralynn stopped to see if we wanted a ride to the other side of the construction. We gladly accepted her offer and considered it a miracle.

Recent happenings:
Went to a wine tasting at a tiny vineyard in Sisterdale, TX.
Ate amazing BBQ food. YUM!
Toured Austin! Went to a free chocolate show where we ate truffles, ice cream, brownies, etc. prepared by the students of the Texas Culinary Academy. Walked around the University of Texas campus, 6th street and enjoyed the company of our hosts, Lisa and Jake. While we were at their home, their dragonfly "hatched." It was exciting.

We biked a little over 80 miles today. My Dad's chain broke which was not good, but he managed to fix it quickly. Tonight we're at the Colorade Landing RV Park where they have a computer! Tomorrow it is supposed to rain/thunderstorm...boo...

Thank you for your prayers and encouragement. I couldn't do this without you.