100 mile update.

Over the last two days, we've biked a little over 100 miles. And holy cow do I feel every single mile of that. 

Leaving Nags Head, NC was one of the coolest things I've ever experienced. We arrived at a beach access where various donors, sponsors, and Bike and Build reps spoke. After this small ceremony, we all took our bikes out onto the beach and dipped our wheels in the Atlantic Ocean. As we rode our bikes out of Nags Head with a police escort, people stood in their driveways and waved while cheering us on. What an awesome way to start this adventure! I'm a huge sap, so naturally, I got all emotional and my heart welled up with joy and excitement.... If only I couldn't kept that feeling for the next 67 miles. 

In case you didn't know, there is NOTHING between Nags Head and Swanqaurter. I repeat, NOTHING. Well, except swamps and flat, straight, boring roads. That was probably the longest 67 miles of my life thus far. Especially in blazing sun and 90 degree temps. Good thing it's only just the beginning! 

When we finally arrived in Swanquarter, we were welcomed with open arms and warm hearts by the small church community of Soule Methodist. After a COLD shower in a high school gym, the feast the church ladies prepared for us was heavenly. Though I'm not quite sure about the keyboard sound effects with the praise music after riding so far and with a full belly. All I wanted was sleep! 

7 am this morning came WAY quicker than I'd usually hope, but the bike calls! Luckily today was only 35 miles. The majority of the group stayed together today which was a blast. We conquered a good sized hill and hit up a yard sale where we found some quality items for B&B prom (date TBD). 

After arriving in Belhaven early afternoon, people in the church community opened their homes to us for showers and laundry and even meals or naps. I don't know if a hot shower has ever felt so good. We then came back to Trinity Methodist where we feasted on a huge meal, again prepared by church ladies. I could get used to all this awesome cooking!! 

Tomorrow we have a ride of a little over 50 miles followed by an 82 mile ride on Monday. The challenges keep coming but, the challenges we face are less than those we are helping. That's what keeps me going.