August 4, East Springfield, PA

Rode 98.5 miles in 6 hours averaging 14.7 mph.
Zack and I rode together today. It just sort of happened, I thought, as the riding groups formed up 5 miles from the start. It was very apparent that he was riding with me because we were riding way below his usual pace and a bit below mine as well.

I hadn’t eaten much over the weekend for obvious reasons so my energy was way down. Fortunately, the terrain, like much of Illinois, Indiana & Ohio, was very flat. Not sure I could have stayed out of the van if there had been any hills.

It wasn’t until we were 20 miles from our destination in East Springfield, Pennsylvania that I realized that he was riding with me to make sure I made it through the day OK after having been sick over the weekend. When I asked him about it he just smiled and kept riding. I have been looking out for him most of my adult life. It’s a bit odd and humbling to be on the receiving end of him looking out for me.

What a good son! A grateful dad, and proud.

I was tired but we had a good day together.

My friend Peter, who is the Executive Director for YFC Erie, helped us connect with our host church on this stop. He was there when I got in and we were able to share a bit of ministry update since I had seen him in February. Things continue to grow under his leadership and God is helping them overcome the challenges they face. It was so good to see him. A wonderful surprise.

Connie & Marcie Hopkins are my hosts tonight and I am rooming with Mike. We had a good time fellowshipping with them in their home and enjoying their hospitality.

Dan