Hello from 35,000 feet!  The pilot just called out that the Grand Canyon is on the right and that we’ll be touching down (at LAX) in an hour.  My goodness this country feels big, it feels like I’ve been traveling all day…..and most of that at 550mph!!

I’m struck suddenly at the magnitude of this thing.  I’ve had the great blessing to have had so many life experiences….but nothing can prepare me for this.  How will I do in the first of 40+ half hour time trials…..how about # 27?? Can I handle the sleep deprivation from sleeping in minivans and the RV?  What have I forgotten to pack?

I’m also struck by how this is a beginning, but also in many ways it’s also an end….. to the almost full year of training and prep.  It does feel both a bit stressful, but more liberating that there’s just about nothing left to do but get on the bike.

I’m so grateful for the team and 12 person crew…..all told 20 folks putting their life on hold, and the families that are supporting and encouraging them.  And then, of course, there’s Heather (an amazing woman!) and the volunteer staff that has prepped so hard and is staying behind to run the 24x7 event at the ATC.

I do so hope and pray that this event will inspire folks to love their neighbor by GIVING and VOLUNTEERING.  I’m heartened that area companies have already pledged over $60k… All of which will go to the awesome 18 charities that have listed their outcome related goals.  Now it’s the time for the rest of us…..I hope we get a thousand Durham residents to give over the next week.  I want to celebrate the $10 gift from the 10 year old…..and the pledging of 20 volunteer hours from someone who has never volunteered before.  Now THAT will get us over the Rockies in the cold of night!!

Love your neighbor….the one across the street and across town!  On behalf of the team, THANK YOU for your support and encouragement!

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