Actually, 98.86 miles to be exact - but who's counting.
We had a two thousand-foot mountain pass in the morning, then a strong headwind, and one last hill (called the Queen's Crown) before we ended in Carey, ID. We were all a bit surprised we actually made it and ended the day lounging in the gas station/cafe eating curly fries and cinnamon rolls. Even though the sign says only 604 people in Carey, we got lots of questions, good wishes and advice. We also went to church this morning and even met a Houghton Alum who was visiting from South Carolina! Small world.
Also, a huge shout out to Bill and Karen in Eagle, ID. They took us in despite our smelly state, gave us beds and lots of yummy food. We then spent an extra rest day with them and had a lovely time. It was like a homecoming. We saw the city a bit, went to a chocolate store, and saw Pirates of the Caribbean on Chaz's behalf. It was certainly hard to leave their incredible hospitality - especially when we hit several gravel roads on our way to Mountain Home. After our push yesterday, we are in much better spirits and are excited to make it to Arco tonight passed Craters of the Moon National Monument.
Yet the hills won't stop for several more days. Climbing is hard, but the views are totally worth it. If I stopped to take a picture each time we wouldn't make it 10 miles. Snow capped mountains and russet colored buttes guided our way. It's funny, I thought I'd be traveling slow - but at times I whizz by and wish I could spend a whole day in one place. But I'm grateful for the chance to see it and enjoy the mystery that still surrounds the flowing creeks and tucked away caves we pass. It makes me realize that this trip is more about seeing and feeling where we are in the moment than about taking photos. And that there will always be more to explore. Whether it's turning my face away from the headwind or staring at the hundreds of massive crickets migrating along the road, these are the moments we get to experience a place deeply. And for that I am truly grateful.
We had a two thousand-foot mountain pass in the morning, then a strong headwind, and one last hill (called the Queen's Crown) before we ended in Carey, ID. We were all a bit surprised we actually made it and ended the day lounging in the gas station/cafe eating curly fries and cinnamon rolls. Even though the sign says only 604 people in Carey, we got lots of questions, good wishes and advice. We also went to church this morning and even met a Houghton Alum who was visiting from South Carolina! Small world.
Also, a huge shout out to Bill and Karen in Eagle, ID. They took us in despite our smelly state, gave us beds and lots of yummy food. We then spent an extra rest day with them and had a lovely time. It was like a homecoming. We saw the city a bit, went to a chocolate store, and saw Pirates of the Caribbean on Chaz's behalf. It was certainly hard to leave their incredible hospitality - especially when we hit several gravel roads on our way to Mountain Home. After our push yesterday, we are in much better spirits and are excited to make it to Arco tonight passed Craters of the Moon National Monument.
Yet the hills won't stop for several more days. Climbing is hard, but the views are totally worth it. If I stopped to take a picture each time we wouldn't make it 10 miles. Snow capped mountains and russet colored buttes guided our way. It's funny, I thought I'd be traveling slow - but at times I whizz by and wish I could spend a whole day in one place. But I'm grateful for the chance to see it and enjoy the mystery that still surrounds the flowing creeks and tucked away caves we pass. It makes me realize that this trip is more about seeing and feeling where we are in the moment than about taking photos. And that there will always be more to explore. Whether it's turning my face away from the headwind or staring at the hundreds of massive crickets migrating along the road, these are the moments we get to experience a place deeply. And for that I am truly grateful.
Great update. I continue to pray for your safe travel. Your pictures and blogging are a great indication that there are many wonderful people who have blessed your journey with their hospitality.
ReplyDeleteThanks, Don! We love getting your comments and "likes" and knowing that you are following our journey. Yes, there have been lots of beautiful moments along the way. We are excited to be in Houghton this coming weekend!
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