Day Three Report

We are in Kosciusko, Mississippi, having finished 102.5 miles from Tupelo. This was by far the hardest day. The route wasn't difficult at all, but there is the "x" factor, called wind. The wind blew from the south southwest at 15 mph, gusting to 20. That makes the wind dead into my face, which makes cycling very difficult, especially when you are riding 103 miles on day 3. I felt like I was peddling in water. Needless to say, the pace was very slow. I was going nowhere in a hurry most of the time. I worked harder today than I have worked in a long time on my bike. I was bargaining with God all day trying to get the wind to stop blowing!! Didn't work. Alas, at mile 90 it finally died down some.

I cannot kid you. I am saddle sore. Three days and 286 miles and my back side is screaming. I have all the necessary pharmaceuticals to treat it. Hopefully it will be better tomorrow.

Preston was able to ride 101 miles even though he had to serve as our SAG and my domistique (helper). He would ride while I was resting and then drive the car to the next stop and then ride and meet me, etc. He did a great job.

Tomorrow we have a shorter day. Only 70 miles to Jackson. We already have a nap planned as soon as we get to our motel.

The coolest God-thing happened at Pizza Hut tonight in Kosciusko. A family that sat in the booth next to us was very friendly and we were talking and ended up telling about our ride. As we were leaving, he walked up to shake my hand and gave me $100!!!!! A total stranger, but unified in spirit and wanted to give to this cause. I was floored. I will never be able to tell the story Sunday due to excessive crying. Happens often to me these days. Cried on my bike today thinking how awesome God is. Whew.

Finally, I have a list of reflections already and was going to post some of them but it is too late. Its 11:09. By the time we get in, eat, clean up, get ready for tomorrow, etc. it is late. Thus why there is no pictures as well. I'll have time tomorrow. Pictures and early reflections on the blog tomorrow (Tuesday).

We are planning on leaving around 9 in the morning. About a five hour ride to Jackson.

Talk to you tomorrow night.