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\u00a0It was the perfect way to fuel up, especially since the morning\u2019s 70-mile ride began under some rather soggy conditions. But as the first hour passed, the skies cleared, and the road ahead was much kinder, offering us drier, more comfortable riding conditions. Warren Weibe and I were the sweeps today, which meant we helped with any mechanical issues and made sure no riders were left behind. Due to the earlier rains, we had quite a few flat tires to deal with.<\/p>\n
The route to Everglades City was a pretty straight shot, with a mild tailwind that made the miles tick by a little more smoothly. As we pedaled on, the landscape transitioned from farmland to coastal beauty, with the final miles offering up a peaceful view of the glistening waters. Along the way, we were treated to some incredible wildlife sightings\u2014tropical birds like egrets, herons, storks, and osprey dotted the skies, hunting and nesting in the lush surroundings.<\/p>\n
I continue to be blown away by the warmth and generosity of our host churches. From the delicious meals to the cozy accommodations, the hospitality has been nothing short of amazing. We\u2019re incredibly grateful for the kindness of everyone who\u2019s made this journey so special. Oyee!!<\/p>\n<\/div>\n