For those of you who like statistics, after today’s ride we had completed 37% of our allotted mileage and 36% of our allotted time. So we’re pretty much on track. Today we went from Montrose to Gunnison, CO., a distance of 62 miles. This was our first real test in the Colorado Rockies. We had a couple of steep climbs where we changed 1500 to 2000’ in elevation. Everyone benefited from our climbing experience in previous states, and the general consensus was that Colorado’s not so tough. But we have a tough day to Salida tomorrow and a 98 mile day to Pueblo after that, so we’re not done with Colorado yet. The rumor is that it’s all downhill after Colorado. Yesterday we were in Montrose and John and I spent the night at Alice Lucero’s house. Alice lost her husband recently, but while they were married they had 11 children. The 11 children had 36 grandchildren and the 36 grandchildren gave her 9 great-grandchildren. Alice has obviously done her share to support her Church and her family. At breakfast this morning which she got up at 5AM to make, I asked her why she agreed to go through the bother of taking in two strangers into her house. Her answer was simple, an announcement in the bulletin said they still needed people to house riders in the brake the cycle tour, so she said she could take two. She attributes her longevity to staying busy and believing in God. Alice is typical of the people who have extended their hospitality to us. Thanks again, Alice. Finally, thanks to my folks for their support, my wife and family, and to the Just Faith group back in Austin, TX. Your prayers and good thoughts are with me daily.

George Finan