We are on our way! It was encouraging to see the amount of support that came out to the bridge on Monday morning. As we share the story of the thirsty around the country the amount of support for the ride and LWI will hopefully grow exponentially. 

The first two days of the journey are behind us. We have made our way from the pedestrian bridge in Austin to Brownwood Texas a distance of about 155 miles. Although the terrain is familiar to the other riders who live down here the scenery is new and exciting for me. The oak trees seem to grow out rather then up making the branches a beautiful twisted design. We are riding through what is referred to as the hill country. 90% of the land in Texas is privately owned, in most cases by large ranges that take up the vast stretches between towns. The entrance to the 1000’s of acre establishments can often be seen from the road. Bear Creek Ranch, JT Ranch, ext. each name unique to the family or location. Although most of the spring wild flowers have faded a few verities remain bring accented colors to the dull earth tones of brown and green. While I do find comfort and enjoyment in extended solitude it is wonderful to be part of a team for a number of reasons. The mundane endless roads are broken up with stupid jokes and conversation. Conversation that is still almost polite and safe, do to the fact that we have only all known each other for a week. As the miles a head shrink, the miles behind grow, and time elapses conversation will change, become personal, deep, and then flip back to light in an instant. At times the ride is slow, a bumpy up hill climb, a bruised sore butt, and a relentless summer sun. Other time’s we fly down hills or on the flat, the five of us drafting single file like a yellow ribbon in the wind. Or as I like to invitation it a trickle of fresh water flowing over the terrain searching for a small creek to meet up with that will eventually lead into a roaring river quenching the thirst of thousands.

Checkout my h2o ride bio on the team website http://h2oride.org/ride/team/abe/