A friendly "Ammendment" to my texas blog

[Anthony]

So, for clarification sake, there's a little rivalry between me and my friends between the two great power-house states that are Texas and California. My buddies from Texas all came over to California to tell us how great Texas is, and we pretty much compete in every way possible. Sitting here at my computer, I kind of forget the fact that I'm writing for an audience that's way bigger than my friends back home. They're the only people I ever hear from other than my own teammates. So, sorry for not addressing them specifically in my last blog post. We appreciate so much the kind hearts and warm homes we've encountered here. I apologize if I hurt any feelings or seemed unappreciative.

In all honesty, everyone we have met here has been so nice to us, and I've loved staying with all of the host families and meeting people in all of the amazing churches we've stayed at. That comment was pretty much for my friends back home, and that one guy at the sporting goods store who thought Texas' roads were awesome. They're not so cyclist-friendly.

Texas was one of the most hospitable states we've been in all summer. When Josh and I ran out of water and the van decided it didn't want to be friends with us and give us any, we stopped at some random ranch in the middle of nowhere and they totally hooked us up. Our friends at the Oaks went so far out of their way to make sure we were comfortable and gave so much of themselves for our friends in Africa. The people in Anson had the coolest worship session I've ever been involved with, our friends in Brownfield held an awesome benefit event and had gave us some of the best showers we've had on the road so far. The people in Snyder took such good care of us for two days, took us to their community fireworks show and blessed us with an incredible message Sunday morning. The youth fellowship in Grandbury at the "church by the lake" were so encouraging and welcoming, and they even came all the way to Red Oak to be with us for the benefit concert. The community in Kaufman had the coolest local concert and Christian coffee shop, not to mention incredible smoothies. The community in Tyler went wayyyyy out of their way to make sure we were comfortable and really welcomed us into their community, hooking us all up with air mattresses, goody bags and tons of other fun stuff. And our host homes in Longview were so amazing. They showed us around town, gave me a backcountry 4-wheel ride, a warm bed and amazing company. I am so thankful for the hospitality we've received here.

And now, I'm scared to death of ever writing another blog post.

[Heather]

We abosolutely loved having you guys here and aren't offended at any "Texas" blogs that aren't just peachy. I for one have lived in Texas all of my life...and I know and readily admit that the majority of Texas roads in the back country pretty much suck. Having said that...I still love Texas and think it's the best state in the whole universe.:)

[Terry Ignatovich]

Hey Anthony,
We've never met but I am Atlas' first mom. Yep, I raised At-moose from a baby, a BIG baby I might add. Your mom has been keeping me posted about your ride & I have been reading your blog & praying for a safe trip for you & your team. You all are doing an awesome deed, and it is so cool to follow you on this trip through your blog. I can't believe you got hurt by a BUTTERFLY! Ride well & safe Anthony. God Bless.

[Charmaine Potter]

Your family and friends know you and God knows your heart so don't fear blogging. Your actions and the sacrifices you and your team are making (for needy people in Africa whom you don't even know and will probably never even meet) speak louder than words. Keep rolling, keep talking, and we'll keep praying for all of you :)

[Venture Expeditions]

Anthony, please write more blogs. We love them.

[Mom Catalano]

NOW YOU SOUND LIKE MY SON! I was afraid you'd cooked your brain yesterday! I told Aunt Margaret that it sounded to me like you were thinking tongue-in-cheek as you blogged, but that it just didn't read that way on-line! Glad I was right! It is easy to forget sometimes that the general population is privy to your words, but not the inside jokes! I get the rivalry between you and your Texas friends, now that you explained it! So glad it wasn't that you had brain damage resulting in temporary amnesia from the heat! I know God has put you in so many wonderful places and with such caring people, because you've told me! I was hoping that maybe you were just homesick and missed me, but, guess you have so many other distractions! Please don't stop blogging because every single other blog you have written has been such a joy to read! Everyone tells me they look forward to them so much! I miss you and love you and am trusting you to the people you encounter and God's care! RideWell and safe, son! (By the way, 107 here today! Yuk!)

[Judy Watson]

Thanks Anthony for your clarification and please don't be shy from letting us all know how our Lord has given you and the team so much, helped you guys through your struggles of long rides & worn out tires or of need for water, and that He is continuing to keep you safe where you will be able to go back to California. What you and your team is doing is greatly appreciated and not an easy task. Have a wonderful rest of the journey; learning more and more on how God is using this for His glory & honor.