Enchanted by sunsets.

[Cody Henderson]

I've never seen anything quite like the sunsets here in New Mexico. I heard someone say the other day that you will never see the same sunset here, but God, with his infinite imagination, will only paint another unique and exquisite in its own way. That couldn't be more true, and what a way to end the day.

Aside from the artistic beauty that are New Mexico sunsets, I'm a little indifferent about the state as far as riding goes. Crossing over into New Mexico was amazing! Rolling hills, subtle scenery, and the mountains that boasted in the background were a welcomed change from the desert. However, rolling hills soon turned into elongated rolling hills and stretches of road that gave you the effect of being on a stationary bike. It was frustrating at times when you would pick out a small speck way up ahead, put your head down and pedal for half hour or so and that same little speck....well....was that same little speck. No bigger or closer than it was before. Like any other day, though, we made it. Breaking that 1000 mile mark which only affirms and boosts are motivation and confidence for the rest of the ride.

The generosity and willingness of people to go above and beyond on this trip continues to astound me. We passed the "VLA" or "Very Large Array" on our way into Socorro, NM the other day, and for those that don't know what that is it's basically a bunch of satellites pointed at the same target in space that map stars, galaxies, etc using radio waves. They're really cool. Some of you might know them from the movie "Contact". Anyways, one of our host families new a guy that worked there, Jerry. Jerry took us on a private tour of the VLA. We got the whole tour with the added benefit of climbing up on top of one of the satellites. Was incredible. A lot of us had thoughts of hanging over the edge, playing soccer up there, rolling down the sides, slip and slide'n it, but we refrained for Jerry's sake.

Other quick thoughts:

I wanted to cry like a little baby on our ride into Payson, AZ. Manly tears of course, but I held back. Deb got me through it. Was one of the hardest rides or days of my life.

I'm excited for the day that my body decides it wants to go back to normal and my legs come out of this coma that is pain and burning.

The team continues to impress me each and every day we are together. Their passion and desire only continues to strengthen my own which i'm blessed by.

Ants are crawling in and out of my sleeping bag as I type.

Transformers 2 tomorrow.


God is good.
Night.

[Nancy P.]

You guys are going through so much for others. I know it costs a lot (in pain, hardship, etc.) but it is so encouraging and inspiring. Thanks for letting God use you this way! I am so happy to hear that you all have a great team that has bonded so well and helps each other so much.

[Andy]

Cody, it sounds hardcore ... since leaving I do feel guilty sometimes. I've been playing Huck Finn for the past three or four days. Lazy river rafting, fishing, rope swinging and lake swimming and the like ... it's incredibly relaxing. But you are the lucky one, because you have found the end of yourself. We Americans have no clue. Ever since I've been back from Cali, I feel so blessed. My life is different.

Also, last Saturday I was an usher in Jake Larson's little brother's wedding. I got to chat a few minutes with Jake. It was cool. Maybe, you will see him in Nashville?

Take care, man. ---------- Andy

[Jesse Olson]

Great job. 1000 miles is a huge mile stone. very sweet.

[Erin McDermott]

This is a beautiful post. you should cry like a baby when you feel like you need to. it helps. i know this. i think new mexico makes up for it's long stretches of roads by its beauty. congratulations on making the 1000 mile mark!!!! sorry about the ants. have you guys experienced the bees in your helmets since entering new mexico? what about headwind? these were my least favorite parts of the land of enchantment. anyways, youre awesome. and thanks for posting!