Ken-tuc-ky

-which is Algonquin for "the good land."

Actually that's a line from Wayne's World doesn't go with Kentucky and I have no idea what Kentucky means -- however I do know that it is not the worst state ever to ride your bike through. It was all hype -- there were no wild dogs - or wild people -- a little bit more trash along the road than normal -- but a very beautiful state with very friendly people - even if you can't understand a word they say.

But I'm not here to tell you about anymore of my progress -- well, OK - we are through Kentucky and now in Damascus, VA - but that's it. This blog is dedicated to a couple brave souls that have put us up along the way.

The first set -- left to right - Heidi and Liz - of Newton, Kansas

I know you're reading this and I would like to say - you guys rock -- we had a ton of fun staying at your place - and you can take pride in knowing it was the only place we stayed for two days (that is if you don't count West Yellowstone and the fact we were waiting for the other 1/2 of the group) -- but still we were psyched to chill with you cats.

There were many firsts --- the first time I've ever been in a rompus room -- the first time I've ever sat down and talked to a Mennonite - let alone more than one -- and then, to top it all off, my first dumpster diving experience. People, let me tell you - dumpster diving in Newton Kansas could be your livelihood --- the booty consisted of numerous CARTONS of cigarettes, a box of cereal, and a muffin mix -- granted it was all expired, but who cares when it's free!

But wait, there's more - I know we already topped it off, but they road out with us the next day -- I believe it was 10 miles -- all before they had to rush back and go to work --- now that's awesome.














Next up - Paige, Andy, Lillian & Claire (and McKenzie but we never actually met) - from Berea, Ky

A very cool family -- actually picked us up in town and brought us to their home - about 6 miles out of Berea - all three of us! Again with the hospitality -- food (including BEER!) - laundry - showers - beds! These guys went out of their way -- Paige even went into town to get vegan food for Karli to enjoy the delicious cookout they prepared.

They have hosted many bikers over the years and the kids seemed to look forward to the newcomers and enjoyed our company -- I think they actually wanted us to stay another day.

This is their newest dog - Monk - named so for his monkey-like appearance -- I couldn't get over how unusual this dog looked - very cute none the less. I don't think the picture captures it's monkey features. The morning we left Paige had to take him into the vet -- hope you are doing well Monk :)








This final shot is classic -- Andy is showing us the short-cuts on the trail -- thanks Andy! We'll take any time saving routes we can get at this point.

And to answer your comment, Andy - Karli (as well as Dave and myself) made it up all the hills - only having to get off the bike on one of them :) -- but still made it -- thanks!

And thanks again for you and your family taking care of us.

This concludes my shout out to our latest "trail angels" -- thanks for your kindness.