Day 14: Cleveland to Kountze

We did it!  Thirty-riders, ranging in age from 40 (Rachel) to 70 (Norman) arrived in Kountze, Texas today, completing the second leg of our Ride Across America.  In the last two weeks, we rode 983.3 miles and over 22,000 vertical feet of climbing, averaging 77.5 miles/day.

And, we officially entered the south, crossing our first bayou (even labeled with a sign) and riding through the misty trees of the Big Thicket National Preserve.

Hugs, high fives, and cheers spread around as riders arrived in Kountze. 

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Deb, Pat, Jane, Stu, Matt, and Patty happy to arrive in Kountze

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Patty, Pat, and Bill pretty pleased

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Alan and Rob enjoy lunch

Pat was so delighted, she went on a kissing spreeÉ

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Pat and riding partner Deb

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Pat & Kathleen

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Pat & Carol, and Kathleen

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Pat and Nate

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Pat and Mark

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Pat outfoxed and a bit surprised by Parker who turned and smacked back.

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Meanwhile, Emily celebrated with Geni by eating a plate full of jelly beans with her avocado spread sandwich saying: ÒA wheat free diet is a great thing.Ó

Thank you Sag Queens extraordinaire: Kathleen and Carol.  Thanks to Jerry and Parker for great ÒleadershipÓ or at least organization.  Thanks to Matt, Andy, and Carol for photos.  See yÕall next year where we switch from tacos and enchiladas to jambalaya.

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 Your scribe Julia, signing out for this year.