Total for May 1: $4368
Yesterday marks two months since the tornado went through Lee County, Alabama. Thousands of volunteers poured into the areas, many from outside of Lee County and many from within the community. We tarped roofs, ran chainsaws, and loved on people broken, hurting, confused and incredibly resilient.
This is not the first time we have ridden to raise funds and awareness for tornado survivors. With this being ride number 10 and starting in 2010, we were riding in 2011 after the tornadoes in West and North Alabama.
This year’s team is a little smaller but still incredibly fun, full of energy and great sports! I love these guys! My mom came up from Daytona to be a support driver and it is awesome being joined by Chase Crowson who has ridden with us over the past couple of years.
Today’s first leg of 86 miles was uneventful in that we all made it safely and no one was hurt. What has made this special is the focus. I have a deep appreciation for just doing one thing. Over the course of this year, I have found myself juggling multiple responsibilities. Some I have control over and some not so much. This included completing my first year of War College, the transition of staff, decisions around Hurricane Michael and now more recently the tornado in Lee County. The pressure and demands have been challenging. So, although it was 86 miles of cycling…to only be able to do that one thing has been so refreshing.
Doing one thing well, pushing away the distractions, and allowing God to speak is the difference maker. I am grateful today for the 4mph tailwind that felt like a small push and the periodic clouds that pushed away the sun. I am grateful for friends who ride with you and make long miles feel like nothing.
Looking forward to another day and opportunity to raise funds and awareness to help families repair their homes and find holistic recover.
Grace and peace,
lisa