DAY SEVEN = WEEK ONE!

I must apologize for the large number of pics today, but if you only knew how hard it was to not put up so many others!  Today started out early as I set my alarm for 4:00 and jumped on the bike in the dark to head up to the Canyon, which was about 60 miles away.  It got very cold as I progressed.  Keep in mind that the Canyon is at 7,000+ feet.  The overnight temp was 33!  I especially paid attention to the signs for deer and elk crossing and then I saw the one that said to watch for mountain lions for the next 10 miles!  I wish I had started out 30 minutes earlier to catch the really red skies.  You will notice that the pics (which really should be viewed from bottom to top ((sorry 'bout that)) show considerable smoke, which got worse until I got to the east entrance of the South Rim.  I came in through the South entrance.  Everywhere you look you see beauty.  You know I love to take bird pics, so you will see one in the bush and one in the air.  I also am having a lot of fun with the panorama mode and so have included a few of those. After a few hours just stopping at the various view points I headed down through Flagstaff in order to find the SDA Church there which you will see at the top I believe.  Small, but very cute and I look forward to visiting with the pastor, David Hakes, tomorrow in Prescott.  That is about 75 miles from here and then I'll have around 200 to reach Holbrook in the afternoon. 

Weather was good today and should be in the mid 80's tomorrow.  Heading into New Mexico and Texas looks like it could be hot and possible stormy.  Don't stop praying now!

As I reflect on the first week of my journey I am very thankful for safe travels over more than 2200 miles.  I have really been energized by my visits with the various pastors and church leaders.  I have found that every one of them really want to make a difference and reach their communities and every one of them also face a variety of challenges.  I have been met with enthusiasm for the project by pastors and members alike. I have also found that the great common denominator among all situations is that we have to find ways to build relationships with our neighbors, churched and unchurched. Certainly that is the Jesus way is it not?

I'm glad to have a week behind me.  I'm feeling good.  The backsides are holding up well, but you do find yourself frequently seeking a new position!  My biggest concern for the road ahead continues to be weather.  That always has the possibility of forcing me to alternate some of my plans, but so far so good.  Thanks to so many who have posted comments, sent emails, and just prayed.  I feel it!  I'm working on getting a map that I can update each day.  Thanks to James Boyles for his more than patient way with me.  Enough for now.  Week two, here we come!