March 29, 2017. Kountze Texas to Kirbyville Texas 42 miles. 1903 miles from the Pacific.

Horse and I hit the road early this morning thinking we might be able to out run the thunderstorm that is predicted for later today. The morning air is already heavy with heat and humidity. I put horse in galloping gear as we make our way through the small hamlets of Silsbee, Evansdale, and Buna. I am hoping to make it across the Mississippi River and into Louisiana. But mother nature has other plans. As I pull into Kerbyville for lunch I hear the rumble of thunder behind me. I take cover underneath the breezeway of a church. The sky opens up like a monsoon and the wind knocks over anything that is not tied down. The pastor comes out and invites horse and I into the building for shelter. He is a biker and offers to let us stay for the night. I find out the church has a warm shower and regularly host bikers on this route. I am warm, dry, safe, and grateful for the kindness of strangers. The greatest thing I have discovered on this journey is the bountiful generosity of complete strangers.

I see this quote hanging in the men’s room at the church and think it is speaking directly to me.
“tell me, what is it you plan to do with your one wild and precious life?” Mary Oliver

Cheers, Freebird