When we came to the lobby to load our gear, the Ride already had gotten attention.

We’d heard that a “school group” was in the hotel. Seeing no children, we thought we’d misunderstood.

We had misunderstood. It was a group of educators.

Cliff spotted us and volunteered that he’d noticed the Sprint 26, photographed our Ride sign, and intends to donate to Human Rights First.

After a wide-ranging discussion, Cliff had to leave to teach a language arts class. Then Jessica stopped by.

Mathu (friends call him Mat) is a professional who helps people enjoy social and physical activity despite circumstances—such as physical or mental illness, poverty, and post-traumatic stress—that interfere. Of course he noticed our trike. His organization provides similar machines to people who need them to be active outdoors.

Mat recently did a risky multiple-day backcountry hiking trip. He understands the stress put on our families when we do something like his hike or our Rides. He gets why we want to do it anyway.

Mat told us about a famous athlete who sets records not for glory, but to attract attention to her cause. That’s our philosophy too (although we set no records). It’s not about us. It’s about helping people who need help provided by Human Rights First. Please donate so HRF can keep providing it!

These and other conversations delayed our departure. Delay allowed the temperature to rise from +16F (-9C) to +20F (-7C). When we started our descent, at even 20 mph (32 kph), easily exceeded downhill, the wind-chill (“real-feel”) was +4F (-16C).

Jeffrey faced the cold in a shirt, a down jacket, a vest with pockets, a windbreaker, and a safety vest. He wore a cloth cap, the Illinois Pork hat that goes on every Ride, and a bike helmet. Of course he got cold. It goes with the territory.

Our route so far:

Tomorrow we’ll add another leg.