Arrived in Charleston!

After an early morning United flight, I headed into Charleston and joined my fellow riders. Our first day consisted of ice breakers, random downtown strolls, and compliments on my neon green shoes. I must admit great relief: my fellow participants rock! There's Abby the professional opera singer, Jake the bicycling photographer, Claire the friendly architect, Laura the D-1 water polo star, Amelia the soccer playing cake fiend, J-Gibbs the musical swimmer...I won't be short on entertainment. Personal bike maintenance education came in the afternoon (yes summer goal!) before sitting for a lovely dinner donated by Subway. In the church dining room, I met the family we will be building for, diving into deep discussion with their 5th grade son Trey about how to elevate his basketball skills. He had a sick crossover, but lacked the step back jump shot. We talked through some drills for the summer, so defenses beware!

A sandwich later, we learned a bit about their family story and the Charleston Habitat affiliate. The Habitat houses here are sold at about $50,000 (market value $125,000) thanks to donated labor (us) and no markup. With the no-interest loan, the four Lemons can make their dream home a reality. Arnett Lemon, a hospital worker who has already given nearly 400 hours of her sweat equity, thanked us graciously for our support. Meeting such a deserving family, wanting merely the security and comfort of a small home...I am glad this will be my summer.

All photos from Charleston will come Thursday or Friday after our build, as I don't have the time to upload now. Got to go foster friendships! Question of the day...when should I put the neon yellow handlebar tape on my bike? Early in the trip or later on to mix it up?