Oklahoma Opening

So after a concerned call from my Aunt, let me clarify: being sore doesn't ring the death toll for this trip, it's just a reality of pedaling kooky amount of mileage. Like at mile 35 of today's 102 miler, riding solo and glaring at an upcoming hill thinking "Wasn't Oklahoma supposed to be flat?" Pop in a Werther's caramel, belt out some Little Mermaid and those pedals are pounding again. I am still finishing in the lead group most days, so don't fret. I did this trip to test my mental and physical toughness, so I would be upset if I wasn't a little achy.

We made it to Oklahoma! Today's century ride took us to Henryetta, a dwindling town of 7,000. Concluding through their 'Main Street,' most windows were boarded up, relics of a once vibrant strip. This sad sight has become a common occurrence along my travels. Interstates divert travelers away from the state highways, Walmart out competes local businesses, staple industries are outsourced...the causes are many, the result the same: small towns withering and replaced by cookie cutter clusters of Subway, Family Dollar, and Sonic. This topic deserves a separate post entirely, and as I have another 98 miles on my plate for tomorrow, cannot delve into now. However, there is still more to share...

The church here gave us a wonderful reception, bringing in more than 50 local residents to meet with us and hear our presentation. They served the most delicious brownies I have ever indulged in (sorry Mom). I leaped at the opportunity to meet so many locals, chatting about Henryetta's history (home to Troy Aikman and inventor of the mechanic bull Jim Shoulders), church cultural norms, rural/urban differences, and dream vacations. Highlights of the night included the generous donation sum of $265, a tour of their one room town museum, and locals nicknaming me "Clark Kent." Super.

Photos of Arkansas can be found here! It is tough to take photos when you want to be involved in the day, but I need to do more shooting. My memories will fade without more pictorial kick starts, so I'll get snapping. Though slacking with the camera, I've been an avid reader, concluding my fourth book minutes ago. Minutes...oh dear, time for bed! When you need to wake up at 4:30, bedtime really sneaks up on you. Ta ta for now, Oklahoma City tomorrow...

Morning addition: Today's 99 mile ride to OKC is devoted to my father (on Father's Day no less). With a deep love of family, a commitment to justice, and lighthearted goofiness, my dad helped shape the person I am today. Dad, enjoy the Father's Day postcards coming in the mail and have a great day. I love you very much and thank you for being you.