I didn't realize how close we were to finishing until, a fellow bicycle rider asked how many days were left until we reached San Diego.  Not sure what the current day was (I haven't really known what day it was for about 3 weeks) I asked him.  "Thursday" he replied.  I counted on my fingers and I thought out loud, "Friday, Saturday, Sunday, Monday." Only four days left! The reality of the closeness of the finish suddenly struck me. Such a long trip is only four days from finishing. 

It doesn't seem very long ago that Jimmy and I were riding down to Savannah late on a Sunday night.  Excited about the ride we also expressed trepidation about what trials we would face: were we prepaired physically, would our bodies hold up, were we getting in over our heads? 

We'll with four days left, I'm so thankful because God has certainly been with us from day one.  While we have had a several frustrating moments, they were certainly part of God's plan for us.  Even today as Jimmy got three flats within a period of about 30 minutes, I felt secure knowing this was part of God's plan and if it was His will we would make it to San Diego. 

As we prepare to cross a very hot desert and climb some tall mountains before decending into the beautiful coast of San Diego, I feel ready for the final cruicible we are to face.  This ride has certianly been a great way to spend four weeks before diving into full-time seminary.