Visited barista Richie at Flatlands Coffee next to the university in Bowling Green before Tuesday’s ride. He is departing for the U of Georgia for a PhD in Music, which confirms my theory that pulling espresso is both art and science. Also met Kyra in the town of Napoleon. She’s got baking skills…a military wife who’s lived all over the US, including Monterey, CA where she trained at the Monterey Baking Co. Traveled through cornfields and passed towns dotted along canals that tie back to Lake Erie including Texas, Ohio and Florida, Ohio…confusing! Landed in Defiance, situated on the Maumee River, just before noon at Bud’s before literally EVERY seat and table filled up for lunch at this quintessential diner. When the regulars walked in, each one asked if the pie was ready…what’s in the pie?
After hitting 100 miles Monday, my plan for Tuesday was to go 55 miles to Defianc because the next place to find lodging on my route was an additional 80 miles away in Huntington, IN. Remnants of Hurricane Beryl made its way to this region, so I’m grounded here another day to avoid all-day rain and 30-45 mph gusts. I chalk it off to the futbol gods at work, ensuring I would enjoy the Euro 2024 semifinal matches. Watched Spain defeat France Tuesday and England faces off against Netherlands this afternoon. Did not find the local “soccer bar” in Defiance yesterday but will go back in search today to find any “closet” soccer fans in the land of the Buckeyes and Browns.
Lastly, I had a wonderful Aunt Beryl from Minnesota, she was a legendary baker too. Once in awhile, she had a hurricane for a temper when chores were not done on the farm. “Hurricane Beryl“ has allowed me to pause today at the cozy Cabin Fever Coffee and reflect on the trip and fundraiser. We are already over $30k! I am incredibly GRATEFUL for each and every dollar of support. THANK YOU! Let’s keep riding and raising for CRI. Cheers!
