Day 34

Holland, MI to Marshall, MI

• Miles: 92 mi

• Elevation Gain: 2,050 ft

What a day! The first 20 miles were dry, but then the skies opened and the rain didn’t let up until lunch. By the time we rolled into the Gilmore Car Museum it was absolutely pouring. Spirits were a little soggy, but walking into that warm, covered lunch stop was heaven. The best part? A roaring fireplace in the room where we ate — we all cozied up, drying out and refueling before heading back on the road.

The absolute highlight was being greeted at Gilmore by so many friends and family. My heart was overflowing with gratitude. Big thanks to the Island crew — Bob, Susan, Jim, Mila, SueEllen, Ron, Angela, Pete, and Scott — and to Julie, Cope, Mark, Bill (aka Sharkman), Ken, and my brother-in-law Jeff, who drove two hours to be there. You lifted me up when I needed it most. And of course, huge thanks to Steve for organizing the lunch spot and, once again, swapping out my dirty laundry in Holland and bringing it back clean to me in Marshall. 💗

After lunch, the rain cleared and we enjoyed a beautiful ride into Marshall. My friend Damian drove in to do some bodywork and get my hips back in alignment — so watch out, I may be extra fast tomorrow! For dinner, fellow P2P alum Sandy and her husband Greg joined us (and brought cookies!), plus Trek Travel friends Adam and Deb Dingwall dropped off even more cookies. Cyclists are always fueled by sugar, and we were very happy.

All in all, today was one of those emotional, heart-full days on the road — wet socks, big hugs, good cookies, and lots of love. Tomorrow is a big one: 120 miles ahead! Thanks to everyone who showed up, cheered, and sent support from afar. I feel it all, and it means everything.