Written by: Kendall Clements, Blue Ride
Today confirmed my decision to ride with the Fuller Center all summer long. I realize it’s a bit early to say that, but today was the perfect combination of challenge and reward. Climbing to the top of Steven’s Pass was every bit beautiful as it was challenging. After reaching the top, we bundled up so our sweat wouldn’t freeze us as we coasted down the winding road alongside the gushing Wenachee River. I happily rode with Rosie, my fellow Minnesotan on the journey. We paused to snap pictures however our cameras will never do the tremendous sites justice. We later took a break in Leavenworth and enjoyed salty Bavarian pretzels. We used our pretzel power to pedal our way the remaining twenty miles past apple, cherry and pear orchards. When I was starting to feel drained, we made our final turn toward the quant hillside church of Sunnyslope UCC in Wenachee, WA. Hillside and Sunnyslope should indicate that there were in fact a couple more hills to tackle before we could rest and refuel.
I’m looking forward to accomplishing another challenging day of riding tomorrow, and then to finally put on my work shorts instead of bike shorts on Thursday for our first build day. I spent two years as an AmeriCorps member working for Twin Cities Habitat for Humanity and I’m ready to see what a work day is like with the Fuller Center. Being on a bike and working for safe and decent homes for all will truly makes this an incredible summer.