I was very excited about this day. I was finally going to arrive at the BFTW corporate headquarters. I would be able meet the people that I so often talked to on the phone or emailed there. But first, Aunt Sue made me her version of a “Mess” for breakfast. It was very good. My aunt and uncle have spoiled Sam and me and we both want them to know how very much we appreciate it. They were such a blessing to us while in Denver.
Bibles For the World had arranged for me to be escorted to their office by a couple experienced bike riders, Stan and his daughter Sarah. It was great getting to know them and I appreciated not having to negotiate my way to the office by myself. We met at the Palmer Lake Trailhead and took the New Santa Fe Trail. We were to eventually ride about 23 miles of it, part being thru the Air Force Academy.
It was a beautiful day and I stopped to take a few pictures. I wanted to take more but we needed to be at BFTW by about 12:15 for a luncheon.
When we arrived at BFTW I was overwhelmed. There were quite a few people outside and they were cheering and clapping and had me ride thru a ribbon finish line. I couldn’t hold back the tears. I had no idea I’d be greeted this way. There were balloons and banners and a tent to serve an Indian meal. It was very good.
Dr. Pudaite and his wife Mawii could not be there but they taped a video to greet me that we all watched. I was so touched. I had never had anything like this happen to me and I can’t put into words how it made me feel. I so appreciate all those who came out to greet me.
The staff presented me, Sam, Sue and Charles with gifts and many kind words. They even made a large cake for me to celebrate my 50th birthday this year. And it was such a unique cake! (I’ll post pictures of the cake and the event later since they are on Sam’s camera).
After most everyone had left I got a special opportunity to talk to Dr. Pudaite and Mawii on the telephone in India. It was about 2:00 a.m. in the morning there but they took time to speak to me and welcome me to BFTW. I’ll never forget that phone call.
My daughter, aunt and uncle soon left and I was given a detailed tour of the entire office. It is such a wonderful building God has blessed them with. After that I was thankful to be taken out for supper with some of the staff. We had a great time, and yes, we had ice cream.
This has been such a wonderful day and I am so thankful to our Lord for all the people who are at BFTW and for their donors and friends. They made me feel very special today and I know I will never, ever forget it.
Destination tomorrow – Randy Bringman’s home in Canon City, CO.
Miles today – about 23.
Ice Cream today – Chocolate Chip Cookie Sundae
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