Today started off as a good day of cycling...a strong tail-wind got us through the first 23 miles in one hour. Plus, there was very little traffic. Then, some rain came along. Then, at the 34-mile mark, in the rain, I had my first flat tire of the day. Yes, first. Without going into great details, I had three flats today. Consequently, I was near the back of the group arriving in Billings. Much of the group had been there over an hour. As I was ready with my alibi for being so late, I learned that Zach actually had FOUR flat tires! (But he still beat me in.) Two others had one each. So, on a day when the team had 9 flat tires, 7 of them belonged to the Murphys. I really do not want to sound like I'm complaining. It was, in fact, a good day of riding. We even caught an early 4th of July parade in the very small town of Lavina...that was a fun experience! The winds were with us most of the day, and the 97.4-mile ride seemed almost effortless. When I think of the people we are doing this for who have NO freedom, and we had the freedom to ride 97 miles across central Montana today, I am humbled and grateful. Also, as Independence Day approaches, I am even more grateful for the freedom and abundance and beauty that God has blessed us with. As we arrived here in Billings, one of the largest cities in Montana, we saw a heard of some 20 pronghorn antelope, right here within the city! Not sure if we will blog tomorrow- happy 4th of July to all!
Tim
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