We congregated early at San Jacinto Harley-Davidson and enjoyed the roar of each bike as it pulled up near the registration tent. It didn't take long before there was a decent sized group of people as the 19 riders, many with passengers, gathered around the registration tent, ready for the ride briefing. Instructions were shared, and we learned that we had an EMT and a nurse in the group, which was a gift from God given that the heat index was going to creep up past 100 degrees. We prayed and thanked the Lord for the beautiful day and the breeze, and asked for safety as we rode. John Skipper, a Harley-Davidson representative who had helped with registration setup, assisted us out of the parking lot by stopping the traffic, and off we went... the long way round to San Jacinto Monument.
It was amazing how all of the traffic lights were in our favor, and cars would pause at stop signs allowing all bikes to go through. My husband, the pack leader, Bud, commented how it was Jesus that had led us through those lights and stop signs, and how he felt like Moses parting the Red Sea. If you've seen Bud's beard you'll be smiling too!
Once at the monument, everyone relaxed, refreshed, and took a trip to the top of the
monument. Then the second part of the ride took us via a scenic route to Sagemont Church where we ate lunch, listened to praise and worship by the Aric Harding Band, and held the door prize draw and raffle. Everyone received a door prize ticket, and we gave an extra ticket to dads in honor of Father's day. Four people were pleased to receive the $25 Harley-Davidson gift cards for door prizes, and Eric Wold was the proud winner of the Harley Davidson mirror raffle.
It was a strange feeling standing up there in sweaty bike clothes with a dusty face talking to an audience about the ministry of Act of Life, but nobody, including myself, cared about formalities. It was an informal gathering of good people, who were interested in hearing about how lives can be saved through advancing adoption awareness.
Everyone seemed to enjoy the ride - I know I did! As the pack sweeper staying at the back of the pack, I got to see the sea of bikes in front of me. I don't mind saying I had a big grin on my face for much of the ride. :)
Act of Life would like to thank...
... San Jacinto Harley-Davidson for their excellent support, including facilitation, and the donation of gear. A special mention goes to Carrie Graves of Stubbs Harley-Davidson for the great communication and assistance with getting this off the ground. Also to John Skipper who supported us on the day of the ride.
... Sagemont Church, who have continually supported Act of Life, and in this instance made a special exception in opening the Youth Building for our use on a day that it should have been closed.
... Aric Harding, Chris and Jeremey who volunteered their time to bring us praise and worship.
... Bud LeCompte, for planning and mapping out the excellent route, and leading the pack on the ride.
... Tom Ehman, for going the extra mile (or 20, at least!) to provide water and snacks for the pack at all stops and helping with registration.
... All of the riders and passengers who participated. Your participation brought financial support to the ministry of Act of Life, a vital element that allows us to continue to be effective.
I sign off, tired, still grubby, but with warm fuzzies about the excellent day that we had.
Praising God, looking forward to my bed,
Lynda
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