Day 24 - The Amish Country

Today is the leg into the back country of the Amish, or what it really is the back Tourist country of the Amish. From Upper Sandusky to Sugar Creek, Ohio. The family I'm staying with is 10 miles further from my actual stopping point yesterday which only adds about 30 minutes to the ride.

I tried to get up earlier than usual and get a nice early start, my plan was foiled as I apparently needed the sleep. I slept in a little bit then got going with a little food from the family. The sunrise was beautiful today. It poked through the clouds in a remarking resemblance of what I remember the ideas of heaven looked like from my Catholic childhood, but now I know it's just a beautiful sky. The riding through Ohio has continued with this pressing headwind. It doesn't want to give up. It keeps me at a consistent 11-15mph, which isn't terrible but it does eat away at my self confidence. When I'm moving this slow for so long it truly feels like a constant uphill struggle. As though you are fighting this invisible force, it's an amazing personal struggle! But one that I can see will be a great lesson for the workforce, and for continuing my education.

As I approached Eastern Ohio the roads have become a bit more hilly. The terrain has given way to wooded areas as well. The countryside is beautiful here! The houses all resemble early era farm houses but are mostly in immaculate condition, especially those of the Amish and Mennonites.

I have an admiring sentiment towards the Amish way of life. Their is something incredibly luring about the simplicity of life without cars and electricity. Where everyday life is about your family, food, and community. I guess you just have to hope that you have good family and neighbors.

I had the opportunity to speak with a couple Amish people. Their were all very intrigued with my ride. The were also surprised at how far I was able to ride in a day, and overall. Everyone here in Ohio is incredibly nice and generous!

I ate at an Amish restaurant that night, curious about what Amish food is like. Basically it's what my Grandmother would cook when I was a kid. A very nice man and wife offered me a bed at their home. I had already setup camp very near to the restaurant and found myself longing to just lay down as soon as possible so I did unfortunately decline. But they did convince me to stop in for breakfast! I was really looking forward to the discussed bacon and eggs, but I again overslept! This time I didn't wake up until 7:20. I think these long days are a bit harder on my body then I realize. Although I did ride for 11 hours, so it is to be expected.

My campground is behind an Amish store, and in front of an Amish home that is now used for tourist walk throughs. Apparently free with water, and electricity. My tent really does feel like home when I set it up, it's a nice feeling.