We continued our trip to DeFuniak Springs, FL (5/4) and dropped into the local library to use the internet. It’s really very convenient for us to get on the internet in USA. If you have a laptop computer, you can find a wireless connection in libraries, near big chain restaurants, or at coffee shops. Even though you don’t have a laptop, you can also use a computer in a library as long as you have a Photo ID. We usually send a short note to our family whenever possible so that they won’t worry about us.  

Riding along Highway 90, we arrived in Chipley, FL (5/5) and spotted a big library. Time for us to check in again.  While we were in the library using a computer, one of Wayne’s colleagues bumped into us.  He contacted Wayne by phone to let him know of our chance meeting.  Wayne checked on us to see how we were progressing and if we needed anything.

Wayne, a passionate biker with a big heart, rode his bike from Chipley, FL to San Diego, CA to raise money for the Cancer Association.  In March, 2009, with his wife and son driving a car as backups, Wayne finished the trip in 18 days. In order to save money, the whole family ate only toasted bread and stayed in local churches at night. They were very touched by the people who helped them along the way. Thus, they are very empathic to cyclists and willing to give bikers a hand whenever possible.  Wayne helped arrange a stay in a church hostel for the night. The following day, I took the chance to do some maintenance on our bikes to ensure they were in a good shape.  Later, we met Wayne and his wife for dinner at the church.  She is a Chinese, she cooked a lot of delicious dishes to fill our stomachs. Yum-yum, a taste of home in the USA! We shared our biking experiences with each other - impressive and unforgettable.

Because of the care of Wayne’s coworker, we had the chance to meet Wayne’s family. Because of Wayne and his family's care, we were well treated in Chipley.  We started as strangers, but in a short time we have becomes friends. Another example of how hope, care, and love can spread everywhere in the world. Peace to the world!