Today’s ride weather was nothing short of perfect. Low temps, blue skies, gentle breezes. Couldn’t ask for better. I joined up with Jim and we struck out early.
The scenery today was great, too. We joined up with the Youghiogheny river and follow it up to Pittsburgh.
We wound through the Ohiopyle State Park and soaked up some beautiful views. I need to come back here some day soon and look around the town.
Several miles, bridges, great views, and miles took us to Connelsville PA for lunch. A big turkey club sandwich filled me up.
Back on the trail, we hurried along to a camp ground about 3 miles before West Newton, where the amazing shower truck was waiting.
After setting up camp, I rode on ahead into West Newton to attend mass at Holy Family parish. Fr. Sweeney went out of his way to welcome us and even introduced us to the congregation during his homily. The trip to mass added about 10 miles to my day.
Dinner was waiting when I rode back to camp: fantastic barbecued ribs and chicken. Yum!
Evening consisted of some great conversation with Jim outside of our tents, and packing up for tomorrow.
Overall, I’ve ridden 320 miles this week so far. And it feels great … except for a couple of saddle sores in sensitive areas.
Time for sleep! 40 miles to go to get to Pittsburgh!
– Dc. Matt
P.S.: I have such poor Internet connection that I probably can’t post pictures until tomorrow. So stay tuned.
Deacon Matt's Blog 
Oh the windmills in the Appalachian Mountains… I can only hope that the wind was not blowing too hard against you as you climbed the mountains.
It wasn’t very noticeable on the climb, but once we crossed the divide, it was pretty strong for most of the descent back down.