coram, montana

"Ya ready, fellas?"

 Not much riding today and tomorrow is a rest day. We will visit Glacier National Park. The Passport Book Trio is excited because they will get new stamps in their National Park Passport Books. They are into this big time. But I suppose finding license plates is just about on the same level. And . . . I found this Montana plate in Eureka this morning. Not only is it a Montana plate but it is a Eureka Lions, Lincoln County High School plate, probably fell off of the front of a Lions football player's Bronco. It was still attached to the license plate holder and covered with dirt. It's gonna look good on my garage. Jeff Foxworthy said, "You might be a redneck if you have license plates on your living room wall." He didn't say anything about license plates on a garage so I guess I'm not categorized as a redneck.

The road we pedaled was dry, uphill most of the way, and with a good shoulder. The wind was kind and behind us for part of the ride. The scenery was Montana beautiful with ospreys and bald eagles often overhead. I think they were cheering us on. I think. Last night, after a wild thunderstorm, we were promised by the weather guessers, rain and 38 degree weather this morning. Didn't happen. What we got was much nicer. Even though the ride was short we are closer to our goal. We are closer to finishing the mountains and pedaling on flat ground for a while. I'm looking forward to the plains, the wildlife that hangs out there, some long trains, and the North Dakota ducks.

We are now in Coram, right outside of Glacier National Park. In fact, it's about six miles down the road. We are staying in Moose, a cabin at Sky Eco Glacier General Store & Cabins. Becky and Kevin are here as well. Phil and Gale are at an RV park directly behind the cabins.

On the way here, we stopped in Whitefish, a busy, busy western-looking town and fun place to visit. After visiting Glacier Cyclery & Ski and Great Northern Cycle & Ski, we were compelled to get ice cream at Sweet Peaks for ice cream, decals, and a chocolate milkshake. Whitefish would be a place where you could spend several days just visiting small shops and local historical spots.

Today begins the Memorial Day weekend. Memorial Day is an American holiday, observed on the last Monday of May, honoring the men and women who died while serving in the U.S. military. Memorial Day 2021 will occur this coming Monday, May 31.

Originally known as Decoration Day, it originated in the years following the Civil War and became an official federal holiday in 1971. Many Americans observe Memorial Day by visiting cemeteries or memorials, holding family gatherings and participating in parades. Unofficially, it marks the beginning of the summer season and the end of school in many places.

In spite of all the sacrifices of those who gave all, America is in trouble today. We need some help. Scripture says, "If my people, which are called by my name, shall humble themselves, and pray, and seek my face, and turn from their wicked ways; then I will hear from heaven, and will forgive their sin, and heal their land." You would think it would be more difficult but it's not.

If you want to do something to honor those who have given everything, humbly pray, confess sin, and seek the face of God. His promise? He will hear, forgive and heal.

America needs your prayers.