Day 17: Heatwaves and Fireworks


The day started with an early wake-up call, not because we're overly enthusiastic morning people, but because the temperature was supposed to be unnecessarily high today. Determined to make the most of our biking experience, we decided to beat the heat by hitting the road at the crack of dawn needing all the extra hours of cycling we could get.

As we pedaled through the picturesque countryside, the temperature continued to rise. The sun, like a fiery ball of determination, was giving us a real run for our money. Sweat dripped down our foreheads, and our shirts clung to our backs like second skins. However, it wasn't long before we admitted defeat. The noonday heat proved too dangerous for our adventurous spirits, so we had to call it a day and pile into the van once again.

By the time we got to our host house, our rumbling stomachs were demanding attention. Enter Papa Murphy's pizza, our savior in times of hunger-induced desperation. We devoured slices of cheesy, saucy goodness, restoring our energy levels and rejuvenating our taste buds. But concerning food, the best was yet to come! Our hosts, with hearts as warm as the summer sun, surprised us with homemade ice cream. I cannot emphasize enough just how incredible this frozen delight was. It was a wonderful treat that effectively melted away our tiredness.

As the day gently transitioned into evening, Helen and Victoria took a moment to appreciate our hosts’ trampoline.

Helen and Victoria appreciating the trampoline.

Then we decided to take a break and settle in for a movie night. And what better choice than "The Matrix"? After we finished watching Neo dodge bullets and defy the laws of physics, we decided to end the day with a leisurely stroll through the neighborhood, allured by the distant sound of crackling fireworks. The night sky became a canvas, painted with vibrant patterns and a kaleidoscope of colors, and later that night those sprightly images would fill our heads as we settled in to sleep.

– Jordan