Shelter from the storms in Wisconsin

At last, we arrived at the ferry landing in Manitowoc, Wisconsin, after another drenching in a thunderstorm near the tiny town of Shoto. Mindful of the gathering clouds, we took shelter under an underpass, only to get caught in the second and third waves of the storm, soaked to the bone. Gratefully, the Sunday afternoon patrons and staff at the Double Dam Bar and Grill flagged us down brought us, the bikes and all our dripping gear inside to dry out. At that point it was impossible to refuse to imbibe in a mug or two of Wisconsin's own brew, which was followed by an invitation to a hot shower and warm bed at the cozy A-frame of Jhan and Cathy Lehman, just a short ride down the road. This was the third time we had experienced the extradordinary warmth and generosity of ordinary people in rural Wisconsin. Many of the families have met have been hit hard by the recession, and some, like the dad at the lunch counter in Merrill whose daughter is recovering from leukemia, have told us stories of personal hardship and courage. Invariably, people wonder why we are putting out such an extreme effort and ask about the cause we are supporting.  Most are aware of the earthquake and the suffering it has caused, but have heard very little recent news on conditions in Haiti. They are shocked to hear that so many children do not have access to education and people are still living in tents. Even though the trip is far from over, we are pleased to have made so many new friends and had the opportunity to introduce Jacques and spread the word about the work of the ACFFC.