Leaving Chattanooga and heading southwest to Birmingham, Alabama, we knew we had a real challenge - just getting into Alabama would be tough. We had a major climb about 1,500 feet in elevation change between Georgia and Alabama. Meghan and I made Morgan, being the most physically fit of the three of us, take the front seat on the way up. That way she wouldn't see when we slacked off in pedaling! Going down I wanted to be in charge of the brakes because, being the oldest of the three, my nerves couldn't take a crazy roller coaster ride!

I was really excited to get to Birmingham. All I wanted to see was the Sixteenth Street Baptist Church. What an overwhelming feeling to see where those three young girls lost their lives. We couldn't help think about what we are doing - riding to raise money to honor those who willingly risked their lives for our freedom. These beautiful girls also gave their lives for our freedom, but tragically not by their own choice. It was a very moving experience.

After that we had to get to Springs at Greystone. The property manager, Tiffany Taylor, is one of Continental's rising stars (she was named Property Manager of the Year in 2015), and she is a blast. We wanted two things - for her to show us the Rich Bell Memorial Park on the grounds of Springs at Greystone, and the Bear Bryant grave site. The first, the Rich Bell park, memorializes a Continental legend, co-founder, and inspiration for an annual award given to the team member who most epitomizes our company's values. The second, Bear Bryant's grave, pays homage to an Alabama legend, and anybody who steps foot in the state knows all about what he means to Crimson Tide fans. And Tiffany is a CRAZY 'bama fan!

Lots of energy, both emotional and physical, were expended in our trip to Alabama. It has been a real reminder to us of how blessed we are to be able to do this. Tired, but strangely rejuvenated, we now head northeast to Greenville, South Carolina. Springs at Greenville, here we come!

WHERE ARE WE NOW?