TWO THIRDS OF THE WAY TO NEW DELHI

POST #29

TWO THIRDS COMPLETE. We took time this morning to meet for Christian worship with an Anglican congregation in Seoni. The marking on the outside of the building indicated it was founded in 1878. One can only try to imagine the history and transitions of an Anglican community of faith in a small town in central India. The community graciously welcomed us and sent us on our way. We would surpass 1,333 km before the afternoon was over--we’re two thirds of the way to New Delhi!

AT LAKHNADON. Because we traveled 24 kilometers further than expected yesterday, today’s trek was shortened by that much. A brief 60 km / 40 mi this afternoon, including one more significant uphill climb, and we find ourselves in Lakhnadon. This is the junction at which we leave NH 7 and begin a northwest trek along NH 26. Here we have been welcomed into the guest house of the Lakhnadon Christian Hospital and Dr. Adarsh Bemn, a young physician who is investing his life here.

WHAT WE’RE EATING. We’re eating Indian food for all meals and it is agreeing with us all. It’s edly, dal, roti, dosa, samosas, toasted bread, and/or an omelet at a rustic roadside grill for breakfast. After 60 kilometers of pedaling, we stop at dirt-floor, tin-roof, open-air restaurant for a modest lunch of rice, chipatis, vegetable (or chicken or mutton) curry, and fruit. Each evening we reload our depleted energy with the same (or some soup and fried rice) at a local eatery. Our essential nutrition formula focuses on carbs and protein, with simple sugars for immediate energy. In addition, we eat bananas and whatever fresh fruit Sanjay selects from roadside markets. As we’re riding in 80-100 degree Fahrenheit temps, each of us takes in about 8 liters of bottled water a day. One occasional indulgence (okay, constant obsession) is to comb a village or town for mango jam or mango ice cream. It’s almost as good as Indian chai. Almost.

Thanks for your interest & involvement. Check back often for updates. We welcome your friendly comments and questions. Learn more @ www.bikeindia.org.