We have passed the Mississippi leading us to the west. I finally know that I am getting stronger. My muscules are growing and so is my spirit. The days of being pampered are become more sparse and the terrain is becoming less familiar, adventure continues to call. This past week has been one of my favorites. Swimming in two lakes in one day, stopping at rivers along the ride, outriding dogs and cutting through the thick fog in the valleys. Coming into Rochester we woke up 2 hours early and got to see the sun rise over the Mississippi and break through the trees in the river valley. I took countless mental pictures and felt absolutely untouchable. I can only hope for days as unexplainably wonderful as yesterday. Not to mention the trail of bagels that can lift one's spirit while climbing a hill.