We left in anticipation of the rain today. And it didn't disappoint from Columbus to Atlanta. Rain may have made it difficult to navigate through heavy traffic but we worked together to work our way through tight spots- especially through Atlanta. The six-foot ladder that lay in the middle of six lanes of traffic today and the thread-worn tire that rolled down the middle of us are hazardous obstacles we faced in the first hours of our trip. We made it to North Carolina and had Mexican food for dinner, which is always a morale booster. We will head to bed soon because we have many miles tomorrow and this is only the beginning.

As I lay down tonight, my thoughts are on what lies ahead, because I have already reflected many times today on what our ride simulates or replicates. The mother and baby are in a high-risk birth circumstance. The nurse who is in a birthing situation she knows is critical and the care of the baby after. The unknown of those nursing students when they head out into the field. How equipment and education and preparation can make all the difference. Preparation is the key to success mainly because of the unknown, and practice definitely gives confidence.

When we come across those obstacles on the road like we did today we rely on our experience and the skills we have obtained as riders. This makes all the difference in the world, and I hope it will to the students who are able to go through the labor and delivery simulations to reach their goals as confident, successful nurses.

I know that each day we ride will bring us closer to our goal and that anticipation will help me get up in the morning bright and early for day 2!

Mutt