As December came to a close, we drove to Tennessee for a spring-like New Year's weekend, joining some of my college friends for what has become an annual reunion. I was worried that it might be weird since I haven't seen most of them since well before our bicycle tour. Happily, my concerns disappeared almost immediately after our arrival—how wonderful it was to see them all again!

In the (comically tacky and crowded) town of Pigeon Forge, we filled our days with long hikes in the Smokies, joyful sing-alongs accompanied by guitar and banjo, cheesy old timey photo shoots, good food, and better company.

Oh how I've missed this bunch of talented, creative, uplifting, loving people. It's hard to top their enthusiasm, and I'm lucky to call them friends. I love you guys!