Tribute to our Parents.

Today we spent our day off in Brussels touring around the city and watching the USA basketball team win the gold medal. It was a fun day touring and relaxing. In the afternoon, we prepped for our final day on the bike to ensure our final day from Brussels to The Hague. As we were prepping the directions and our car, we talked about the most important people of our life, and how they helped us achieve this great event. We all were in agreement when we said that our parents were the most important people of our lives. This blog post is dedicated to our parents, for without them, we would not be the men we are today, and this trip would not have been possible. Below is a paragraph from each member of our team thanking our parents for their love and support during our life and for this event.

To Mom and Dad (Diane & Scott Sprague),

Thank you so much for the love and support you have given me over the past 21 years of my life. From the day I was adopted,  and every day since, I have received all of your love and support. Because of you both, I have learnt to love everyone, serve others, and push myself to be the best I can be. Mom, thank you for coming to all of my events at school and sports, for teaching me to serve others, for introducing me to God and allowing me to learn about His love, and for the love and encouragement I have needed to become the man I am today. Dad, thank you for all your love and support. Thanks for teaching me sports, for working hard every day to give me every opportunity I have ever wanted, and for pushing me hard to be the best I can be. Without you both, I wouldn't be where I am today. I would not have created Awareness Europe, and I probably would not have participated in the Journey of Hope. I love you both very much, and I thank God every day for your love and support.

With all my love, 

Hunter

To Kirsty and Rives (momma and pops) 

Thank you so much for always supporting me. When I believed my Journey of Hope dream to be a long shot, you came through for me unquestioningly. When the opportunity to crew for Awareness Europe came along, you were willing to bargain with me until it became a reality. Not only have you given me the chance to see the world, but also the chance to participate in friendship visits that have opened my eyes to the abilities and strengths of others. Thank you for buying me a bike when I'd never cycled, and thank you for sending me to Europe when I'd never driven a stick. Your belief in me has always spurred my own belief in myself, and for that I will be forever grateful. As far as parents go, you two are really, REALLY, awesome. 

So much love from your grateful, happy son,

Ethan  

To Jimbo Slice and Laur,

I wanted to take a short minute to thank you guys for everything that I have.  We took some time while on the the bikes to talk about three things in our lives that have defined us up to this point.  Family was my first thing that I listed.  I would not be the person I am today without your support. The difficulties I had when I was younger would have stopped me from making any personal progress without your encouragement and enthusiasm.  My life has led me to this point- the summer before my senior year, riding my bike through Europe- and you guys are the reason.  So, again, thank you.  For my ticket, my bike, and my fan base.  We have one more day of cycling left.  I am incredibly excited to finish, but I will not forget what it took to get me here.  You guys are the best parents any kid could ask for.  So, one more thank you for making life, and everything it has to offer, possible.

Love,

Big Add 

Mom, Bum, Katie, Birdie,

Its hard to explain how much your support has helped me on this trip.  I wanted to thank you for everything you have given me throughout my spoiled 21 years. This trip is exhausting but it has been life changing! Awareness Europe has also made me realize how great you have been to me. I don't know how I would make it without all of your help! It's hard to believe that we have one more grueling day of cycling left but I can't wait to get home to see everyone in the states. I know that your two week party you've been throwing ever since I left is coming to an end but I wanted to take the time to say thank you for the bike, ticket, and necessities but most of all the support and motivation to finish this trip. Just know that I am sending my love from Belgium! Love you guys to death! 

Love

Jay