Join Tim and Debbie Bishop, authors of the inspirational travel adventure memoir, Two Are Better, as they tour the blogosphere September 3 – October 11, 2013 on their first virtual book tour with Pump Up Your Book!
ABOUT TWO ARE BETTER
From an engagement to a cross-country trip in just ten weeks? And with no experience in bicycle touring—or marriage? While Tim left behind a 26-year corporate career and familiar surroundings, Debbie was about to enter a “classroom” she hadn’t seen in her 24 years of teaching. Was it a grand getaway or a big mistake?
Excerpt:
Over The Top (pgs. 90-91)Just 15 minutes into the day, we arrived at Rogers Pass and the Continental Divide. When I saw the sign, I was shocked. You’re kidding! I thought. Where are the Rockies? We had seen so few snow-covered mountains. Climbing through the Rockies had been much easier than expected and, other than Lolo Pass, did not seem like climbing at all. Rogers Pass only stands 5,600 feet above sea level.
Unbeknownst to us, we had been ascending and fast approaching the beginning of the downhill ride east. Another friendly tailwind had shrouded the climb. But we weren’t about to get cocky. After all, there were 3,000 miles to go.
Arriving at this landmark would not have surprised most bicycle tourists, but it did surprise us. We had done so little pre-trip planning and were so busy with other aspects of the trip that we hadn’t reviewed the map in detail, except when making immediate decisions about when and where to turn. But sure enough, there it was on the map: the Continental Divide!
The phantom climb up Rogers Pass seemed insignificant, but the descent was a treat. The eastern side of the pass was steeper with some switchbacks. My fearless wife, who sees no use for brakes when descending, flew around the curves and down the mountain. After all, why use brakes and spoil the fun after you worked so hard to get up the hill? Wasn’t this the reward? Of course, she does have a good point!
AMAZON
OPEN ROAD PRESS
Two Are Better: Midlife Newlyweds Bicycle Coast to Coast by Tim Bishop
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
First of all, let it be known that I am not a cycling fan, and outdoorsman, or anything else like that. But this story was absolutely riveting, inspiring, and absolutely delightful! It is much more than a cycling chronicle. This is a book that will remind you that when the opportunity comes to try something, don’t let it pass you by–do it now! You are not promised tomorrow after all.
I was completely blown away when the Tim and Debbie began the book by saying that they got married for the first (and only) time at the age of 52! Okay, when was the last time you heard that? They didn’t live with a load of people. No, they waited for God’s timing to bring them the one. They shared some about their courtship and spiritual life, but the main crux of the story is this (insane) cycling trip!
I was never bored as I read their story, and it was even better that maps, pictures, and anecdotes were shared from the trip. I can’t imagine doing this trip at any age, but at the age of 52 as a part of an extended honeymoon? Wow! Every Sunday, they went to church, and God continued to bring along little and big miracles along the way.
The book is primarily told from Tim’s point of view, but Debbie’s thoughts are sprinkled throughout the narrative. I was reminded of God’s providence, love, and provision, and I marveled at how well-suited these two were. I highly recommend this book!
I was sent a copy of this book in exchange for my honest review. I was not financially compensated, and all opinions are 100 percent mine.
ABOUT TIM AND DEBBIE BISHOP
Tim Bishop
Originally from Maine, Tim Bishop has over thirty years of experience in business, first as a CPA, then for many years in various roles in the corporate world. In addition to consulting for small businesses, Tim serves as a Hope Coach for TheHopeLine, a nonprofit organization that seeks to reach, rescue, and restore hurting teens and young adults.
Debbie Bishop
Debbie Bishop has taught for over twenty-five years, for the past ten years as a literacy specialist in Framingham, Massachusetts. She has a passion for reading and seeing that young people do it well. She also has high interest in recovery issues and encouraging others with her own triumphs over struggles earlier in her life. Debbie also serves as a Hope Coach for TheHopeLine.
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1 Comment
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Thanks for the amazing review of Tim & Debbie’s book. I feel the same way about it. It’s a fabulous and inspirational story, even for those of us who don’t cycle for a hobby.
