The Mississippi is now WEST of us.

Day 29
Kirksville, MO to Quincy, IL
75 Miles, Wet Roads - Overcast Skies - Thunder Showers......Perfect Day.

The day started out with me wanting to pull the sheets over my head and call in sick. I was tired and had some sore muscles and a angry "seat area". The heat and humidity has taken its toll the last few days and I was not looking forward to mounting up and doing it again today.
After a breakfast of fake eggs, bad coffee and bagel I filled the Camelbak and took off. The roads were wet and temperatures were lower than forecast. We rode the first 30 miles just missing the thunderstorms and were given light sprinkles. This weather was perfect for me, the heat remained 75 - 80 (instead of 95) and the clouds made for a great ride. The winds were manageable and our group of 6 stayed together the entire day and took turns pulling. Thanks to everyone who sent the messages of encouragement, they really help.

                                                        2,000 down - 1,500 to go.

I'm pleased to introduce you to Nancy & Larry Platz. Nancy & Larry stopped at the SAG stop and gave us a case of water and the last three roses from their special rose bush. Larry's mom had given them a rose bush years ago and after a couple years it dried up and died. The planter remained by the mailbox for 6 years with nothing in it. A couple years ago when Larrys mom was ill she came to live with them and she asked about the rose bush. Larry was able to bring the bush back and it again is producing beautiful flowers. Larrys mom passed away a few months ago but the rose bush lives on. Thanks Larry & Nancy for brightening up our day.

                                        LaBelle MO vacant store front.......anyone want a bike?

                        If I just had a little more time I might have taken this out for a test ride.

Above is my roommate, Ray, showing how he can poke his finger through his front tire. Ray had a blowout that caused him to crash. He is fine but his left forearm looks like someone ran a cheese grater over it a dozen times. Ray is a tough cookie and he finished the ride today and will ride tomorrow.

                                               Just about to cross The Mighty Mississippi

We really lucked out when we got to the bridge crossing The Mississippi. The entire right lane was closed due to construction and since it was Sunday the construction crews were gone and we had the entire lane to ourselves.

As soon as we crossed The Mississippi we crossed another state line, Hello Illinois!

Today was a good recovery ride, I appreciate all the words of encouragement.
Tomorrow is 107 mile to Springfield, IL......one day at a time.

Dream BIG, Jeff