96 miles and 4500 feet. We are out of Misery and I am a happy rider! The first 70 miles of the ride were in Misery. The roads were a repeat of the past 2 days but just knowing that I was on the verge of escaping that god forsaken state was enough to keep me motoring on. We took a ferry across the Mississippi River at Canton, MO and then headed south to Quincy. It was a relatively cool day, perhaps a high of 80 degrees and it was overcast with very little wind. We left at 7:00 a.m. and arrived here at 2:30 p.m. I spent about 6 hours on the bike and averaged about 14 mph..
Each day we have a meeting to get our route sheet and directions for the day. This morning they mentioned that there was a Steak & Shake restaurant near the motel. All day I kept thinking about going there as soon as I arrived, so after checking in at the motel I headed on over. I started with a large chocolate shake, large coke and an order of fries. I then added a double cheese burger, more fries and a bowl of chili. For dessert I topped it all off with a 2nd large chocolate shake. The bonus was that unbeknownst to me it was “happy hour” and all shakes and drinks were ½ off. I took it as an omen of good things to come!
I have been having some bike troubles so tonight I had the mechanic take a look at it. He replaced the chain and shifting cables. It seems to have done the trick. I am hoping my trusty stallion is in shape to carry me to Amesbury. I cannot say enough about the staff. They are top notch. Always helpful, accommodating and committed to making sure we have a good trip.
Tomorrow we press on to Springfield,“only” 109 miles. Winds are forecast to be out of the SW/at our back. I have heard they have a Steak & Shake there as well. I plan to make it in time for happy hour.
We had our lunch break near the dock where we boarded the ferry to get out of Misery. Apparently this entire area was flooded last week.
A bad pic of the ferry in the back ground coming to deliver us from purgatory/Misery.
Jay and roommate Daryl on the ferry.
Pic of road leaving the ferry. Once we climbed up and over the levee the terrain was flat. I think I am going to like Illinois!
Pic of bridge over Mississippi at Quincy, IL.
I
Not only are you free from Misery and over the Mississippi, you have Steak & Shake too!! What more could a guy ask for? I remember fondly my first experience with Steak & Shake. Myke Ward took me to get the best milk shake in the south. He was right about that and many other things. What would he say about the ride you are on now?...probably "How much are you paying to have a bicycle seat up your ass for 33 days? Why would anyone pay to do that? He was a good ole boy!
ReplyDeleteLeisa