Well, as I sit here at 4:30pm, the sun is peeking out from behind the clouds. Too bad it didn't see fit to peek a little earlier in the day - another cloudy, cool (55 degrees) day - oh, and wind too!
The route today took us south from Red Wing through farms and valleys. A turn north toward the historic town of Frontenac, along Pepin Lake and the Mississippi River. Scenery & history everywhere.
The view as you come down into the
river valley at Wabasha.
Just another cottage - this one is now a conference and retreat center
Such a rich
history
And a little added extra for our literary history buffs
We arrived in in Wabasha - true home of the "Grumpy Old Men" and historically, the first white settlement west of the Mississippi. Wabasha is also home of the National Eagle Center and exhibit hall.
Yes, she is real - and quite content to have her
photo taken.
The great American symbol.
Signing off -
Patty on the road of history
NOTES FROM TOM: Yesterday I hoped for a dry day, and got my wish for the first 35-40 miles of the 50 we rode today. Then a shower came in. I suited up in my rain coat and rain pants, but it never rained much more. Unfortunately I did not put on my neoprene booties, so the water on the road from and earlier shower pretty much soaked my feet. With only 10 miles to go, it was bearable.
On the wildlife scene today I saw Rocky Raccoon, several turkeys, a deer, and one large bird that I believe was some sort of a buzzard. Luckily I was going down hill and fast enough that the buzzard didn't mistake me for road kill--if I'd have been going up one of the steep hills today, he might have pounced on me. There were three climbs today--hills, not mountains, so they are not too bad.
The river is starting to be very impressive. After the ride Patty and had lunch at a joint down by the river, and it's moving pretty fast and high.
Hoping for a dry day tomorrow--same old wish. I know that someday it will come true--I just hope it's before the ride ends Tuesday around noon.
Tom.
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