Yesterday I rode Quincy, IL to Clarksville, MO, about 60+ miles. I took George's advice and followed a route down the IL side of the river. The only difference is that on the MO side there are hills and hills and on the IL side, there are not. So it was an easy ride with good roads and little traffic. Crossed the Miss. at Louisiana, MO and had lunch at the Eagle's Nest, where I had lunch in 2005 on my cross country trip. It was great again.
I really wanted to spend some time in Clarksville after riding through in 2005. Not just because of the name connection to me and Dad, but because it had a row of shops with artisans and bistros and local craftsmen which was so appealing on their riverfront street. There is a nice clean country motel there where I stayed after another hot day of riding, although the heat was not an issue until after lunch. To my dismay I found that many of the attractive shops had closed. I learned that a large industry in town, a cement factory, had closed and that the town was "down but not out". There is a new high end restaurant and B&Bs owned my some local millionaire and there is a new funky 'dry saloon' with a very friendly owner across from the motel. I had breakfast there with the locals this morning and got filled in on the situation. I have some innate attachment to this little town and hope to return someday.
After breakfast I took off into the MO hills with some trepidation. Not knowing how my legs and head would respond. Especially since the heat and humidity are still with us. Have I mentioned that I have not had a single day without rain on this trip? Well, guess why I have not mentioned that I have not had a single day without rain? Anyway, it did not rain again today and things went quite well in the hills. Can only hope that that contiunues. I am in Washington, MO west of St. Louis tonight. I am a day behind of my original schedule but only because I have been taking my time and having some fun and relaxation along the way. No reason to push too hard. Last time through this area I was in a bit of a funk in the middle of my cross country trip. This time has been more enjoyable.
Thanks for all your good wishes.
Time to sleep.
2 comments:
Just got home from our volunteering at the airport and was hoping you had some more on your blog. Always a good read. So glad that this trip has been more relaxing and enjoyable for you. You need that to keep on pushing your way to Kentucy. Sorry it has been so hot and humid, it is really much too early for that in MN. not even June yet. So keep safe and healthy and continue finding all these neat places along the way to check out. Sounds so good.
Gary, you are a good writer and I love your description and connection to Clarksville. Stay well. Rick
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