24 August 2010 – Started the day in Mineral Point on 23, a nice road with adequate shoulders, and rode to Highway 11, then packed the bicycle and drove east to Monroe where we unpacked the bicycle and I took 69 to the border where 69 turned to IL 26. Dad and I had a mix-up about meeting – for two reasons. First, neither of us saw the state border signs, if they exist at all, and second because a town on the map (Oneco) never showed up on the road. Cell reception was terrible so I ended up going all the way to Freeport, where we are staying the night. On today’s ride I got an idea for a video for my brother Herb and will be collecting segments over the next day or two for the full-length version. All things considered, we met in Freeport early and went out scouting roads. What a depressing disaster! We could find no road with any paved shoulders, and all were narrow – not my cupa. We went shopping for cigars, got a room, showered and went to dinner. An internet session led to my signing up with Rails and Trails, and later finding a 60-mile trail along the big river. So tomorrow I will be somewhere between Clinton and the Quad cities. If all the Illinois roads are like those out of Freeport, this state will be depressing and I may have to switch over to Iowa and check their roads. I am still going to New Orleans.
Thought for the day: Some days are just days – there are no revelations. But that reminds me that I have to tell you about laundry and backpacking.
Hi Bill, Enjoy following your travels, give Bill my love. We are in Utah visiting the kids. Tell me, what made you decide to start this adventure? Hugs. Taffy
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