Green, green, green, every thing is so green. In just the last two days we have gone from prairie and buffalo to irrigated fields and a mix of brown scrub to green fields everywhere, and no signs of irrigation. As you look at the pictures Mary and I have taken you will see what I mean. Another observation is the spectacular cloud formations - huge, cumulus cloud formations in 3D backed up against the deep blue sky. It is spectacular! In addition, rows and rows of corn and soy beans blanket the landscape. There are beautiful, well-kept family farms. We have seen many dairy farms but we have seen just as many pig farms. We have smelled just as many pig farms also. We saw our first wind generators today. I have seen a lot of these near Livermore, CA.

Today was a relaxing ride. There were comfortable temperatures and beautiful scenery to look at and photograph. The small towns that we had ridden through are very neat and well kept with many older homes. It reminds me of many small towns in Michigan. The ride went well and we got in about 12:00 noon and proceeded to the Dairy Queen for lunch. Then I went to work on the web page most all afternoon.

The only exciting thing that occurred today was Danny was leading the pace line and accidentally riding off the side of the road into loose gravel. He was traveling about 15-16 mph. For a minute we thought he was going over, but he held on until he could stop the bike. We all breathed a sigh of relief. One thing I have not talked much about is that riding a bike is dangerous. There is so much to watch for besides cars. Some time I’ll go into more detail on this aspect of the trip, but for now I’ll leave it at that. I only ask those of you who are riding with me to pray for the safety of all the riders and the staff.

Tomorrow we ride 100 miles to Mankato, MN. Centuries used to be a big deal, but now they just seem like another day on the bike. Thanks for riding along. I miss all of my friends and particularly my wife and family. See you on the road.

Click here to see more pictures from today!