It's starting to feel a little personal with the weather you are dumping on us.
Yesterday was one of those days you are asking yourself why am I riding a bicycle! After waking up to a beautiful morning in Pleasant Hill we were informed by a local worker from the county that we are now trapped between the Mississippi and Illinois River. Around 4 am Tuesday morning there was a levy that gave way about 10 miles south of where we were camped at. Meaning that now the only way to get south to Godfrey was to backtrack thirty miles north and cross the only bridge that was still open in the five county region.
We spent the morning at city hall trying to figure out where all the flooding was, and what the best route was to get around it. Our 60 mile day soon turned into a 90 mile day.
After leaving Pleasant Hill a little after 12:15pm we knew today was going to be challenge. Mentally and physically. Thankfully Elliot and I were able to keep focused and pushed late into the evening. We didn't end up making it to the Mazenkos until around 8:30pm last night. It was almost too dark too see the house numbers and street signs when we arrived.
Fran and Mary had a pizza waiting for us, and welcomed us into their home as if we were their grand kids. It's always a relief to be in the company of such great people. Without the kindness of the Mazenkos and others like them along the way, this trip would have been much more difficult. it's wonderful to be taken in and put up for the night to recharge our batteries and spirits!
We now are at our most southern point of the entire trip. We have traveled 1070 miles south from Lake Itaska State Park, to right outside St. Louis, MO.
Due to Mother Nature, the wind, and all the flooding from the Mississippi River we have decided to alter our route and head towards Chicago taking the historic Route 66 all the way from St. Louis to Chicago!
Starting the route today after we say our goodbyes to Fran and Mary! They are simple great!
Ps: Chloe, I am sorry! Ice cream on me next time I see you and Austen!
Sincerely,
- Michael
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