Our first day following Route 66 landed us in Litchfield, IL about 50 miles south of Springfield. We camped in the Lazy Day RV Park just south of Litchfield. Not the nicest campground at all but it was better then sleeping in a field (debatable)
The next morning we scampered off to Springfield and pitched a tent in their county fairgrounds. Much nicer then Lazy Day. Free showers, grass to sleep on, and we had electric plugins available to us. We grabbed dinner at Boones Saloon right across the street from the capital.
Yesterday was quite the adventure. After leaving Springfield in the morning we headed back out on 66 with the hope to ride as far and long as we could. After seven hours on the bike we pulled into the small township of Shirley, IL. No services or campground in the town but Elliot and I were too tired to push onto Bloomington and try to figure out camping. So we did what any broke college kids do, resorted to knocking on a random door and hope we found someone nice enough to let us pitch a tent in their yard.
To our surprise the first house we tried said yes. Even better was when our now new friends Dianna K. and her 12yr old grandaughter Dakota pulled up on their golf cart and offered the woods next to their house as a better fit for our tent. We couldn't turn them down and headed across the street to Dianna and her husband Mikes house for the night. After establishing camp in their woods, Dianna brought us out a nice snack and some sodas since we declined dinner as we had ate a few towns back. After stretching our legs on a short walk, Elliot and I got the privilege to spend the evening getting chauffeured around Shirley from Dakota and Dianna on their golf cart! It was an absolute blast. We must have gone around Shirley about 10 times over the two hour adventure but every turn was something new to look at and discover.
There is really something to be said about small towns. Dianna and Mike are such great people. It amazes me how complete strangers can be so warm and welcoming to Elliot. It really makes you realize just how kind folks can be.
After sleeping in this morning Dianna made us egg sandwiches for breakfast. Our intent was to get on the road early but as we began to talk with Mike, Dianna, and Dakota the morning soon turned into 12pm. We got to talk with Mike alot more this morning and we are so glad we did. Talk about an amazing guy, and a jack of all trades! He even does his own blacksmithing and woodworking as a hobby! It was incredible seeing some of the items he has made.
Just like every other day there's always a time when we have to say our goodbyes and get back on the road, but today was a tough one to leave. Going from complete strangers the night before to friends the next day was simply awesome. Elliot and I couldn't have met anyone nicer and more welcoming in the town! She reminded me of my younger siblings and was super fun to be around!
Thank you so much for your hospitality and welcoming Elliot and I into your home. We can't thank you all enough.
After getting a late start to our day we were still able to squeeze a 65 mile day out and made it to Pontiac, Illinois. We are looking forward to checking out the Pontiac car and Route 66 museums tomorrow morning before heading out of town.
We have 130 miles until Chicago and two days to get there. This incredible trip is winding down but still everyday is a new adventure. tomorrow we finally will have a full day of riding with tailwinds and will go as far as the wind can blow us!
Goodnight to all our friends and family and another big thank you to our new friends from Shirley!
-Michael
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