Day 41: missing Missouri and crossing the Mississippi

It is not so much the state itself that I miss but the people I left behind. It is always hard the first day out after a good visit, but today feels extra lonely. Luckily, I am combating the post-visit depression with a few big milestones and an awesome place to "camp" for the night.

I crossed over the mighty Mississippi River in the late afternoon. I decided to soak in the last day with the Tagliaferres and didn't get back on the road until four o'clockish. Hanging out with them was the right decision. I did a short day into Chester, IL and am staying in a bunkhouse with a fan and air conditioner. The local chapter of the Eagles maintains it behind their building and it is great. I made a few phone calls, took a shower and am turning in early. Putting in a good day of biking tomorrow will surely raise my spirits.

Chester is the birthplace of Popeye, I made sure to shave in St Louis so I could make a good Popeye face:



Stats and highlights

Ozora MO to Chester IL
Miles: 20
Weather: sunny and moderate temps
Highlights:

Spending time with family

Crossing Mississippi

Chatting with some Chester youth

A nice lady buying me my subway sandwich