Day 16 Owatonna, Minn
Love the peach cups...
- Owatonna, MN
I asked Alan if I, Bob, can do just one of the daily blogs–so here goes–Ithink this third week in has been the hardest. We are over the excitement of starting this journey and now Alan is grinding out the miles. He finished today at 641 miles. Since I am keeping the log I can attest to the fact that he has so far riden that bike 641 miles. Following him going between 4 and 20mph has been a very different experience, but it is a wonderful way to see a beautiful part of our country. Everyone I meet is amazed at what Alan is doing and seeing that at our stops he is usually tired, I am the one telling people about the Burpee and showing them Homer’s bone. From young to old people loved hearing about our adventure. Having to be totally spontaneous in where we stop to eat and rest is a very different way to go about one’s life but yet again it is fun.
So far we have seen art galleries, historic museums, a zoo and even have played catch after our long days. My youngest son Harry gave us the best advice before this trip started in saying “take it one day at a time”. The e-mails, text messages and phone calls from our families and friends have been wonderful–thanks. We head to Austin Mn tomorrow and I can’t speak for Alan but my life wouldn’t be complete without a side trip to the Spam Museum. It is an honor to be on this adventure with Alan and a privilage to serve the Burpee Museum. I look forward to seeing everyone on the 27th back at the Burpee on our beautiful Rock River—Bob
Themocracy
Dr Brown, I’m still following your progress on Channel 23 and your blog and you’re doing a great job! I’m wondering if you’re using Adventure Cycling tour maps or have mapped out the route yourself? A retired friend of mine did a cross country ride from Oregon to Maine last year using Adventure Cycling maps. He rode with a high school buddy and had a blast! It took them about sixty plus days to complete their trip. I would guess if maybe somehow Bob could jump on a bike and ride with you, it may help the miles melt away! But then who would drive the Homermobile!
I’m planning to ride with you sometime on Saturday the 26th when you leave Freeport to head to Rockford. I’ll be in touch to find out what your route will be that day and then meet you somewhere on the road if that’s okay. I’m hoping some friends from our Freeport bike club will join me as well. If this interfere’s with any pre-arranged plans you may have by all means let me know. In the meantime, stay fueled, rested and be safe.
I am so amazed by yalls adventure! Have fun at the Spam Museum- can’t wait to read about it.
I’ve been telling some friends and co-workers about your journey and everybody is impressed and inspired! I also tell them that you’re a major type A so this gives you something to do rather than crime – haha. Bob – I don’t know you but I appreciate your hard work driving and looking after my dad!
Dallan, Happy Birthday, your dad is very proud of you and I really appreciate the help is is giving me on our long journey, I couldn’t do it without him.
Alan
Scott, That would be great if you and others would like to ride with me on Sat from Freeport. You can show me the Pec pathway if you think that is the best way into Rockford. I look forward to meeting you and the Club members.
Alan
Darla, Thanks for exposing my true personality LOL but most people probably already know I’m type A, but the apple doesn’t fall far from the tree does it? Love Dad
Darla–my pleasure looking after your Dad–One heck of a Man