Minneapolis (Stillwater)

My Adventure Cycling route starts from Stillwater, so that's where we've come, although I do hope to get a chance to get into Minneapolis/St Paul to see Nic Lincoln while I'm here. Tayler got here before me -- she actually went to Minneapolis first and had a thoroughly frustrating time trying to get around, to park, and to find things; so when she picked me up today she reported that she really likes Stillwater and doesn't want to go back into M/SP.

Today, I rode about 45 miles, the most I've done since the first day. It was a lovely day: temps in the upper 60s to low 70s, much of the riding along the Mississippi River, and even the somewhat gusty wind and hills couldn't take the fun out of it for me. I stopped several times and had some nice conversations with people along the way.

I have been noticing that Remy's basket is starting to lose its integrity, and I've been concerned about the amount of dust and debris he's probably getting in the face as we ride. Tomorrow, I will visit a bike shop that Tayler ferreted out today (attached to a breakfast cafe/coffee shop) and probably get a trailer for him. I think he'll be okay with it as long as he can see me, and I'll feel better if he can move around a bit more, and keep off the sun, rain, and grit. I also think it will probably be safer for both of us, since his movement won't affect my steering. It's a relatively expensive item, but I think it will be worth it. One possibility might be to get a simple, flat trailer and attach his kennel to it. We'll see what they have to offer in the morning.

I'm excited to start the Adventure Cycling maps on Monday, although I may not get very far if I have to wait to get Remy's trailer. We'll see what happens. Some other things we have to do while here on a rest day are: laundry, oil change, car wash, take everything out of the car and see what's there and repack in a more organized fashion, rest.

I find myself composing songs and haiku as I ride. I don't remember the songs for long, even though sometimes they're pretty good. But I do remember the haiku. This one was from today:

Wisconsin is full

of lilacs, singing their song

of Alice ... Alice ...

If you've only ever crossed the Mississippi and not driven along it, I recommend it. It's an amazing body of water, and it affects everyone and everything near it. 

Time for sleep. I know there's more I wanted to tell you all, but the thoughts are slipping away. Night-night!