In Memory of Warmer Summers

Hepler, KS to Toronto, KS

Friendly horn taps: 3

Miles: 74

Total so far: 2,075

Winter Bauer

This gentleman is Winter Bauer.  Mr Bauer came to the church yesterday afternoon to ensure we were well taken care of.  I would say so – his son brought us two dozen farm fresh eggs and a pound of sausage.  We were extremely well taken care of and our stay at the church was just what we needed.

During our conversations with Mr. Bauer, he told us that wild asparagus grows in the roadside ditches in the area.  he said people pick it all the time and cook it up.

Today, we hit the road early, well rested and had a rare east tail wind for a portion of the ride.  Sallie really enjoyed putting the chain on the big ring for a bit, as this has been the first opportunity to do so since leaving Florida.  We stopped along the road and found some wild asparagus as promised – it was a little mature.   Right now you’d almost need a chainsaw to cut it.  Onward we went – more worlds to see.

Steve Miller

This gentleman is Steve Miller.  He has 4,000 acres in corn, wheat, and soybeans  south-east of Coyville.  When we tied up to visit with him, he was in the process of planting soybeans with this very sophisticated equipment.  Mr. Miller says he works the farm with his four sons, and he has two tractors the same size and two similar planters.

Between the tractor and the very sophisticated planter, Mr. Miller was running about $350,000 worth of equipment. I told him the bank must love him.

I asked Mr. Miller if Sallie could take that tractor for a spin.  He indicated that would not be possible.  Good for him.

Starting camp at Lake Toronto, KS

We got to Toronto State Park campground and Sallie took off immediately for the lake.  We took advantage of the first opportunity to swim in waters not inhabited by alligators since the ride began.  It was the most refreshing end to a day that started with good rest and a great breakfast.

_____________________________________________________________

Tomorrow’s ride is dedicated to Michelle Benjamin

Michelle Benjamin

Michelle had a Masters Degree in Gerontological Counseling and was Director of a program which assisted people with Dementia and Alzheimer’s remain in assisted living in San Francisco. On January 28th, 2007 a drunk driver ran a stop sign slamming into the passenger side door, where Shell was sitting, at 75mph. She fought hard to live, receiving 102 units of blood and her heart stopping 5 times.