Monday

Kickstands up at 7:30am! We headed to Mansfield, Missouri to see Laura Ingalls Wilder's home. This side trip was for Sue and myself. Laura was a remarkable woman, one I would have loved to met in person. I felt very much like I did when we visited Helen Keller's home, (another woman I really admire) very impressed. Both of these women changed history! I realize not in the same way, but regardless, they were strong women who didn't let circumstances discourage them.

We arrived in Chillacothe, MO late afternoon. Another long day! We had beautiful weather!!! Again, we walked to dinner. Tomorrow we will be in Des Moines, Iowa where we'll stay for 5 days for the Gold Wing Rally.

When you are traveling and stop at a gas station, or restaurant you politely say hello to someone you pass. Or maybe while you are pumping gas you may chat with the person at the pump next to you. But, when you are on a motorcycle (and even more so pulling a trailer) people feel compelled to talk to you. They want to know where you are from, where are you going. They want to know what you do when it rains, or when it's cold or very hot. They want to know what it's like to travel on a bike. It seems riding a motorcycle is the greatest conversation starter! And you know me... I HAVE to chat and answer all the questions asked. I would have never dreamed a motorcycle was such a magnet. I feel a speech for Toastmasters coming on!