Through the arch, over the "Big Muddy"

        A day of rest, I guess.  Kelly Sleeper and I rode 46 miles down to the Arch and back through a path only a person with a life time of local knowledge could follow.  At 6'5" on a bike fitting his long frame, he keep me hustling to keep up.  His techniques of gracefully navigating over curbs was impressive.  In both directions we stop first for breakfast and later for beer and a light afternoon meal.  The arch with the Mississippi as a backdrop was well worth the trip.  Kelly, as an excellent photographer, contorted himself in various positions to snap some good pictures of me under the arch.  I was impressed.  

      Tomorrow Kelly will drive me down to the bike path leading me cross the Mississippi.  From there I ride to Staunton, Illinois to connect with the Route 66 trail.  New maps from the Adventure Cycling Association are being sent to Normal, Illinois, general delivery.

Following an established route again will be a relief.  Now for the ride east of the Mississippi.