Saved from the Kansas twister!!!

Bill & Lady!!!! 

Yesterday as I rode from Lawrence Kansas towards my campsite at Melvern Resivoir, and about 15 miles away from my destination I realize there was a pretty gnarly storm approaching. There was no way I was going to make it, and I had no choice but to pull over and find either a safe place to camp, or ask one of the locals for help. This is where I met Bill Bailey & his family during my ride. He provided me shelter from a pretty wicked storm! Graciously he and his family allowed me to hang out, have dinner, and learn about Kansas life (they have a lot of "Storm Stories")!!!  

Through our talks, I found out Bill was recently diagnosed with paralysis of the liver, and only has about 10% remaining at this point. We conversed, celebrated his Great Grandsons 1st birthday, ate cake and ice cream and talked about the recent clothing restrictions at the local high school with his grand daughter Katherine.  He was inspired by my trip, but what he didn't realize was that in locating people like him, I'm inspired everyday to continue moving (slowly) across the country!  

Carrie, Bill, Ashley and Katherine

The view of the Baileys ranch as I rode into the Kansas hill country.   

Katy Trail - Longest Rail-Trail in America

Earlier this week I had the chance to ride the Katy Trail which spans 240 miles across the middle of Missouri.  Originally, the trail was a rail system that was the Union Pacific Railroad, then the Missouri Kansas Texas railroad, and finally converted to the Rail Trail in the 1980's.  The geography was pretty amazing, with rolling hills and majestic views of the Missouri, and finally ending in the town of Sedalia, MO.  

St. Louis - Graffiti Flood Wall

Cool graffiti area in St. Louis. Over the years, the city has utilized the flood wall as a great vehicle for artists to express themselves.  Measuring over two miles, it's a cool example of how cities can re-purpose their spaces into something beautiful.   Here's some of my favorites!

Thanks McCormicks!

From Left:  Josiah, Eva, Sherry, Brad.  Not pictured: Beth Ellen (sleeping) and their eldest son Elijah (Colorado).

Thanks McCormick family for putting me up for the night near Harrisburg, IL. I arrived pretty distressed from my longest day yet (80 miles) during brutal temperatures nearing 100 degrees.  Eva was practicing the piano when I arrived, totally sun-burned and nearing heat exhaustion.  She brought me life giving watermelon and ice water!!!!

We enjoyed dinner and breakfast and talked about my trip, and I learned they too are hoping to do a similar trip as a complete family (of 6) in the coming years.  It was during these conversations I realized how truly lucky I am to be able to be making this voyage.  We parted ways with a family blessing for me, which is something I'll always remember.

Thanks Nashville - you're pretty awesome!

It's impossible to articulate in words how grateful I am to Norm and Ashley for having hosted me for nearly 2 weeks during my most recent stay in Nashville. Love you guys - looking forward to Florida in October!!!!