Today was a much more reasonable ride. Only a couple big hills. Really needed that.

Went through Lake Pepin. It is the birthplace of water skiing. Ralph Samuelson figured that out nearly 100 years ago (thanks, Kay Fisher). It's also the birthplace of Laura Ingalls Wilder.

Spent most of the day riding in the valley along the Mississippi. That's why the day was relatively shy on hills.

This pic made me think of the Appalachian Trail. I can guarantee the trail would run right over that ridge.

Wisconsin has to lead the nation in bars per capita. I went through Alma. Population 781. Must have been a dozen bars. I've noticed a similar ratio in other towns. Guess that's the only way you can be a Packer fan!! 😁

Stopped at the Wing Dam Saloon in Fountain City for lunch. Great experience. Food was good but the highlight was meeting Lauren (bartender, waitress, and server). She was intrigued by my journey and really wanted to help me. I suggested donating to the charities I'm riding for but she really wanted to help ME personally. She bought my lunch. So cool! Thanks so much, Lauren. Awesome to meet you.

Businesses have been short staffed my entire journey. I feel very sorry for those businesses struggling to find employees. Please be patient with those folks that are working. They have enough pressure already.

The final few miles were on a shaded, hard pan bike path. Very relaxing.

The next 1500 miles will be the most difficult of the trip based on my prior experiences. I'm not talking physically. I really have no clue what to expect there. I'm talking mentally.

It was new and exciting at the beginning. Then I had Bristol to look forward to. I knew I had friends and support for a ways after that.

It's way too early to even think about Key West so I'll just be grinding miles out for the next 3 weeks or so. This is when I really need your support.

I read and enjoy every comment on the blog and I love to see donations to the charities I'm riding for (https://at-pete.com/pledge-information/).

I am fortunate to have a great network of support. I'll really be needing it the next few weeks.

Ride on.

Just Pete