On, Wisconsin!

Yesterday was a rest day, and it and the day before were so full that I had no time to write.  On Monday, we rode 56 miles from Rochester to Winona.  I hurried because I was on an urgent errand, buying new bike shorts to replace the two pair that are nearly worn through.  I was also hurrying to meet a friend who lives about an hour from Winona on a sheep farm in Wisconsin.  I spent Monday evening and most of Tuesday with her and her husband.  Their farm, in a peaceful, secluded valley, represents almost 38 years of hard work and investment, and I an in awe of what they have accomplished.

 

Today we rode about 75 miles from Winona to Wilton, Wisconsin.  The Wisconsin portion of the trip is the only segment I have already ridden, and I enjoyed it so much three years ago that I was eager to repeat it this year.

Why is this guy in someone's front yard?  I like his big, blue eyes.

First view of the Mississippi River, looking across to the bluffs on the Wisconsin side.

I have way more pictures from the farm than I can share.  The border collies at work, whether on command or not, are definitely favorites.

My friend and I stopped at the National Eagle Center in Wabasha, Minnesota, where she took this picture of me standing in a replica of an eagle's nest.  Since eagles add to the same nest every year, the nests can end up weighing as much as a ton.

We rode in mist and fog for a couple of hours early this morning.

Ben Bikin', in Sparta,Wisconsin, is claimed as the world's largest bicycle.  Three years ago, I skipped going to see Ben so that I could get to an ice cream shop.  This year, I managed both.  The ice cream soda was as good as I remembered.

Today was a prime day for treats.  This Amish raspberry pie was one of the best I have ever eaten.