Wisconsin: Family, Friends and Fun

6-24 – Another Century: Today we did our third 100 mile ride of the trip. That was not the plan at the start of the day, but after getting to Merrill earlier than expected we pressed on to Antigo.
Our Gratitude to Jay, Dale and Pat Peterson: Through a connection with my brother Jim we were hosted by the Peterson family of Antigo, Wisconsin. Jay taught with my brother Jim in Merrill for many years. Jim’s parents, Pat and Dale, live in Antigo and were gracious enough to put us up for the night. We had a great evening with the Peterson’s, a great Wisconsin meal complete with bratwurst along with lots of family stories and laughs. We are blessed to have been hosted by the Peterson family and want to thank them for their kindness and generosity. We hope to be able to return the favor when any of the Peterson family journey’s west.

6-25 – What a Country: We are really lucky to live in the good old US of A. As one rides through the country it is so obvious how blessed we are as a country. Here are some observations from our ride, primarily across Wisconsin’s highway 64.
Flags: I am struck by the number of American flags that are flown by the populace along our way. There is genuine pride in America and the principles on which it is built. It’s always good to see Old Glory along the way.
Farms: We are impressed with the beauty of the Wisconsin farms. Having grown up in Wisconsin this is something that I probably took for granted. As you ride through the countryside the pride of the American farmer is very apparent in the quality of the farms and the manner in which they are kept.
Freedom: The variety of religious denominations apparent in the country churches that we pass is impressive and evidence of our precious freedom of religion. We passed a couple of Amish carriages today. What a great country where people with such diverse lifestyles and beliefs can co-exist in freedom and prosperity.
Forests: The mix of hardwood and soft wood forests across Wisconsin is a pleasure to ride through.
Family: It has been great to see our family in Green Bay. We went out for a Wisconsin fish fry with JP, Gloria, Jason and Christian and a great time was had by all. We will be staying with JP and Gloria for a couple of nights prior to getting on the ferry and heading to Michigan.
6-26 – 2, 276 Miles Down, 1279 Miles to Go: Reaching Lake Michigan is a big landmark for us. There are a number of ways to measure the physical progress of the trip, mileage being the most important. The trip has gone very fast. As I think about it I realize it will be over before we know it. I don’t mind telling you that I am now having bouts of homesickness. I miss Lisa, Mary and Mackey and wish that I could spend some time each day with them. While we are thoroughly enjoying the trip there is no place like home.
JP: Big brother JP did a long stretch of the Shiocton to Manitowok segment today. We had a great time.
Three Time Zones: Three time zones down and one to go.
Lake Michigan: It was a pleasure to get to Lake Michigan today. The cool breeze felt good after a long ride. We will cross the lake in a couple of days and
Down Time: We will be taking the next two days off from riding. The respite will be good for everyone involved. We hop on the ferry at about midnight on Monday and continue to ride on Tuesday the 29th. Bon voyage.