Day 2: Monday

Depart: 5:30 A.M.
Time in Motion: 4:15:29
Distance: 66.42 mi.
Average: 15.6 mph.
Max: 29.6 mph
Temperature: 60-80 °F
Wind: ESE 15

I didn't sleep well last night. We camped right underneath a streetlight. oops. We put our tent next to Ed & Vi, thinking they had picked the ideal spot. We were mistaken. I opted for breakfast at the K of C building. Once again, I breakfasted with Ed and Vi.

It was still dark out when the three of us hit the road, so I made use of my taillight. The ride today was somewhat tiring. There was some nice scenery and a beautiful sunrise, but little else to pique my interest.

After turning onto highway 19, I pulled away from Ed and Vi. I didn't see another soul until ten miles west of Minnewaukan. Two guys flew by me at amazing speed. Overall, an uninteresting and lonely ride.

Minnewaukan more than made up for the ride to town, as they did a wonderful job of hosting the tour. They provided good food and a great variety show in their school's gymnasium. The whole community came together and showed off their individual talents. Everyone was quite impressed and had a great time.

During the variety show, the mayor spoke about the mixed blessings of nearby Devils Lake. The lake has no outlet and its water level has been rising over the last few years. The shoreline used to be something like eight miles from town. Now, the water is literally right next to the city . This newfound proximity to the lake has helped bring fishermen and their wallets to town, helping the local economy. But they worry that the levels may continue to rise. As it stands now, the water level is three feet below the level of the gymnasium floor. Worrying, to be sure.

Once again, Jesse and I took in the town's museum. This one was housed in an impressive old church building . The collection contained a little of everything -- including an old TSR-80 of all things.

In the afternoon, it started to rain. And it hasn't stopped yet. It may rain all night, according to the forecast.

Note: I'm now writing by flashlight in the middle of the night, unable to sleep. The tent is leaking on my notebook and a pool is forming in the middle of the floor. Miserable night.

Snapshots from Minnewaukan:
Main Street, Minnewaukan:
The Leaning Tower of Minnewaukan: