24 June

Mark called to check in from Grand Rapids, MN. He and David rode 560 miles today, including a 21 mile detour (each way) to see the headwaters of the Mississippi River. Mark got to stand in the headwater wearing his waterproof Sidi boots. OK, rub it in, your boots don't leak! Oddly enough they were staying in the same motel we used on the trip west. This is the motel where we celebrated my birthday at the bar across the street. The odd part is that today is David's birthday and they are going to the same bar to celebrate. I'm sure the bartender will have a raised eyebrow when she sees the same guys once again celebrating a birthday, never to be seen again. It will look like we are only after free drinks...well, guilty as charged. Tomorrow the guys plan to go to Mark's niece's fish camp and relax for a few days before heading home.