Fourth Shift: Farewell Iowa, you have been swell.

Like most thing in life, intentions versus reality quite often class. Unexpected developments have become quite common place in this adventure of epic proportions. Starting out this morning from Denison, Iowa the weather was quite cool. A thick fog had settled over the landscape, masking the rolling hills and valleys all around us. It was cold and damp enough that we needed to wear our rain jackets, but soon, as we found ourselves climbing up some long hills, the same jackets which were meant to keep moisture out, were keeping it in. The weather contained like this throughout the whole day, cloudy and foggy, although warmer. After about 50 or so miles, our journey through the state of Iowa had come to end and our adventure through Nebraska would begin. Even crossing the Missouri river into the state proved to be an adventure. While most infrastructure in the mid-west has been adequate for bike travel, this bridge proved slightly terrifying. Instead of pavement between you and the river far below, a thin and porus layer of grating had been laid across. This grating not only is terrible for thin road bike tires, but also allows one to see the river churning beneath; a sight which is not only strange but also unnerving. Regardless, we made it safely across, even avoiding to have to pay the $1 toll. The plan for the day was to cycle around 80 miles and ending at a small town motel. With strong tailwinds, our 4th day in a row with such helpful weather, we arrived near the town tired and ready to rest. But as I said before, nothing hardly goes as planned. We were informed that both the hotels in this small town were entirely booked. The clerk had said, "maybe because its the weekend". The weekend? Who comes out to a small country town surrounded by thousands of acres of corn for the weekend?? Anyways, the nearest hotel was in Norfolk, NE about 37 miles further. We could do nothing but press on. We arrived in Norfolk more tired and more ready to rest after riding 118 miles. However, supper at applebees must come first. Also, our third man had joined us after a 12 hour drive from Ohio. The rest of the trip should prove quite interesting. Tomorrow will finally be our first day completely alone without any idea where we are staying. Also, from here to Oregon, we know no one. We shall see what adventures lie ahead. Here are some pictures.