We left this morning by crossing the Missouri River with a chill in the air and fog rolling in all around us. Riding out 90 West we stopped just outside of Pierre, SD. (state capital). We meet Gary Miller a local rancher who owned 13,000 acres, 700 cattle. He and two other individuals with one dog worked the land. After our conversation with Gary we headed to The Badlands loop (240 W). Prior to entering the park we stopped at a 1900’s Sod Homestead. Paul made a new friend (Mr Billy), we also saw prairie dogs, farm structures and early century farm tools. Riding through the Badlands we where amazed with the every changing formations, colors the open ranges known as Buffalo Gap National Grassland. Leaving there we went to Wall, SD. home of Wall Drugs were we had lunch (mostly Buffalo Burgers). Then down to Black Hills Harley Davidson in Rapid City ( a little shopping for some). Then we rode out 14 A into the Black Hills through sweeping curves with sun reflecting off a near by river, cool temps. as a breath of fresh air letting us know we have arrived. In Deadwood we met up with David Cooper, Randy Alexander, Tony and Anna (friends from East Brady, Pa.).Today’s ride reminded me that God’s creation and artwork. has stood the test of time and man. Lets me know that his love is true today as it was then. We all are very thankful for his protection and guidance he has shown us through out our travels to date. Today we rode 287 miles before reaching Deadwood.

Gary Miller (Rancher)

Cowboy Mike

Paul’s new friend

Michele and Don @ the Sod Home.

Michele at Wall Drugs

Don R. after running 80 mph.

Corn Palace

Corn Palace

Michele and Don

Rose and Rick

Rose and Michele with Uncle Ezke

Sonya and David

Gary,Paul , Marsha and Don R.

Sonya and David with Uncle Ezke

Left Council Bluff @ 8:50 am up I 29 which was lined with more flat farmlands with old power poles dotting the landscape. The sun peered over the distant mountains which were stained by the morning clouds. Arriving in the Northwest corner of Iowa the scenery changed to rolling hills with farmlands and cattle. Stopped for lunch in Sioux City, SD. for lunch and the Sun was in full swing by this time, temps already in the 90’s. Brother David try to fine a opened Harley dealership but all closed for the 4th. Riding west on 90 to Mitchell, SD. home of The Corn Palace , which today is know for its mosaic artwork (it takes a 100 acres of corn to make these designs). I took time out to ride a giant rabbit before leaving Mitchell. Continuing out 90 to Chamberlain, SD. where we are spending the night again next to Missouri River. Today’s mileage was 320. We truly have been blessed with God’s grace and protection during our travels. The lesson is that sometimes you have to remove yourself from a situation in order to show someone grace. We are instructed in God’s word that we must demonstrate grace and forgiveness to our brothers and sisters in this life as he does us. May the Lord bless you with his love and grace.

We left Springfield around 8:00 am with a slight chill in the air. Traveling up Hwy. 65 N to 44 W. then taking 13 N to Clinton, MO. which carried us to Hwy. 7 N into Harrisonville, MO.. Getting on 71 N to Kansas City, MO. taking 435 N around to 29 N. . The country side today was rolling farmlands scattered with small ponds along with a few cattle farms here and there. We arrived in Council Bluff, IA. this evening after riding 367 miles today. The hotel we are staying in is on the Missouri River across from Omaha, NE.. Michele, Don R. and Marsha watched the fireworks from across the river in honor of July 4th. We hope all had a safe and great 4th, remember freedom is not free. This brings to mind that our choices that we make good or bad have a price. Most of all Jesus Christ paid the price for us all. What choice have you made? May God be the light for the roads you travel in life.

Left Paducah under cloudy skies riding out on Hwy. 60 crossing the Ohio River. That is were we went to the place called the Point. This is were the Mississippi and Ohio Rivers come together. Due to the all the rain we could only look from a far (road was flooded). We took a slight detour on Hwy 51 N to 57 S then we where back on 60. We stopped  in Bloomfield, MO the home of Stars and Stripes Newspaper, we also took time to check out their museum. Traveling down the 4 lane to Van Buren, MO. we had lunch @ a Mom & Pop restaurant called The Floating Stream (John this was another great meal). Took 103 to Big Springs which is the largest underground spring in the Northern Hemisphere. It pumps out 282 million gallons an hour.. Rode through Mark Twain National forest and Ozark National Scenic Riverways. Seeing God’s beauty and power in his creation reminds us how amazing he his. We are staying at Rail Haven Motel which the at the birth place of route 66, (Michele a little star struck for Elvis stayed here his in the day). 307 miles today. God’s Speed may his glory keep warmth in your heart.

We left this morning around  7:00 am to meet everyone at Cracker Barrel on Hwy. 20 in Cartersville. After breakfast we headed up 75N t0 24W . Rode to Clarksville, TN. where we went to Appleton Harley Davidson. Our stay there was extended due to the rain. After appox. an hour and half we headed out on Hwy. 41A to Hwy.79 where we encounter another rain delay. Finally made it to The Land Between The Lakes which ran north to Kentucky with rolling hills, slow sweeping curves, deer and a occasional turkey followed by a squadrons of large dragon flies. If in the area it is worth the ride. Made it to Paducah, KY. late this evening. Rode 400 miles today , leaving for Springfield, MO. in the am. Despite the weather and delays we were still blessed by our God to enjoy the fellowship and laughter of each other which gave us the sonshine we needed.

We left Panama City Beach this morning around 8:30 am via 231 North. Rode to Dothan, AL. We had breakfast at the Cracker Barrel before heading up 431 North. Just outside Eufaula, AL. we got on State Rt. 169 that took us to 85 North. After a short detour we were back on 154 than to the house. All made it home safe. We are thankful for the Lord’s blessings and for allowing us to enjoy his beauty and master pieces. So will it be the Keys or Black Hills in 2015? Stay tune. Gods’s speed until the next ride.

Dave is having Country Fried Steak.

                                                     Chicken Pot Pie for some.

Today is our last day in Florida. Michele, Sonya and David enjoyed the ocean where they saw a small Hammerhead Shark swimming near by. Sheila, Linda and Paul checked out the local antique shops. Mike and I just relaxed. Later in the day Dave and I did a short ride. Dinner was at the Wicked Wheel,a local grill worth checking out when in Panama City Beach. PUTT PUTT Golf was the next event of the evening. We will leave the scores here in Florida. Final note for the day we all have been truly blessed by family, friends old and new; for that I am very thankful!

Today was a day of sun, water and highway. After breakfast we had a ride along the coast then over to Panama City Harley Davidson. Some swam and others just relaxed in the sunshine. Others enjoyed a power nap to refresh their out look on the day. Before dinner a small repair was made to Paul’s bike ( rear brake switch replaced). Hammerheads was our place of choice for dinner and then returned to the condo to call it a night. The Lord’s art work is still amazing. When the Sun glistens on the ocean waves as they pound the sands of white and they leave their foot prints before starting again. You truly see His strength and power in the nature that surround us. Rick and Rose got home this afternoon safe and sound.

We left New Orleans this morning around 7:45 am riding out on Hwy, 90. Then getting on Hwy. 98 outside of Pensacola, FL.. We rode through assorted wet lands, swamp, canals, rivers and lakes. Once in Florida we rode along the coast line. In Pensacola Beach the speed limit was 20 mph and a lot of the public beach where off-limits. This was done do to the nesting of Sea Turtles and birds. It was beautiful day with blue skies and sunshine. Larry and Kathy made it home while Rick and Rose are spending the night in Defuniak Springs, FL.. We are truly blessed with God’s presence in our life’s.

Today we spend time in The French Quarter. Some went to The French Market and some to Voodoo Harley Davidson. Then there was the World Famous Beignets from Cafe Dumonde that someone (Michele) had to have. Visited Jackson Square where we was entertain a local Clown. After the French Quarter Larry & Kathy and Rick & Rose did a River Boat Lunch ride. Michele, Mike, Sheila, David, Sonya and Paul went to the World War II Museum. Linda and I return to the hotel for relaxing afternoon of nothing. Upon everyone’s return we went to dinner at Acme Oyster House. Then we walked Bourbon Street for the last time. There was preacher with others witnessing to the lost, pretty amazing considering the environment. We will be leaving tomorrow for Panama City Beach. Larry & Kathy along with Rick & Rose will be heading back to Georgia. So keep them in your prayers for a safe ride. I would consider Bourbon Street (Sin City of The South) . So may you heart grow closer to Christ and his words guide your path. When the streams that flow through our soul get stained, remember that God’s light is always presence.