QUINCY, IL TO NAUVOO, IL

May 21, Thursday
53 miles

Another beautiful day for a bike ride! The route took us through some very flat farm land with no trees or water in sight. Gave us a different look at the farmland of Illinois. Our ride was mostly flat until we got close to Nauvoo and we did some climbing up along the river.
We were excited for this ride because it felt like we had finished a huge part of the ride with only about 8 more riding days left to our final destination and hugs from grand kids. We were also excited to stop off for a stay and a great visit with my brother Dave and his wife. As timing will have it, their daughter Corina had her baby in Texas two weeks ago. RuthAnn was there helping out and Dave flew out this morning to join them. Sigh. They opened their home to us anyway and we are taking advantage of the R&R time. We'll see some of the sites at Old Nauvoo, go to the temple and church, catch up on this blog and just be lazy.
Dave and RuthAnn's home is up on a hill with a majestic view of The Mighty Mississippi. Early this morning just after sunrise I sat on the deck and looked out over the river. I contemplated its history and tradition and the miles we have ridden along its banks.. Some windows of a building on the far bank of the river were glistening like gold in the morning light. What a treasure this world! A creation of such beauty. I am grateful for the creations of our Father which bring us so much joy! "How great thou art!"