Pittsfield, IL to Hannibal, MO

Sunday was a very short and easy day and we were able to sleep in to 7am, which felt great especially in our hotel beds. We got a slow start to the morning and all met up at around mile 30 at the Mississippi River. We waded around in the water for a little bit until everyone caught up. 

Mississippi River. 

From there one of our team leaders had arranged a police escort to drive with us into the town of Hannibal. We partnered up and rode in together as one big group  with the trailer leading the way and the police car following us. It felt great riding in a huge group together and had a bunch of cars honking and waving at us. 

Police car getting ready. 

Starting the ride in. 

Entering Missouri on the bridge. 

When we got there we first relaxed and had lunch. Since we had the afternoon a bunch of people went around town and went swimming. Unfortunately I was on laundry crew and had to do that for a few hours. Afterwards I went into town but only for a half hour. Hannibal is famous for being Mark Twain's hometown so there were a lot of historical places and museums dedicated to him. We went to the gift shop of a museum and quickly rode around town before we had to be back to the church for dinner. 

Gift shop. 

Town of Hannibal. 

Mark Twain statue. 

At night we again had our weekly family meeting to discuss our highs and lows. This week I said that I pretty much had a high every day from the great rides and riding groups, the donation magic meals, the 4th of July celebration, the build site, and the police escort. I said my low was getting cake in my ear from the food fight, but I was only kidding. And then I gave kudos to one of my team leaders Katie because she always takes responsibility to clean up and stay positive, especially when the kitchen at the host site had flooded one morning. This past week was probably my favorite so far and I'm looking forward to the adventures ahead.