Day 65 Mississippi River
10-26-17
The morning made way for a clear and sunny start to the day. Temperatures have been dipping into the low 40s and high 30s overnight, and with the sun out today, by mid afternoon it was in the low 60s.
By the time afternoon rolled around I began trying to devise a plan for the coming days. The forecast called for clouds, rain, and cool temps for the next two days. As I looked at the map I noticed I was closing in on Cape Girardeau, Missouri. Trying to pull any contacts I had, I remembered that an old roommates parents lived in Cape G. Three years ago, and for about one year, I lived with Avary (and 3 others) in a house near the University of Denver. Each month I would write a rent check and mail it to Cape Girardeau, and I remember the town now likely because each month I would have to look up how to spell it (still never sure if I get it right...)
I shot Avary a message asking if her folks still lived in town and if they may be willing to put me up for a night or two to get out of some poor weather. Shortly after, I heard back from Avary with the green light. Awesome.
At around 5:30pm, with the sun working it's way toward the western tree line, I pulled up to downtown Cape Girardeau, which was flanked by a massive concrete wall that ran the length of town to prevent floods. Michelle, Avary's Mom, met me with the family's two bulldogs, Boosie and Peekaboo, on the downtown board walk. It was a busy evening, with lots of folk and families out for a stroll along the riverside. I hopped out and greeted
Michelle. As I began unloading several groups of people walked up and asked questions of me, intrigued by the dude who floated up to the downtown mural in a canoe.
After loading up the Subaru with gear and strapping the boat to the roof we made the short drive to the house. Michelle showed me around and set out some chili leftovers for dinner. Soon after she scooted out for a fundraising event, leaving me to shower and watch my hometown Northern Illinois football team snag a come from behind win over Eastern Michigan.
Michelle returned after a few hours and we sat around the table talking. Shortly thereafter, Ken, Michelle's husband and Avary's father, showed up following a long shift manning the ER. A few words and we all retreated to bed.
Thankful once again for nice folk along the river, and for getting out of some poor weather expected tomorrow morning. The plan is to take the day off tomorrow and enjoy the stay in Cape Girardeau, MO. All is good on the Mighty Miss.