No panniers!

Last night as the mom and I were waiting for the rest of the gang to arrive we made friends with Casey. An old lovely yellow lab. During the middle of the night, we got up to go to the bathroom and Casey had come over and was snuggled right up next to our tent. Almost under the rainfly. So cute. We almost wanted to invite her in.

Today we rode 72 miles to Hamilton Illinois. Another state line! There were strong headwinds; however, we easily sliced through them without our panniers. It was unbelievable how much easier it was. Had we had our panniers today, the headwinds would have been downright unbearable and we definitely wouldn't have made it that far. Instead, we had a pleasant ride. Tomorrow the winds should start switching so we are looking to put in another long day since we won't have our weighted bags with us.

I was dive bombed by a cicada today. It was terrifying. They are inch and a half long bugs with creepy, beady red eyes. I have confirmed on this trip that I truly loathe all large creepy bugs. Furthermore, while riding along the Mississippi, there were swarms of mayflies. They must have just hatched. Hopefully they all die tonight.

We had a campfire and bratfry at the campground, chatted with another cyclist we saw, and are now ready for sleep.