Goodbye Steve

We were all a little slow to wake up this morning. I think we were feeling a bit meloncholy knowing our time with Steve would end in about 30 miles. 

Steve and I built our usual morning cup of coffee and we struck our tents and loaded our bikes. One of our camp neighbors had built a fire and talked to each of us about our journey. It was a bit chilly. I envied his time by the fire as he sipped his first cup of the day. 

After praying for Steve and his journey, we were off and meandered back to the bike trail that led us into Boulder Junction. A nice clean town. I needed a second cup of joe and we found the Boulder Junction Coffee Co. to sip our brew. 

Leaving Boulder Junction we soon left these amazing bike trails for a county road that was designated a “Rustic Road” in WI. In Canyon County ID they would call it a “road”. 

Soon we were at thirty miles and the town of Conover and found the Boat House Smoke House. Our table was actually inside the remains of a classic wooden run about. With a name that included “smoke house”, I couldn’t have their fish taco! I ordered a tasty brisket sandwich. I scored. 

Then the time came to say goodbye. Hugs all around and we saw Steve pedal south as his route would get him to Maine in time to meet his plane. 

Rhonda and I continued East and North East. Our legs ached and felt like concrete. Too much time spent at the Boat House. After 9ish miles we reached Phelps. Our not for certain, no guarantee of a campsite was still another 10 miles. We checked Phelps only hotel and they were full, ‘but check the Old World Charm B&B’. We rolled into the B&B and met the owner. He vaguely, no, he did remind us of a dear friend, but he’s on a plane from the Czech Republic to Boise. Eric and Becky are gracious hosts. Eric , a fellow cyclist, understands our needs. He waved the two night minimum, and we are staying in the Americana Suite, where two former Presidents, Truman and Eisenhower, once visited. He also offered us a recovery drink complete with added beet juice powder. I already feel energized. He also provided his pvc roller to work out the kinks in my tired legs and glutes. 

We were given a tour of this hundred year old home that is still adorned with its original Persian Rugs. Prior to the two presidents, the home and its owners have a history and connection to Al Capone. We feel spoiled and honored to stay here as we look out across the lake from our bedroom window (we will be moving to the porch to watch the sunset soon). The Old World Charm B&B is a must stay next time we visit this great state of WI. 

We miss you Steve. Blessings to you!