Decision Time

Day 10 : Sept 15th — I am up early as the sun rises over the Mississippi.

Looking out the widow I need to make a decison. Yesterday was so incredible that I want to repeat it. What are the chances of having two perfect days in a row?

I want to head down river but as I plan the day I begin to realize that I must make a decision.

If I get out at La Cross I have ready access via train to Chicago and a UPS store that can pack the boat and ahip it home.

If I stay on the river the next “big” town is Dubuque Iowa 100 miles down river. I can do the trip in 3–4 days but have no easy way of getting me or my boat home.

As with the whole trip I make the call. Within the hour I have emailed Steve and Lauren who will give me a place to sleep tonight in the windy city.

I pack up the boat and take one last look out the window at the great Mississippi slipping by and head to Chicago.

First stop is the UPS store to drop off the gear.

Second stop is the train station to catch the train out of La Cross at 10:48 AM.

A three hour train ride through the beautiful Wisconsin countryside.

And into Chicago

For an evening of dinner and catching up with two dear friends.

And a good night’s sleep. Tomorrow I fly home. What a perfect trip.