Didn’t polish off as many miles today, probably around four hundred which means I have around two days to go another 800, or so, miles (775.5, to be exact).
Odd and interesting day again. Not sure where the Bible Belt officially starts but I believe I’m in it. Just south of St. Louis I passed a metal cross some 60 feet high. Pretty much next to it was a whole field of old-style simple western crosses which I took to be an historical burial ground until I saw the billboard beside it proclaiming “400 children die each day through abortion.” Talk about ramming the point home.
In a few days there has already been a couple of themes:
(1) evidently Rascal Flatts really wants my business because, some two hours after I started driving this morning I, once again, re-joined the Bob That Head Tour (around Effingham Illinois) which I’ve discovered is heading for Oklahoma (I’m not. Yippee).
(2) unbelievably, another dead dog today, although this one wasn’t missing his head like the one from yesterday. I would say this one was a Jack Russell considering the colouring and size that I recognized. It hurts to see that at the worst of times but when you have one of your own you keep thinking about, well..
I also need to brush up a little on my U.S. geography (or get a clearer map). I was expecting to enter Missouri right after leaving Terre Haute but there’s quite a little arm off of Illinois you have to go through before you hit Mizzou. At least I’m not a general leading some troops (i think it’s over THIS hill boys..)
As mentioned, I saw St. Louis from a distance today (circumnavigated the city) which was kind of cool - seeing the Arch - but the bigger thrill was crossing the Mississippi River which is one big mother of a waterway. I can certainly see how this plays both a part in American history and is also a great source of national pride. I wouldn’t exactly call it beautiful (the part I saw) but it does have a real sense of grandeur.
Very frendly people these Missourians (assuming that’s what they’re called).