day 20

Da y 20 was a short day - 42 miles from Zumbrota to Wabasha.  We got to sleep in and were treated to a wonderful Deb Vandenberg breakfast.  We set out at 8:30, eight of us, with the three garminites trying to find our way out of town.  The rest of us were too impatient and started asking around.  We set out and finally found MN60, our road to Wabasha.  Our big obstacle was a bridge out on hwy 60.  Not wanting to add an extra 10 miles to our day, we sent Rocket Vanderberg ahead to see if we could negotiate the construction project.  He called with a positive report and we went for it.  We carried our bikes down a ravine and up the other side.  Julie had a hunch we'd give it a try - she said we act like a bunch of 12 year olds.  She's not too far off.  The ride was beautiful rolling hills with nice climbs and descents.  When we arrived in Wabasha around noon, we were greeted by a big group of relatives and friends.  More joined later in the afternoon.  It was so uplifting and we really appriciated their support.  Many showered us with cookies, wine, pies, and all kinds of food.  Most comments were that they didn't expect us to be in such high spirits and looking so good.  A good part of our broad smiles was because they were there with their support.  A Rochester Post Bulletin reporter was there for a Monday newspaper report on the ride.  During the afternoon several familys enjoyed the Eagle Center, which was excellent.  Later in the afternoon we all went to the Stone Barn, an excellent wood-fired pizza place in Nelson.  Sorry we didn't get to the blog last night.  We were having so much fun we ran out of time.  With so much family there, most of us had the pleasure of a real bed in nearby motels.  Julie had Pearl to herself. 
Roe