Tuesday 4th June

Monday 3rd June.  89 miles from Cassoday to Nickerson

        Cycling along through arable land to put in some miles. There are still plenty of cattle, but large areas of wheat as well. Crops are late this year due to the bad weather. I stopped in North Newton were they actually had a wholefood shop - stocked up on supplies.
        In Kansas you can camp in the 'city' parks. However I have not seen another cyclist for 2 days now so was by myself. Nickerson is a small settlement along the goods railway line. Was befriended in the local cafe by the lovely Korean owner and camped in the 'yard' (garden to us), of Matt, one of their regular patrons.

    I really liked Matt, He's an ex policeman, ex music producer, ex singer, current private detective and chain smoker. He wears a pistol in a holster at all times.

Tuesday 4th June    Nickerson to Larnerd . 58 miles

     A shorter day. Great cycling, passing through the Quivira National Wildlife Refuge  - an area with salt water marshes where migratory birds such as Canada Geese and ducks stop to rest. There are public shooting areas! (refuge for whom?).

         I am now in Larnard which is on the historic Santa Fe Trail. Apparently, wagon ruts are still visible in the area. This trail funneled goods from Mexico to the rapidly developing west.

 I passed an enormous cattle market on the way in.