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There is nothing quite like riding a bicycle behind a manure truck in the morning. We started the day in Larned KS. We took full advantage of the free continental breakfast at the motel before getting on our way. Our goal destination was Buhler KS, some 80 miles away. Because of some unfavorable weather forcasts, we also had some back up plans. Our back up plans usually range from stopping early and getting a motel to huddling under some trees and hoping the storm passes, and today was no different.

As we began our ride, we were favored by a strong cross wind coming from the north (at least it wasn’t a head wind) and a parade of manure trucks speeding past. We have gotten used to a certain amount of agricultral aroma, but racing a steady stream of dump trucks carrying dung was a whole new experience. We did eventually get away from the dung trucks, and then it seemed that the storm clouds were closing in, luckily we managed to avoid any serious rain.

About halfway to our lunch stop in Nickerson, we ran into another transamer, headed west. We exchanged some information about the terrain to come and then continued on our way. Every time we think that we must have seen the last cyclist headed west, another shows up. The window for crossing the Rockies is quickly closing, and a lot of those roads close in October.

A quick side note about Nickerson, you are not allowed to bring your hand gun into the library, as is clearly shown on the sign at the door.

As we were leaving Nickerson to finish the last 20 or so miles to Buhler, we came across the strangest scene of domesticated animals yet. Now we have seen tiny ponies, llamas, horses, cows, donkeys, and even an emu in someone’s suburban yard, but these people had 5 camels and a tiny donkey. We stopped to take a picture, of course. Shortly thereafter, we reached 2000 miles! We are officially more than halfway home. This is a bitter sweet thought because I am having an awesome time, but I do miss home.

Around 4:30 pm, we arrived in Buhler, after scoping out their huge and lovely town park, complete with bathrooms and electricity, we decided that this would be our campsite. We checked in at the city office (so the police would know we were in the park – safety first) and then got dinner at the local diner. Tonight is an early night so that we can get an early start on the 100+ miles that we plan for tomorrow. By the way, they do not sell alcohol of any kind anywhere in Buhler.

– Sarah