Wednesday, July 14

Today was about Lucky - after driving back to Columbia MO for the fourth time in as many weeks, we finished his second full cycle of the protocol. The team at Mizzou Vet Clinic are superb - from Jeana taking my call five weeks ago as I was running through Georgia and I was screaming over the traffic that I needed their help to the loving technicians who gave imitated treatment and of course the excellent docs who made the care decisions and never rushed me with all my questions - Thank You!

While Lucky was hanging out with the Mizzou gang, Chris and I had some success with RV repairs at Gander - most importantly we have hot water again! So much for my Wim Hof cold shower work!

We also mapped out next few weeks of route as we are gaining confidence and expect to hit Kansas tomorrow then Nebraska next week. We should also hit 1,500 miles within a week and I think I will be climbing a 1,000 mile mountain if I believe the route guide!

We ended up back in Buckner late by my standard, 6:30pm and assumed our targeted restaurant, Tuscanos would take us immediately. Bad assumption….40 minute wait for a restaurant that folks from all over come to even on a Wednesday night. As we looked for parking, I saw two officers and asked them about parking the RV overnight. After I told them about our trip they happily offered the lot and to check in on us.

The bar had a spot and that was perfect for me to order a beer and ask a gentleman how the food is here. He responded, “it’s great but I’m biased, I’m the owner.” That kicked off the best night of our trip so far. Kurt bought 5 buildings on Main Street and helped drive a resurgence in the community. We also met locals Nikki and Amber at the bar where we ended up eating and thoroughly enjoying their company as well as everyone.who walked by and knew everyone else! This is small town America at its best. Chris and I left after a tour of the buildings, way too much great food and, Kurt wouldnt let us pay for dinner.

On top of this, Nikki is dropping off a care package from the farm in the morning.

Thank you Buckner and especially Kurt, Nikki and Amber for your hospitality, kindness and generosity.

Cheers,

David.

Jeana got me in to Mizzou

And Dr Ross took great care of us

Chris at Gander waiting for repairs behind his favorite Empire State Building sized flag

1,500 mile mark seems to go up for a long time…

Small town hospitality Officers McNair and Dodd help us w overnight spot in town.

Food was awesome, ambiance unforgettable - the owner and people of the town will be something I will cherish