June 20, 2010, Cassoday, KS – Toronto, KS
Day 26
Following our rest day we had an easier day with only 60 miles of riding. Being father’s day we dedicated the days ride to all those men those who have had their fathers been affected by Alzheimer’s. We all made sure to call our dad’s that morning and even had a time before we prayed where we each stated what our father has taught us in our young lives and what we respect about them.
Kansas is becoming more and more hilly as we near Missouri but our legs are also getting stronger. On this particular day Mitch and I were able to talk a great deal about various things. We spoke about WKU basketball, family, and other things that crossed our mind. It was nice to catch up after living together the past year but with each of us being very busy we didn’t always have the time to really talk for an extended period of time. We enjoyed the ride and both found it encouraging.
We reached our final destination of Toronto, KS state national park and were all reminded of Kentucky from the beautiful scenery of the trees and water. I was able to read some of my book and even take a nap in my hammock since we finished our ride at about 1:30 pm. We found a camp site right next to a few families out celebrating fathers day and I was able to speak with some kids that were fishing. Right when I walked up this one kid said, “Nobody here knows how to fish except Charles.” So of course I agreed that anyone named Charles must be a good fisherman.
I was able to speak with my father and family and catch them up and also thank my dad for being a wonderful father and friend. I also was able to speak with my Grandaddy for the first time on this trip and it was great. I look forward to spending some quality time with both my father and grandfather when my ride is over.
So we camped by the Toronto lake that night. Cameron and I slept in the same tent and sweated for at least an hour and a half before we fell asleep. But we were happy to be in the beautiful nature and had a half a day to enjoy the park.
In His Adventure,
Chaz Vittitow
