Building a Dream: Missouri River

Backdate: May 24, 2025

By Fran Kniel

He worked all day and into the night 

The canoe he built is a beautiful sight

Each piece of wood laid carefully in place

He crafted a vessel with infinite grace

His dream to travel the Missouri blue

Is a dream that is slowly becoming true

His adventure awaits in the coming days

Traveling to the unknown is what he craves

The tenacious feelings found deep in his soul 

will take him to a lifelong goal

And with his Golden at his side 

He’ll journey the River with so much pride 

So here’s to the man who built a canoe

The dreamer, the doer and the wanderer too. 

Almost home!!

4 days left and being so near to a long sought goal brings some interesting introspection. I am ready for the bike part to be over. It has been long and usually cold days with a lot of mileage. I have only taken two days off in 6 weeks. I will miss the grandeur and splendor of this fabulous country that we are blessed to live in. I will miss the interactions with “trail angels” and most of all I will truly miss the daily hobo life. It is very liberating in many ways. I have also enjoyed sharing with everyone!!  Will keep you updated on the last few days and the big finish!!

Week 4 stats

Miles 351 (6 days)

Average 58.5

Destination: Waverly

highlights: met Austin Golden Retriever Rescue Group on Sunday. Took a day off on Monday. Cold Cold weather!!