Leaving Milbank, SD and biking towards Webster was by far the most difficult day I have encountered on the bike thus far. The winds had reached a consistent 25-35 mph due east with an occasional gusts up to 40 mph. On the first leg of this journey I had encountered countless folks who had warned me about the winds out here and had even tried to convince me that I should turn the other direction and ride West to East. I now understand what they were talking about. Despite the intense winds and the extreme frustration that comes with riding in South Dakota I have absolutely no regrets nor do I wish I had gone West to East. This trip has been absolutely amazing and I couldn't imagine it any other way. Anyway... After 42 miles I had reached Waubay and with 11 more miles to go til Webster I decided that I would stay put. I was tired, windburn and mentally exhausted.

When I arrived in Waubay I stopped in at the Lakeside Lodge to see if I could strike up a good bargain for a room. Unfortunately there was a construction job taking place just down the road that had forced all of the road workers to stay overnite and there was simply no rooms available. The owner then called a friend of his up and explained my situation and a nice guy offered to let me stay in the hunting lodge for 30 bucks. So after a long day out on the road I was all set up with a nice warm comfy bed and a full kitchen with as much weather channel as I could possibly want to watch.

The next morning I biked the 11 miles over to Webster, SD. This was to be my day off the bike however due to my shortened trip yesterday I wanted to make up a few miles. When I got to Webster I went into the decoy for a cold drink and some conversation. I then met a great guy (Josh) who also happened to be a part owner of one of the local motels known as the Galley and he offered me an unfinished room that was absolutely perfect for me. Later that night I made friends with a few locals and they took me out to the American Legion for a few cold ones and good conversation. I would love to give you the complete story but the highlight was most certainly when we walked out of the bar and found 3 teenagers in my new friend (Charlie) pickup truck. We ran after the kids and gave them a nice long lecture ;) and continued on our merry way.

I left Webster in the morning after a great big breakfast and pedaled 53 miles over to Aberdeen, SD. Aberdeen was hoppin! 25 thousand people and a big county fair taking place which featured country music stars such as Blake Shelton and Rodney Atkins. This was a hoot. I made conversation with a few locals while I enjoyed dinner and one had agreed to take me in for the evening. After riding miles and miles in a very rural and remote setting Aberdeen seemed like the big city. Almost too big to be honest. I guess once a town gest above 20 thousand in population they roll in as many fast food joints and a Wal Mart as quickly as possible.

I woke up this morning and pedaled just a short 28 miles to Ipswich, SD where I write to you now from a park bench just off of highway 12. I must be honest. These little towns in South Dakota are an absolute treasure. It's fascinating to me when I get engaged in a conversation with someone who has lived in a town with a population of less than 500 his entire 60 plus years of existence. And by the way... If you ever find yourself rolling through Ipswich South Dakota i strongly recommend a stop at the Yellowstone Trail Cafe. They are very friendly and helpful people who will make you feel welcome.

I hate to be quick and to the point however my internet connectivity is very limited and my laptop battery is just about to die...

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Best,
Nathan A. Winters