As I’ve ridden across our country, I’ve notice signs for an interesting spot only 3 miles to the south, or only 4 and a half miles to the north. But those miles double on a bicycle and that has yet to appeal to me as a way to lengthen my day. Today was a much-enjoyed day of rest as well as a day for Diane and me to explore a bit of central Illinois from a car and take that side trip or two.
Arthur, Illinois is home to the Old Order Amish and Amish Mennonites. Having lived in New Jersey, I knew about the Amish culture in Pennsylvania but did not know they also settled in central Illinois.
Many, many families and solo drivers on the main street of Arthur.
While waiting for clothes to clean at the laundromat, we found this wonderful, quaint deli. Delicious sandwiches and my, oh my what a cheese, bread, pasta, honey, syrup, etc. selection. Our favorite: The best ice cream we can remember tasting.
As we drove past many cornfields with corn sprouts and silo after silo for grain storage, I had a similar thought from earlier days on my trip. I wonder if the corn is for human consumption, livestock consumption or ethanol, or all three. Earlier I passed a large ethanol plant. Or is it exported?
It was a very fortuitous stop today in that it rained most of the day. My host asked if I ever rode in the rain — I sure do, unless Diane and I are enjoying some down time. Another day to explore tomorrow.