Old Willie just could not “wait to get on the road again” and a few hundred miles into this trip I know the feeling — the joy of discovery today and the anticipation of what tomorrow might bring.

I hate straight Interstate driving so I usually meander a little to see the sites a bit off the beaten path. Since it was cold and overcast, and on a long trip it feels good to get some significant miles under ones belt the first day, I drove down I-39 a lesser used Interstate and made a slight detour to St. Louis, where every chance I get, I  stop at Forest Park, the site of the 1903 (I think) World’s Fair, now a fabulous park with three museums, a zoo, a botanical conservatory, fountains, gardens, trails, gazebos, a golf course, a few ponds, waterfalls, and more. It is a wonderful treasure for the city and much better than the usual rest area.

After a short hike and a picnic lunch, I was off to Paducah to take one of my favorite side trips, “The Trace” on the Land Between the Lakes. But that will  have to wait for tomorrow because sunset comes early this time of year.

For tonight I am in Metropolis, IL, feeling SUPER!