Summer Dream 2006

As they say, the day dawned bright and clear. Nary a hint of rain. The early morning sun clawing it’s way westward with a vengeance. Be wary, ye of fair skin. Off to Stillwater, 20 miles east, site of the annual Lumberjack competition. Front row bleacher seats for four major events, the misrey whip, stock chain saw, women’s boom running and broad ax. None but the young and the fit walk in those shoes. Seven trim, athletic and energetic young women sprinted down a precarious boom of logs loosely chained together. One mis-step mean a dunking in front of a cheering crowd. Down and back in 14 seconds for the hot ones ... or a cool swim on a hot day.

The misery whip (one man buck saw) competion was nearly won by a fellow from Oregon. He did some awesome sawing, 15 seconds through a 24 inch pine log. That kid from Alton could clear the forests on Mt Hood by himself. Took second place against a Canadian by one point.

The Harley part? The town was full of bikes; a lot of Harleys. The streets thundered. It was a precursor to Sturgis on the return trip.

Several hours in the sun enjoying Minnesota at it’s best certainly darken the hues of this chrome dome. I’m strarting to not recognize myself in the mirror and it’s only been a week. I love summer!!!!

And Teddy Bear park has a fascination for the children. As the photo’s shows, they love to be near the big bear; Bill & Zella, Barb and Big Joe.

A perfect dinner on the waterfront, sternwheelers plying the St Croix river, a cool breeze and the daily ration of grog could not have been a better way to end the day. Tomorrow the flag transfers to Bill’s, starting point for the Michigan leg on Wednesday morning. But first an oil change and a visit to a classmate and owner of www.oldcarart.com .