Day 19

From the Heartland to the Land of Oz: Cycling Adventures on Day 18

Day 18 of our cycling expedition was a day of discovery and wonder as we journeyed from Guymon, Oklahoma, to the Kansas border. From vast wheat farms to unexpected encounters, our day was filled with memorable experiences and exciting discoveries along the way.

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Our journey took us to unexpected places, including a stop at the Hooker Bar and Grill, where we had the pleasure of meeting 94-year-old Evelyn. Her stories and wisdom reminded us of the rich tapestry of lives that make up the fabric of America.

Continuing on our way, we crossed into Kansas and found ourselves on the Yellow Brick Road to Dorothy’s house, a whimsical tribute to the beloved tale of The Wizard of Oz.

Our day of adventure didn’t end there. We also had the opportunity to visit the General Welch Mid-America Air Museum. We learned about the pioneers of flight and their role in shaping the world we live in today.

As the day drew to a close, we gathered for dinner at Vargas Restaurant Bar & Grill, where I had the pleasure of speaking with Lily, the current owner. Over the phone she told me about her son’s journey from serving as a Marine in Iraq to graduating from UCLA. It was a poignant reminder of the sacrifices made by so many and the resilience of the human spirit.

As we reflected on the day’s adventures, we couldn’t help but feel grateful for the experiences we had shared and the people we had met along the way. From the heartland of Oklahoma to the Land of Oz and beyond, each mile brought us closer to our destination while reminding us of the beauty and diversity of the world around us. As we prepared to continue our journey, we carried with us the memories of a day filled with discovery, wonder, and the joy of exploration.