Heading East to North Dakota

Shelby, MT to Joplin, MT June 12, 2009 - The prevailing west winds have decided to come from the east so we have a head wind all the way to Joplin. It was a moderately tough day with the winds and our time slowed until we arrived in Chester. Chester was a nice stop and we all took advantage of the cafe, Subway and grocery store. We will have a group meal in Joplin as there are no restaurants. The plan is for chicken bomb sandwiches, creation from out Maine friends. The chicken bombs were great and a welcome meal after a windy day. Favorable winds took us from Chester on in to Joplin. There was not much town in Joplin but a great city park that we were allowed to camp free. There was a bar and cafe in Joplin that was open, Karl's or Ken's can't recall. Several locals were sipping beer and playing darts-not much action. Several of us did not set up tents and slept in the pavilion. A big rain and wind right after some set up tents, no damage but some wet tents. During the night after the storm the park irrigation system came on and there was more water for the tenters. I was happy I chose the pavilion for the night. Havre tomorrow and we will stay in the dorms at Northern Montana State University known for its nursing and diesel mechanic schools! We found out about the dorm deal from an east bound biker, Fred, on his way to Washington from Virginia suburbs of Washington DC. Havre here we come, North Dakota by July 19th or 20th.