I reached the town of Cape Girardeau after 30 miles. I seem to be making more miles faster now than on the upper river. The town is one of the few right on the river and convenient for me to stop. Most towns now are a mile or more away from the river. I stop at the boat ramp, walk through a large gate in the flood wall and head to main street. I walk into a cajun restaurant at 1 o’clock, the place almost empty, the hostess tries to seat me in a windowless area in the back. I look at myself. My sandy shoes, dirty pants, sweaty shirt and what’s that smell? Its me. Still I ask to sit by the front window where I charge my phone, use their wifi and they treat me very well.

Back on the river there are some fishermen on small, fast boats. They all ignore me until one comes up and dad asks what I’m up to and the son gives me two bottles of cold water and wishes me luck.

Water is important now. I carry 7 gallons and drink a gallon a day. Its in the low 90’s. I refilled two gallons while in town and always have it in mind where can I find it next.