Tuesday morning found us on the road West. From Mt. Vernon (gas at 249.9) we traveled I64 across the flat farmland of Western Illinois. to St. Louis, MO. where we picked up I70 toward Kansas City, MO.

Although it had rained quite a bit Monday night, we had a really pleasant drive until we got caught in traffic around an accident in St. Louis.

We noticed signs for a “Wine trail” at exit 175 and with the clock nearing noon, I was able to convince Mary that we ought to force ourselves to investigate. Three hours later, we really did force ourselves to leave the delightful town of Hermann, MO. We tasted wines and beers, toured the Stone Hill Winery (one of 10 or more in the area), toured the local brewery and sampled 5 different beers. If you are ever in the area, this is a wonderful place to spend and afternoon or a week. We regretted needing to be in KC this evening but pressed ever West to the Missouri, Kansas line for a great evening with Mary’s brother, Tom and his wife Maxine. We’ll be in KC for a couple of days taking in the sights and just relaxing before heading toward Mt. Rushmore on Friday. Oh, Tom and Maxine will travel with us to Rushmore and then they’ll return to KC while we continue our wandering.