Tebbetts to McKittrick; Distance = 30.4; People Met = 14+
This section was an important psychological milestone; the days get longer from here on out. We had another two gray days to emphasize the winter solstice. I’ve never had a beard before, could not grow one as a young adult, and this gathering of droplets in moist weather is new to me. Also new is the frequency with which we’ve encountered bald eagles.
Unfortunately, they usually spot us first and never hang around. With the gray skies I have trouble photographing them and I never think about getting my digital recorder out in time for their cries. Their screech is much like a hawk, except that a hawk is more abrupt, letting you know they are all business. The eagle screech tails off as if in soulful reflection.
The best I could get
Speaking of screeches, we went through another tunnel under a hill near McKittrick, once again providing for a great echo. This time I recorded something more seasonal.
We stayed two nights at Joey’s Birdhouse in McKittrick. This is a start-up Bed and Breakfast, asingle room in a building in sight of the Katy Trail. Joey has her pottery studio right next door to the B&B. Her partner Richard has grand visions for the restoration of McKittrick, buying dilapidated properties on the cheap and making something out of them that would appeal to the tourist industry evolving around the Katy Trail.
Joey's Birdhouse
Richard has a vision for McKittrick
Tim made some camper repairs for Ky
Our stay at Joey’s Birdhouse was complimentary, in response to the plea by our McKittrick hosts Jack and Pat Wendelton. They also set up a potluck presentation for me at the St. Paul UCC in Hermann, took us out to breakfast one morning and had us over to dinner that same evening. Yes, they are kind souls, but part of their hospitality derives from being fellow travelers. Pat walked the Katy Trail with Jack providing support. They also walked the Camino de Santiago Trail over in Europe. Jack is fond of historical mystery novels and filled us in a bit on everything from the Navajo to ninth century Celts.
Pat and Jack Wendelton hosting us for dinner
A testament to their caring, as they neared retirement they nevertheless took in two girls whose Mom died of cancer. Jack claims he’s a Goldwater Republican and Pat’s a Kennedy Democrat, but they both are basically just people who care about people.
Other Photos
Potluck at the St. Paul UCC in Hermann
The slow ones must run upstream
Emily served us at the Junction Coffee House
Merry Christmas, Kirk and Cindy and Ky! I have been following your blog daily and enjoying vicariously experiencing our country and the many kindnesses. Thank you!
Thanks Ann, Merry Christmas to you. See you back home.
We, at St Paul UCC, Hermann, MO enjoyed the opportunity of meeting Kirk & Cindy and Ky, the much needed support person for the Hiking Humanitarians. Kirk’s program presentation following the supper emphasized the necessity of each local community to step forward and organize to provide support programs to help those with Hunger, Housing and health issues in our area. Our church had identified the food challenged problems in our community and do provide support in this area, but have not investigated the housing and health issues facing many in our community. Kirk’s presentation has encouraged us to investigate these needs in our area then take action.
Greetings Jack,
Thank you for that comment, and for the kindness you extended towards us while we were on that stretch of the Katy Trail. Happy New Year!