We haven’t had much to report from Gary, Minnesota, while we’ve been here for the corn silage and sugar beet harvest.
On the one hand, it’s been a disappointing season. We’ve had more rain this year, which meant Carl had less consistent work. That was discouraging. Then the sugar company changed the in-ground temperature thresholds for harvesting the sugar beets because of the weather forecast for the coming winter. They’re expecting a milder winter in these parts, which caused the sugar beet harvest to start and stop several times during the first week. Needless to say, that negatively impacted Carl’s shifts.
We’ve also had to deal with a mouse infestation coming from the alfalfa field behind us. They seem worse this year, and we’ve heard several stories this season about mice inhabiting cars, houses, and campers. We’ve had NINE so far!
This is MY number one hated and despised thing. Carl has been the hero, setting the traps and taking care of the victims. I can’t even look! I even had to spend one night away from the camper after spotting one. It was HORRIBLE!
On the other hand, Carl made good money during the short time he worked. And I’ve been busy with book formatting projects—a poetry book, a study guide, a memoir, and more. I’ve also been trying to keep both of my websites updated: rivetingjourney.com and booklayoutpro.com.
Now, it’s time to move on!
By Monday, October 26, we’ll be in Iowa visiting my aunt and uncle. Carl has already plotted our route and stops as we head south toward Texas. We’ll add Arkansas, Oklahoma, and Texas to our map, and we’re looking forward to exploring new places along the way. Our plans include visiting Big Bend National Park and Carlsbad Caverns before heading into Arizona. Then, in January, our daughters and their partners will join us in Las Vegas!
So, while our time in Minnesota has had its share of frustrations, we have plenty to look forward to. Wonderful places to explore and fabulous people to visit. What more could we ask for?
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