Looks like two very serious prospectors. Not much "color" to show for their hard work, but we sure did have a good time. Think Uncle Denny would have done much better with us staying in camp while he panned. Guess he is on his own now.

We're hitting the road today. About time to amble back to Illinois and get Patrick back to his mother in Pekin. He's been with us since the 1st week in June. Great traveler and adventurer. It's been great having him with us. He keeps the twinkle in our eyes and a smile on our faces.

Not sure where we're heading from there. May go back to my roots and hit my fathers home town of Gilman, Illinois. No family left there, but lots of memories. Guess we'll play it by ear. Seems that we have been doing everythin I want. Jody is going to be getting fed up with doing everything I want and start giving me some "direction" in the near future. You all know how quiet and shy she is...... hope she comes out of her shell soon.

We both recommend that you take the time and come to South Dakota. It rivals Maine for beautiful scenery, but exceeds it in parks and monuments. Mount Rushmore is more than we expected and impossible to put into words. Don't pass it up!