I'm Leaving Kansas City, really...

Seems like I've been here forever, and it is only the third day. And I'm lucky to be where I am so, what's the deal?

I arrived in KC expecting to be supported for the night (or two) by a local vet and, upon arrival, discovered that it had broken down. Seeking an immediate alternative, I was able to locate some distant "family." It was the sister of my last stepmother before my father had passed in Kansas City in 1998, and it had been that long since I had any contact with them whatsoever. Imagine my trepidation, knocking on a door not knowing if I would be welcome after so long a time. But after five minutes it was as if I'd last been there 10 minutes ago...a very welcoming feeling.

We spent a little time catching up, then Larry came by and offered me his home for as long as I would be there. I thought two days. It has been three so far and one more to go. Larry, by the way is the adopted son of my father's wife's sister. We were able to spend some time together before his work schedule got in the way but I am grateful for his generosity.

Keep in mind, one of my overarching goals for this journey is to raise money for other needy veterans charities and, the more I have to along the way is less I have to distribute on behalf of veterans, so it is more pragmatic than needy...a big difference.

Although Kansas is far greener now than I am used to seeing it, I must say I've seen a lot more of it than I had originally planned. Coming up from Branson, MO to KC was a delight, especially the stops in Pittsburg (KS, not PA) and Girard, but yesterday's trek to Lawrence, Topeka, St Mary’s, Emporia and Lyndon, then back to KC, was a wearying day...also hot and muggy.

News flask...just got a call from the VFW Post Commander in Richmond, MO, offering me up some hospitality for tonight so it looks like I'll be leaving KC today after all...saves me about 100 miles of driving as well as positions me for less travel tomorrow, both good things. So, today, as soon as I get packed up again, I'll be heading for Belton, Lone Jack, Buckner, Lexington and Richmond MO...gonna be a good day.

And good day to all of you.