Pedal the Parks: THREE DAYS

Before leaving our three (3) day campsite in Strawberry Point, the owners Wally and Dana asked if we would be interested in a Fall cook-off. They would host the event at their "Lil' Bit of Country" campgrounds. All proceeds, from the event, would be donated to our "Vision of Hope for Meniere's Research." This was quite a generous offer from a couple we had just met three (3) days before. This venture is proving to be more than just riding a unicycle in the park.

Heery Woods State Park, in Clarksville, was our first ride of the day. The park was very nice, easy to find, and it appeared the day was starting out right. Park #35 was in the books in short order.

Beeds Lake, in Hampton, was #36. It too, was easy to find, and proved to be a very nice casual ride. It appears the rides are getting easier, and more enjoyable. Especially, when the parks are easy to find, and the terrain is flat. Our experiences, from the last couple of days, are being over shadowed by these well established, and well funded State Parks.

Lake Cornelia, in Clarion, was the twelfth and final ride of the weekend. It too was easy to find, and quite a welcomed surprise. It is a very nice lake located close to the city, and has many nice homes surrounding it. The picnic area was large and crowded with families. A trail runs around the lake, and is well used. The only downfall was the trail was crushed stone, and much of it was loose. Patty and I rode the mile, despite this, and ended the weekend on a positive note. With the 37th park in the books, the halfway point is in sight.

Our small camper was just the right size for our weekend get-away. After this maiden voyage, we will likely use it more often. Setting up a "home base" closer to our destinations significantly cut down the windshield time. We have already logged nearly 2700 miles on our van, and have only visited a few of the "far away" parks. We are seeing parts of Iowa, never before explored, and visiting many parks that were only a dot on the map.

My many years of traveling this state (for work), and participating in several RAGBRAI's (Register's Great Bike Ride Across Iowa) have taken me to many Iowa destinations. Although some roads look familiar, many are new territory. With added enthusiasm, we will continue to drive, ride, and bring awareness to this dreaded disease they call "Meniere's." Please join us in our mission to raise needed funds for research to find a cure. Donate online at: www.givetoiowa.org/burkey