Remember, this is being composed on an HP200LX, basically a pocket organizer. Don't expect good typing. I am typing with my thumbs.
I am writing this while waiting for the sun to set in Badlands National Park (I will upload it later). I have little faith that these pictures will capture what I see here any more than any of the dozens I've already shot here, but I feel compelled to try, anyway. At least this beats writing this back in the motel room.
It was overcast this morning when I left Albert Lea, Minnesota, so I didn't stop for more pictures; been there, done that.
It wasn't too long before I saw what was to become many signs for Wall Drug. I saw almost a dozen in Minnesota, but all hell broke loose when I got to South Dakota.
(The wind just demonstrated its contempt by blowing over my tripod. I caught it before it hit the ground, but my small bag slid off the edge, dumping my flash and 300mm lens about five feet, where they luckily caught. They seem OK. I am now standing with my leg wrapped around one of the legs of the tripod.)
The default speed limit on the interstate in South Dakota is 75. I got a guilty thrill seeing a sign that said "Speed Zone Ahead" followed by one that said "Speed Limit 65".
I picked up a set of three audio tapes at the welcome center. They were $20, but I get $15 back when I return them in the provided postage paid envelope. Therare tapes for the two interstate highways that cross the state and one for the Black Hills. I have listed to the I90 one and recommend it.
The Corn Palace is even more impressive externally than I expected, even though it is under construction, and even dinkier internally than I had hoped. This year's theme for the corn mosaics that cover the outside is "Remember".
I bought a box of popcorn in the Corn Palace.
Overlooking the majestic Missouri River, just off I90, is Casey's Cafe Drug and Jewelry Store. They claim to have, according to a New York Times article, the Perfect Cheeseburger. It may not be perfect, but it is very good, the service was warm and friendly, and the made-from-scratch pie is a treat.
The light is failing. This looks like a good place to end part one. Day 1 part 2 will follow.