Walk Forrest Walk ~ Virtual Journey

Biography: Sacagawea - Guide & Friend

2012-02-01T17:51:00.000-05:00

2012-02-01T17:37:00.002-05:00

Walk Forrest Walk Virtual Journal, "Lewis & Clark" 1804"

Forrest's Virtual Journal of the first leg of the "Lewis & Clark Expedition" comes
to a completion after 1,360 miles walked. Starting in Camp Dubois, Illinois across the
Missouri River near St Louis, Mo. on July 25, 2011 terminating Feb 1, 2012 at the
winter home of "The Corp of Discovery" in present day Stanton, North Dakota.
Lewis & Clark spent the winter of 1804 &1805 amongst the people of the
Mandan Indian Tribes. Forrest will choose another Virtual Journal to undertake in the near future.
Walk Forrest Walk

Expedition Prepares For Winter

2012-02-01T07:26:00.001-05:00

8 Miles Today; What a difference a year makes. Unusually warm for Feb. 1st. One year ago Forrest walked in -8 degrees wind chill. I'm about to leave the house and the temperature is 40 degrees. Nothing but a smile on Forrest's face...........Later............My planned seven mile walk turned into 8.5 miles. I took my first anti-inflammatory for the hips and lower back medication this morning. My discomfort seems to be improved. I hope so..........Tomorrow Forrest will give his second presentation on his walking adventures to a organization in Lansing, Michigan called The National Active & Retired Federal Employees Association at 1pm. Forrest's first speech was in September last year to the Kiwanis Golden K of Lansing, Michigan. All I do is tell the folks find something you love to do and stick to it. In my particular case, Walking and History is what motivated me to pursue a healthy life style. Until tomorrow,,,,,,, my last day on my Virtual Lewis & Clark Journey, God Bless Walk Forrest Walk

Lewis & Clark Update 1804-1805

Winter Among the Mandan

The expedition members kept busy during the Fort Mandan winter, repairing equipment, trading with the Indians, and hunting for buffalo. Lewis and Clark learned much about the country to the west from the Mandan and their neighbors the Hidatsa.
Here, they hired as an interpreter Toussaint Charbonneau, a French-Canadian fur trapper living among the Hidatsa. Charbonneau, his Shoshone wife, Sacagawea, and their baby son, Jean Baptiste, would travel with the expedition when it left Fort Mandan. Then the spring rains came. The ice on the Missouri—in the winter a solid block across which herds of buffalo trotted without danger—finally began to break up. It was time to move on. Lewis and Clark had spent much of the winter writing a report about what they had seen so far. They dispatched it and about a dozen expedition members—plus 108 botanical specimens, 68 mineral specimens, and Clark’s map of the United States—aboard the keelboat, which was bound for St. Louis and, eventually, President Jefferson.
Six dugout canoes and the two larger pirogues were loaded with supplies and equipment. The expedition was about to take a step into territory no American had ever entered.

Warm Ending To Jan, 2012

2012-01-31T14:06:00.003-05:00

Jan 31, 2012 University of Michigan students
enjoying the 55 degree weather

8 Miles Today; What a glorious day to end the normally cold month of January. The roads were wet but Forrest is not complaining. With a unbelievable temperature of 51 degrees, a bright sunny day, my aches and pains seemed not so important. Speaking of aches and pains, my doctor visit yesterday was a mixture of good and bad news. The bad news is I have degenerative disk disease in the lower back (L-2/L3). Secondly, Forrest has signs of beginning osteporsis in both hips. The doctors said that both ailments are the results of the "ageing process" . The good news is walking is recommended for arthritis, (maybe not quite as much as Forrest). My treatment for now is the medication called Mobic (meloxicam) A anti-inflammatory pill taken each day instead of two Aleve pills I take now. Forrest visits the doctor for evaluation one month from today. OK, enough of the medical stuff.............My walking month of January 2012 ended on high note. Forrest logged 215 miles compared to 206 miles in January 2011. In Mid-February Forrest will reach the 14,000 miles of consecutive walking days. Until tomorrow, God Bless Walk Forrest Walk

L&C Searching For a Winter Home

2012-01-30T09:32:00.000-05:00

7 Miles Today; My early morning walk consisted of snow cover roads pack to near solid ice by the auto traffic. I tried to stay on the side roads which did have some snow for traction. A big warm-up is on the way. Until tomorrow, God Bless Walk Forrest Walk

Lewis & Clark Update

Winter With The Mandan Tribe

The Mandan were a passive tribe of the plains area and were culturally connected with their neighbors on the Missouri River, the Arikara and the Hidatsa. The Mandan had interesting cultural traits, including a myth of origin describing that their ancestors climbed from beneath the earth on the roots of a grapevine. It is believed that at one time the Mandan lived further east, but they historically migrated westward up the Missouri River. By the mid-18th century, they occupied nine villages near the mouth of the Heart River in south central North Dakota. After withstanding a severe smallpox outbreak and attacks of the Assiniboin and the Sioux, the Mandan moved farther up the Missouri River, opposite the Arikara villages. It was here that the Mandan survivors merged into two villages on opposite sides of the Knife River. It was here that Lewis and Clark Expedition spent the winter of 1804-05 , who reported in their journals that the tribe numbered some 1,250. It was during this visit that Sacagawea became part of their team. In 1837, after an epidemic of smallpox and cholera, the Mandan were reduced to some 150, all dwelling in a single village. to be continued

2012-01-30T09:13:00.002-05:00

By late October 1804 the Corps of Discovery reached the villages of the Mandan Indian tribe, where they built Fort Mandan (near present-day Stanton, North Dakota), and spent the winter of 1804-1805. The Mandan people lived in earth lodges along the Missouri River. Their neighbors the Hidatsa lived along the Knife River close by. The villages of the Mandan and Hidatsa people were the center of a huge trade network in the West. Lewis and Clark were not the first European
Americans to visit this part of the country. During the winter Lewis and Clark recruited a Frenchman who had lived with the Hidatsa (sometimes referred to as the Minnetari) Indians for many years. His name was Toussaint Charbonneau, and the captains wanted him to act as an interpreter. They got a real bargain, because along with charbonneau would come his 16-year old shoshone wife, Sacagawea, and her newborn baby boy.

Dealing With The Snow

2012-01-29T22:17:00.000-05:00

7 Miles Today; I waited until dark to walk. I didn't want people seeing me struggling with the fresh snowfall of four or more inches that fell early this morning. It took me two hours and twenty minutes to finish my route. I must be nuts...........Oh well.....Until tomorrow, God Bless Walk Forrest Walk

Miserable,Just Miserable Weather

2012-01-28T21:05:00.001-05:00

6 Miles Today; Snow over night along with very high winds made today miserable................ Forrest would like to forget completely my troubles with the wind and ice. I wanted to log seven miles but was fortunate enough to make six miles, given me 51 miles walked this week. Two inches of fresh snow is forecast for tonight. I hate winter, I hate winter, I hate winter...............Until tomorrow, God Bless Walk Forrest Walk

Snow Covered Roads

2012-01-27T14:26:00.001-05:00

8 Miles Today; As I'm writing my blog entry the sun is shining with a temperature of 35 degrees and the roads are clear of the snow and ice I encountered this morning. When Forrest set out a little before 7am the roads were snow covered from last night's snowfall . With just a little over an inch of the white stuff on the ground the walking wasn't too bad. As the traffic increased the roads got slippery and slushy. The last hour of my walk was tough on my hips and lower back. All my test results are at my primary doctor's office. As of right now I'm not near 100% but I feel better walking than I have the last couple months. I think the word is Arthritis will come up when I visit my doctor.....Until tomorrow, God Bless Walk Forrest Walk

Forrest's Makes A Decision

2012-01-26T08:22:00.000-05:00

8 Miles Today; Forrest latest journey will end next week in Stanton, North Dakota (50 miles north of today's location). After more than six months/1,300 miles of walking on my current virtual journey of following Lewis & Clark's Missouri River route to establish a western trade route to the Pacific Ocean. Lewis & Clark and it's crew of "The Corp of Discovery" built a permanent winter camp north of Mandan at present day Stanton, North Dakota (see story at right). So as the men of the expedition spend the coming winter months of 1804-1805 waiting for the spring thaw. Forrest will find another historic adventure to tackle. Forrest is researching his next Virtual Journey. All suggestions are welcome..............Until tomorrow, God Bless Walk Forrest Walk

Mandan Indians

2012-01-25T12:09:00.001-05:00

7 Miles Today; With the sun shinning brightly and a temperature in the mid-30's it sure didn't seem like late January. Forrest really enjoys walking on dry surfaces. Until tomorrow, God Bless Walk Forrest Walk

Lewis & Clark Update

Late October 1804

The Corps of Discovery reached the Mandan villages in the fall of 1804 and stayed the winter in Fort Mandan, across the river from Matootonha.
In Mandan culture, the village was the focus of political, economic and ceremonial activity. It represented a collective of households, all striving together to better each family, clan and the village itself. A sacred cedar post stood at the center of the Mandan village, symbolizing the tribe’s primary cultural hero. The post was surrounded by an open plaza, and at the north end of the plaza was the village’s primary medicine lodge. Forty or fifty additional lodges populated the plaza. The more powerful a family was, or the more significant that family’s ceremonial duties were, the closer its lodge would be to the center. On average, 10 people lived in each lodge. Throughout most of the year, the Mandans lived in these permanent lodges. But in the winter, to avoid brutal storms, they constructed temporary lodges in wooded, low-lying areas adjacent to the river.
In fields that surrounded the villages, the Mandans grew their harvests. Crops included corn, beans, squash and tobacco. When the fall came, a diversity of Indian tribes and Europeans descended on the Mandan villages, bringing a rich and varied assortment of goods. At the high point of trade, Crees, Cheyennes, Assiniboins, Crows and even enemy Teton Sioux could be counted among the attending delegations. Everything from meat products to horses to musical instruments was exchanged for Mandan corn.
When the Corps of Discovery entered their world in October 1804, the Mandans seemed receptive to the goals of the expedition. Lewis and Clark’s hope for a Mandan peace with the Arikaras and plan to reside nearby for the winter months were accepted and agreed to by the Mandan leaders. Still, in spite of peace talks between the Arikaras and the Mandans that were orchestrated by the expedition, conflict broke out again between the two tribes as winter approached. to be continued

Biography: Sacagawea - Guide & Friend

2012-01-24T19:46:00.000-05:00

Strange Winter Upon Us

2012-01-24T16:43:00.003-05:00

7 Miles Today; Walked in the early morning darkness. It was cold but very nice. Dry roads and NO SNOW......... For the last week in January it's a bonus for walkers and joggers.

Forrest's Blog Entry From Jan 23, one year ago

6 Miles Today; I can't say I'm happy about the 4 degree weather, but Forrest didn't have to deal with wet slushy snow on the road and side streets this morning. Forrest saw absolutely nobody this morning. I guess it's true what people say about the walking guy, "he's either dedicated or obsessed".....Until tomorrow, God Bless Walk Forrest Walk

Bismark ~ Mandan North Dakota

2012-01-23T07:49:00.001-05:00

8 Miles Today;
My virtual walking journey has me seven miles south of Mandan, North Dakota. Along with Lewis & Clark historical campsite here along the Missouri. Another historical site is located here in the Bismark, Mandan area.

What a difference a day makes.... It rained hard last night. Hopefully all the snow and ice is gone from the road surfaces............to be continued ....what great day to walk. It's the third week of January and it seemed like early spring. Forty degree temperatures and NO snow. Life is good............Until tomorrow, God Bless Walk Forrest Walk

Lewis & Clark Update

Bismark & Mandan North Dakota

The History of Fort Abraham Lincoln

As the Northern Pacific Railroad advanced west across Dakota Territory, the US military kept pace. When the railroad reached the Missouri River in 1872, Fort McKeen was established on the west bank of the river as a small infantry post. In November of that year, Fort McKeen was renamed Fort Abraham Lincoln.

Fort Abraham Lincoln was expanded to house six companies of the 7th Cavalry under the command of Lt. Col. George Armstrong Custer in 1873. Their mission was to further the advancement of the Northern Pacific Railroad and guarantee the westward expansion of the American frontier.
By 1874, Fort Abraham Lincoln was the largest and most important fort in Dakota Territory, housing a combined 650 cavalry and infantry soldiers. The fort was also the starting point of the 1874 Black Hills Expedition undertaken to confirm rumors of gold in the area.
May 17, 1876, the troops left Fort Lincoln on the Centennial Campaign, which took the 7th Cavalry into the valley of the Little Big Horn. They were attempting to force non-treaty Indians back to their respective reservations. Outnumbered, outgunned, and out-maneuvered, over 260 men were killed during the ensuing battle, including all five of Custer's companies.
In 1883, the cavalry was detached to Fort Meade, in present-day South Dakota, the Northern Pacific Railroad was completed to Montana, and Fort Abraham Lincoln’s importance declined. The post was officially abandoned in 1891 by order of Congress. Fort Abraham Lincoln and General Custer’s 7th Cavalry would leave a lasting legacy for years to come. .............to be continued

Rough Walking

2012-01-22T11:32:00.001-05:00

7 Miles Today; I don't know what the wind-chill was this morning but it must have been in the single digits. With the cold weather to go along with my virtual journey of Lewis & Clark during the winter of 1804...Forrest feels he is living alongside the crew of "The Corps of Discovery".(my fingers are stiff from the cold).....................Now that I have had time to warm-up, I can now finish my blog entry for the day. The main roads were clear except for the slush on the edges from the salt. The side streets are still snow-covered and rutty and it's very hard to walk. The footing is slippery and uneven. Forrest did have the luxury of some clear sidewalks. THANK-YOU all you homeowners along my route. That's it until tomorrow, God Bless Walk Forrest Walk

"Mapping The Missouri"-Winter At Fort Mandan

Painting by Charles Fritz

Winter's Back

2012-01-21T07:47:00.003-05:00

7 Miles Today; As daylight approaches I'm about to head outside and walk. My walking week fell a little short of my weekly goal of 50 miles. With a temperature of19 degrees and a very sunny day my walk went pretty good today. What little snow that was on the roads didn't cause much of a problem. Until tomorrow, Walk Forrest Walk

Forrest's Virtual Journal Update

A Few Miles South Of Mandan, North Dakota

From The Lewis & Clark Archives

October 18, 1804
Passed the mouth of the Cannonball River, the river takes its name from those stones which resemble Cannon Balls. We met two Frenchmen in a perogue descending from hunting & complained of the Mandans robing them of 4 traps their furs & several articles… in the evening I walked on the shore with a view to see some of those remarkable places mentioned by a man named John Evans, none of which I could find.

John Evans, a young man from Wales, (Great Britain). He had made the most formidable effort before Lewis & Clark to explore the Upper Missouri. The expedition was using a copy of his drawn map, which was sent to Lewis by Jefferson.

October 19, 1804In walking along the shore we counted fifty-two herds of buffalo Mandan villages, the first ruins we have seen of that nation in ascending the Missouri. to be continued

Mandan/Bismark North Dakota

2012-01-20T08:04:00.001-05:00

7 Miles Today; Wow, it's just as cold here in mid-Michigan as it's in North Dakota this morning. Right now the temperature is 1 degree. Forrest will wait until the heat wave arrives a little later in the day to venture outside. I think a balmy 10-15 degrees will be sufficient .............. now it's time for coffee with my old retiree buddies at MacDonald's... to be continued...7PM....I walked from noon until a little after two. Even though it was only 12 degrees it wasn't bad at all. Even my hips and lower back felt much better today. After yesterday's wind chill, today seemed like Hawaii....Until tomorrow, God Bless Walk Forrest Walk

Wild Chill Today....5 degrees

2012-01-19T16:13:00.000-05:00

6 Miles Today; It was like a scene out of the movie "Doctor Zhivago". Forrest struggled with the morning blizzard. But some how I managed to get most of my planned walk completed. Tomorrow is another day, until then God Bless Walk Forrest Walk

Happy Birthday To My Youngest

2012-01-19T09:07:00.002-05:00

On a bitter cold morning on this day in January 1970 , this little guy showed up on our doorstep...

Happy Birthday "TONY"

Approaching Historic Mandan, ND

2012-01-18T07:38:00.002-05:00

7 Miles Today; ICE, ICE, ICE.............I'll wait until later.........It's now mid-afternoon and I'm glad I got through my walk unscathed. I did a lot of shuffling just to keep my balance. With the ice and a temperature of 20 degrees and a slight breeze, Forrest was all by himself today. Until tomorrow, God Bless Walk Forrest Walk

Lewis & Clark Update

October 1804

On the west side of the mighty Missouri River, lies Fort Abraham Lincoln near present day Mandan, North Dakota . This area along the Lewis & Clark Trail encompasses history of legendary proportions. Lewis and Clark camped here in late October 1804. Home of the Mandan Indians, the expedition stay here in the winter of 1804-1805. History tells us that famous Civil War General George A. Custer and his vaunted 7th Cavalry rode out from Fort Abraham Lincoln to their destiny at the Little Bighorn.....to be continued......

Miserable Weather Day In Michigan

2012-01-17T21:04:00.001-05:00

7 Miles Today; A very nasty day for walking. Even though it was freezing rain that turned to snow I still managed to force myself to walk in the the darkness of early evening. Until tomorrow, God Bless Walk Forrest Walk

Sioux County, North Dakota

2012-01-16T13:35:00.020-05:00

7 Miles Today; A very cold and windy day. Forrest saw absolutely nobody outside walking or jogging. The sun was shinning but the wind played havoc with trying to stay warm. During my morning walk Forrest saw his pal Dave L. going into MacDonald's for coffee. Dave was born and raised in the great state of North Dakota. When my virtual journey approaches his birthplace I will be sure to write about it in my blog.....to be continued after my doctor's appointment later this afternoon......My appointment with the rheumatologist was good news for me. I do not show signs of rheumatoid arthritis. Beginning signs of osteoarthritis are present in the hips and lower back due to the my aging process (getting old is for the birds) was noted on blood work, xrays and MRI. A full report is being sent to my primary physician. In turn he will schedule an appointment for me for follow up treatment. I sign off by saying " I want to Walk, I need to Walk, I WILL WALK!!... Until tomorrow, God Bless Walk Forrest Walk

Lewis & Clark Update

excerpt from a crewman's journal

October 16, 1804 (Camped about two miles above and opposite Big Beaver Creek, Sioux County, North Dakota)
"having made fourteen and a half miles, we encamped. We were soon visited by numbers of these Ricaras (Indian tribe) who crossed the river hollowing and singing; two of them then returned for some goats’ flesh and buffalo meat dried and fresh, with which they made a feast that lasted till late at night and caused much music and merriment."

Ft Yates, North Dakota

2012-01-15T09:08:00.049-05:00

7 Miles Today; Forrest waited until this afternoon to walk. It was a very sunny 20 degrees. My lower back is still an issue, causing pain while walking. I have a 3:15 appointment tomorrow with a rheumatologist.

Arerial View Of Present Day Ft. Yates, ND

Lewis & Clark Update

October 15, 1804

Forrest's Virtual Location In North Dakota (70 miles To Mandan)

Lewis and Clark and their party camped somewhere near the island seen at upper right. For the past two weeks they had been in the homeland of the Arikara, or Sahnish, people, who lived in earth lodges and raised corn, beans, pumpkins, watermelons, squashes, and mild Indian tobacco. To these friendly people, Sergeant Ordway reported, "the Greatest Curiosity . . . was York," Clark’s black slave. "The children would follow after him, & if he turned towards them they would run from him & hollow as if they were terrified, & afraid of him."

Proceeding upriver the following day, the Corps observed an Indian strategy for hunting game. As men on horseback herded pronghorns — "goats or Antelope," Clark called them — into the river, boys swam among them and killed some with sticks, while others on shore shot them with bows and arrows. "I saw 58 Killed in this way," wrote Clark.

By 1845 the ravages of disease and ongoing warfare with the Sioux forced the Arikaras to move up the Missouri and settle among the Mandans and Hidatsas in North Dakota. In 1868 the Great Sioux Nation took over this land under the terms of the Fort Laramie Treaty. However, the boundaries of their once vast domain were steadily reduced during the subsequent forty years until only today’s isolated and impoverished Standing Rock Reservation was left. Its headquarters are here at Fort Yates, North Dakota, on an island in Lake Oahe. Today, four bands of Sioux subsist marginally on the 562,000-acre reservation: Sihasapa, Hunkpapa, Lower Yanktonai, and Upper Yanktonai..... to be continued.....

Untl then, God Bless Walk Forrest Walk...

Winter Returns

2012-01-14T13:25:00.001-05:00

6 Miles Today; Forrest was not alone on his walk this morning. My bride Joanne accompanied me for a interesting walk through snow, ice and some slush. The temperature was 22 degrees. Joanne and I both wore old shoes. We didn't want slush and salt ruining our new ones. Forrest's total miles for the week totaled 50. With my back problems I consider fifty miles a miracle. Who knows what next week will bring. Cold weather is not a problem. Dry walking surface is the key factor for a any runner, or walker. Until tomorrow, God Bless Walk Forrest Walk

Forrest Reaches North Dakota

2012-01-13T20:27:00.001-05:00

6 Miles Today; With overnight snow that accumulated four plus inches of
miserable walking conditions. Walking in car tracks and ice underfoot, my lower back took a beating. Forrest was a pathetic site to behold trying to walk normal..Enough said..Until tomorrow, God Bless Walk Forrest Walk

North Dakota

America's 39th State

November 2, 1889

Snow Headed Our Way

2012-01-12T08:58:00.002-05:00

8 Miles Today; I haven't walked yet but planning on doing eight miles as soon as the rain lets up. It's supposed to snow later in the day. What ever the situation I have the right clothing for the job.....After my walk today, Forrest's virtual journey will put him at the same location the The Lewis & Clark Expedition and "The Corps of Discovery" camped on that day so long ago ...God Bless Walk Forrest Walk (completed walk before snow, dealt with a little COLD rain..)
Here's a excerpt from a crew members journal
October 13, 1804 (Camped about one mile south of the North Dakota state line, Campbell County, South Dakota)
"A creek 18 miles above the Ricaras (name of a Indian tribe) I call Stone Idol Creek, this creek heads in a small lake at no great distance, near what there is a Stone to which the Indians ascribe a great virtue*. Those people have a curious tradition of those stones, one man was a man in love, one girl whose parents would not let them yet in her hand... a court martial convened this day for the trial of John Newman charged with "having uttered repeated expressions of a highly criminal and mutinous nature; the same having a tendency not only to destroy every principle of military discipline, but also to alienate the affections of the individuals composing this detachment to their officers, and disaffect them to the service for which they have been so sacredly and solemnly engaged. The prisoner plead not guilty to the charge... the court are unanimously of opinion that the prisoner John Newman is guilty....... to be continued

Ten Miles To North Dakota

2012-01-11T07:33:00.001-05:00

7 Miles Today; According to the weatherman, enjoy today because changes are instore for the next few days. Possilibly 6 inches of snow on it's way. January is almost half over and it's been like early April. "Come on Mother Nature give Forrest your best shot.......I'm ready".....Until tomorrow, God Bless Walk Forrest Walk

WILLIAM CLARK Thursday, October 11, 1804
(near present day Pollack, SD

10 miles from North Dakota)

From Capt. William Clark's Journal (note: spelling and grammar much different in early America)"... at 11 o'clock we met the Grand Chief in Council and he made a Short Speech thanking us for what we had given him... & informed us the road was open & no one dare Shut it, & we might Depart at pleasure... we also visited the upper or 3rd Village each of which gave us Something to ate in their way, and a few bushels of Corn Beans etc. after being treated by every civility by those people who are both pore & Dirty we returned to our boat... Those people gave us to eat bread made of Corn & Beans, also Corn and Beans boiled. a large Been (of) which they rob the mice of the Prairie (who collect & discover it) which is rich & very nourishing also [S]quashes etc. all Tranquillity."

January Acting Like April

2012-01-10T19:21:00.001-05:00

7 Miles Today; The nice days in January are continuing. The temperature got up to 46 with lots of sun. It was more like baseball and golf weather. I don't know how long I can keep my 7/mi/day pace. My lower back is not being good to me. I see on the Lewis & Clark map I'm just 17 miles from North Dakota. I'll update Lewis & Clark tomorrow. Until then God Bless Walk Forrest Walk

Birthplace of A Legend

2012-01-09T11:34:00.001-05:00

7 Miles Today; Just another day in the life of Forrest. Another cool but nice day in January. The results from yesterday's MRI will be at my doctor's in 3-4 working days. In the meantime I will keep walking, sore back and hips. I've added to my blog more information on my virtual location on my interesting Lewis & Clark Trail....Until tomorrow, God Bless Walk Forrest Walk
Birthplace of legendary Sioux Chief Sitting Bull

Mobridge, SD
Sitting Bull was born a few miles west of Mobridge South Dakota in March 1831. He was not a hereditary chief, but he acquired whatever power possessed through personal qualities which appealed to his people. Sitting Bull’s tragic end came at the very place he was born. The great Sioux leader was shot by Indian police in 1890 while resisting arrest and his body was placed in a simple grave without ceremony in Ft. Yates, ND. Mobridge became nationally known when, on a dark and stormy April night in 1953, relatives of Sitting Bull moved Chief Sitting Bull's remains to a grave site just west across the river from Mobridge SD..

Mobridge, South Dakota

2012-01-08T07:17:00.004-05:00

8 Miles Today; I won't be walking till late this afternoon. Forrest has an appointment this morning at 8am (Lansing's Ingham Medical Hospital) for a MRI on his lower back. As my virtual walking shows, Forrest is getting very close to North Dakota. A little colder than yesterday but still great weather for January.........to be continued....I timed my walk as to see a beautiful sunset on this the 8 day of January. above normal temperatures will according to the weatherman will be with us for least another four days.
My Lewis & Clark Virtual Journey has Forrest visiting the last town the the Missouri River before reaching the South/North Dakota state line. Mobridge, SD is the Midwest's largest annual ice fishing tournament where, up to 450, 2-person teams try their luck at cash prizes. Until tomorrow, God Bless Walk Forrest Walk

Lewis & Clark Update (excerpt from the journal of Capt. Clark)

Near present day Mobridge, SD (pop 4,400)

October 8, 1804 (Camped between Oak and Fisher Creeks, Corson County, South Dakota) Two of our men discovered the ricckerre village, about the Center of the Island. The island is covered with fields, where those people raise their Corn Tobacco beans. Great numbers of those people came on the Island to see us pass, we passed above the head of the Island and Capt. Lewis with 2 interpreters & 2 men went to the Village. I formed a Camp of the french & the guard on Shore, with one sentinel on board of the boat at anchor, a pleasant evening all things arranged both for Peace or War.... Several French men came up with Capt Lewis in a Perogue (canoe), one of which is a man well versed in the language of this nation. to be continued

Nice Weather

2012-01-07T07:53:00.003-05:00

7 Miles Today; As I get ready to walk, I see another beautiful sunrise. I find it hard to believe it's early January with no snow and mild temperature (high 30's)........It's now mid afternoon and time to finish my blog entry for the day. My miles this morning gave me 47 for the week. Under my average of 50/wk but with my sore back and hips I'm satisfied. My blog entry from one year ago read that we had 2 inches of snow fall during the night adding to the slush on the ground from the January thaw the previous few days. My memory tells me that Forrest had to deal with a lot of slush and icy roads the first few weeks of January last year. Tomorrow at 8:30 am I have a MRI scheduled at Ingham Medical on my lower back. My walk will have to wait to the afternoon. Until then God Bless Walk Forrest Walk

Lewis & Clark Update
Journal Entry From Capt.William Clark

7th of October Sunday 1804 Frost last night, passed a River 90 yds. wide all the water of this river runs in a channel of 20 yards, the Current appears gentle, I walked up this River a mile, Saw the tracks of white bear, very large, also a old Ricara village partly burnt, fortified about 60 Lodges built in the Same form of those passed yesterday, many Canoes & Baskets about the huts— about 10 o'clock we saw 2 Indians on the south shore, they asked for Something to eat & told us they were Tetons. We gave them meat, passed a large open Island covered with grass and wild rye, I walked on the island & 4 men they 〈our〉 Killed a Barrow & a Black tale Doe with a black breast, the largest Deer I ever saw, the great numbers of Grouse on it, we call it Grouse Island, Camped opposite the Island near the south side....... to be continued

2012-01-07T07:46:00.000-05:00

Lewis & Clark Update
Journal Entry From Capt.William Clark

Not Bad For Early January

2012-01-06T19:48:00.000-05:00

7 Miles Today; The weather today was out of this world for this time of year...Mid 50's was the temperature with bright sunshine. "Unbelievable". The down side was my tender hips and lower back are still causing me grief. I have a MRI scheduled for this coming Sunday on my lower back. My back x-rays from last week showed that a MRI was needed to look closer at the L2 & L3 region. Forrest's Virtual Journey of The Lewis & Clark has him near the town of Mobridge, South Dakota, approximately 40 miles from North Dakota. The Corps Of Discovery reached this location in early October 1804. That's it for this beautiful day in January until tomorrow, God Bless Walk Forrest Walk

Lewis & Clark Update

October 6-7 1804

Near present day Molbridge, South Dakota
Excerpt from journal of a Corps of Discovery crew member............."The high land not so high as below, river about the same width, sandbars as numerous, the earth black and many of the bluffs have the appearance of being on fire. We came too and camped on a mud bar. The evening is calm and pleasant, refreshed the men with a glass of whiskey."
October 6, 1804 (Camped at the mouth of Swan Creek, Walworth County, South Dakota)
"Halted for dinner at a village which we suppose to have belonged to the Recorees (know today as Arikara Tribe--Lewis and Clark speak of the Arikara as the remnant of 10 powerful Pawnee tribes, living in 1804 in 3 villages.) The inroads of disease and war have so reduced the tribe that little now remains. and consists of eighty lodges of an octagon form* neatly covered with earth and placed as close to each other as possible. The skin canoes, mats, buckets and articles found in the lodges induce us to suppose that it had been left in the spring. We found three different sorts of squashes growing in the village."
octagon form*- Description of the typical earth lodges of Missouri River Indians

Chicago Ice

2012-01-05T08:08:00.001-05:00

8 Miles Today; Back home in Michigan. I waited until just before dark to walk. My lower back and hips are giving me some discomfort the last couple of days. I blame it on Chicago ice. I wanted to walk in the dark today in case I started to limp. As it turned out I did have trouble walking my normal pace. I'm glad people didn't witness my troubles. Until tomorrow, God Bless Walk Forrest Walk

Photo in Chicago Tribune Newspaper, Jan 4th. Forrest walked by this location three days in a row. Monday, Tuesday & Wednesday. My walks definitely were not boring.

Last Day In Chicago

2012-01-04T11:07:00.001-05:00

Renae's Building
26h Floor

6 Miles Today; Forrest was out before daylight walking the lake shore trail. Saw a beautiful sunrise. By the time I got to Navy Pier it was a sight to behold, seeing ducks, geese, and numerous fisherman braving the 23 degree weather sitting on the pier hopeing to catch perch. I walked out to the very end of the pier where the ballroom is located pausing and enjoying the view to the east across the lake towards Michigan before turning around and heading back to my daughter Renae's home. I leave for Michigan on the AmTrak train later this afteroon. So long from The Windy City. Until tomorrow, God Bless Walk Forrest Walk

20 Degrees & Windy In Chicago

2012-01-03T21:07:00.000-05:00

6 Miles Today; As very busy day of doing projects at my daughter Renae's condo. My jobs today were checking sink traps in kitchen & bath. I had to replace the sink trap in bathroom. Rehang pictures, reroute TV wires, fix electric outlet (loose wire). Fix under-the-counter light in kitchen. Put together new computer desk and chair. etc........I didn't get out for my walk to Navy Pier until late afternoon. It was pitch dark when I finished. I'll have to wait to get back to Michigan to update my Lewis & Clark Virtual Journey...........That's it from a cold and windy Chicago. Until tomorrow, God Bless Walk Forrest Walk

Forrest Experiences Chicago's Brutal Weather

2012-01-02T15:03:00.004-05:00

6 (Tough) Miles Today; Forrest came face to face with Mother Nature at her best at causing havoc. Forrest waited until daylight to see what Lake Michigan looked like from 26 floors up. Even though it was in the low 20's the lake didn't look too threatening. The weatherman said there would be wind gusts up 40 mph. With steady 20-25 winds, I set out for the trek down to the Lake Shore where the joggers, bikers, and walkers do their thing. I wondered why my daughter Renae's made me take a full face mask ... well after a brutal 30 minutes of dealing with the elements I had stop and put on the face mask! I know I would have turned back if I had not be wearing it. I kid you not, the waves and white caps where a sight to behold watching them hit the shoreline and cement breakers. Water and spray everywhere. If a person was crazy enough and had a surfboard, Lake Michigan was there to furnish the high surf. Anyway, never a dull moment for the walking guy. Until tomorrow from the beautiful City of Chicago, God Bless Walk Forrest Walk

1,900 Days

2012-01-01T06:25:00.007-05:00

Chicago's Lake Shore Drive in Winter
Near Navy Pier & Renae's Condo

7 Miles Today; Getting my walk in early, leaving for Chicago around noon. Forrest reached a milestone in his walking endeavor. (see yesterday's blog)
I had a little of everything this morning. Wind, a little rain, a short period of sunshine and a temperature of 41 degrees. Not bad for January 1st. Anyway, bad weather is coming across Lake Michigan as we speak. My daughter Renae and Forrest are off to Chicago in her car until Wednesday before I'll board the Amtrak Train back to Lansing.. Renae has some projects lined up for her Pop. Forrest will be doing his daily walking on the shores of Lake Michigan for the next three days. Until then "Happy New Year Everyone"....God Bless Walk Forrest Walk

Out With The Old ~ In With The New

2011-12-31T12:01:00.000-05:00

Welcome 2012

7 Miles Today; It's was unseasonably warm
today. What a treat for me this morning......When I left the house it was a balmy 40 degrees. That's right, 40 degrees. Forrest had completely dry roads to navigate, that includes neighborhood streets as well. Being the last day of the year it was my last day on my current pair of shoes. I started wearing these shoes on Aug. 29. These current shoes have over 800 miles on them.Tomorrow it's a new year with new shoes (pair #19). My December miles where 219. For the year of 2011 Forrest logged 2,611 miles. (2,767 miles last year) 2,796 in 2009. (In 2008 I walked 2,826 miles) The year 2007 in logged 2,285 miles) and my first year of walking which started in late October I recorded 375 miles. That's a whole lot of SHOES !! I wouldn't be walking if I didn't enjoy it. Forrest's consecutive days of walking stands at 1,899 and counting. Until tomorrow, (milestone 1,900) God Bless Walk Forrest Walk

Forrest Visits Gettysburg, South Dakota

2011-12-30T07:50:00.001-05:00

7 Miles Today; With rain bearing down on Mid-Michigan Forrest decided to get his walk in early. With the temperature above freezing and the roads free of my biggest enemy, "ICE"-- I had a pretty nice walk, even though my lower back and hips gave my some discomfort. Just one more day on these old shoes. My brand new NB Shoes are ready for the Walking Guy to lace up on Sunday morning. Until New Years Eve, God Bless Walk Forrest Walk

Forrest Following The Lewis & Clark Trail

Forrest Virtual Journey

Gettysburg, South Dakota was named for the Gettysburg, Pennsylvania battlefield by a group of Union Civil War veterans who first settled here. Gettysburg, SD was founded in 1881 and is the county seat of Potter County. The Cheyenne River Reservation, lies close by to Gettysburg. This large reservation covers parts of three counties. Gettysburg is a friendly and thriving town of 2,200 on Hwy 212.the Lewis and Clark Trail nearby is a popular tourist attraction. Forrest's journey is just 60 miles from the North Dakota state line....to be continued...............HAPPY NEW YEAR TO ALL

2011-12-29T17:10:00.001-05:00

7 Miles Today; It was cold and windy this morning. The temperature was in the mid-20's. Cold weather is no problem for the walking guy but ICE scares me. I fell yesterday but didn't do any damage. That's only the 4th time I've fallen in my walking career, I hope it's the last. Just two walking days left in 2011. My walking log says I'll be about 150 miles less than last year. With all the ankle and hip problems I've dealt with this year my miles will surpass 2,600. I'm looking forward to wearing my new shoes. I received them last week but waiting for Jan 1st to slip on my 19th pair of shoes since I started this insane project (I'm happy I did).. Until tomorrow, God Bless Walk Forrest Walk

Lewis & Clark Update

First Week In October 1804

On October 8, 1804, the Lewis & Clark expedition made contact with the Arikara; and stayed with them for five days.. Relations between the Corps and the Arikara were good. They observed and recorded descriptions of their hosts, noting in their journals “Arikara men wore buffalo robes, leggings, and mocassins. Women were clad in fringed antelope dresses.”

The Arikara Indians were primarily an agricultural society. Their major crops were corn, beans, and squash; but they also grew tobacco, watermelon, and pumpkins. They also hunted buffalo, deer and other native game as well as being fishermen. Women did much of the farming. Much of the communication between the Lewis & Clark expedition and the Arikara centered on future trade with America, which the Indians showed interest. As other Indian Tribes had already done, the Arikara agreed to dispatch a representative east to visit President Jefferson. Lewis also encouraged the Arikara to make peace with their chief enemies, the neighboring Mandans, and the tribal chiefs consented to his suggestion.

The Arikara Indians were primarily an agricultural society. Their major crops were corn, beans, and squash; but they also grew tobacco, watermelon, and pumpkins. They also hunted buffalo, deer and other native game as well as being fishermen. Women did much of the farming. Much of the communication between the Lewis & Clark expedition and the Arikara centered on future trade with America, which the Indians showed interest. As other Indian Tribes had already done, the Arikara agreed to dispatch a representative east to visit President Jefferson. Lewis also encouraged the Arikara to make peace with their chief enemies, the neighboring Mandans, and the tribal chiefs consented to his suggestion....to be continued

Terrible Walking Conditions

2011-12-28T13:41:00.037-05:00

8 Miles Today; There's a reason Forrest didn't see anybody ICE ICE ICE....I fell once but didn't get injured. (just my pride). A couple of motorist saw the walking guy on all fours. Embarrassing to say the least. More later when I get out of my walking gear................... I had a doctor's appointment this morning. Not all of my results are back. The doctor has scheduled a MRI (lower spine). Until tomorrow, God Bless Walk Forrest Walk

Lewis & Clark Update

. Several days were spent interacting with local Indian tribes, including some distinctly unfriendly encounters, and it was not until September 28 that they again departed upstream. They soon passed several abandoned villages of the Arikaras Indians and by October 8 met the first band of that group near the mouth of the Grand River. The "Corp of Discovery" set up camp in what is now Sully County South Dakota the following is an excerpt from the journal of William Clark on this day in October 1804.October 2, 1804.

(camped on a sandbar just above later Plum Island (now submerged), with Sully County, South Dakota on the east and Dewey County on the west.) we discovered a number of Indians on the hills on the North side of the river, one of those Indians came on the bank of the river and fired off his gun, and holler to us...observe great caution this day expecting the Sioux.

Black Mountains (South Dakota)

2011-12-27T16:52:00.001-05:00

Lewis & Clark Update
October 1, 1804
Forrest's virtual journey has him at the exact same location where the "Corp of Discovery" camped for several days approximately 85 miles from the North Dakota/south Dakota state line.. According to the expedition's journals, navigating the river was very difficult. The crew encountered sand bars all along this stretch of the Missouri River.
Silver Sagebrush above the mouth of Cheyenne River, South Dakota

The sacred Black Hills, known as Paha Sapa to the Sioux Nation, were shrouded in mystery to early explorers. West of the Lewis and Clark trail, the range that Lewis and Clark described as the "Black Mountains" are the highest mountains east of the Rockies.

Slushy Tuesday

2011-12-27T11:48:00.001-05:00

8 Miles Today; It wasn't cold but slushy roads were what Forrest had to deal with today; I had wet feet and clothes from the wet snowfall this morning. Only a little over an inch fell but that was enough to make walking and driving messy. Until tomorrow, God Bless Walk Forrest Walk

Sunny Day

2011-12-26T12:05:00.000-05:00

8 Miles Today; The weather today is very unusual for late December. It's very sunny and temperature is around 45 degrees. It seems like October. Now it's off to another family get together. More food which translate to to more calories. Thank the good lord Forrest walks...........Until tomorrow, God Bless Walk Forrest Walk

Christmas Day

2011-12-25T14:43:00.001-05:00

8 Miles Today; Clear roads and a temperature around 45 degrees, not bad for late December. Absolutely no snow on the ground for Mid-Michigan. Compared to last year (see pic at right) it seems like Florida to Forrest. My walk is done and Forrest is cleaned up and headed to Okemos for Christmas dinner with my Brother John and his family. Until tomorrow, God Bless Walk Forrest Walk

Christmas Eve, 2011

2011-12-24T06:10:00.002-05:00

7 Miles Today; It's 6 am and very dark this morning. We received a light dusting of snow last night. Waiting until daylight to leave for my seven mile route.......My morning walk was enjoyable. I saw 3 walkers all women with their dogs. The weather was cold but dry but most of all NO snow this Christmas. The picture at right is Forrest on Christmas Day (last year 2010). What a difference a year makes. My walking week ended with 54 miles walked. Forrest is on track to end December on by reaching his monthly goal of 200/mi....With one week left in 2011 I'm confident everything will work out. On this Chrishms Eve Forrest would like to wish everyone a very Merry Christmas. Until tomorrow, God Bless Walk Forrest Walk

Christmas Eve,Eve

2011-12-23T18:41:00.000-05:00

8 Miles Today; It was cold and dry this morning, with a temperature in the 20's. Even though I'm still having some discomfort during the last half of my walk I feel a lot better than the last couple of weeks. My miles tell the story, Forrest will be well over his weekly average. Tomorrow, Christmas Eve looks like no snow for Mid-Michigan. Until then, God Bless Walk Forrest Walk

No White Christmas This Year

2011-12-22T11:16:00.015-05:00

8 Miles Today; The weather is unbelievable for this time of year. I was outside an hour before daylight and the temperature was in the high 40's and no wind. My hips felt much better this morning. Until tomorrow, God Bless Walk Forrest Walk

Lewis & Clark Update

Thursday, September 27, 1804

Excerpt from William Clark's Journal

I rose early after a bad night’s sleep. Found the chiefs all up and the bank as usual lined

with spectators. We gave the 2 great chiefs a blanket a piece (or rather they took off
agreeable to their custom the one they lay on) and each one peck of corn. After breakfast
Capt. Lewis & and chiefs went on shore. I [stayed on the boat and] wrote a letter to Mr.
P. Durion & prepared a medal and come certificates & sent [them] to Capt. Lewis.
After about half an hour, I went with them on shore. Those men left the boat with reluctance. I went first to the 2nd chiefs lodge, where a crowd cam around. After speaking on various subjects, I went to [other lodges] until the dance began, which was similar to the one of last night. Capt. Lewis came on shore and we continued until we were sleepy and returned to our boat. The 2nd chief 7 one principal accompanied us…. The man who steered not being much accustomed to steer, passed the bow of the boat & the perouge came broad side against the cable and broke it which obliged me to order in a loud voice, “All hands up and at their oars!” [This shouting] alarmed the chiefs. The chief hollered and alarmed
the camp. In about 10 minutes the bank was lined with men armed. About 200 men
appeared and after about _ hour returned all except about 60 men who continued on the
bank all night. [We] all prepared on board for anything which might happen. We kept a
strong guard all night in the boat. No sleep. To be continued

Pierre and Fort Pierre South Dakota

2011-12-21T10:02:00.044-05:00

8 Miles Today; It seemed like a spring morning when I headed out at 7am. It was misting and very foggy. The temperature must have been around 50 degrees. Who needs to go to Florida when it's this warm in Michigan in December. Forrest saw one jogger and one walker today. I also saw a friend of mind. Dave L. waved to Forrest from his vehicle. I think Dave was headed to MacDonalds for coffee with the boys. I also have coffee with the guys when it works out for me. Forrest and Jessie-Marie (the dog) are trying to make a go of it, because my Bride Joanne is in Chicago checking out my daughter Renae's new hardwood floors in her condo. I think Renae has some tasks for her mom to do before they head back to Michigan tomorrow. So until then God Bless Walk Forrest Walk

Forrest's stopover today on his Lewis & Clark Virtual Journey has him visiting two of South Dakota's oldest settlements, Pierre and Fort Pierre South Dakota with combine history, heritage and culture of the American West.

Lewis & Clark Update

September 25, 1804

By the time Lewis and Clark encountered them near present-day Pierre, South Dakota, the Teton branch of the Sioux Nation were masters of the plains on both sides of the Missouri River. Nomadic and warlike, the Teton attacked the region's sedentary peoples at will and were determined to control trade on the river. It was imperative, Clark wrote, that the expedition treat the Teton Sioux "in the most friendly & conciliatory manner."
But on September 25, 1804, when the expedition prepared to head upriver after contentious meetings with the Teton, a large crowd of well-armed Teton warriors and Chief Black Buffalo challenged them, demanding a toll of tobacco. The expedition members drew weapons and prepared to fire.
Finally, the expedition granted the Teton some tobacco and Black Buffalo waved his men off, averting what would likely have been an early and deadly end to the expedition.
On his return down the Missouri in August 1806, Clark was still angry enough with the Teton that he forbid any contact with the tribe across the river.....to be continued

Another Great Weather Day

2011-12-20T06:55:00.003-05:00

8 Miles Today; Ordered my 19th pair of NB shoes last nite. Free overnight delievery from Zappo's. Forrest has over 800 miles on present shoes which I started wearing Aug, 29th. Until tomorrow, God Bless Walk Forrest Walk

NB-993

Fool Bull

Lewis & Clark Update
Late September 1804

At the time of the Lewis and Clark expedition, the Teton Sioux occupied two villages near present-day Pierre, South Dakota. One village was located on the Missouri River itself, while the other was situated off a tributary, the Bad River. Among French and Canadian traders, as well as other neighboring tribes, the Tetons were known for aggressiveness and power. Intent on controlling traffic through their portion of the river, they would demand large gifts from passing merchants. Sometimes, they even used more violent tactics.
Given their reputation, perhaps one of the more interesting aspects of Teton culture concerned the tribe’s relationship with their Arikara neighbors. The Tetons made their military might very clear to the Arikaras, yet the Arikaras had one thing to offer that kept their relationship with the Tetons a good one: corn. The Arikara were great farmers, and their corn crop was essential to the survival of the Tetons. In exchange for clothes, guns and other supplies provided by the Tetons, the Arikaras shared their horses and corn.
There would be no kind of similar relationship between the Tetons and Lewis and Clark, however. At the first council with the leaders of the Teton tribe, the expedition went through its practiced ritual for meeting Indians, parading in uniform and demonstrating an air gun. The display did little to impress the Tetons, who perceived the Americans as competitors for control of trade in the region. Tensions increased between the two sides, nearly resulting in an armed conflict. Fortunately, the Teton chief Black Buffalo intervened and brought things back to a more diplomatic level.

Sioux Woman with Papoose

Over the following three days, the Tetons hosted the Corps, though the expedition kept its keelboat anchored almost a mile away. During the Corps’ stay, Clark made detailed notes of Teton culture. In his journal, the Tetons are described as thin, small and generally ill-looking. Teton men wore hawk feathers about their heads and robes over their bodies, while women dressed in buffalo skins and robes. During the expedition’s stay, the Tetons held a number of celebrations – scalp dances – of a recent war victory over the rival Omahas.
A number of confrontations between the Tetons and the expedition brought the Americans visit to an end. No one in the Corps of Discovery spoke Sioux, and the inability of the two groups to communicate effectively played a significant part in several misunderstandings. After another argument between the Tetons and the expedition nearly escalated into fighting, Lewis and Clark continued upriver.

Special Day In The Life Of Forrest

2011-12-19T19:00:00.000-05:00

8 Miles Today; Another very nice day for walking. The weather was warm for this time of year (45 degrees and no wind). I walked in the late afternoon. I arrived home in the dark of night. (6:30pm). I normally don't walk in the late afternoon but I'm glad I did today because Forrest had an encounter with The Most Reverend Earl Boyea, Bishop of Lansing Diocese. The Bishop is also a walker. The last time we crossed paths was a few days before Easter this year. Here it is a few days before Christmas and we meet again. I felt so good after talking to the Bishop I added another mile to today's route. The medical tests I took the last couple days days won't be known to me until Dec 28. That's when I see my primary doctor for the results. Until tomorrow, God Bless Walk Forrest Walk.

Near Fort Pierrer South Dakota

2011-12-18T10:15:00.001-05:00

7 Miles Today; A quiet cool Sunday morning. Sunday mornings walks are always peaceful in Forrest's world. Tomorrow I'm undecided about walking before or after my procedure. I guess it doesn't make much difference. It's a good thing I have Christmas and my Lewis & Clark experience keeping me on track. Until tomorrow, God Bless and a Merry Christmas to all...............Walk Forrest Walk

Lewis & Clark Update

Walk Forrest Walk present day location

MEDICINE KNOLL RIVER

On September 22, 1804 Lewis & Clark passed by this river and camped a couple of miles up the Missouri. The Expedition's campsite was less than 20 miles from present day Fort Pierrer SD. They called it Reuben River for Reuben Fields, one of their hunters from the "Corps of Discovery". In 1839 however it was renamed Medicine Knoll River.

Hope Is Eternal

2011-12-17T19:48:00.000-05:00

7 Miles Today; A cloudy cold day (28 degrees). My week ended with 50 miles walked. Left ankle and hips didn't cooperate this morning. Forrest had his hips an lower back X-ray on Thursday. Monday I'm having a Doppler procedure (Ultra Sound) of my arteries from my hips to my feet on Monday morning. It's been a trying year for the walking guy. I'm keeping my fingers crossed. Walking is my life.......... Until tomorrow, God Bless Walk Forrest Walk

What A Difference A Day Makes

2011-12-16T08:46:00.000-05:00

7 Miles Today; Yesterday the weather was spring like, sunny skies and near 60 degrees. But today is was back to reality. It was windy, cloudy with a temperature of 31 degrees. It looks like the weekend will follow suit. Until tomorrow, God Bless Walk Forrest Walk

Lewis & Clark Update

Forrest's Virtual Journey Location

Fort Pierre National Grassland is a United States National Grassland in central South Dakota, south of the capital, Pierre. It is primarily a short grass prairie. It has a land area of 115890 acres (181.08 sq mi, or 468.99 km²). Part of the movie "Dances With Wolves" was filmed here.

Spring Like Weather Today..............

2011-12-15T18:22:00.002-05:00

This guy has nothing over my Bride

8 Miles Today; It was a very warm day for December. It was a day when my Bride Joanne also joined me in my daily trek. The temperature at the bank read as we completed our walk registered an unbelievable 57 degrees. My Bride walks at a faster pace than I do, I kept using the excuse that my left foot, hips and back as the reason I wasn't keeping up with "Speedy Gonzales".... I have to admit that she was good company on such a beautiful day.....Until tomorrow, God Bless Walk Forrest Walk .

Lewis & Clark Update

Forrest has made the 30 mile loop called the Great Bend in the Missouri River. The third week of September 1804 Lewis & Clark and the crew of "The Corps of Discovery" had a not so pleasant camping experience. The following are exerts from the L&C Journals.,,,,,,,
Passed a long chain of bluffs on the north side, of a dark colour. From these and others of the same kind the Missouri gets its muddy colour. The earth of which they are composed dissolves like sugar; every rain washes down great quantities of it, and the rapidity of the stream keeps it mixing and afloat in the water, until it reaches the mouth of the Mississippi.
September 21, 1804 (Camped on an island in Hughes County, South Dakota)
At half past one o'clock this morning the Sand bar on which we Camped began to under mind and give way which alarmed the Sergent on Guard, ... we had pushed off but a few minutes before the bank under which the boat &prorogues (canoes) lay give way, which would certainly have sunk both prorogues, by the time we made the opposite shore our camp fell in, ... proceeded on to the gouge at this Great Bend. (see map at right...to be continued)

1000 River Miles

2011-12-14T15:12:00.000-05:00

7 Miles Today; On July 25th this past summer Forrest began his virtual journey of retracing the river route of The Lewis & Clark Expedition. Today I reached the 1000 mile plateau. Forrest is located at the exact location where Lewis & Clark set up camp on September 20, 1804. The Corps of Discovery departed near St Louis, Missouri on May 14, 1804. Forrest reach this point on the Missouri River in 4 months compared to 6 months it took the Lewis & Clark Expedition to navigate the same distance. They wrote in their journals that the Corps of Discovery wanted to average 12-20 miles per day. I'll give the expedition a pass,,,,,,,,they are sailing upstream.....walked in the early morning darkness. It rained all seven miles. My feet got wet but I was dressed properly with rain gear so it wasn't too bad. Until tomorrow, God Bless Walk Forrest Walk

Sunny Day In December

2011-12-13T11:58:00.002-05:00

7 Miles Today; Forrest was out early today, walking in the early morning darkness was nice with the mild temperatures for this time of year. The only people I encountered was two ladies on their bicycles. The girls looked awfully familiar but Forrest couldn't tell with all the flashing lights the bikers were wearing. Tomorrow heavy rain is forecast for early morning. Until then, God Bless Walk Forrest Walk

Lower Brule, South Dakota

2011-12-12T08:36:00.000-05:00

7 Miles Today; A great day for walking, mild tempetures and no wind. My Lewis & Clark virtual journey has Forrest near the town of Lower Brule, SD (pop 725), home to the Lower Brule Sioux Resveration. Until Tomorrow, God Bless Walk Forrest Walk

The Native American Scenic Byway winds through the reservation with spectacular views of the Missouri and the vast grasslands that extend west over the horizon to the Black Hills.

Kul Wicasa Oyate

Sunny But Very Cold

2011-12-11T10:24:00.003-05:00

7 Miles Today; This morning's weather was definitely winter conditions. Brisk winds and a temperature of 20 degrees. The sun did appear about the time I arrived home. As least the roads were clear and dry. Forrest encountered one jogger, one walker, and one deer today. It's a good thing I have my virtual journey of Lewis & Clark Expedition to keep my interest. My Bride Joanne & I are attending our Mid-Michigan Irish American Christmas breakfast brunch and meeting this morning at a restaurant in East Lansing. Looking forward to seeing everyone. Until tomorrow, God Bless Walk Forrest Walk

Lewis & Clark Update

(photo at right)

The Big Bend of the Missouri River - Near Present day Fort Thompson, the Corps of Discovery comes to the "Great Bend" in the Missouri. They measure the distance by land, which is a little over a mile, by water it is over 30 miles.
On Sept. 20, 1804, the expedition reached the Big Bend of the Missouri River. It's here that the river makes a huge loop, almost creating a full circle. In his journal entry for the day, Clark reported that the distance of the Narrows, the area between the two ends of the loop, on foot was only 2,000 yards. By water, the same trip was 30 miles! Now, 200 years and four dams later, the river still makes that huge loop. The West Bend Recreation Area located 26 miles east and nine miles south of Pierre off Highway 34 is a great place to visit and view this portion of the Missouri River where Lewis & Clark camped the third week of September, 1804. to be continued

South Dakota's Native American Scenic Byway

2011-12-10T11:43:00.001-05:00

Among the countless beautiful drives in South Dakota, one stands out as a unique opportunity for travelers. The Native American Scenic Byway is one of South Dakota’s Great Places.

7 Miles Today; My week ended with 46 miles walked (4 below my average). I'm still dealing with discomfort in my lower back and hips but not as bad as last week. Today it was very cold. The temperature was in the mid-teens this morning at daybreak. Starting this coming week Forrest begins his virtual journey of South Dakota's Native American Scenic Byway. This beautiful stretch of highway cuts through the middle of South Dakota, and crosses through the reservations of four tribes: the Crow Creek Sioux, Lower Brule Sioux, Cheyenne River Sioux, and Standing Rock Sioux. With 305 miles of roads, the byway passes by numerous memorial markers, monuments, museums, and sites sacred to Native Americans.
The South Dakota portion of the byway (it also extends into North Dakota) begins in Chamberlain, South Dakota, and snakes its way northwest, along the Missouri River, through the Lower Brule and Crow Creek Sioux reservations.
It continues toward Fort Pierre, and shortly after passes Fisher's Lilly Park, the historic site where Lewis and Clark met with the Teton Sioux. It is also near the site where they held the first council.
and north through the Eagle Butte and Cheyenne River Sioux reservations. Until tomorrow, God Bless Walk Forrest Walk

Light Snow Last Night

2011-12-09T07:40:00.001-05:00

7 Miles Today;
Forrest's virtual journey of the Lewis & Clark Expedition has him located near Fort Thompson and Big Bend Dam, South Dakota. The Corps of Discovery arrived here on 18 Sep 1804. The dam's construction began in 1959 and open in the mid-60's. Fort Thompson is a small town of 1500 persons along Hwy 47 on the north side of the Missouri, River..

Big Bend Dam, SD Missouri, River

Lewis & Clark Update

September 18, 1804

Journal entry from crew member (Whitehouse)

September 18th Tuesday We set off from Pleasant Camp early this morning, having Clear & pleasant weather; we proceeded on, and passed by fine timbered land, lying on the South side of the River, the land on the North side being hilly Prairies. we met with a great number of sandbars, and an Island lying on the north side of the river, Captain Lewis killed in his hunt Yesterday, a bird, which is uncommon in the United States It was a bird of prey, and had some resemblance of the Magpie.— The hunters who had went out early this Morning returned to us; having killed 11 deer, and one wolf, which was brought to us. We encamped in the afternoon on the south side of the river, in order to jerk the meat (known as beef jerky) which had been killed these two days.... to be continued........

Oacoma, SD (Pheasant Hunter's Paradise)

2011-12-08T15:32:00.000-05:00

Historical Marker near Oacoma, SD
Missouri River in background

6 Miles Today; Forrest had his walk completed by 7:30am....Then it was off to church for 8 o'clock Mass. The weather this morning was cold but nice for walking. (no wind and 26 degrees). The only people I encountered was my Bride Joanne and her friend Audrey riding their bikes. It's hard to believe that one week ago we were dealing with 10 inches of wet snow. Forrest's virtual journal has him visiting the small town of Oacoma pop. 450... in the heart of central South Dakota, Chamberlain-Oacoma a mecca for small game hunters who travel here from many states to hunt. Oacoma rests along the Midwestern bluffs of the Missouri River near Interstate 90 and the Highway 16.
Until tomorrow, God Bless Walk Forrest Walk

Lewis & Clark Update

September 17, 1804 ( Remained near Oacoma)
Journal entry: (William Clark)
"Having for many days past confined myself to the boat, I determined to devote this day to amuse myself on shore with my gun and view the interior of the country lying between the river and the Corvus Creek. . This scenery already rich pleasing and beautiful was still farther heightened by immense herds of Buffalo, deer Elk and Antelopes which we saw in every direction feeding on the hills and plains."....The Corps of Discovery crew will spend one more night at this location in South Dakota. to be continued.

A Day That Will Live In Infamy Dec 7, 1941

2011-12-07T07:02:00.005-05:00

Remember Pearl Harbor

6 Miles Today; Even though I wasn't born on this date 70 years ago I know much of this historic time in our country's history. I hope future generations follow my generation in remembering what happened at Pearl Harbor, Hawaii.... My walk this morning was much better, I felt like I could have walked more but decided to keep it at six miles. No use pushing it. Wouldn't it be nice if I could walk through my back problems. Weather today was a balmy 28 degrees with no wind. I saw two walkers today, a man and his dog and a lady who looked a lot like my Bride Joanne. It was dark and impossible to be sure the identity of this short woman with all the blinking lights on her person. (Forrest does have a good idea who this person is..) Until tomorrow, God Bless Walk Forrest Walk

Lewis & Clark Update

The "Corps of Discovery" at this location of their journey has them just 230 river miles from their winter home, at a settlement called Mandan, North Dakota. - Sept. 16, 1804 - Near present day Chamberlain, the expedition stops at a place they call Camp Pleasant. In Lewis' journals he describes the numerous buffalo, deer, antelope and elk.

No Snow / Much Colder

2011-12-06T12:01:00.002-05:00

6 Miles Today; It was a lot colder today than yesterday. It was windy with a temperature in the mid-30's. Lower back and hips making my walks not too pleasant. Until tomorrow, God Bless Walk Forrest Walk

Lewis & Clark Update

September 15, 1804

Lewis and Clark camped on the west bank below on a one mile long island in the middle of the Missouri River near present day Chamberlain, SD. The island later to be named American Island. On September 15, 1804 the crew of "The Corps of Discovery" after three days of rain were pleasantly surprised to find a place with pleasing rich scenery. The landscape was beautiful and spectacular. Immense herds of buffalo, deer elk and antelope grazed on the prairies. Steep irregular hills and deep ravines challenged the physical spirit of the crew of the expedition. The strange new animals...jackrabbit, antelope, mule deer, black-billed magpie and coyote were well known to the Native Americans and French trappers, but this was the first detailed descriptions recorded for science by the Lewis & Clark Expedition......... to be continued

Today the entire island is gone; flooded by the waters of the dams.

Plaque located in Chamberlain, South Dakota

First Monday In December

2011-12-05T18:43:00.001-05:00

6 Miles Today; I waited until late afternoon to walk. I was planning on seven miles but my tender hips and lower back got the last word. It seems nice to have all the snow melted. The weather today was breezy and 46 degrees and cloudy. Perfect walking conditions for this time of year. Until tomorrow, God Bless Walk Forrest Walk

Lewis & Clark Update

From the journal of William Clark...."Made twelve miles today through a number of sandbars, which make it difficult to find the proper channel. At night the mosquitoes were very troublesome. Killed a Porcupine; found it in a Cottonwood tree near the river. the leaves of the Cottonwood were much destroyed-as were those of the Cottonwood trees in it's neighbourhood. I therefore supposed that it fed on the foliage of trees at this season."
September 14, 1804 ( Camped just below the mouth of Bull Creek, Lyman County, South Dakota)
"During the whole of the day we searched along the southern shore, and at some distance into the interior, to find an ancient volcano which we heard at St. Charles was somewhere in this neighborhood; but we could not discern the slightest appearance of any thing volcanic. Killed a Buck Goat* of this country, his eyes like a sheep- he is more like the Antelope or Gisella of Africa than any other species of Goat. to be continued

Lower Back Issues

2011-12-04T18:30:00.000-05:00

7 Miles Today; It wasn't a happy day, between lower back spasms and getting wet from an all day light rain today's walk was a wash-out (no pun intended)..... We lost almost all the snow that accumulated from our first snow storm of the season. Maybe tomorrow things will improve...Until then, God Bless Walk Forrest Walk

A Close Call

2011-12-03T16:21:00.001-05:00

7 Miles Today; With threatening weather (rain) forecast for late afternoon Forrest had his walk completed by 10:30am. The roads were relatively clear except for a few spots of "Black Ice"...Forrest has had some unique experiences thrust upon him in his years of walking but today takes the cake. Like my blog title states.........A close call is what happened to me.. I entered this cul-da-sac for the first time since the snow storm. With ear buds in place and listening to music I came within inches of a power line that was sagging across the road. The wire was within 5 feet of the pavement. I couldn't believe that I was eye level to a power line. I went to the nearest house and alerted the home owner. She said she would notify the utility company asap. I'd rather see wild animals in my path than what I saw this morning. My walk week ended with a dismal 40 miles walked, ten below my average. Until tomorrow, God Bless Walk Forrest Walk

Lyman County, South Dakota

2011-12-02T14:30:00.000-05:00

6 Miles Today; It snowed a little over an inch last night. Between watching out for ice and making tracks in the snow it wasn't too bad today. I think the reason being is my lower back felt a lot better this morning. The downside of today's walk was, my shoes did get wet from the slush I encounter. My miles are down but I guess I will have to work my way back to my regular routine. Forrest's virtual journey of Lewis & Clark has him twenty miles south of Chamberlain, SD. The Corp of Discovery reached this location near the mouth of Bull Creek, Lyman County on September 15, 1804. Today Bull Creek has a population of 43. Until tomorrow, God Bless Walk Forrest Walk

Lewis & Clark Update

September,15, 1804

Prairie dogs emerge from their burrows in daylight to forage and feed on grasses, roots, and seeds

On this date in history Capt William Clark wrote in his journal....."Met with goats, such as we have seen; great quantities of buffalo, near to which were wolves, some deer, and villages of barking-squirrels."....The barking squirrels were pairre dogs. Capt Clark killed a goat that weigh 65 lbs. Buffalo

were seen by the thousands along this stretch of the Missouri River. to be continued

Digging Out

2011-12-01T15:08:00.000-05:00

3 Miles Today; It was sunny and 26 degrees this morning. A lot of ice on the roads. I went to the chiropractor first thing this morning. I decided I would only do the minimum miles this morning with the bad roads and a back adjustment it just made sense. Today is the first day of the last month of 2011, I'm hoping it treats me better than November. I close with a thank-you to my son Tony (Dallas Tx) for helping out with my blog during the power-blackout we experienced here in Mid-Michigan. Also a big thank-you to Mrs Forrest for keeping Forrest walking. Until tomorrow, God Bless Walk Forrest Walk

Digging Out

2011-12-01T12:07:00.000-05:00

In Like A Lamb, Out Like A Lion

2011-12-01T11:03:00.006-05:00

This Blog post meant for Tuesday the 29th
Note: Just Seconds From Posting When Power Went Out.

November 30,2011

20 Hours In Darkness

7 Miles Today; November Gale is what our area is experiencing right now. This phenom happens with the convergence of two storm tracks forming what is called "November Gale". The weather today with high wind and a temperature in the low 30's was awful. Between the heavy rain in the morning and the high winds and snow late I did however get my miles in. Forrest wore four layers of clothing plus a rain coat to deal with the conditions. My hips and lower back acted up on me today. I struggled most of the way. Until tomorrow, God Bless Walk Forrest Walk

Lewis & Clark Update

September 12, 1804

"The day was dark and cloudy. We with great difficulty were enabled to struggle through the sandbars, the water being very rapid and shallow. We advanced only four miles in the whole day." ( Clark's journal for this day)

No Power

2011-11-30T10:43:00.001-05:00

3 Miles Today;
No power today due to snow storm.
Forrest could only do 3 miles because of my back and hip problems and of course the Dr Zhivago kind of Day made my decision to walk difficullt..........November is in the books with a disappointing 191 miles walk. I fail to reach my monthly goal. If it wasn't for my Bride Joanne's encouraging me to get outside and walk last night my streak would have come to an end last night. God Bless Walk Forrest Walk

Scene From Dr Zhivago

68 yrs Young Today

2011-11-28T15:07:00.001-05:00

Forrest Arriving Home On His Birthday

7 Miles Today;

5 yrs 1 mo 9 days

All Day Rain

2011-11-27T18:08:00.000-05:00

7 Miles Today; Forrest waited and waited for the rain to stop. I didn't happen. So as I write this blog entry I'm very cold. Forrest just got home (6pm) from his walk. All done in the rain. I had rain gear but one stil gets chilled. Time for a hot shower. Until tomorrow, God Bless Walk Forrest Walk

George Shannon of Kentucky (amazing story)

2011-11-26T09:16:00.006-05:00

7 Miles Today; Another nice day in November. With the temperature around 50 degrees and no wind to speak of it's hard to imagine that winter is sneaking up on us. I increased my miles for this the last day of my walking week. I'm not happy about the 38 miles for the week. My 50 mi/week is taking a beating with my left ankle, hips, and lower back giving Forrest grief. Howevery my spirits took a turn for the better when I read the Lewis & Clark journals for this day on my virtual journal of the L&C Expedition. I'm at the exact location in northern Gregory County, SD. just north of the mouth of Landing Creek where the "Corps of Discovery" camped and welcomed back a crew member who had be missing for days......a man who later in life studied law and became a lawyer and a senator from Missouri. Until tomorrow, God Bless Walk Forrest Walk

Lewis & Clark UpdateSeptember 11, 1804

William Clark's journal entry: "The man who left us 22 days ago, George Shannon joined us, nearly starved to death. He had been twelve days without anything to eat but grapes and one rabbit.

One of the "nine young men from Kentucky" in the famous Lewis and Clark Corps of Discovery crew, George Shannon became the most educated, the most accomplished, and even the most colorful. He was the only "professional" of the group and was known in his adult life as Judge Peg-Leg Shannon. Yet history has given him little notice youngest member of the "Corps of Discovery". Private Shannon is mentioned in several journal entries due to his lack of orientation. On several occasions Private Shannon was sent out into the wilderness and found himself lost. The first time this happened was on August 27th, 1804 near Yankton, South Dakota. While searching for lost horses, Private Shannon became as lost as the horses and did not find his way back to the company until September 11th. During his time on the prairie Private Shannon lived for 12 days on a few wild grapes and a rabbit. It was later discovered that he was traveling ahead of the Corps and after despairing because he could not catch up with them he returned down river towards Saint Louis and eventually found the party. For more great reading on George Shannon log on to http://www.lewisandclarkinkentucky.org/people/shannon_bio.shtml

November Seems Like September

2011-11-25T14:57:00.000-05:00

5 Miles Today; Unbelievable is all I can say for the kind of weather we are having in mid-Michigan today. It's sunny and 63 degrees this afternoon.. Forrest walked this morning in very nice weather. It's too nice to be on the computer. I going outside to do yard work. Winter is lurking just to the west of us in Minnesota. Until tomorrow, God Blesss Walk Forrest Walk

Happy Thanksgiving Everyone

2011-11-24T11:48:00.000-05:00

6 Miles Today; My Turkey Day walk began at 7am. I wanted to walk my regular distance of 7 plus miles but settled for six. My lower back and hips are feeling better and I hope it's a sign of better days ahead. The weather in Michigan is unbelievable for this time of year. Sixty degree weather is OK with Forrest. Forrest would like to wish everyone a happy and healthy Thanksgiving and "CHRISTMAS" season. Also a sincere holiday greeting to my family in the great state of Texas. My children, Tony and Debbie and my grandchildren, Hannah & Ryan. I can't forget my family here in Michigan, my Bride Joanne and my daughter (from Chicago, Renae). Last but not least "Jessie Marie (the dog). Jessie Marie has a birthday tomorrow, she will be 10 years. Until tomorrow, God Bless Walk Forrest Walk

Lewis & Clark Update

Near Lake Andes, SD

September 10, 1804 ( Camped on an island near present day Lake Andes, South Dakota)
The crew of "Corp of Discovery" found the back bone of a fish, 45 feet long tapering to the tale, some teeth, those joints were separated and all petrified, opposite this island 1/12 miles from the river is a large salt spring of remarkable salt water. Elk & buffalo are in great abundance here. The skelton was that of a dinosaur. What's left of that dinosaur skelton is now on display in the Smithsonian Institute, Washington DC. to be continued

Buffalo Everywhere

2011-11-23T11:25:00.005-05:00

5 Miles Today; It's was a day for ear muffs and gloves. Forrest is feeling a little better. My right hip is still tender. I could have walked my normal 7-8 miles but decided stay with the lower miles for the rest of this week. Maybe Mother Nature is sending Forrest a message....... " Reduce your miles Forrest until you heal." Forrest will reach the grand old age of 68 in five days. Until tomorrow, God Bless Walk Forrest Walk

The Plains Of South Dakota

Lewis & Clark Update

Sept 9, 1804

On September 9, 1804 west of present day Fort Randall Dam, Pickstown, South Dakota Capt. Clark's black servant named York was directed to kill a buffalo near the boat from a huge herd that gather on both sides of the river. It is noted in the daily log that the crew reported seeing at least 500 buffalo in view all day feeding in the plains surrounding the "Corp of Discovery".. to be continued

Pickstown, South Dakota

2011-11-22T15:56:00.000-05:00

The Fort Randall Dam

The Fort Randall Dam (Pickstown, SD) is an earth embankment dam impounding the Missouri River in South Dakota, United States and forming Lake Francis Case. It is one of six Missouri River dams, four being located in South Dakota. The dam was authorized by the Flood Control Act of 1944 The Corps of Engineers began construction of Fort Randall Dam in 1946. President Dwight D. Eisenhower threw the switch that started the first power generating unit in 1954.

5 Miles Today; Forrest waited until the noon hour to walk. I felt much better today than the last couple of days. My lower back and hips were tender but the pain was absent. I could have walk much further but my better judgment said, no-no. Like my friend Dave L. says.."You're Entitled To Pain Of Your Decision"....The heavy rain is moving into mid-'Michigan, at least it's now snow. Until tomorrow, God Bless Walk Forrest Walk

Lewis & Clark Update

Sept 8, 1804

When Lewis & Clark arrived at this location on the Missouri River in what is now present day Pickstown, SD. In 1804 no hydro-electric existed. Pickstown (pop 225) began as a government town for Corps of Engineers employees building and then operating the Fort Randall Dam. USAF officers and airmen arrived in the 1950s to operate a Strategic Air Command radar base built on a hill three miles east of town. Air Force personnel left in the 1970s after the base was closed. A casino and hotel owned and operated by the Yankton Sioux Tribe is located at the abandoned radar base. Today the Fort Randall Dam is this area's biggest attraction.

South Dakota's Prairie Dog

2011-11-21T07:36:00.002-05:00

5 Miles Today; My walk will be delayed until I get home from my chiropractor. My lower back is in need of an adjustment. It's been six weeks since my last visit to see Dr. Massa. My virtual journey of the L&C Expedition has Forrest just five miles south the Nebraska/South Dakota state line......It's now early evening and very dark outside. My day started by having coffee at MacDonald's. I saw my friend Dave L. enjoying coffee. Dave said he read my blog. I said that I had to wait until 2pm for my doctor's appointment. Dr. Massa adjusted my lower back. He also mention if I ever thought of using a stationary bicycle. I'm not very receptive to that idea. I said to the doc, " As long as I have $$ I'll keep coming back for adjustments. I want to walk as long as possible. As far as my evening walk turned out. On a scale of 10 I rate my pain level a 8. Tomorrow is another day, lets hope I know how to adjust. Until then, God Bless Walk Forrest Walk

Lewis & Clark Update

Friday, Sept 7, 1804

Black-Tailed Prairie Dog

Lewis and Clark deserve credit for the first scientific description of the prairie dog, and its characteristic colonies and burrows in the ground. Clark also notes the persistent legend that they share their holes with snakes, but correctly denies the truth of the fable.

The black-tailed is not only the most abundant prairie dog, but also the most widely distributed. It ranges throughout the Great Plains, from southern Saskatchewan to northern Mexico. It is common in the western part of South Dakota, excluding the Black Hills, and becomes uncommon east of the Missouri River.... to be continued............

Tough day

2011-11-20T17:45:00.000-05:00

5 Miles Today; Forrest waited to sunset to walk. I'm having a difficult time with my left ankle and hips. I don't want folks see me struggling trying to walk during the day. Five miles is a lot for me right now. Until tomorrow, God Bless Walk Forrest Walk

Yankton Indian Resveration, SD

2011-11-19T05:23:00.002-05:00

5 Miles Today; Forrest is working the MSU/Indiana football game today. I have to be there at 8:30am for a noon kick-off. Last game for our Knights of Columbus fund raiser. I'll finish my blog entry late this evening. Later..........10pm......A cold and windy day awaited the walking guy. I'm tired and sore. With 5 hours walking the grounds of MSU football game and 5 miles of walking upon arriving home. I'm ready for bed. I logged 47 miles for the week. FYI MSU 55 Indiana 3....Until tomorrow, God Bless Walk Forrest Walk

Lewis & Clark Update

Yankton Indian Reservation near Pickstown, SD

Meriwether Lewis, in his writings says the Yankton are the best disposed Sioux who rove on the banks of the Missouri, but they would not suffer any trader at that date to ascend the river if they could prevent it. Lewis and Clark describe them as being in person stout, well proportioned, and exhibiting a certain air of dignity and boldness. Their dress is described as differing in no respect from that of other bands encountered. They had then only a few guns, being generally armed with bows and arrows, in the use of which they did not appear as expert as the more northerly Indians.

The Yankton Indian Reservation is the homeland of the Yankton Sioux tribe of Native Americans.The reservation occupies the southeastern part of South Dakota, United States. It has a land area of nearly 700,000 sq mi, and a resident population of 6,500 persons . As I wrote in Monday's blog entry, legend has it that a baby was born while Lewis & Clark were in council with the Yanktons late August 1804. The baby became "Chief Struck By The Ree", (1804-1888) a Yankton chief, was wrapped in an American flag by Meriwether Lewis. Lewis and Clark while following the Missouri River exploring Louisiana Purchase lands. As a leader, Struck By The Ree managed to befriend the whites, yet remain dedicated and loyal to his people...... to be continued............

Cold Morning

2011-11-18T12:00:00.001-05:00

7 Miles Today; Forrest set out very early this morning 5:30am. The temperature was 24 degrees with no wind. I saw five people, three walkers and two bikers. The bikers just happened to be the ladies with all the blinking lights on their person as well as their bikes. You guessed it........My Bride Joanne and her friend Audrey with their bikes own the streets in the early morning darkness. The girls ride 12-14 miles/day. Tomorrow I work the Michigan State football game with Indiana with my fellow Knights of Columbus. It's a noon kickoff. Forrrest has to be at the stadium at 8:15am. My Bride won't be with me, she is traveling to Chicago tomorrow morning to be with our daughter Renae. Until then, God Bless Walk Forrest Walk

Sacagawea

Lewis & Clark Update

How many miles did the expedition travel?

Lewis & Clark kept meticulous record and maps of their travels. While there is no definitive answer as to how many miles they traveled, it is estimated to be approximately 7,690 miles total. The two traveled by foot, on horseback, and by boat. Their journey was treacherous at times, but they enlisted the help of some other people along the way. Perhaps one of the most famous people who assisted Lewis and Clark was a Native American woman by the name of Sacagawea. Clark nicknamed her Janey and she made a very big impact on their success. Note: The expedition doesn't meet Sacagawea until they reach the French trading post of Mandan, South Dakota. Mandan will be the winter home for the crew of "The Corps of Discovery". to be continued

What Up?

2011-11-17T09:57:00.001-05:00

7 Miles Today: Frost on the pumpkin this morning. 28 degrees at walking time. Not a problem, for the walking guy. As long as it's dry and the footing is ok it's a nice day. Now Forrest is wondering about the Lewis & Clark boys on my virtual Lewis & Clark Expedition. Until tomorrow, God Bless Walk Forrest Walk

Lewis & Clark Update

My research tells me the the crew wanted to average 14-20 miles/day. The boys on the "Corps of Discovery" had better step it up a notch if my math is right.............Forrest has followed the expedition's river route for 4 months, total distance 840 miles as of today. The Lewis & Clark crew have traveled the Missouri River for 6 months, a total distance of 840 miles . Forrest's math tells him the expedition is averaging 5 plus miles/day. The "walking guy" is averaging 7 miles/day.....Does Forrest slow down? The boys from the "Corps of Discovery" are not on their predicted pace of 14/20 miles a day so far.
The Lewis & Clark Expedition began on May 14, 1804, when the Corps of Discovery departed from the confluence of the Mississippi and Missouri Rivers 20 miles east of St Charles Missouril. The party headed up the Missouri, destination the Pacific Ocean. The Corps tried to maintain a pace of 14 to 20 miles a day, resting at places such as Fort Atkinson and Spirit Mound. They reached what is now North Dakota by October of 1804, and set up a winter camp, Fort Mandan South Dakota.
Lewis and Clark traveled more than 8,000 miles in less than two and one-half years, losing only one member of their party, at a total cost to the American taxpayer of $40,000. The significance of the Lewis and Clark Expedition was far reaching. It strengthened the United State's position in the struggle for control of North America, particularly in the Pacific Northwest. A very interesting story, to be continued

Niobrara Chalk ?

2011-11-16T18:24:00.001-05:00

7 Miles Today; A cool day for walking but for the month of Nov. a tempeture of 45 degrees isn't to bad. Have you ever heard of Niobrara Chalk? Forrest never heard of Niobrara Chalk until my research for today's blog entry. Some 70-80 million years ago Niobrara Chalk was formed by sediment in deeper portions of the sea. The Niobrara Chalk is made of the shells of uncounted trillions of single cell golden brown algae provide some of the worlds most spectacular fossils. Thus we have the origin of the name Niobrara, Nebraska. Until tomorrow, God Bless Walk Forrest Walk

The Lewis and Clark Expedition

September 4, 1804 - Niobrara, Nebraska

Forrest's location November, 16, 2011

Lewis and Clark left St. Louis for their long journey into the wilderness on May 14, 1804. They were accompanied by forty-five men in three boats - a 55 foot keel-boat and two pirogues (canoes), and two horses for their hunters to ride. Scientific instruments and trade for the Indians were also packed for the trip. The Lewis and Clark party traveled about twenty miles a day, sometimes by sail, others by oar, or during a great part of the time, they pulled the boats with long ropes which the men held while they walked along shore. On September 4, Lewis and Clark camped just above the mouth of the Niobrara River. ..to be continued............

Opening Day, Michigan Deer Season

2011-11-15T07:10:00.002-05:00

7 Miles Today: As daylight appears on the eastern horizon there is a HEAVY FOG to greet deer hunters on opening day of the 2011 hunting season. This won't be a happy day for the thousands of white tail deer. As Forrest gets ready to leave for his daily walk I hope the numerous hunters in the bush don't consider the walking guy a prize trophy for their den...................... early forward to late afternoon...The fog didn't stay very long. It really warmed up the longer I walked. With the the sun shinning brightly the tempeture rose to 58 degrees by the time I got home. My lower back and hips are still giving me discomfort. Until tomorrow, God Bless Walk Forrest Walk

Lewis & Clark Update

According to William Clark: "It requires 4 deer, or an elk and a deer, or one buffalo to supply us for 24 hours." Additionally, 193 pounds of "portable soup" were ordered as an emergency ration when stores ran out and game was scarce or unavailable. The soup was produced by boiling a broth down to a gelatinous consistency, then further drying it until it was rendered quite hard and desiccated. Not exactly a favorite with the men of the Corps, it nonetheless saved them from near starvation on a number of occasions.
Each man consumed nine pounds of meat per day, when available, and the designated hunters of the Corps were kept busy throughout the journey. Raymond Darwin Burroughs tallied the quantity of game killed and
consumed during the course the expedition:

"Corps Of Discovery" diet 1804

Deer (all species combined) 1,001
Elk 375
Bison 227
Antelope 62
Big horned sheep 35
Bears, grizzly 43
Bears, black 23
Beaver (shot or trapped) 113
Otter 16
Geese and Brant 104
Grouse (all species) 46
Turkeys 9
Plovers 48
Wolves (only one eaten) 18
Indian dogs (purchased and consumed) 190
Horses 12

This list does not include the countless smaller or more exotic animals that were captured and eaten by the Corps, such as hawk, coyote, fox, crow, eagle, gopher, muskrat, seal, whale blubber, turtle, mussels, crab, salmon, and trout. Also fruits, vegetables, mushrooms, seeds, and nuts that were found to be edible. Deer (venison) became a primary source of protein for the duration of the expedition....... to be continued

Springfield, South Dakota

2011-11-14T15:35:00.000-05:00

7 Miles Today; Another nice day for walking but my hips didn't think so. Forrest had discomfort all morning. Mayby tomorrow will be better. Until then God Bless Walk Forrest Walk.
Today's virtual walked ended near present day Springfield, SD a small town of 2,000 is located on Lewis & Clark Lake, formed by the tail waters of the Gavin's Point Dam of the Missouri River.

Lewis & Clark Update

West of Yankton, SD

Along the way, the group made contact with Indian inhabitants of the land. During the first season of travel, they contacted the Missouris, the Omahas, the Yankton Sioux, the Teton Sioux (Lakota), and the Arikaras. The captains would offer gifts, meet with the chiefs, and make speeches encouraging the Indian nations to make peace with one another and with their new "great father," President Jefferson. All were friendly except the Lakota, with whom the expedition had a confrontation that nearly became violent. The Lakota were originally referred to as the Dakota when they lived by the Great Lakes. Encroaching European-American settlement led them to migrate west from the Great Lakes region. They later called themselves the Lakota, and were also called Sioux. During the Lewis and Clark Expedition of 1804–1806 was marked by a standoff which lead as it turned a very friendly council with Yankton Sioux (near what is now Yankton, South Dakota). According to Yankton legend, a baby is born during their visit, Lewis wraped the newborn in a United States flag and declares him “an American"..........to be continued

Warm Sunday In November

2011-11-13T06:57:00.010-05:00

7 Miles Today; It's almost daylight and a very warm Sunday morning awaits the walking guy. My shoes are laced and ready to go................It's now going on 11am. I had a uneventful morning. I saw 7 people either walking or jogging and 3 deer on this a very windy Sunday morning. It was cloudy with wind gust nearing 30-40mph. However the temperature was nice 52 when I left and 57 degrees upon arriving home. Until tomorrow, God Bless Walk Forrest Walk

Lewis & Clark Update

August 29, 1804

The Yankton Sioux (Nakota) branch were the first of the nomadic Plains tribes to meet the Lewis & Clark Expedition and the crew of The Corps of Discovery near what is now Yankton, South Dakota. Destitute and without firearms, the Yankton were keen to establish a trade relationship with the Americans.
Seventy Yankton men arrived at Calumet Bluff on the mouth of the James River for a dramatic ceremony full of dancing, music, archery contests, and feasting. Little was actually accomplished, though; promises were made to maintain the peace, and there was some agreement that a delegation would travel to Washington, D.C., to meet with President Jefferson. But in the end the Yankton didn't receive any of the weaponry they had wanted.
Pushed westward by the Chippewa, the Sioux were relative newcomers to the Missouri River region. It was the Chippewa who gave the Sioux Nation this name. The Sioux actually called themselves Lakota, Dakota, or in the case of the Yankton, Nakota. "Sioux" came from the French-Canadian pronunciation of the Chippewa word for the Sioux—Nadouessioux, or snake. Since the Chippewa were enemies, it is not likely that the name was intended as a compliment.
It was among the Yankton that the Corps first encountered tepees, the hide-covered, conical lodgings of the Plains Indians.
Today there are Sioux reservations in many states: South Dakota, North Dakota, Minnesota, Nebraska, and Montana, as well as reserve lands in Canada. to be continued............

Lewis & Clark Lake, Yankton SD

2011-11-12T19:42:00.000-05:00

7 Miles Today; I finished my walk by 9am. The weather was very nice. Sunny with a temperature of 42 degrees. I saw four deer and two people exercising. One jogger and one walker. Today's miles gave Forrest 47 for the week, down from my 52 miles/week average. Forrest's virtual journey has him visiting Lewis & Clark Lake. It's a lake now because of a dam. In 1804 the lake was just a river. Gavins Point Dam was authorized by the Flood Control Act of 1944, Under this plan, Gavins Point was designed primarily to provide a steady outflow of water to assist navigation on the lower Missouri River. Ground was broken at the damsite on May 18th of 1952 in a ceremony attended by Lieutenant General Lewis Pick, then Chief of Engineers, and the Governors of South Dakota and Nebraska. Construction began immediately and in September of 1956. Until tomorrow, God Bless Walk Forrest Walk

Lewis & Clark Update

The mouth of the James, located in present-day southern South Dakota, was in the territory of the Yankton Sioux. When they met the expedition at the end of August 1804, the Yanktons were ready to open a trade relationship with the United States. The Yanktons had already entertained British and French traders, and were aware that the world and their place in it was changing. Moreover, the tribe lacked firearms and ammunition, and many of its women and children were destitute. Yankton chiefs wanted to preserve their nation, and believed that the Corps of Discovery could help make that possible.

The first council between the Yanktons and the expedition took place with a good deal of pomp on August 30, 1804. Some 70 Yanktons journeyed to the Corps’ camp, all proceeded by musicians. During the meeting, the Yankton chief Weuche explained his people’s poverty to Lewis and Clark, as well as their need for a reliable trading partner. Afterward, Yankton braves demonstrated their proficiency with one of the weapons of their people – the bow and arrow – and then performed a series of ceremonial dances.On the whole, the Yanktons’ talks with Lewis and Clark were not particularly successful. The Yanktons wanted rifles, ammunition and possibly whiskey from the Americans, but they were to get none of these. Instead, they received and accepted an invitation to send a delegation to Washington D.C., where they might begin trade discussions with President Jefferson.

Veterans Day In Yankton, SD

2011-11-11T06:44:00.001-05:00

8 Miles Today; I delayed my walk until late afternoon. I was cold but nice. The temperature was in in high 30's. Forrest's virtual journey has him visitingYankton SD on Veterans Day 2011. Yankton is known as the town where Jack McCall, who shot and killed Wild Bill Hickok, was tried and hanged. Yankton (pop. 15,000) sits on the Missouri river. It is named for the Yankton tribe of Nakota (Sioux) Native Americans. Lewis & Clark Expedition camped here on August 28, 1804. It was the original Dakota Territorial Capital, and home of the first and oldest Dakota Daily Newspaper, published in 1861. It's also the home town of noted journalist and NBC anchor Tom Brokaw. Lawrence Welk also launched his career here back in 1927 on WNAX Radio in Yankton. Until tomorrow, God Bless Walk Forrest Walk

2011-11-10T09:43:00.007-05:00

They Fought and some died for their homland

8 Miles Today; Please take a moment tomorrow and reflect on the service and sacrifice of our men and women who wore or are now wearing the uniform of the U.S. Armed Forces. Until tomorrow, God Bless Walk Forrest Walk

First Election West Of Mississippi River

2011-11-09T06:16:00.002-05:00

7 Miles Today; It's almost 6pm and I just got home. Wow! What a day! I waited until the morning rains left the area. At 3pm the tempeture was 62 degrees very sunny and a warm breeze greeted Forrest as he left for his walk in SHORTS. Mother Nature showed Forrest who's boss. Forrest had to deal with high winds (gust up to 40mph) and a tempeture drop of 14 degrees. I didn't get wet so that's fine with the walking guy. Until tomorrow, God Bless Walk Forrest Walk

Lewis & Clark Update (12 miles from Yankton, SD)

From the journal of crew member Patrick Glass
Sunday 26th. Some of the men went out to dress and bring in the elk. About 10 o'clock Captain Lewis and Captain Clarke with the party accompanying them came to camp; but had not been able to discover any of those small people. The hill is in a handsome prairie: and the party saw a great many buffaloe near it. About 11 we renewed our voyage and passed some timberland on the south side; and black and white bluffs on the same side, we encamped on the north side opposite a creek called Pettit-Ark, or Little-bow.

August 26, 1804 – Pvt. Patrick Glass is elected to Sergeant. First election in new territory (Louisiana Purchase) west of Mississippi River. He joined the Lewis and Clark's Corps of Discovery as a private on January 1, 1804 and was promoted to sergeant by vote of the Corps members after Charles Floyd's death from appendicitis on August 22, 1804. His skill as a carpenter was important to the expedition— he led the construction of the Corps' three winter quarters, hewed dugout canoes, and built wagons to portage the canoes 18 miles around the falls of the Missouri. On the return trip, Glass was given command of the majority of the party for a short period while Clark and Lewis led smaller detachments on separate explorations.He kept a journal that was published in 1807, the first published journal from the expedition. In it, he coined the term “Corps of Discovery”.

Election Day

2011-11-08T07:51:00.001-05:00

7 Miles Today; It's raining now. When I get a break in the weather I'm off to VOTE. Forrest's route today will take him to election headquarters near the high school. Round trip will be 7.5 miles. No problem if Mother Nature doesn't make it rough for the walking guy...............It's now early evening. I walked my miles without getting rained on. Until tomorrow, God Bless Walk Forrest Walk

The Legend Of Spirit Mound

2011-11-07T04:18:00.053-05:00

5 Miles Today; Forrest's virtual journal has placed him near a small town in Southeastern South Dakota called "Vermillion". I never studied about or even heard of this historic place in American history until the last couple of days. Now I know why I keep my walking blog active writing about history. You are never too old to gain knowledge. Until tomorrow, God Bless Walk Forrest Walk

The Legend Of Spirit Mound

On August 25, 1804, Lewis and Clark climbed Spirit Mound

On August 25, 1804, long before white men came to what is now South Dakota, the little hill know by the Sioux as Paha Wakan was held in awe by the Tribes for miles around. The Omaha, the Sioux, and the Otoes believe that the mound was occupied by spirits that killed any human who came near. Lewis and Clark, along with several of their men and Lewis's dog Seaman, walked nine miles to Spirit Mound from their camp on the south bank of the Missouri River near present day Vermillion, South Dakota. The intense heat fatigued everyone, especially Seaman (the dog) who was sent back to the river to rest. Finally, Lewis and Clark reached the top of Spirit Mound where they "beheld a most beautiful landscape; Numerous herds of buffalo were seen feeding in various directions as far as can be seen"

Near Vermillion, South Dakota

2011-11-06T16:34:00.006-05:00

5 Miles Today; A very nice day for the month of November. Due to sore hips and a bum ankle I did my walk in two segments. Two miles this morning before church and a pancake breakfast sponsored by the Dewitt City Firefighters and three miles this afternoon. My Google Map is not transferring my blue route line to my blog. The red marker transfers but not the route line. I guess I'll have to wait until Google fixes the problem.

Lewis & Clark Update

The Legend of Spirit Mount

Forrest's virtual journey has him near a very special place on the Lewis & Clark Expedition.

Long before white men came to what is now South Dakota, the little hill known by the Sioux as Paha Wakan

was held in awe by tribes for miles around. The Omaha, the Sioux, and the Otoes believe that the mound was occupied by spirits that killed any human who came near.

By the 1790s, when white traders came up the Missouri as far as the Vermillion River, reports of these "little

spirits" must have been well known. Although no written record earler than the journals of Lewis and Clark has been found. On August 24, 1804, the day before they reached the mouth of the Vermillion, which they called the White Stone River, Clark wrote in his journal:

“Capt Lewis and my Self Concluded to visit a High Hill Situated in an emence Plain three Leagues N. 20º W. from the mouth of White Stone river, this hill appear to be of a Conic form and by all the different Nations in this quater is Supposed to be a place of Deavels or that they are in human form with remarkable large heads and about 18 inches high; that they are very watchfull and ar armed with Sharp arrows with which they can kill at a great distance; they are said to kill all persons who are so hardy as to attemp to approach the hill; they state that tradition informs them than many indians have suffered by these little people and among others that three Maha men fell a sacrefice to their murcyless fury not meany years since- so much do the Mahas Souix Ottoes and other neibhbouring nations believe this fable that no consideration sufficient to induce them to approach this hill.”

Tomorrow the fascinating story of "Spirit Mound" South Dakota.

First Buffalo

2011-11-05T07:12:00.001-04:00

5 Miles Today; I didn't walk this morning because of a tender lower back and hips. I'm working the MSU/Minnesota football game today at noon. The Knight Of Columbus have to report at the stadium at 8:45am. I have to stand and walk around the parking lots for six hours. I'll get my walk in sometime this evening. It will be dark but that's not a problem. to be continued 9pm Sat nite: Well my long day has come to a conclusion, six hours patrol the parking lots at the MSU football game the last thing I wanted to do is walk when I got home. It wasn't pretty but it's in the books. I logged 50 miles this week. I hope next week is easier on this old body. Until tomorrow, God Bless Walk Forrest Walk Lewis & Clark Update
From the journal of a "Corp Of Discovery" crew member named Glass.
Note: Five men kept a daily journal of the Lewis & Clark Expedition.

Mighty Herds Of Buffalo

Thursday 23rd August 1804. We proceeded early this morning with a fair wind. The river here becomes more straight than we had found it for a great distance below. Captain Clarke and one of the men killed a deer and a buffalo, and some of the men were sent to dress and bring the buffalo to the boat. We stopped at a prairie on the north side, the largest and handsomest, which I had seen. Captain Clarke called it Buffalo prairie. The men having returned, we again went on; but the wind changed and we were obliged to halt for the present. While we were detained here we salted two barrels of buffalo meat. At five in the evening we proceeded some distance and encamped on the south side.

August 23, 1804, was a red-letter day for the Corps. Joseph Fields shot and killed a large buffalo bull. It took Lewis and about a dozen men to butcher and carry the buffalo meat to a bend in the river so it could be picked up by the Corps’ boats. The Corps salted two barrels of buffalo meat that day. Sergeant John Ordway, a native of New Hampshire, was in Lewis’s party and was especially excited because he had never seen a buffalo before. Ordway wrote in his journal, “I walked about 1 mile & ½ in it when I went for the abo. ment. Buffalo, I Saw the beds & Signs of a great many more Buffalo But this was the first I ever Saw & as great a curiosity to me.”

As the Corps pushed up the Missouri through Nebraska and into present-day South Dakota, the herds grew in number. In early September, Clark noted a herd which numbered about 500; a couple of weeks later, Lewis observed a herd which he estimated at 3000. to be continued

Elk Point, South Dakota

2011-11-04T11:58:00.001-04:00

Forrest's Location Nov. 4, 2011

7 Miles Today; Forrest left the house way before the sun came up. The temperature was 31 degrees and that meant I wore gloves and earmuffs. My hips and lower back hurt but not as bad as yesterday. Tomorrow the Dewitt Knights of Columbus are working the Michigan State vs Minnesota football game. Tomorrow's game is # 6 of seven home games the Knights are working as part of the council's fund raising efforts. I have to get my miles in early because I have to report at 8:30am at the football stadium. Until tomorrow (sometime) God Bless Walk Forrest Walk

Lewis & Clark Update
August 22, 1804
The Expedition Camped At Present Day Elk Point, South Dakota
standing upon the sandbars, swimming in the river,
and leaping across the meadows, the Corps discovered that elk were everywhere.
The hunters prepared themselves for a feast later that evening.
At the banquet, Lewis and Clark recognized the necessity
to select a leader, to replace Sgt. Floyd.
It was determined to leave the choice to the men.
Therefore, the first primary election took place that evening around a campfire.
The three nominated, William Bratton, Patrick Gass, and George Gibson
anxiously awaited as the ballots were counted.

Captain Lewis announced that Patrick Gass received 19 votes (majority) and was duly elected.

History notes that the Lewis & Clark Expedition made camp in or near present day Elk Point, South Dakota. on August 22, 1804 . Elk Point was first settled in 1859. Today Elk Point is a small town with a population of 1,950 citizens. The recorded history of Elk Point dates back to the Lewis & Clark Expedition of 1804. Captain William Clark recorded in his journal a "Great deal of Elk Sign" at this campsite along the Missouri River., Elk Point was named by the Native Americans who hunted in this area, or it was named by the French fur trappers who preceded Lewis & Clark's Corps of Discovery, or it was named by Captain Clark himself, or by Eli Wixson, who had come from Sioux City, IA, to build the first cabin in 1859 and become Elk Point's first citizen. Whatever the origin, this community has secured its place in American history. to be continued............

Tough Day

2011-11-03T17:31:00.000-04:00

7 Miles Today; A bad day all around. It was cold and windy (44 degrees). It was cloudy with the threat of rain all day. Forrest hurt all over. I didn't have my heart into walking and my time for seven miles showed it. My Bride Joanne says my morning yard work might have played a part in my demise. To top the day off my Google Map is malfunctioning again. My blue route line won't embed into my blog. I guess I'll just have to wait it out and let it fix itself. Until tomorrow, God Bless Walk Forrest Walk

Nice Day In November

2011-11-02T16:01:00.001-04:00

7 Miles Today; Uneventful day today except I wore shorts with the nice weather. My guideline is 60 degrees weather I do or do not wear shorts. It was 55 and sunny this morning, close enough for Forrest. Saw just four people exercising, three walkers and one jogger. Until tomorrow, God Bless Walk Forrest Walk

Lewis & Clark Update

August 21, 1804

Forrest virtual journey has stop at the Lewis & Clark campsite near present day Sioux City, Iowa. On this date in 1804 continued on their trip west, leaving behind the remains of Sgt Charles Floyd who was laid to rest on a bluff overlooking the mighty Missouri River .Floyd's Grave’ is a name given to one of the imposing mounds or bluffs on the Missouri River

Paintin by George Catlin

The Bluff

Top of the bluff - By 1857 the Missouri had undercut the bluff and the grave was opened and some of the bones lost. Citizens of Sioux City moved the bones to a new burial site. In 1895 the bones were again examined, and a concrete slab and a one-hundred foot monument was erected in 1901. The Floyd River still bears his name.