Hello from Topeka. Crossed the Mo river a few days ago and worried about the consequences for your town, Then we got two days of rain. Sorry, it is headed your way.
As far a as a beginner machine I would recommend a cast iron singer at least 50 years old. They are amazing and if you are at all handy you can bring one back to life and keep it running forever.. Browse through vintage and antique pages.. Cheap plastic beginner machines are disposable.
If you are a cyclist, are you going to Sedalia next month? Penny farthing festival. High wheels and other antique bikes and lovely garb to go with them?
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