Todays' ride passed happily without incident. The road was a rollercoaster of gruelling ascents followed by swift descents. After the mountain views of the previous days, we were now treated to some timeless farm-scapes; ancient red barns, old tractors and rolling corn fields that look like those patch-work quilt folk illustrations. We felt as if we were cycling back in time! Matt observed the organically laid out crops and traditional machinery (country boy that he is)-and photographed a few wildflower meadows.
Thankfully, the cool change the locals predicted has mercifully lowered temperatures and protected us from direct sunlight with plentiful cloud-cover. For the first time since setting out, it felt as if we could be cycling in England on a particularly hot day. It even rained a bit for us! We battled a soft headwind all day, but appreciated the breeze.
With 30 miles under our wheels, we stopped for some caffeine in a gas station (when I was working at Inferno, I retricted myself to 2 cups of coffee. Here I start the day with 3 cups and follow it with a Coke chaser.) In the gas station, we met another East-bound Trans-Amer; Tim. We exchanged the obligatory trip-notes and a bit of Dennis Learys' 'How about this Heat!' Once comfortable with us, Tim confessed that he had momentarily copped-out and hired a car yesterday; weary from the hills and heat. We heartily forgave him (only to condemn him for this petty crime a few miles down the road.)
The afternoon progressed much the same as the morning (see first para; repeat!) We aimed for Claytor Lakes; pricier camping ($26/pitch)-but it offered a Lake-side beach. As we 'hit the beach' we were intercepted by a Bay-Watch lookalike, telling us we couldn't swim; it was now past 6pm and the beach was now unguarded. I glanced beyond him at the glass-like lake just kissing the shore. Nearby, some toddlers played in the shallows. We told the Life-guard 'those guys said it was fine' and walked on past him. Sitting in the imported-white sand as the Lake lapped around us, we agreed Claytor Lake was worth the investment.
In spite of some severe weather warnings, we were able to camp soundly in our tiny tent. Rocked to sleep by some winds and rainfall. I've slept better this past week than I have in years; cycling is a total insomnia killer!
No comments:
Post a Comment