A Long Ride

We spent almost a week staying with family and friends, relaxing, hiking and just enjoying not being on the bike. We rode from southern Alabama almost straight North, staying several days with my sister's family, then continuing through Tennessee and Kentucky before stopping in Illinois to visit friends.

Haley and Ethan, my niece and nephew, are both talented musicians. I used my laptop to record them playing bluegrass with their father... keep in mind Ethan is eight years old and has just recently started playing the violin!



We rode north through Tennessee trying to use small roads, but it was impossible, and I gave up and got on the interstate. I did the same thing in 2004 trying to head southwest through the state. Either I have terrible luck or Tennessee roads are disjointed, clogged with sprawl, and too short. You might have to take six different roads to get ten miles. Western Kentucky was a little better, and as soon as we crossed into Illinois, the square grid of midwest farm roads took over and we headed toward Roanoke on the small roads I prefer.



We just met Ed and Lynn, but they welcomed us into their beautiful home and spoiled us rotten with gourmet meals and a jacuzzi to relax our muscles. Thank you!