Day 44-Poplarville MS

 Today was a relatively short day, just 50 miles. The day was gorgeous – 85° and bright sunshine, just the way I like it

We took a little time to dry our tents after last nights 100% humidity. While we waited we chatted with Officer Homer who told us about the first instance of a biker staying. Apparently someone rolled in as a solo writer and came to the police station looking for a safe place to camp. The park in town was not in the best neighborhood and the officer in charge told him he could camp in the backyard of the police station. The police officers enjoyed the experience and it became a regular thing. They host quite a few riders each year. We found it very comfortable. They let us use their rec room and their kitchen and we were even able to watch some Monday night football. It was quite a treat.

Ann and I encountered some unique Haybale art right off the bat. The roads were good and we were cranking right along when Bam — there was a tandem on the side of the road again. This time it was self sabotage. They forgot to tighten their pedals after yesterday‘s repair, and we’re happy to see that it was an easy fix. We are all a little traumatized by their bad luck.

More back roads and farms made for an easy rolling ride all the way to Bogalusa. Bogalusa may be my new favorite town name. Sorry Mamou Louisiana, you’re now in second place. 

We stopped at the brewing beans coffee shop for caffeine and a snack. It’s owned by a young woman named Tomiko from New Orleans. She moved there to find peace after living in the city for so long. The store has a faith based flavor which I found a nice addition without being heavy handed. And the chocolate chip cookie was Heavenly indeed!

We didn’t have far to ride before we crossed the Mississippi state line. We’re in this state for just two days which is too bad because it’s a beautiful place so far. We were on back roads through farmland, passed cows and some cranky dogs, and by early afternoon we arrived here at the house see Ende RV park in Poplarville.

We set up tents and then Jack and I took off to get groceries as it’s our turn to cook. Our desired destination was the Poplarville Grocery and Salvage because we were so curious about the name. It was a bit of a disappointment. It didn’t actually have any salvage, well maybe around back, and precious little groceries. We headed to the Save-aLot from there. Slightly better groceries and no hint of salvage.

We got dinner done shortly before the deluge arrived. When it rains here, it doesn’t do it halfway! My tent remained bone dry. I am able to put full faith in it.

Things I learned today:

• Little kids can detect accents and will call you out, telling you you talk funny. One kid asked us if we were speaking English in the grocery store.