I don’t know if it was the cold night, or if I was just that tired, but I did not wake up until seven. I heard Tammi putting her tent poles away and wondered why she was packing up so early! I rallied quickly as it was already breakfast time. I want credit. It’s hard to move fast when it’s only 46° and your sleeping bag is cozy.
Our ride out of Perry was nothing to document. Perry is little more than a map dot. The KOA we stayed in was the town jewel; the rest of the town was gas stations, bars, and houses working hard against the elements to remain upright.
Things improved as we entered Lafayette County although the theme of that section of the ride was “the roadkill route.” I wish people would either fence dogs or tie them. We saw several and it’s distressing to come across them. And unnecessary.
Lafayette had Live Oaks and Spanish Moss that created a canopy across the road. This was lovely if not a little chilly. The sun just didn’t get the job done today. We rode into Mayo and had lunch at the Hornet Café where Ann, as usual, made friends with the patrons.
In her defense, people are really interested in our story. And in telling us theirs.
Some of our route today paralleled the Suwanee River. This river has lots of springs and there were many signs directing us to them should we want to go off the route.
One was called Convict Springs, named because chain gangs worked on the roads in that area in the 1800s, and it was too far to get back to the prison, so they made camp there. I love the history of place names.
When we got to Branford, Ann went to meet Kelly and Adam and I took a side trip into a park along the Suwanee River.
Jack was there and Tammi and I took a quick break with him. Tammi noticed a bike path that took us off the main road, and we all ventured off. I wish I had spent more time getting to know her. She’s an interesting and pleasant woman.
Our last 5 miles were through cattle fields and we were able to ride side-by-side all the way. We’re now nestled in the Itchetucknee Family Campground which is rustic but right next-door to the Itchetucknee Springs State Park. We have a layover day here tomorrow so there will be some exploration.
Things I learned today:
- Pine straw is a thing. I saw people raking pine needles onto shrubs and thought they were just being tidy.
- A better name for this campground is Itchywanky Family Campground (thank you Terry!)
Yes, your story is fascinating! I know that because I keep telling it to everyone I know. I feel like it makes me more interesting by association....you're a real celebrity here in Forest, VA. Debbie
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