Tonight’s post will be kind of short because I was the cook with Greg. So I am getting to my blog a little late, and besides, we have not had inter-net for the last two nights so I’m trying to catch up. So here are some photos of today’s route through eastern Kentucky and some of the scenery including open pit coal mines. We had three hellacious (sp) climbs today.
I saw a sign today that said “God bless coal and the men who mine it”. We stopped for our 2nd breakfast at a funky little diner, and while we were standing there an old (62) character rode up on his quad-runner…complete with rain cover…I could barely understand him, let alone try to duplicate his accent!
Then while riding, I held my camera over my head as a big coal truck came up from behind. In many places on these roads there is very little shoulder and the rumble strip takes up what little shoulder there is.
Lodging tonight is at Dave’s place. It’s kind of a historical setting that he inherited from his grandmother. He has 18 cats…and they have been “marking” their territory on our gear.
The road to his place is VERY steep, and evidently I have set the record for the oldest person to climb the hill (without stopping) on a bicycle! Got to go to bed.
Ollie-thanks for sharing your adventure, it is shaping up to be quite a story. Can't wait to serve you a beer when you get back to town.
ReplyDeletemuch love,
Rachelle
Dear Ollie, met your riding buddies today. What a wonderful group. So happy you were able to participate in a trip of a lifetime and a dream come true for you. We love you with all of our hearts! Reading this blog and seeing the photos makes me feel one step closer to you-my daughter's papa-our sweet Ollie. We have all been blessed knowing you. We love you forever!
ReplyDeleteDad, you KNEW how steep that hill was, and now you're King of the Hill at 70 years and 364 days.....Showoff! :)
ReplyDeleteDad, I saw what you saw, I smelled the air, heard the birds, felt the Kentucky sun, saw the Tiger Lilies. I felt your smile as you let the bike roll down that last sloping decent. You were having the time of your life and living it the way you wanted to. But I sure do miss you and your calls from the road to tell me about the cool thing you just saw....
Your bike group feels your absence but I told em you'd want them to ride with purpose, and a smile on their face. They are doing that and enjoying ELI, Every Little Inch.
You did it your way Dad. We'll do our best to carry it forward and put a smile on everyone's face.
Love ya Dad
Ollie, so many wonderful memories we share. 55 years worth!
ReplyDeleteThanks Pam, Jake, Erin, Amanda, and Kim for letting me hold his hand and say goodbye. It means more than you know.
stan j
We love you, Stan. So happy you made it.
DeleteK