Following the Susquehanna

This is a shot of the Susquehanna River which meanders through PA and southern NY. As mentioned previously, I followed it through PA as a way to minimize big climbs in the mountains. Since it does meander it added miles to the trip but it was the right way to go. Speaking of mileage, I arrived in Syracuse last evening and the total trip covered 1996  miles. More stats once I calculate them.

Back in NY

Long day but back in NY. Thunderstorms cleared in Wilkes Barre at about 10am so I started then and rode in the rain for two hours. Followed the Susquehanna up through Tunkhannock and then back through East Milford and eventually to Binghamton. 89 miles total. Staying at Bob and Barb Martin's.  Another trip first; after picking me up at a designated location just North of Binghamton they took me directly to a bar for Carbo reloading before a shower. Tasillo's, Cywiko's, Paul's, you know the bar; it's the one we go to after the bowling tournament, the Wine Cellar. Looking like I'm home tomorrow.

Roving Pit Crew

This is my roving pit crew Mark and Maryann. They met me in Carlisle PA where we spent a luxurious evening at Motel 6. Remember Maryann it's a new experience. After a day at Gettysburg they met me again in Danville PA. Does this mean I have groupies? Anyway the plan of following river valleys through the PA mountains is working great. To my surprise the roads in PA have been great; wide shoulders, good surface. In Wilkes Barre tonight; had to quit a little early today due impending thunderstorms and because I broke more spokes. Found a good bike shop so I'm good to go. Lightning expected to last well into tomorrow so I may lose a day. Best guess, home Saturday.

Mason Dixon

Could tell I was near the Mason Dixon line when I saw my first covered bridge. Landed in Carlisle PA last night and met up with my friends Mark and MaryAnn Cywilko for dinner. Had another flat and a brake problem which slowed me down; 68 miles today. Into the mountains today. Going to follow the Susquehanna River valley hoping that will keep the elevation down. Stay tuned.

Northern Virginia

Lots of horse farms in Northern Va. This is typical. Left Warrenton just after dawn to avoid projected late afternoon t-storms. Worked pretty well; no rain until I was within five miles of the hotel. 75 miles yesterday; Carlisle PA today, weather dependent.

Charlottesville Pit Crew

My Charlottesville pit crew sending me off well fed and rested. As you can see Conor wanted to come with me and John had to restrain him. Had a tough time getting into any sort of rhythm. Can't whine about the wind; it was behind me. Being in the foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains there were quite a few big hills but don't think that was it either. I'm convinced the meals I've had the last couple days have put me into withdrawal from gas station food. 70 miles today and staying in Warrenton VA. Hope to hit Maryland tomorrow but the weather looks like it may not cooperate; more severe t-storms forecast.

Recharging in Charlottesville

Getting some tips from my grandson Conor. Miserable weather here today so looks like I'll hit the road again Saturday. Spent some time at the library today trying to find the best path through the mountains in PA. Conclusion: there is no good way.