A bunch of us enjoyed dinner a short walk along the river from our hotel at what proved to be a very popular “Brew Bar”, with pizzas being the preferred option by most. Most of the other’s (except Chucky and Monnie who were celebrating their 34th wedding anniversary and understandably wanted so time alone), opted for the very nice Italian place next door. Mickey, who has a birthday in the next day or so depending on which time zone is being used, was presented with a tiramisu birthday cake - unfortunately none found its way next door.. I was awake between 11pm and 4am catching up on a bit of correspondence and reading, (and messages from home) and noted that the Wallabies had been beaten out of the Rugby World Cup Quarter finals by England, probably no surprises there. A little later (after I had finally fallen asleep), a few diehards met in the bar to watch the All Blacks beat recent nemesis Ireland resoundingly. The view over the river from our 11th floor window was not nearly as impressive this morning, with a heavy fog reducing visibility to almost zero, although it had lifted by the time we departed the hotel, albeit in less than tropical conditions (that we have learnt to live with), of between 3-6C... As we rode out of town I noted a thick layer of what appeared to be coal in a cutting, hardly surprising in coal rich West Virginia - I also noted (thanks to Doc’s warning) a couple of pot holes on the freeway - holes big enough to swallow the wheel of a Harley and cast pillions hither and yon, so best avoided. First stop was a scenic reserve that had been recommended, so a very pleasant short walk , then obligatory photos - this really is a beautiful area, at least at this time of year. I have no doubt that mid winter would be awful. Barb added a photo that visually portrays an example the extreme colours mentioned in days past - astounding. We had another zero mph tumble at a stop sign, just one of those things that happens, but fortunately no damage to bike or riders, other than perhaps a scolding by pillion to pilot. A quick stop to regroup and for coffee (and comfort) at another ubiquitous McDonalds shortly after crossing from West Virginia to Maryland - say what you like, they can be an oasis to weary, hungry, thirsty, desperate bikers. As usual, we drew the attention of locals, who were friendly, inquisitive and inevitably sent us of with a kid word and a blessing - God fearing people that they are. Another Harley dealer visited, this time in Cumberland, and my personal shopper found me a shirt and very flash hoodie, with a super soft, double lined neck gaiter to round out the deal - my wardrobe is now 95% HD branded - sweet! As has become his custom, Doc found us another fabulous diner (bearing in mind, most of these places have very little signage, and certainly don’t look like much from the road. The waitress was totally unphased by the Kiwi invasion, quickly and efficiently getting things underway - if she was in NZ, I’d offer her a high paying job. The icing on the cake was a sign across the road - Trump 2020! Another border crossed, out of Maryland and into Pennsylvania, and with it another subtle change in scenery- fewer of the grotty old houses with junk as garden ornaments, and more nice homes with freshly mowed two acre front lawns... We have arrived in Gettysburg, a lovely and hallowed spot - more to follow Comments are closed.
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Don MalcolmA perfect day involves being on my Harley with a long ride ahead.
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