As we set out this morning for the longest ride so far (c. 71 miles), I was overwhelmed by the cool air, the lush green of the grass and trees, the blueness of the sky.  I kept thinking of the hymn “For the Beauty of the Earth”, though of course I couldn’t remember all of the verses (For the beauty).   It was truly a glorious morning.  My early-to-bed of the night before and a Claritin tablet gave me new life and I rode especially strong for the first 36 miles (average 13.7  mph).

At the Cylo Trading Post, Nancy I. and I took a break and met Catherine, on her way to church.  She was hugging and kissing all the riders – and meowing, as her nickname is Cat.

At about mile 39 we crossed the Savannah River into South Caroline – no Welcome sign, so we had to use a highway sign to confirm a new state.

Our pace had slowed somewhat but Nancy and I were riding strong.  Next historical marker was at Robertville.  There we found Ann M. and Mary B., strong riders who had attended this church, having arrived just as services started (we arrived just as services ended).

Near mile 65 we crossed the Coosawhatchie River (say that 3 times fast) and another historical marker.

Just before our hotel, another historical marker:We are staying at the Best Western Point South for 2 nights.  This is not much more than an exit from I-95 toward Beaufort and Hilton Head, also Parris Island (Marine Corps training facility). As we were cycling along the frontage road, I was reminded of nature’s beauty – and all that the cars and trucks miss as they speed by on the interstate.

My roommate is Marilyn C. from Washington State, who is completing the perimeter of the U.S. with this tour.

With a new state crossing, we had margaritas – and my roommate has special socks for the occasion.

 

 

Today’s Mileage: 71.42; average speed 13.2.  Miles from Fort Lauderdale 714.12; from Key West 942.60.

 

We will definitely be seeing more markers from the Civil War era.