Lulu Gene and Saint Louis's Jersey Style Pizza: rock

After crossing the mississippi on a ferry, and the missouri by narrow and lenthy bridge, I thought all the exciting water crossings were behind me. I was mistaken. On my way from Lulu's backyard in Saint Genevieve, still full from the dinner she took me to, heading toward Saint Louis, I encounter a detour that guides traffic onto the interstate where bikes aren't allowed, so, I ignore it. After crossing an, "out" bridge with no more effort than avoiding some traffic cones, I figure I'm scott free. Unfortunately, many miles later, there actually is a bridge... out, as in not IN existence. But no worries, Gene the roadside worker and avid bicyclist, on his last day before retirement, is there to help. Together we roll the bike into and out of the ravine. He sends me on my way in no time with heavy pockets for a real meal. Thanks Gene! At dinner, I somehow manage to win a 40buck tab so
Gene's gift becomes a nice tip.

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AVA!

visiting the best named town in missouri meant not taking the hills avoiding detour, but was so worth it.

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What a family!

Lexington, rolled up to Olivia's house. She had asked if I'd need help procuring transport... this time I around I didn't! It was great spending time with her and her family and friends - all great hosts. Her mom helped me pack in calories for later use, her dad pulled strings and got my bike checked out in a snap and friends Michael and Patrick treated us to a great horseback riding adventure (for me at least). Horses are so cool. Like a very independently minded pet that if you develop a good relationship with, can also be your transport. My horse friend, Moonlight(?), really wanted to book. I did not. She cooperated, but I felt a little bad that we couldn't just tear-it-up.
The incredible part: Olivia did all this entertaining while preping for her 1st day of college! What a burden, but thanks, so much fun.

It felt like an important stop too. I met Olivia's aunt Susan several months ago. She was so supportive with this bike idea and even sent a package of essential enabling gear.

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Along the way to Lexington from Berea I met a fellow biker who guided me in all the way to the street I was looking for. We rode together for maybe 20mile. Everytime I get the chance to ride with someone I'm so grateful. All the climbs just dissapear amongst the chat. Yesterday I met Sam, biking east, his parents were joining him for a short leg. One would bike, the other would drive all the gear, then trade. It seemed like it could be a good break. They shared with me so much food! I also spent some time with Bernie who treated me to a sandwich and I wished me lots of luck. I hope I can catch Jon and James (they are almost two days ahead of me since I detoured). But maybe someone else will catch me!

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huray a K

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Big Buckhorn Country Music Festival

At a country music festival outside Buckhorn, KY. Hitched a ride in from a pickup, entry was free. Camping here too. the big group really made me feel alone. Not lonely, but the good kind of alone. (likely) alone in: biking here, being unknown to everyone here, being from out of town, writing thoughts down right NOW.

There are frequent helicopters coming and going. I witnessed one carrying away a heartattack victim receiving vigorous chest compressions. A boy was evacuated by ambulance after a car hit him... Everyone is flying around in their trucks, 4x4s and off-road golf cart contraptions. I'd caught the ride b/c the roads just didn't seem safe, but even my tent is surrounded by buzzing engines. I've got bike reflectors strategically placed around my tent. The helicopters even seem more wreckless. Flying towards crowds as they ascend... Possibly alone in thinking, "I sure hope that thing don't fall on me."

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Finally Kentucky

Yesterday I crossed into Kentucky and while I'm thankful for the great hospitality of VA, it's real nice to be in a new state. The last couple days I've been biking in coal country and while the trucks are big and frequent, so far they seem courteous. Everyone has warned about the KY dogs. Mia and Rebecca (two eastbound transAmers) even armed me with dog mace as a, "last resort..." It was really nice to spend the evening with them in Wytheville. The town sets up bikers in the park pavillion and that where we met. Hearing their stories reminded me I've got to take my time and enjoy this; no dealines for me. They all had some helpful saddle hints. I got a kick out of talking w/two young women about my dude-part related concerns, but they were in the know! Couple days ago I met James and Jon, first bikers I've seen going same direction as me. We camped together at Breaks and witnessed a
beautiful evening. Sunset, stars, cool breeze, leafy rustle and heady chit chat. Be present, dude.

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