Well we have crossed over our first state lines; bye-bye Virginia, and hello Kentucky. It's hard to believe we've already been on the road for 14 days. Thinking back on our experiences so far, it's been one hell of a ride. We met another cross-country cyclist, Joon, who rode with us from Lexington to Damascus, VA. We've stayed everywhere from campgrounds to bike hostels, churches, and public parks. I've had to fix two broken spokes, a broken chain, and a flat. We've climbed countless mountains and I've gone faster than I've ever gone on a bike on multiple occasions. It's just been an absolute blast.
Last night we stayed at the Hindman Historical Society Bike Hostel where we met David, our host. When we arrived, he was waiting with a tray of sweet tea. He then ushered us to the patio where there was cold beer and snacks, and then he did our laundry while we showered. He later cooked us an enormous dinner followed by an equally big ice cream sundae with a shot of Kentucky brandy as a nightcap. He's about to make us breakfast before we head out. This has been the nicest place we've stayed so far, though we also spent the most money for accommodations here (which isn't saying much since most of them have been free so far).
The generosity and kindness demonstrated by the TransAmerica bike community is quite profound. Listening to stories of hostels that have been around for 20+ years, and reading guest book entries from the hundreds of bikers who come through every summer is a humbling reminder that this journey would be much harder without the periodic blessing of a warm shower, hot meal, and a dry place to sleep.
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| Uncle Dave's Feast |
I'm excited to experience more of Kentucky. The locals so far have been really nice--notably more friendly than most of the people we'd come across in Virginia. Thankfully (perhaps related?) liquor stores are much easier to find here. We keep hearing about loose dogs, and that's pretty intimidating. But hey, I've been chased by dogs before. Let's just hope it doesn't happen on an uphill. Also Kentucky is very beautiful, much like Virginia, though they have some differences in topography. The litter, however, on the sides of the road here is pretty outrageous.
Anyway, I'm excited to see more and share it on the blog, so until next time..!
- Chris 
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