Today's route went from Rocky Springs to the Ratliff Ferry camp ground. I never know exactly where I end up when taking off in the morning, as it depends a little on how my day progresses. Key items always are: Where can I find water, food, a camp ground or a place to sleep? So far all has gone well, and I am about thirty miles ahead of schedule. The Parkway meanders and undulates with medium size hills. A stubborn headwind and always hot summer sun, keeps the ride to an average of 12.5 miles per hour. For the first time on the trip I had some rainfall, which actually felt pretty good while coming down, but then afterward the humidity kicked up a notch.
Sunday traffic was polite and patient, and even around Jackson, where traffic was a lot busier with weekend travelers, it was not a problem. Groups of motor cyclist were going up and down the NTP and often would wave to me, as if I was one of them! How cool is that! The route went by the shores of the Ross Barnett Reservoir, the Pearl river and the Cypress swamp, all beautiful water stops. And did I mention the beautiful lillie pads all along the shoreline? Monet would have loved it here!
By seven o'clock I made it to my final destination and checked in at the campground store. It was there that I met Mark, proud owner of five "puppies", who took an interest in my story. After we talked choices of beers for a while, he commented that if interested he would cook me up some grits, as I looked awfully skinny to him. He then pulled out his wallet and a twenty dollar bill, as a donation for the cause! Do I say more. The people of Mississippi rock, time after time!
Great story!Keep them coming!
ReplyDeleteAnne