This morning we woke up in Atlanta. We haven’t often slept in a big city and I was a tad nervous about getting out safely. Since we’re leaving so early and it’s Saturday, we’ll be taking a more direct route out of town saving us valuable time on the bike.
As we were doing our final prep in the lobby, a group of four women arrived. It was just before 5 AM and they said goodnight and Todd explained we are just starting our day!
Starting off on a gentle up hill in relatively cool, moist air, we were very quickly out of town. We watched the scenery turn more and more rural until our second breakfast at mile 60 today in Monticello.
The second we walked in, we met Paul and Danny. Both were very friendly and very interested in bikes and our trip. They seemed to know each person that walked through the door and there were many. This was the sort of place you’d like to spend more time because of these kind people. As we ate, we discussed Moab mountain biking with another customer and soon after, yet another cyclist walked through the door and introduced himself. Truly the highlight today. But-the worrisome heat is not far away now so we keep moving.
A few minutes out of town and we’re riding through the Oconee forest. Low traffic, dappled forest light and gentle rolling hills gave way too soon to much higher traffic, impatient drivers, and heat! It was time to get to our destination. Upon arrival we’ll hurry our recovery and even catch some of the Tour today. Until tomorrow…
