Yesterday the 2nd I rode to Marietta, OH, on the bank of the Ohio River, a scant 250 miles. Despite the promise of high 90’s heat, I took back roads to enjoy the ride. So it took me a little longer, close to seven hours plus stops. I was bushed and didn’t feel up to writing.
I remember hearing forecasts growing up describing how weather traveled up the Ohio Valley then turned east to take over east coast weather. The river separates Ohio from West Virginia but doesn’t actually look all that big. And the valley is very pretty, but nothing like the Mississippi Valley. It’s a random thought but it has me baffled still.
One thing I can say about the Ohio Valley is it’s home to some fabulous roads for riding. Nothing treacherous or too taxing, but just fun! If you ride, I heartily recommend OH 320 and OH 550. Those alone made the ride worthwhile!
I met a neat character when I stopped in Glenview, OH for a break. I was parked in the shade of an apartment building when this older gentleman sort of shuffled by. He almost kept going but changed course to investigate, I guess. Tommy is in his 80’s, I would guess, and not nattily attired. Says he’s lived in this town all his life and worked hard as a laborer until he had a stroke about 10 years ago. Since then his disability has run out and he lives on $646 a month. “Can you believe that? But I don’t complain ‘cause it doesn’t help.” We talked a bit more, then he bid me good-bye, saying he’s glad we met as he continued his stroll around the corner to heaven knows where.
I wonder if he’ll remember my name, or that we met. The talking was important to him, I feel. Maybe a once or twice a day thing. In my heart I suspect he about wanting to be seen, to shake hands and talk a bit as a man. I’ve thought about him quite a bit.
I encountered a couple more folks that day, sharing greetings and good wishes. None were as important as Tommy.
Today started in the 80’s and shot up from there. I was tempted to take the back roads again but sanity prevailed. Using the interstates, I traveled six hours and stopped five times. The thermometer passed 100 around noon, peaked at 104 and stayed there until I pulled into Chambersburg, PA for the night. Feeling a little whipped.
Tomorrow is the 4th of July, and I look forward to getting home.
And now to the arms of sweet Morpheus…..
Be well.
Wandering Retirees 