Additional Pictures from New Orleans

Day 23. Pearl River LA to New Orleans LA 54 miles

     This was an exciting morning knowing that I would soon be in New Orleans. The route was once again for the most part flat. As happened yesterday, I realized how hot it was when I stopped about 8 and rivers of sweat ran down my face and neck. My clothes felt like I had just taken them out of the washer. At least when I started biking again, it provided a somewhat cooling effect. Wetlands began about 10 miles into my day. It was a nice scenery change. Before long I was seeing large expanses of water and saw their beauty as I crossed over them. The homes and buildings in this area were built several feet off the ground for storm protection - very interesting to see. Probably the greatest thing I saw today were bikes - easily more than I had seen in total the whole trip. There were a couple large groups out and several individuals. As I got closer to New Orleans, traffic picked up, but I had a fabulous route all the way to Jackson Square. Once there after finding Larry, we enjoyed the Mississippi shoreline and also some delicious beignets from the Cafe du Monde. After a quick trip through the French Quarter, we headed on our way to the lake.

     It was a wonderful trip, all 1652 miles. I wish to thank all those who encouraged me several years ago, who have been my riding partners at one time or another or support me with wit and friendship as I have completed my various rides. Also a big thank you to Larry for his commitment and help along the way. It is great to know there is a safety net lurking close by. Last, but not least, there is Jackson who has been Larry's second in command for all my long rides. He is always willing and able to check out the quality of food and beds - his specialty! Until next time, keep biking or give one a try.

Day 22. Foxworth MS to Pearl River LA. 64 miles

     A hot but beautiful day for biking. I held off leaving for a little bit due to the heavy fog. Even then I pulled off for cars coming from behind.  I got a few thank you beeps for the effort. It took exactly one hour to get to the Louisiana border. Not much changed scenery wise. The road remained pretty flat. The best thing though was the addition of a wide shoulder that I had all to myself. It lasted the rest of the way for the most part. I also discovered where all the logging trucks were headed. There was a big lumber yard just inside Louisiana. It has been amazing to see the many churches dotting the landscape in both Mississippi and Louisiana. Excited for tomorrow.

Day 21. Magee MS to Foxworth MS. 67 miles

     Another hot and hilly day. I was glad to be off the road at 1 o'clock .  Logging seems to be a major industry. Loaded trucks pass me all day long. Cattle farms are also prevalent in this area. On to Louisiana tomorrow.

Day 20 Kosiuscko MS to Magee MS. 79 miles

     It was a hot and hilly day today. The roads varied greatly, from alittle more scenic roadway to gravel on top of pavement and Larry's favorite, an old logging trail. After narrowly avoiding a crash due to thick mud on the trail, I found a lucky horseshoe. I'm positive that's why the rest of the trail was a piece of cake - just look at Larry's car.  Chill-action Jackson is enjoying the 90 degree heat.

Day 19. Houston MS to Kosciusko MS. 87 miles

     I'm back on the road to New Orleans after a short side trip, 301 miles, across Michigan with my grandson, Alex. We survived the 6 day camping and biking adventure unscathed. It was a beautiful route from Lake Michigan to Lake Huron.
     I left Houston, Mississipi early this morning and traveled about 6 miles through town and out to the Natchez Trace Parkway which I was on for the rest of the day. It is a beautiful scenic roadway. The original trail, a series of Indian trails, was made into a road in the 1800's to help with mail and to help solidify the area within the country.
     A great day for biking. Looking forward to tomorrow.
     I took a side trip today to Starkville, home of Mississippi State University.  This was a bucket item list, which the photos do not do justice for.  The baseball stadium has been notorious for its unique outfield seating and fan club which uses cowbells extensively.....you can see why I am attracted...it has all the redneck characteristics I treasure.  I also found an honorary bulldog member in front of the football stadium.

Day 19. Delay for a while

  Beth will resume her NTS (North to South) bike ride in a week and a half.  Five more days of biking remain until she arrives in New Orleans sometime near July 1.
   A mini vacation is in store, with PALM (Pedal Across Lower Michigan) a bike ride beginning on Father's Day with Grandson Alex and Cousin Kelly and his daughter Samantha.  Biking and six days of camping out sound like a vaca, right?