Several weeks ago some of us decided that renting a hotel room would be a nice touch for our final rest day. Dewayne and I booked a room in the Gettysburg Travelodge. I have mixed feelings – it would be nice to spend time with many of the Big Riders in camp, one of the last times we would be able to share experiences, but on the other hand, sleeping in a bed, in an air-conditioned room with a clean bathroom obviously won out.
I awoke at 7:40 am, refreshed and ready to spend the bulk of the day relaxing; no battlefield tours, no bike riding; just a bit of exploring the town on foot was on my agenda. Walking through town I was amazed at the record of events, displayed on plaques everywhere, recounting events of July 1 – 3, 1863. If buildings could talk, many in town could speak volumes on what they witnessed as the Battle of Gettysburg raged in and around town.
Visiting the College of Gettysburg campus, where my father attended school MANY years ago (approx. 64 years ago), I located his dorm and took pictures to share with him when I return home.
We did have a major storm blow through that knocked down trees and dumped copious amounts of rain in a short period of time. Streets in Gettysburg were turned into rivers and hail bounced off roofs. We were glad to be in a hotel!
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2 comments:
After about the same amount of time in school teaching 8th graders as you have been on the rode, I wonder if you will feel more fatigued than you do now. What a metaphor we will be able to use throughout the year-- the climbs, the frustrating "drivers," the storms, etc. We look forward to seeing you. I will be sorry to miss these great entries. Do you want to teach writing? :o) Congratulations, Jim, on such an inspiring (though I have not ridden my bike close to the distance on your shortest days) accomplishment. I am so proud of all you have done. Have a safe trip back to Elgin.
Jim,
Congratulations on the completion of your amazing journey. Thanks for sharing the ride. It was great to follow your updates. One quick question for inquiring minds, though, before this ends. Which was tougher, the Big Ride or completing your CPDU paperwork a few years back with Peggy and Mary to renew your teaching certificates? Just wondering.
Have a good trip home and enjoy the rest of your summer break.
George
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