My latest adventure down the west coast is now over. Posts are listed by date on the right. In a departure from previous years, I am not asking for donations. Instead, I will be making a sizable donation on behalf of my father-in-law, father, and all the wonderful people who have supported me over the years.

My rides will continue to make a difference in the lives of families fighting lung disease and to increase awareness about the importance of lung health. Follow along … Together; we are improving life, one breath at a time.

Saturday, June 4, 2011

Natchez Trace - Day -1 -- Natchez, MS

The Route for the Week
A leisurely breakfeast followed by bike and baggage loading had us on the road by 8:30.  It was already almost 80 degrees when we headed out from Nashville for the 8 hour car ride to Natchez.  The theme of the week will be heat and hydration.  Ice filled bandannas will be the order of the day.

Loaded Up and Ready To Go .. 3 Serottas (and Bike Friday)
The ride passed quickly with more fun conversation, a few stops, and three digit temperature readings.We cruised past the Nashville skyline and the terminus of the Natchez Trace Parkway (we will end there next Saturday) before settling in to lots of highway miles. The bike ride starts tomorrow and follows the route shown above.




Nashville Skyline ... See You in a Week

I am Sweating Just Thinking About It
Conversation, memories, and laughter helped pass the time quickly and we made it to Natchez by 5PM.  The route took us past Nashville and Memphis, TN and Tupelo and Jackson, MS.  I waved a big hello to the birthplaces of the King and my brother-in-law Bob.  Bob would have been able to tell me all the history of the area and details of each stop I will make this week.  I hope he is looking down on my ride with a smile.

Miss You Bob ...
Most of the group had already arrived and after check in we got together for Joe and Jeff's first "route wrap".  The ride includes myself, Helen, Alex, Leo, Joe, Jeff, Steve, Rod, Ellen, Howard, and Shirley.  We are blessed to also have Joe's wife Karen and Jeff's wife Aila who will be driving two of the SAG vehicles.  We will take turns with the third one (my Jeep).


Route Wrap with Karen, Joe, and Aila

Jeff Sports the ABB Reunion Ride T

Iron Man Steve and College Grad Alex

Shirley, Howard, and Ellen
Dinner was at the King's Tavern, one of the oldest buildings in Natchez (dates back to 1769).  It had a Williamsburg feel to it.  We all caught up and recollected some of the more memorable events of last summer.  New memories await.  Natchez sits on the banks of the Mississippi River and is filled with magnificent antebellum homes.  It has a classic southern charm.


King's Tavern ... See Any Ghosts

Rod Checks Out Tonight's Menu ... I Had Stuffed Flounder

Natchez - 300 Years of History
Lots of Amazing Southern Mansions

Spanish Moss ... Great Architecture
With the 100 degree heat, we plan to try and get on the road by 6:30.  My plan is to enjoy the scenery and company and stay hydrated.

Donations have started to really pour in ... $3,500 and counting.  A big thanks to the following Gold level donors: Loretta Letke, Peter Moore, Kathi Kohlmeyer, Christine Hood, Cheryl West, Anne Rossi, and Gopal Vembar.  Their generosity will help make a big difference in the fight on lung disease.  Donations can be made at Donate to 2011 Ride. 

Good night moon ... good night heat ... good night ghosts (King's Tavern has few they say) ... good night ABB reunion riders ...good night shiny bike ... it starts again tomorrow.
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