Old men on porches, Ford pickups, and Ross’s flat tires

These things characterized the events of June 8th aka Day 6. But first I’ll catch up on the days in between. We left Roanoke late on Saturday after driving around in circles with my Dad for the better part of an afternoon [those who have ridden with a Joyce who swears they know where they're going will understand this] But we were full, happy, and clean and the rest of the Zoo enjoyed the sight seeing tour of Roanoke. After being dropped off at the trail we made our way up the stunning Catawba valley and nestled in for the night behind Valley Presbyterian Church. They gave us free reign in their basement to coffee etc... A splendid night! Sunday held a long haul to Wytheville and the backyard of a farmhouse owned by a kind fellow who reported to have hosted many bikers in the 20 years he'd lived there.
Being along the trail is cool, kindof like being a pilgrim... folks sort of know what you're up to and look out for you. Tues. was Wythville to Damascus and a great time. As in the title, there were heaps of old fellas on porches who were happy to see us pass by and friendlier pickup drivers than expected. Ross got close to 600 flat tires and changed most of them himself, a regular mechanic our ol'Bossy. Lots of rivers to swim in! Met our first other trans-am bikers and a real highlight was meeting Appalachian Trail thur-hikers at "The Place" hostel. I don't envy them much, but they're an interesting lot. We astonish them by our carelessness of carrying unnecessary weight. It’s a valid point they have, I’ve carried several Roman Candle fireworks since H-burg. While not essential they are oh so fun when used!
We expect to be in Kentucky tomorrow, which will actually be the 3 state we hit after we took a short jaunt into Tenn. Last night just for kicks. All is well, mail drop info will be up soon! Hope that ya’ll are having fun too!