Burton, OH to Gettysburg, PA

Some frustration that I can't get the photos to load the way I want; will address that when I return to Vermont and do a wrap-up. We have been through the hilly country of southern Pennsylvania and are now close to the finish line. The ride went from Burton (charming) to Washington, PA (not). We were in a campground with quite minimal facilities in the rain. Such is the big ride. The following day was into Confluence, PA - very small with a disappointing campground (we had the goose dropping area). The little town had little to offer - laundromat closed at 8, leaving a lot of people with clothes still wet from Washington. The best part of the day (if I have the right day) was the water stop at the Temporary 9/11 Memorial in Shanksville. The ride from Confluence to Bedford was extremely frustrating for Bill - more tube and tire problems. Long day, starting to rain yet again. I took the initiative to get a room for the night at a close-by Hampton Inn, and Jeff bunked in with us. We were dry, cool, and well fed. I'm afraid that those who stayed at the campground weren't. There was a tour of the Cannondale Bicycle Plant by very gracious employees, and those who went (not including the Harms) really enjoyed it. Yesterday's ride from Bedford to Gettysburg is often called the final exam. It's one of the roughest days (long and hilly) and it was very hot and humid, but all the riders got in. Late, but in. We were met by a contingent from Bob Jones's office - pie, muffins, and most appreciated cold beverages. The accomodations provided for the rest day (and two nights) are on the grounds of and in a middle school in the middle of the village. Great location, but the heat and thunderstorms and rain today make it less than desirable. We had decided some time ago to get a hotel for the rest day and have been very happy we did. We've rested, done laundry, run errands, etc., with a cool dry room to return to. Lots of riders opted for commercial accomodations, fortunately. Two more riding days til the finish line. At this point, we're tired and looking forward to reclaiming our lives. Part of that will be more blogging - more rider profiles, so keep on coming back!