Day 2 Astor, FL

April 26, 2019

We almost missed the rain

We woke up to rain this morning, as forecast. We only had 35 miles to ride, so we knew we could start out in the afternoon and be fine. The rain actually stopped before noon, so we were on the road by 12:3o. The first few miles were on very busy US 441. There was a good shoulder, so it was no problem to ride, just not very much fun.

We had mostly busy roads until our stop for lunch at McDonald's in Umatilla. We had a lot of fun at lunch talking with people who were really interested in our trip and the bike.

There was a brisk wind from the southwest today - perfect for our notheasterly route!

Sorry about the slightly blurry picture, but this really shows our wonderful tailwind.

Once we headed north from Umatilla, the area got much more rural and soon we were riding through the Ocala National Forest.

Riding through the Ocala National Forest. This blue sky was about to change.

This part of the ride had no place at all to stop for shelter. Of course, that's when it decided to dump a little rain on us. It only lasted for about 15 minutes, then the sun came out we dried out quickly.

This one dark cloud rained on us for 3 miles.

Between the city highways and the Ocala National Forest, we didn't see any cattle ranches today, but we did spot this guy

and his friends! - Jeanna

Today there was a lot of uV ajeD. On March 7th of this year, we rode the same route as today only we were headed in the opposite direction. (A Little Two Far / Day 12 Leesburg) . We were smarter this time around as we only rode 35 miles instead of 70. (When we're not travelling with friends, we can be real wimps) . Besides having a shorter day, we had a great tailwind, so even though we got a late start, we arrived at our destination by 3:30. We walked over to the Blackwater Inn , where we enjoyed Cajun Catfish and Prime Rib for dinner. Note to Ken & Francie: Unlike our last visit here, when they were very short handed, we got served immediately. - Kerry

Because Francie hates taking breaks when she's riding, I had to insist that we stop at this Ocala Forest trailhead the last time we went through here. :-)

Today's ride: 35 miles (56 km)
Total: 87 miles (140 km)

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Lou HarminLots of sun all day in Meadowcrest. I spent an hour in the pool. lou
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5 years ago

Alain AbbateThanks to your easy day you have covered the same distance in 2 days as we have in a week. You are flying along. Have a great trip.
Alain
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5 years ago

Jeanna & Kerry SmithTo Alain AbbateI think all our days are easier than yours! We're enjoying your blog.
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5 years ago

Francie Gass35 miles? You were showing off to us when we were with you...planning that 70 mile day! Hahah, maybe you are smarter now! Glad to hear you bought rain gear. Now you can ride out here with us!
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5 years ago