Memorial Day meant moving day for us. I had always planned it that way in order to have the least traffic on the beltway as possible. I have told you before loop 495, known in DC as the beltway is a beast. Something I have not mentioned is engine brakes, or jake brakes. Big trucks use them to help stop the truck while saving wear and tear on mechanical brakes. Only problem is they are NOISY. Because of that most small towns will erect signs indicating they are banned, not allowed. Not so on the beltway. Day and night you would hear them. Makes no damn sense at all that they are permitted.
At any rate after a wonderful stay at Cherry Hill park, in College Park Maryland, it was time to leave. Fearing a massive log jam trying to get out of park, we and others got an early start. As hoped for traffic was reasonable on the beltway. Alas the beltway is a cruel bitch and got me on my last passage. Things were going good, we were chatting and not paying attention. Missed my exit. Only took us 40 miles to get back to highway where I had planned to be. And coming south I could have taken I-81, instead we took 29. A divided 4 lane road but not an interstate highway. Coming that way allowed us to enjoy the country side, plenty of places to stop at if required. In doing my preview of the route I discovered a country store that looked fun. Was it ever!
Severe weather had been forecast but none developed in our path and the trip was uneventful. From the noise of the beltway we are now deep in the woods. Miles from nearest town, mile and a half from Blue Ridge parkway, LINK, and about 5 miles from the Appalachian trail, LINK .
While here enjoying the quiet and listening to the birds we will explore Appomattox Court house, Natural Bridge and probably a few surprises.
"...gather ye rosebuds while ye may..."
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