Last ride before surgery

[paulfinney2]

On Thursday, I took a ride to Snowshoe, actually, Mingo, WVa, to scout out a trip that the Rounders are planning for April. I thought I was having really good luck because the first car I came up upon in my lane was just this side of New Castle, and he had just pulled out of his driveway, and not up to speed. But it got really wierd when second car I came up behind didn't occur until 165 miles into my ride. And, with the exception of Marlinton, by the time I had rolled up 295 miles, I come upon and passed just 4 cars and 2 trucks. There were two others, a car and a truck, that pulled over and let me by, so that may or may not be a pass. But it wasn't until I came out of New Castle that I ran into any kind of traffic. 325 miles total
Took 311 to White Sulpher Springs, then 92 all the way up past Dunmore, to 66 west. There's something really nice about how 92 just carves along the side of that valley, sometimes on the flat, sometimes rising 30-40 feet up the hillside, with great views of the farms. 66 past Cass and Snowshoe is twisty and fun, but sandy right now. Later when it cleans off, it will be a blast. North on 219 took me through Mingo after about 7 miles, but I had to slow down for the 3 deer standing in the middle of the road. Not much to Mingo, just one Brazen Head Inn, where the Rounders are to have their annual gathering. Back down 219 to Marlinton, 39 east to 92 south. Returned to 311, and at the bottom of Potts Mtn, took the John's Creek Road, which I consider to be one of the prettiest rides in our neighborhood. Even now, in winter drab, before spring green sets in, it was beautiful, complimented by clean road. About 5 miles before Maggie, it started to rain, which continued all the way home. 42 back to New Castle and 311 home.
This was really a sweet ride to take before my surgery knocks me off the bike for however long. I just couldn't believe no friggin traffic for basically the whole trip. I could really focus on the road and the scenery. Weather was cool, in the 50s and 40s, but I was dressed for it, and I stayed dry for the time that it rained. And actually, most of the roads were clean, much better than I had figured they would be. Can't imagine the ride being much better.

[Jim Moss]

Glad you had a great day Paul and there will be lots to follow.

[spagani]

Good luck Paul. Hope to see you out riding soon.

[Jim Moss]

Paul,

Send us a note when you can receive visitors, I'll make sure to stop by.

[Austin Blessard]

I look forward to seeing you back on the bike my friend.

[paulfinney2]

Thanks all. Tomorow I appeal to my nurse to resume driving; not supposed to drive for 6 wks, but after four weeks, I'm looking for a break.