Downpour in Daleville

I didn’t end up leaving Lexington till the next morning. Instead, I got pizza with Brian Butterfield, the owner of Lexington Coffee Shop. I then slept in his vacant apartment above the shop.

After sampling, what was concluded delicious, French toast at Sweet Treats Bakery, I began my ride toward Buchanan. I stopped for a milkshake and cheeseburger. From there I only had 21 miles to knock out, to make an even 50 into Daleville. I saw a tandem riding in the opposite direction on this country road. I believe all three of us were surprised; then even more so, to meet up at a gas station 10 miles down the line.

I rode off route a bit to check out the Howard Johnson that I stayed in when I thru-hiked last year. I got to meet a few 2010 alumni, who were well ahead of the pack. They were all keeping a good pace, and disinterested in hanging out with the party behind them. I had my opportunity to do a little trail magic, and then walked up the AT a little bit to set up camp. Me and Picker got rained on, despite the clear forcast the weather channel had made. It rained for like 20 min, just enough to get all our stuff wet, then stopped. My bivy served me well, and I got some good sleep in the woods.