A time zone closer

DAY 19
Utica, KY to Marion, KY

So supposedly we went through a time zone yesterday. Becky and I were the only ones who didn't get the memo. We're now in the Central Time Zone where we gained an hour (yesterday). To be fair, our fellow cyclists told us last night. Everyone's excited about gaining this hour, like it will make our days easier. I disagree. If before, we got up at 5 o'clock in the morning to leave with first light, now we have to get up at 4 o'clock. We totally just lost an hour of sleep. I know as we go further west the sun will come up later, but for right now, 4 o'clock is not happening.

Lots and lots of trucks

After the torrential rainfall last night, I was scared to see what the daylight offered. Maybe that's why we didn't get out of bed until 5:30 (which would have been 6:30 ET), 45 minutes after first light. That or maybe because we cycled 91 miles the day before. Today the plan is a manageable 70 miles into Marion. As we take our first few pedals, we're greeted with a muggy overcast day. Tomorrow we say goodbye to Kentucky. I'm truly torn by the way I feel about this state. On the positive side, countless thoughtful, caring people have taken us in and the harsh landscape has a beauty which I would guess is better enjoyed by car or foot. On the negative side, the wet and humid weather, the angry drivers and aggressive dogs have left a sour taste in our mouths. One thing for sure is that there was never a dull moment. 

Strawberries!!!

YAY!!!

Mentally, I'm not sure when 70 miles started to sound like an easy day. However it happened, it's a good thing because we have many 70+ mile days in our future. With this mindset, the day progressed in a lackadaisical fashion. 20 miles in we stopped for a second breakfast at a Dairy Bar (are these wonderful shops where the idea for Dairy Queen originated?). 12 miles later, an incredible Amish angel sold the best strawberries in the world outside the courthouse in Dixon. 9 miles on, a snack break under a shady gazebo with Carson and Dirty B. After 1 o'clock the heat of the day was in full force so we powered through to our home for the night at the Marion United Methodist Church. Father Wayne took great care of us, asking only for a photo and signature in his cycling book. Two days in a row with a shower, we're very happy cyclists!

Marion United Methodist Church

Thank you Father Wayne!

Stats: 
Miles: 72.38
Average speed: 11.2 mph
Max speed: 32.8 mph