Tuesday January 31, 2017, 65 miles (105 km) – Total so far: 1,178 miles (1,896 km)
Cedar Key to Homassasa, Florida. Natures Resort RV Park
I’ve had a great time here at Cedar Key paddling, sight seeing, playing music and meeting wonderful new friends. The sunsets were spectacular, and the food was great. That saying, it was time to move on.
I decided to cheat a bit and ride Clara unloaded to Homasassa. After all, if there’s a way to carry 50 pounds of gear without placing it on your bike, why not take advantage of it? I have to say that the weather was perfect, the wind calm and the the traffic lite. Well until I got to Crystal River anyway. All in all, it was a fine day to get back on the bike.
Clara unloaded.
One of many beautiful bathroom breaks along the way.
I’d missed the hawks with their distinctive cries circling over my head. The sound of frogs singing in the ponds. The feel of the sun warming my face through crystal blue sky’s. The sight of a family of wild pig butts scampering off the grass back into the safety of the woods. The freedom of the road. It was good to be back.
Railroads played an important roll here. There were several exhibits along the way to enjoy.
Clara and I have engine envy.
I arrived at our new campsite in due course. We are backed up on the creek, surrounded by wadding birds, manatees and dauphins. It felt awesome to just sit in the sun watching nature unfold but I had a job to do. After all, its hotdog night at the resort!
A couple of years ago, I’d played music during hot dog night to some of my largest audiences. Of course they didn’t come to hear me, they were attracted by the brauts, chili and kraut. They did stayto listen however. Back then, I actually had been invited to play and had brought my PA system and microphones. Of course this time I was on the bike.
No matter. I went to fine Linda, the organizer of the event and as she served the meals, I asked her if I could play and play I did. Love these chances to perform in front of large crowds but love even more watching people tap their feet, dance and sing along with me. Oh yes, and I love the chance to talk about my ride, my cause event tour for Fender Music Foundation in an effort to “Give Music Life” to those kids in need. Even scored a gig next Tuesday to do it all again. Now that’s fun.
Later, as we walked the dogs prior to bed, the Moon, Venus and Mars but on the evenings light show. Pretty darn good day.
