Day 31: Union City to Dover

Today's 80 mile ride started in light rain and strong winds, but as the rain let up and then stopped, the ride turned out to be very enjoyable. We took a number of backroads as we left Union City and stopped for lunch in a park next to the town square in the little town of Puryear. Most of the buildings appeared deserted, but still in pretty good condition, and they reminded me of something you would see in a movie set in the late 1800's.

Shortly after lunch we crossed the Tennessee River on Highway 79 North and immediately started several long climbs which were made relatively easy by a strong tailwind. Even though it was overcast the trees were a riot of reds and yellows. I think we are right at the peak of color in this part of Tennessee.

I rode strong again today and now have two days out of the saddle while I attend the Southern Company board meeting. I'm sorry to be missing tomorrow's ride into Nashville, but look forward to riding out of town with the group on Wednesday morning after their Tuesday rest day.

Steve