Day 65: South Hadley, MA

Day 65: South Hadley, MA

August 16, 2016

Miles: 15

Northampton, MA to South Hadley, MA


We had a lazy morning; just as Beth predicted.  We only had 15 miles to ride to Beth and Chris' house, so we knew sleeping-in was definitely in the plan. When I woke, it was about 8:30a; continental breakfast ended at 9:00a, so time was of the essence if we wanted breakfast. Steve was awake but still relaxing, so I went downstairs to gather us some food to bring to the room.  It comprised of oatmeal, pineapples and muffins.  Coffee, of course, and a chocolate milk for Steve too. 

We finally got ourselves together and checked out at about 11:00a and we headed straight for the Northampton Cafe as Beth recommended.  We stayed there catching up.   This meant both of us having an iced coffee, and Steve doing some reading of the fourth installment of Anne of Green Gables and me doing the Garmin routes for the next two days.  After today, we only have two days left of riding, so sometime on Thursday we will be home.

Comfy with a book

Captivated by every page

We rode on the bike path for a few miles as we left Northampton.  A great way to navigate out of a busy city.  Since there was a lot of construction, traffic was thick so we welcomed being on the bike path. We left the cafe at 2:00ish to head to Beth and Chris'. We rode leisurely because today was our quasi-rest day, and because Beth and Chris weren't expecting us until about that time.

Bridge over the Connecticut River

We arrived at Beth and Chris' at about 4:00p as planned and both welcomed us with open arms.  It was so great seeing them after so long planning that we would almost end our journey at their house.  They showed us around their new home and all the work they have been doing with the renovations.  What a beautiful home and the detail put into colors and workmanship.  So beautiful.  And look at that fabulous chandelier. 

Then at about 6:00p, Sarah and Josh joined us for dinner, which was a wonderful surprise!  It is not often that we have a chance to visit with this crew and have them all to ourselves.  It was great spending quality time with them tonight.     

Enjoying some family time

Chris cooked us a fantastic meal, not good, but a superb rating.  Sausage, peppers and onions, mashed potatoes and Sarah brought a wonderful spinach and beet salad.

So much food and we loved every bit of it!

It doesn't get better than this!

For dessert peach cobbler pie and vanilla ice cream - yummy!

Fabulous!

I think I learned more about Beth, Chris, Sarah and Josh in this one night, then all of the many times visiting with them.  Beth's research topic for her dissertation, Chris' train models, Josh's production line challenges, and Sarah's patients, especially the one that thinks the Internet is a gimmick.  Thank you guys for a wonderful night.  Uncle Steve and I had a great time hanging with you!

Sarah giving some attitude, but Beth not too much!

We are off to Mansfield CT about 46 miles tomorrow.  It should be another difficult ride in terms of climbing, but after the royal treatment we got tonight, we are ready for it!