Alabama

After an easy 40+ miles yesterday we arrived at Dauphin Island off the coast of Alabama. Today is another day off our bicycles. Went out for breakfast this morning and then walked back to our lodging along the beach with three othes from our group. Lovely fine white sand. No evidence of the oil spill but several oil rigs visible off shore.
As the end of our ride approaches I find myself increasingly ready to return home. I feel as if I have accomplished what I set out to do....rebuild my physical stamina, see parts of the country I hadn't seen in a long time, enjoy time on my bicycle. Now with gardening season arriving I am eager to get my hands in the dirt and enjoy the late afternoons on my deck. And have time with my family and friends, all of whom I have really missed. I am not so charmed by either the physical or social environment of the deep south. And I am absolutely craving good food. The local options are often limited and involve choosing between no food and food I would never eat at home.
I am sure there will be enjoyable aspects of the nine riding days remaining. I will look for them. But once again I will be returning home with a renewed appreciation for the beauty of the Berkshires and for my family.