Gettysburg, PA to Hillsville, VA then Lake Wylie, SC

Just a bit of nonsense while camped in Gettysburg!

Photo below taken at a fruit stand in MD where we've frequently stopped!

Leaving Gettysburg always makes me sad, but we were heading toward SC where we'd get to see Lauren, Tom & Charley (their dog!) Since Lauren was working anyhow during the day we'd make it a two day journey from Gettysburg to Lake Wylie. Driving down I-81 from Winchester, VA to I-77 just South of Pulaski, VA was a bit of a challenge due to extremely heavy traffic and lots of construction, but we did it safely and eventually ended up in a Passport America Camping Resort in Hillsville, VA. We had a campsite in the trees and it was delightful-once we found the bug spray. There were some over-zealous mosquitoes who were intent on having me for dinner. but I was just as intent that they weren't going to dine on me! We had had a shower during the night and our folding chairs had to be stowed soaking wet-part of the charm of camping.

We left Hillsville, VA to once again hit the road-this time it was I-77 up and over a beautiful stretch of highway near Fancy Gap, NC with huge vistas across the numerous valleys once we headed back down the other side. Unfortunately, it was impossible to see those vistas due to thick fog. As we headed South closer to Charlotte we drove out of the fog and drizzly weather into sunshine and extreme heat and humidity. Lauren had found us a possible campsite in a SC county park on Lake Wylie-first come first served. When we got there they had room for us and it's a great place with full hook-ups-even WI-FI-for $10/night for senior citizens-sometimes it pays to be over a "certain" age. At any rate we'll remain here until next Mon. when will head towards home. While here we'll spend lots of time with Lauren and Hank accomplishing his "daddy-do" list. Might even do some white water rafting and its so hot it will be very enjoyable.

Am pleased to report that the bumper problem on the camper apparently has been solved as the bikes and spare tire seem to be riding comfortably. Thanks to our son-in-law, Tim & his brother Chris, the bumper has been welded back and appears to be much stronger than it was originally. The bikes suffered no permanent damage, but we did have to replace a couple of tires.