Toano Blueberry Ride- 7/19/11

On 19 July, 10 Tuesday Group hard core bikers decided to brave the heat and hills of Toano, VA, and give in to the lure of blueberry picking. We met at the Bruton Volunteer Fire House near the James City Government Center in Toano and quickly noted there was little available parking. We were unaware that James City County and FEMA had scheduled an exercise for their Emergency Operations Center for Tuesday morning. Some among us were suspicious that they were tipped off that the Tuesday Group was coming to Toano and scheduled it at the last minute--especially since the James City County boys didn't know anything about it. Ever resilient, the Groupers moved the start point to Little Creek Reservoir. That changed to route from 26 Julian miles (32) to 26.5 actual miles. Given the heat, all were grateful.

We pedaled at a moderate pace and took frequent water breaks to beat the heat. The ride was pleasant while we were moving. Uneventful but enjoyable, we rode 13 1/4 miles to Bush Neck Farms. The owners, who are very friendly, seem to stiffen up when we arrive. We have concluded that they notice when only two people pick up buckets and all 10 people go to pick blueberries! O well, no one had an attack of chiggers or ticks--note Cheryl Shortell had been picking blueberries the prior day and received about 40 chigger bites, so they are present at Bush Neck Farm. Maybe it is good to get all sweaty and gooped up with sunscreen before working around a farm!

After gorging ourselves--and then waiting for Margaret P to also pick peaches--we set off for the return trip. We kept a slower pace as the heat had risen. But all were able and made the ride back to the reservoir parking lot. Cheryl had set up ice cream for the group nearby and that gave us all a little encouragement for the last few miles. After snacking a bit, conversation turned to line dancing ( huh?) and Bruce J wanted to take a run around the dance floor. So we all descended to the basement and tried a little "electric slide" and "Cupid's Shuffle". Then Bruce showed us the steps to "Ritas Waltz". Having enjoyed the air conditioning for a while and having danced the ice cream into all corners of our bodies, we all set off for home. It was another wonderful Tuesday having fun with good friends.

Brian

View Phyllis' photos: https://picasaweb.google.com/crashneumann/ToanoBlueberryRide?authuser=0&authkey=Gv1sRgCJLJpdzO1sSeVQ&feat=directlink