Toano Blueberry Ride 7/3/2012

On Tuesday, 3 July 2012, 10 Tuesday Groupers gathered at the Bruton Fire House in Toano, VA to plan their assault on the Blueberry Fields at Bush Neck Farms 15 miles away. Meeting at the Fire House was appropriate as the days temperature gradually rose to 96 degrees. We could have used a few blasts of water from the fire hoses. Ellis, Marti, Bill B., Phyllis, Bruce J., Bruce M., Page, Tom S., Jeanette, and Brian formed the Blueberry Brigade and headed down Forge Road amid the horse farms of Toano at 9:30 a.m. Crossing by Little Creek Reservoir, and wheeling by Jolly Pond, we paced ourselves to be sure we lasted. Our route took us to Bush Neck Road where we were closing in on the prize. Bush Neck Road reminded us that what we call country roads today are really a significant upgrade from a true country road. Bush neck road is not wide enough for one car and a bike, much less a truck and a bike. But it is shaded, a welcome respite from the increasingly hot sun, and winds through the woods down Bush Neck peninsula to the farm. There, the Groupers decided to fake the owner out and eat lunch first—and watch the activity before assaulting the berry bushes. Then it was time. The Blueberry Bushes were in prime and full. Some berries even made it into the bucket to take home. Phyllis was so excited about her haul that she quit and drove home directly from the farm—she made up some flimsy “I gotta work” reason. When Page found out Phyllis had her truck parked at the farm, he made up some “dog ate my homework” excuse to ask for a ride. Both took their blueberries and ran. Tom S. who had ridden down route 60 to the fire house, parted routes with the group and rode with his haul to his home off Centreville Rd. The remaining Tuesday Groupers decided it was important to pay more attention to “pacing ourselves” for the remainder of the ride home. We loaded up the blueberry haul in our overflowing packs and retraced our route through rural James City County, stopping frequently. The water ran out for a few riders with the temperature rising to a high of 96 degrees. The group finished at the fire house, slowly loaded up their bikes, and rode the treacherous route 60 to Brian’s house where Cheryl waited with fruit/ice cream/ and plenty to drink. Bruce J and Brian argued over who was to get the ice cream of those who didn’t show up. It didn’t matter since they were both full. After lollygagging in the welcome air conditioning, all departed to head for the cool comfort of their homes. Another fine day with friends—albeit hot as hell.

Next year, we might start at Little Creek Park. Since the Fire House wouldn’t squirt us, we figure maybe we can jump in the lake! And it cuts off two miles each way.

Brian,

Still in recovery from the heat!

View Bill's photos: https://picasaweb.google.com/b.billings/TuesdayJuly32012BushNeckFarmsHOT?authkey=Gv1sRgCK7r7pLQmvatdA&feat=email