The Strawberry Ride 5/20/2014

On 20 May 2014, 13 Groupers met at the Surry County Government Center in Downtown Surry. It is amazing that as the years go by, everyone seems to be more on time for the ride—or, as the cyclists say, “in the saddle”. Their was a chill in the air, but it was at a tipping point causing consternation among some as to whether they should wear a jacket, windbreaker, or just count on the sun to warm things up. All options were taken by somebody. And we set off. The route is one published by the Williamsburg Area Bicyclists. It always amazes the riders how little traffic they encounter on this ride. The route is on country roads—that means no shoulders, and fairly narrow versus urban roads. But there is little traffic during the day. After the leader tried to take the group on a wrong turn—Bruce J corrected him—the group stayed on course to Chippokes Plantation. After visiting the orchards to check on the peach and apple trees the Tuesday Group planted three years ago, we rode on to visit our friend the pot-belly pig. Well the trees looked kind of limp and the pig was taking a nap, but we were treated by the dissertation of 90 year old Hal Hester who was hoeing the garden near the animal pens. Hal told us he used to be a pilot and had flown an airliner the weekend before for his birthday. After regaling us with a history lesson or two, Hal let us go on our way so we could cut the time until lunch—everybody knew there was ice cream at our next stop, College Run Farms. Before leaving we buzzed a group of cyclists from North Carolina who were touring the area. And THEN we arrived at College Run Farms. Most, even those on diets, gorged on ice cream. Phyllis and Bill went for the berry picking. Phyllis couldn’t control herself and picked two quarts. They did look good. After the ice cream and berry picking, the group moved on to the most important decision of the day, where to eat lunch. We decided on Anna’s Italian Restaurant instead of the Surry House. Good decision as the Surry House was closed, permanently. 12 people showing up at once sent Anna’s into a little shock as their one waitress was already stressed with the crowd. But that staff issue just made the lunch more leisurely. No sense rushing things. After gorging on Italian, the Groupers set out their separate ways. Some to pick berries, some to go home. All after having a satisfying day outside with good friends. Brian decided to skip the berry picking after seeing the 100 or so school group people in the fields. Maybe Thursday?

Brian

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