Day 10

Set off early with a packed lunch and head west. At this stage I've been put off route 224 as it merges with one of the interstate highways ... and I'm not allowed on those. Never mind, it's a nice back road ... but who says Ohio is flat? ... not around here it's not but assured it levels off further west. It looks like it's going to get very warm today so I'll do the usual and get as much distance behind me before lunchtime and then wait a few hours till it cools down again. Once again thanks to David & family I'm in good shape to get through the day ... I really appreciate their hospitality. (still having problems uploading pics) Saw a WWII German transport Fokker tri engine aircraft today flying low and slow. It reminded me that Ohio is the birthplace of aviation and it might have been part of a local collection ... it was a wonderful sight and sound. Finally washed the socks and a pair of underpants in a small stream ... during my midday break I hung them up to dry ... good job! Route 224 is now straight and flat and boredom might be my next problem. Not much to see along the way that I haven't seen before ... but I've got to be alert ...the hard shoulder sometimes disappears and I'm trying hard to make use of my rear view mirror ... on a few occasions oversize loads come along ... preceded by an escort and give me a blast on the horn ... it means 'get off the road' ... and I do! I'm surprised by the size of some of the loads ... half built bridges with big bits sticking 10ft or so over on my side! Passed a few Amish folk in their buggies ... got a wave, but that might be the last of them now. Temperatures well up in the 80sF but there is a cool and stiff headwind blowing ... and it helps a bit. Not looking forward to continual headwinds but for the time being it's OK. Cell net coverage is patchy and I can't always update the blog when I want ... should be taking more photographs but it's a big country and I've plenty of time. Hanging around in the shade near the quite crossroads town of Nova ... I've had lunch (thanks again David) and just waiting till it cools off before proceeding. Should easily get another 100k (60mile) clocked without too much effort ... I'm taking it easy and just soaking up the experience. A problem that I'm beginning to experience is that of dogs running after me when I pass their property ... some of them are big ... all I can do is scream 'Go Home Boy' but they ignore me ... probably having difficulty picking up the accent?! This has been another good day.

Location:Lodi, OH