I had a little bit of a late start today, a new friend of mine told me they are inevitable. I loaded the bike up in the morning and it took me longer than I thought. Going on a trip like this, I suppose you want to pack as much as you can to prepare for anything. It was a tad bit stressful just putting things together and organizing. I kept texting my dad throughout because we were going to meet up for breakfast and a last hug before I hit the highway.
We had breakfast at shoemakers truck stop on west O street around 10:30. When it came time to say goodbye and a solid hug, the tears wanted to fly. The lump in my throat was almost unbearable. Dad, you are the very best father a son could ask for. You have taught me so much and the man I am today is because of you. We’ve stayed string through the rough and made the best of the best. I love you dad.
Let me swallow this lump from typing that real quick……Okay, I’ve made it to my first overnight stop of the trip. Friend, NE.  The city park is one that you can camp in if need be, so I will be setting up camp soon. The highways past Miford al had nice wide and smooth shoulders, I couldn’t have asked for a better day to ride.
Excuse me while I pound down this free hamburger somebody offered me. Until tomorrow…..