The Lower 48

Today was my day to sweep through the "deep south", and a few of the states I used to call home. After a day...and night...of flying home from Alaska and a day at home to wrap up business and household stuff I left on my ride at 5:30 this morning (and saw one of the most beautiful sunrises ever). I was blessed with great weather most of the day, the sky was cloudy and it wasn't too hot, and I didn't have to put on my rain suit until Hattiesburg, MS. I was able to drive though 4 states I've lived in: Texas, Arkansas, Alabama and Louisiana. In addition I made it through Mississippi and into Florida. I drove a total of 771 miles in 14 hours from Dallas to Pensacola. Tomorrow my goal is to make it to Virginia...we'll see!

As I headed out I30 from Dallas I had forgotten how beautiful East Texas was. Then I got into Arkansas and the lakes and rivers are just breathtaking. In Mississippi I drove past the Natchez Trace Parkway and remembered a great trip with Suzanne and two of my closest friends, Jeff and Leah. I really do miss the beauty of states like Arkansas and Alabama. The pine trees and marshy swamps of Louisiana made me long for a much happier time for my family when Elizabeth, Tommy and Julie were just little kids. Over all the ride was a joy. An added bonus was that I was able to get my oil changed in Jackson MS in about 30 minutes, which was a miracle and blessing. I'm ready for some rest and another good ride tomorrow. Blessings to you all...


Since I'm alone and I'm using a timer for the pictures, the most beautiful Harley in the world is missing from my state sign pictures...so I figured you would want to see my bike!


What a sunrise.


I was happy to get this first boarder crossing done.


Back in the birth state of my cajun baby, Julie.


Not happy about having to have the helmet on! Oh how I love states like Texas and Arkansas that let you ride free of these devices of pain and suffering...


Oh the rain.


I was ready to be off the road at this point!