Adventure 547: Chester to Grafton and Back/Post U

This hillside was completely green when we arrived.

After four days in Vermont (Minus Monday because of rain and vehicle repair), we've ridden a total of 91 miles. Yesterday, our weather was warm, bright, and windless. Today, our weather was cool, windless, and overcast, and  we completed the 28 mile loop beginning in Chester in relative bliss. In our eight trips to Vermont, we've done this ride six times. It includes iconic dirt roads through classically bucolic countryside, two covered bridges, a stop in the most popular village in Vermont (Grafton), a few hard climbs and a couple of thrilling descents. Today's trip was marred a bit by road work along Pleasant Valley Road, which usually offers just what it's named. Today, most of the seven miles we rode on Pleasant Valley Road involved "scarified" pavement, which is pavement that's been chewed into grooves (cyclists beware) in preparation for fresh pavement. The good news is that only one lane was chewed, and traffic was so light we were able to ride on the wrong side of the road, only occasionally darting off the side to avoid on coming traffic. Eventually, we arrived for a nice warming lunch in Grafton, and were back at the lake house by 4:30. Deb and Judy had prepared beef stew before we left this morning, and left it to simmer slowly in the oven while we were away. The aroma of the stew filled the cabin with unbelievably inviting comfort the moment we walked in. Deb, in her inimitable way, then whipped up a "from scratch" batch of corn bread. We dined heartily, and when the meal was finished, I think all of us let out a collective sigh that said, in effect, "Life is good, especially today".

 I was afraid, that's for sure and certain.

 We call this grooved pavement out West.

Me and my Bunny outside of Grafton, VT.

 Another of the quaint Vermont country stores where good cheer, good food, and usually a warm stove awaits fall visitors.

 The biker babes ready to set out from Chester this morning.

 Frank taking a short break.

 Fall color literally drips from the leaves.

Quite often, travelers will come across a stand selling fruit,eggs, and such (On the honor system, of course).

 Covered bridges offer much of Vermont's charm.

 Some, like this one, even have completely wooden floor boards.

 Leaves also simply glow.

 We enjoyed this magnificent view at dinner tonight.