Fredericksburg, Virginia

We have arrived at the Race Start, relieved to be here and content to have a couple of days before the deadline of Friday 1200.   Once again we have been filling the days with adventure, challenges, laughter and good times. 

On Monday evening we dined at a local eatery in Kirksville and then took a driving tour around the A.T.Still University where the science of osteopathic medicine was founded in 1890's. Quaint old brick buildings. Also saw a Hollister plant which reminded Lydia of her workplace (Hollister makes medical supplies).  Heavy rainfall but no thunder or lightning. 

An early start in the am and back out to the airport. The Kirksville FBO group are super friendly and helpful. We told them we would be coming through next week though there is no saying how long we will be staying next time - a quick turnaround or who knows?

Tuesday Cara flew into Illinois and through to Indiana. Thunderstorms, cloudy skies, light rain- all sorts of weather. And - a strong headwind. We wanted to push through knowing that more storms are coming and we did not want to be stuck out west.  Cara made a nice landing at Indianapolis Executive airport where Montgomery Aviation were very nice and hospitable. It is great fun flying together and meeting interesting people along the way. 

Lydia flew the next leg into Morgantown, WV. Following the direction from ground we parked near the terminal and started to unpack the plane and clean the bugs from Indiana and Ohio. Just in time before the rain. Many thanks to Kathleen and Cameron for hosting us for the quick overnight. Sandy is  in Vancouver for the Digital Humanities Summer Institute

Caroline flew the team into Fredericksburg today.  This morning we pondered and hummed and deliberated and then- we better go!  While the going's good. Well, it wasn't that good, but was probably the best we would have had to be here by deadline on Friday. More storms a coming. The flight over was tense with weather concerns, ridge lines and the DC airspace looming to the east. We did well and made good decisions together. Coming in to the airport here felt great and the welcome was terrific. Wonderful volunteers. And so fantastic to see friends and meet new racers!

After negotiating a rental car we found our way to Aladin for a late lunch at 3:30. We had a Lebanese feast with all sorts of yummy mezze. Once fed and relaxed we checked into the hotel.  This evening we drove into old Fredericksburg, walked around the historic downtown, happened upon a community band concert, drove through University of VA Mary Washington College (Aunt Julia's alma mater), and treated ourselves to ice cream at Carl's. The area is very green and quite busy. Another adventurous day. 

Tomorrow we will attend to racer credentialing and airplane inspection. 

Our Spot tracker has been with us, and battery-operated since Kirksville, and will be in place during the race.  Follow us on www.trackleaders.com   We are Classic Racer 29