Part Duex

Wednesday, May 28, 2025

The day began with an adventure that would become one of the highlights of our trip. Anderson Rail Tours offered a unique experience: a rail car with four wheels, four seats, and pedals. Yes, you read that right. We pedaled our way through a four-mile round trip. The journey took us through a hand-hewn tunnel dating back to the 1860’s, a marvel of craftsmanship and history.

At the turnaround point, we found ourselves by a picturesque river, the perfect spot to enjoy the lunch and snacks we had packed. In Tommy's car, he and Ken decided to take it easy, coasting along while the couple up front did all the work. Fortunately for the two mischief-makers, the couple were avid cyclists who found the pedaling fun. Meanwhile, Mark S discovered the "cheat" and switched a dial on our car for the electric motor. JoeJoe and Mark couldn't resist adding a bit of electric power when they were riding alone. Let me tell you, it was all a first-class experience.

As the day wound down, we headed back to the hotel, rain pattering against the windows. Ken and Mark, undeterred by the weather, decided to take a run up and down Route 209, rain and all.

Thursday, May 29, 2025

The morning welcomed us with a refreshing chill in the air and, of course, a forecast that promised rain. But today was special—I was looking forward to visiting the American House Cat Museum. This remarkable spot was a paradise for cat lovers. Each room was brimming with cat-themed delights: from artwork and statues to books and even carousel cats. One of the most intriguing displays featured mummified cats from ancient Egypt, dating back 3,000 years! The museum also had pinball machines, toy trains, lighters, and, to top it all off, three live cats wandering around. It truly was a haven for feline fans.

After soaking in all the cat magic, we hit the road to Blue Ridge, GA, with the rain keeping us company the entire way. What made this day unforgettable, though, was the bond we shared. The banter on the radio was lively and filled with laughter, making my sides hurt from giggling. Not even the relentless rain or the winding roads could put a damper on our mood.

Navigating the Cherohala Skyway in pouring rain was quite the challenge—it was climbing 4,000 feet up and then 4,000 ft. back down again. The rain was so heavy, the raindrops hitting my GPS kept changing the display. I even learned to like the sound of the rain drumming on my helmet. No, it is not as pleasant as rain on a tin roof.

Ken took a wrong turn, and we ended up in a subdivision. Mark upset the HOA by digging into the grass while making a U-turn. It needed a push, which caused the rear tire to dig a furrow; oopsie.

The next 45 miles was rain—lots of rain. Got to hand it to Ken; he made the route and trip interesting despite the weather.

We made it to the hotel, finally drenched yet buzzing with excitement. We capped off the night with dinner and drinks at the rooftop bar.