We are in Smithfield NC, day 5, having ridden about 320 mi total. It was a tad cold leaving Banner Elk, with wet roads, and steep downhills, but CNC had staff at switchbacks in the descent to warn us to sllloooowwwww down. Wilkesboro was cooler even, maybe mid 40s, but a beautiful day. The mayor of Thomasville and many of the fine citizens made us homemade vegetable soup on day 3. We also had free ice cream at a dairy. Kewl. Weather into Holly Springs and Smithfield has been exceptional, high 50s to early 80s. The mtns have turned flat, and the red clay is now sand.

CNC folks have done a fine job, if they can learn to connect the shower truck...some minor plumbing delays but they got 'er done... Otherwise, it's been swell all around.

A tip of my hat to my fellow riders and the CNC staff, and of course, REI>

Jack