Middle of Maine

Joe got on the bike and left about 8 am. Because it was “only a 49-mile ride”, he had slept in so left an hour later than typical.  He is very glad he reviewed and updated the route yesterday because he eliminated all the gravel roads. Today the roads were all beautiful asphalt roads.  The picture of the mist was in Freeport, ME right before he left our campsite. It was a hilly ride with a lot of up/down, up/down.  Joe biked through Augusta, Maine and took a photo of the state house. The Maine State House in Augusta, ME, is the state capital.  It was completed in 1832, one year after Augusta became the capital.   Maine became a state in 1820 after separating from Massachusetts.  It was a gorgeous day for a ride. The roads were beautiful and treelined on both sides.  He saw a lot of stone fences.  (Personally, they reminded me of where the money/directions were hidden at the end of the movie, Shawshank Redemption).

We are staying at Green Valley Campground in Vassalboro, ME.  It’s located about 5 miles down a very winding and hilly road.  Driving the RV there were times I would go up a hill and not be able to see what was on the other side.  Joe and I found that we traveled the same route those last 5 miles.   

Once we set up, we walked Neptune around the park and enjoyed the view of Webber Pond, which looks more like a big lake.  We saw a kayaker and people also put their motorboats and jet skis in.  Definitely the biggest pond we’ve ever seen.

After walking Neptune, Joe and I headed out looking for a brewery and some snacks.  We drove through Augusta, ME (I saw the capital this time, too) and ended up in Hallowell, ME.  It’s located right on the Kennebec River.  We enjoyed a gorgeous view of the river and the main street, Water Street.  It is full of fun shops, many historic buildings and is known for being artsy.  Hallowell is over 250 years old, established in 1771. (For reference, St. Paul, MN was established in 1854).  We got a photo of a cool mural with the 400+ year history of the town. I am always in awe of such talent.  We enjoyed a local beer and snacks (nachos and polluck (fish) nuggets) at The Quarry Tap Room with the river in the background.  I especially enjoyed one of the photos on their wall. 

We are heading north through Maine tomorrow.  One last long ride (68 miles).  We are working out the logistics of the last ride into the ocean.  We are in disbelief that this summer adventure is coming to an end.  We’ve met so many wonderful people and seen so much of our country.  We are truly blessed and grateful that we’ve had the opportunity for this adventure and the many friends and family helping us along the way.  It’s a beautiful night with the sun setting over the pond/lake.  What a way to end a fantastic day.