Wateree in the Rearview

I slept a little later than I had the previous two mornings, not getting out of bed until almost 740am. After a quick cup of coffee I was off on my run, again taking the back way around. My legs felt strong on the hills. I was really happy about that.

Back at the house, Mindy was still in bed. She slept later than she had the entire visit. Don't think she was up until almost 9am. David whipped up some grits and eggs. Yum! He also gave me a container of instant grit to take home and experiment with.

Over the next hour I showered and packed. It was a relatively short stay so not a big deal packing up. More than anything I had to round-up all of my personal electronics, chargers and guitar. After some hugs I am thinking that we were on the road just before 10am. However, before pulling away, I had David show me the google maps for the Lake Wateree to I-77 exit 48 path. Last time we took a wrong turn somewhere along the way, which is not really a big deal but it did take us about 7 miles out of our way (further south).

Despite looking at the map with David and him pointing out where we likely when astray, we did the same thing again, only this time we caught it as soon as we passed the correct fork. We did a quick u-turn and got back on course. Around a half tank of gas, we filled up at the Shell station at the I-77 interchange.

We made good time barreling homeward. I was careful not to speed, trying to avoid getting a ticket like we did during our last June visit. No traffic jams whatsoever. We stopped for lunch somewhere in West Virginia. Can't recall what town but believe we were technically still on the West Virginia Turnpike. Filled up our gas tank during the same stop and also peed. Efficiency!

We ran into one small traffic jam that broke up after less than 10-15 minutes. No biggie. The second leg of the trip always goes faster than the first. The day seemed to fly by. Crossed over into Ohio near 5pm. And while it was scorching hot in SC it was only in the 70s in Ohio. According to the forecast, calling for rain over the next couple days too. I didn't mind, Always appreciate summer rain to help the lawn and flowers.

We rolled into town near 630pm, stopping first at Gloria's house to pick-up Eiknarf. As good as felt to get up and stretch my legs, I was eager to get home. Thanks Gloria for watching the pug and headed for home after a short 20 minute visit. The following day was her 80th birthday, I wished her a happy b-day then. She made sure to point that out. :)

Everything at home was in its place. And just as we do when we get home from most trips, we moved instantly to unpacking mode. Neither one of us like to leave things sit. I was completely unpacked, had my electronics charging, and luggage put away before bed. Prepped Wednesday's coffee too. I sent David a text letting him know that we made it home safely.

A little wound up, I don't think I fell asleep until almost 11pm.