When we got up this morning, we were ready to move on! We've had so much fun here in Louisiana - made some great friends, saw some fantastic sights, saw stuff we didn't even know existed, and had some great food, but it was time! So we pointed the truck toward Georgia and hit the road!
Found some cheap accomodations tonight (thanks Walmart) enroute to Milledgeville, GA, so now we're parked for the night.
Throwing together some supper then I suspect it'll be time for bed.
Friday, Mar 2
We had a Shoney's across the street this morning, so we had to go there for breakfast...oh Shoney's buffet, how I've missed you!
We just finished setting up our trailer at our new home away from home here at Scenic Mountain RV Park just outside Macon, Georgia.
Along the way, we came across a huge solar farm in Butler, GA. I mean HUGE! We got this shot from our moving truck, so it's not the greatest picture!
From the truck it appeared to be a couple hundred acres of solar panels. I looked it up later - I was way off - it's over 1000 acres of panels! I kid you not! 1000+ acres of solar panels. It was quite a sight! From what I understand the system uses auto tracking...the panels tilt and actually follow the sun across the sky! This solar farm can produce enough energy to power 25,000 houses! Wild!
Scenic Mountain is a very basic, but clean campground. Paved roads, gravel sites with concrete patios. Full hookups. Firepits.
Tonight for supper, we got chinese takeout from the 'Great Wall' restaurant in Milledgeville. Very good!
Saturday, Mar 3
Not much happening today. I went for a run this morning then we just hung out at the campground. Walked around and took a closer look at this place and met our new neighbours. Oh yeah, met all the puppy dogs too!
Sunday, Mar 4
We decided to go for a drive and learn our way around. Explored Milledgeville...it's a much larger town than I expected! Stopped by Walmart and picked up some groceries.
Monday, Mar 5
I had some great scenery for today's long slow run! We recently discovered the Oconee River Greenway that sits on the banks of the Oconee River in Milledgeville, GA, so I thought it would be a great place to go for a run!
There is a concrete path that goes around the park with several dirt trails that break away. A great spot to go walking or running.
Another scene from this morning's run was this small cemetery.
I find these old burial grounds to be so fascinating! This one appears to be from the early 1900s.
What sort of lives did these people have?
What sort of hardships did they endure?
Or maybe they led successful lives?
Did they marry? Have kids?
While I was gone for my run, Sheila explored more of the campground. Scenic Mountain is a pretty little campground.
So peaceful here...lots of green space, trees and several fishing ponds. One even has a fish cleaning station!
The bathrooms are home-like (each has a toilet, sink and shower) and they're spotless. Nice laundry room, club house, even a nice little dog park with obstacles for the puppies to play in and on...
There's two dog wash stations and multiple dog poo stations throughout the park. Good thing - almost everyone here has at least one dog! Several short hiking trails, too. So far, so good.
Tuesday, Mar 6
It's absolutely pouring out! I think it's a good day for hot beverages, Netflix and snacks! Only downside is that one of us will need to go outside with dogs!
Wednesday, Mar 7
It's a nice day out there but a bit cool. So a perfect day for a road trip! We've been hearing and reading a lot about the nearby city called Macon. Historic, scenic and the hometown of several famous people. So off we go!
It's only about 30 minutes away, so it was a short trip. Once we arrived we discovered some beautiful old buildings!
Old churches and beautiful architecture!
The Classical Revival structures with these huge columns are incredible!
Macon's City Hall building was built in 1837 and being in this southern stronghold has a quite a storied past. It started out as Monroe Railroad & Banking Co. headquarters, afterwards serving as City Hall. During the American Civil War it became a temporary military hospital starting in 1863 for the southern army. The next year, Governor Joseph E. Brown and his army, on the run from the Union, moved the state capital to Macon from Milledgeville and set up an office at City Hall as of November 18, 1864. The General Assembly met in the building the following February and March, the last legislative session under the Confederate States of America. After the Union gained control of Georgia, the building remained as the state capital until March 11, 1865.
Thursday, Mar 8
Went hiking today! The campground here have a few trails...they are short but they are quite challenging! It's great to get outside and get some exercise!
Friday, Mar 9
We've been meaning to do a guided tour of our little city of Milledgeville, so today's the day, we'll be zipping around town today in a sweet candy apple red ride...lol!
Saturday, Mar 11
What to do on a damp, cool, rainy Sunday? How about coffee, Irish Cream and Animal Planet!
Wednesday,Mar 14
Good morning from southern Georgia!
We visited a most fascinating complex today. Just outside Milledgeville, GA there is a very large parcel of property with a wide assortment of buildings. Currently known as the Central State Hospital but once called the Georgia State Lunatic Asylum. Forty-some buildings in various states of decay sit on 100s of acres surrounding a central pecan grove. Built in the 1820s to house the mentally ill, it became the largest such facility in the world!
Sadly, back in those days there was no definitive test to determine if someone belonged in an asylum. So people from all walks of life could, and were, admitted here. Clinically ill or not. Also, back in that day there were some unorthodox methods of treating patients. To add to that, most of the staff were not even trained therapists. Sadly, this led to many patients being 'mistreated' rather 'treated'. A sad and checkered past to say the least, but at the same time, incredibly fascinating!
This particular building is the 'Jones Building' and served as a general purpose hospital.
The vast majority of the complex shutdown in the 70s, but a few buildings remained open such as the 'Powell Building'.
Seen here, the Powell Building has been meticulously maintained, and still functions, to a much lesser degree, as a psychiatric institution!
March 15
As of today, it's been three months since we left our house in the Great White North for this milder southern winter.
Home in January was Destin, Florida...loved it!
Home in February was Hammond, Louisiana...loved it
And now Milledgeville, GA for March...love it!
This is definitely how I like to spend my winters.
This afternoon we're heading into Atlanta. Should be interesting!
March 16
We survived our trip to downtown Atlanta, YAY!
Our first stop was the Martin Luther King Jr National Historic Park. The park centers around the home where he grew up.
We also found the church where both he and his father were pastors. The original Ebenezer Baptist Church and the new church.
There's a beautiful sculpture of Gandhi symbolizing non-violence and a world living in peace and harmony.
The 'Behold' sculpture was also beautiful!
The grounds were so beautiful and appropriately peaceful. The park is also the final resting place of MLK Jr and Mrs. King.
We also found some absolutely gorgeous homes in Atlanta's historic district including this beautifully restored neighbourhood in downtown Atlanta. These homes all date back to the 1800s and were mostly bought up by the National Parks Service to preserve them!
We spent part of the afternoon at Centennial Olympic Park. This is a beautiful 21 acre park located in downtown Atlanta. It was built as part of the infrastructure for the 1996 Olympic Games on property that was previously vacant lots and run down industrial buildings. It was conceived as a central gathering place for visitors to the Olympics that could be used by the city after the event. Phase 1 was completed in time for the Olympics and provided space for exhibits, entertainment and medal presentations. You may remember the bombing that took place here in July 27th 1996 that killed 2 people and injured many others. Phase 2 was completed in 1998. On March 14, 2008 it sustained some minor damage from a tornado. The park is surrounded by the Georgia Aquarium, the World of Coca-Cola, the National Center of Civil and Human Rights as well as the CNN Center, the Mercedes Benz Stadium, Philips Arena and the College Football Hall of Fame as well as many other attractions. There are various sculptures, water features and fountains and a huge ferris wheel with enclosed cars.
March 17
A little nippy out this morning at 59°F (16C)...but it was time to take the puppies out for a little stroll.
We're in Macon, Georgia today visiting the Ocmolgee Historical Site where these ancient Indian mounds were discovered. They were used for large gatherings...be it large ceremonies or funerals. These earthen mounds date back to 3000 BC!
Professional excavation of the site took place during the Depression - over 2.5 million artifacts were uncovered and it became the largest archeological dig in American history. Many artifacts are displayed like tools for building and hunting as well as pottery for cooking and eating. The arrival of Europeans to the area brought trade to the region but it also caused the unfortunate decline (through sickness and disease that the Native Americans had no immunity to) of the former chiefdoms and they eventually broke down into smaller clans. Over the years they were forced to fight for their land but in the 1830's, President Andrew Jackson ordered their removal under the Indian Removal Act. The Ocmulgee (which became known as Creek), the Seminole, the Choctaw, the Chickasaw and the Cherokee were all sent to "Indian Territory" (now Oklahoma). Over 16,000 Native Americans were marched over 1200 miles. 4000 of them died due to famine, disease and warfare. This tragic event is referred to as the Trail of Tears.
March 18
We checked out a couple historic sites today - the Griswaldville battlefield and Fort Hawkins.
Griswaldville was the site of one of the final battles of the civil war. By this time, the Confederate army was nearly decimated with just the very young and the very old still fighting. The Union won handily. Within the year, the north would declare victory over the south.
Fort Hawkins saw action during the war of 1812 when the U.S. battled the British territory of Canada.
March 19
Uh oh, the campground owner stopped by with storm shelter instructions :-(
https://www.accuweather.com/en/weather-news/reports-damaging-storms-his-alabama-as-severe-weather-outbreak-threatens-tennessee-to-florida/70004449
Strong thunderstorms in the forecast for many areas, hail and tornadoes warnings across much of the south.
Right now it's the calm before the storm!
March 20
I guess today would be the calm AFTER the storm! After a wicked thunder storm overnight, it's now sunny and 79°F (26°C)...it was great conditions for my 30km training run this morning!
While I was gone, Sheila walked the puppies, but it sucked the energy out of them. They're really enjoying the air conditioning today.
March 21
It's always a pleasant surprise when you discover a hiking trail in an unexpected spot!
This particular trail in the Bartram Wilderness Management Area is labeled the John Muir Trail. Apparently this is one of many.
John Muir was nicknamed the 'Father of the National Parks". He was a naturalist, author, environmentalist and an advocate for the preservation of wilderness areas. His essays, and journals describing his adventures in nature, especially in the Sierra Nevada have been read by millions. His activism has helped to create and preserve the Yosemite National Park, Sequoia National Park and many other wilderness areas.
This is supposed to be a good place to mountain bike - we'll have to come back with the bikes!
Sheila usually walks the Goldens and I walk Kelly. Tried to change things up today for a while and Chance and Hope weren't having it! When the Goldies and I were leading, Hope kept sitting down and Chance kept trying to go back to Sheila. He was very confused...lol
Kelly prefers to walk with me anyway...I let her sniff all the trees, bushes and rocks. I only wish Kelly's legs were strong enough to take her as far as she really wants to go.
John Muir was nicknamed the 'Father of the National Parks". He was a naturalist, author, environmentalist and an advocate for the preservation of wilderness areas. His essays, and journals describing his adventures in nature, especially in the Sierra Nevada have been read by millions. His activism has helped to create and preserve the Yosemite National Park, Sequoia National Park and many other wilderness areas.
This is supposed to be a good place to mountain bike - we'll have to come back with the bikes!
Sheila usually walks the Goldens and I walk Kelly. Tried to change things up today for a while and Chance and Hope weren't having it! When the Goldies and I were leading, Hope kept sitting down and Chance kept trying to go back to Sheila. He was very confused...lol
Kelly prefers to walk with me anyway...I let her sniff all the trees, bushes and rocks. I only wish Kelly's legs were strong enough to take her as far as she really wants to go.
March 22
My favourite day of the year...National Goof Off Day!
March 23
Exploring the Lockerly Arboretum just down the street from the campground...it's lovely here!
Sunshine, birds singing, beauty everywhere you look...great way to spend a few hours. The 50 acre arboretum is located on the grounds of the Rose Hill mansion that was built in 1839. The original Rose Hill was destroyed by fire in 1851 and was rebuilt in 1852.
You can tour the house if you like, but we preferred the enjoy the sights outside.
This afternoon after getting back, we relaxed on the patio with a cold beverage...under sunny skies and 70°F (21°C) temperatures. This RV lifestyle is rough!I wonder what everyone back in the Maritimes are up to?
You can tour the house if you like, but we preferred the enjoy the sights outside.
This afternoon after getting back, we relaxed on the patio with a cold beverage...under sunny skies and 70°F (21°C) temperatures. This RV lifestyle is rough!I wonder what everyone back in the Maritimes are up to?
Today is also National Puppy Day!
March 24
Another gorgeous day to go for a run...sunny and 73°F (23°C)
March 25
Cold, drizzly day today...and we have damp, lazy dogs!
March 26
Out driving around today and as we were passing through Byron, GA we happened to come across an old abandoned NASCAR racetrack! I had never heard of it before, the 'Middle Georgia Motor Speedway'. Walked around a bit...very cool!
Apparently they used to race here back in the early 70s but it's been sitting dormant ever since...
Apparently they used to race here back in the early 70s but it's been sitting dormant ever since...
Nine NASCAR races took place here between 1966 and 1971 with Richard Petty winning 4 of the races, Bobby Allison winning 3 and David Pearson and Bobby Isaac each winning one.
The year after opening, a hunter smelled fumes behind the track and reported it to authorities. Federal agents uncovered an elaborate and very sophisticated distillery operation located deep underground in the woods off of turn 3. A dummy ticket booth had a trap door with a tunnel that led to a moonshine still, 17 ft. underground. Normally, agents would use dynamite to destroy a large operation like this, but instead they used acetylene torches so that the races could continue. All that remains today is this path leading to a 17 foot deep hole.
The race track owner was found not guilty of running the distillery despite the fact that he'd signed an invoice for 24 pounds of yeast! He said it was for concessions sold at the track. 😃 The track was also the site of the Atlanta International Pop Festival. 300,000 people descended on tiny Byron to hear singers like Jimmy Hendrix and the Allman Brothers Band. The track was also used to film the race scenes from the moved Greased Lightning.
Oh, and we had a little company as we came back to the truck...oops!
All was good. Carrying our cameras, I think we looked pretty harmless!
The year after opening, a hunter smelled fumes behind the track and reported it to authorities. Federal agents uncovered an elaborate and very sophisticated distillery operation located deep underground in the woods off of turn 3. A dummy ticket booth had a trap door with a tunnel that led to a moonshine still, 17 ft. underground. Normally, agents would use dynamite to destroy a large operation like this, but instead they used acetylene torches so that the races could continue. All that remains today is this path leading to a 17 foot deep hole.
The race track owner was found not guilty of running the distillery despite the fact that he'd signed an invoice for 24 pounds of yeast! He said it was for concessions sold at the track. 😃 The track was also the site of the Atlanta International Pop Festival. 300,000 people descended on tiny Byron to hear singers like Jimmy Hendrix and the Allman Brothers Band. The track was also used to film the race scenes from the moved Greased Lightning.
Oh, and we had a little company as we came back to the truck...oops!
All was good. Carrying our cameras, I think we looked pretty harmless!
March 27
I decided to do some trail running! With 25 miles of trail, the Bartram Wildlife Management Area here in Milledgeville, Georgia is a trail runner's (and mountain biker's) dream!
March 28
It's a great day to go for a trail ride! It's 82F with a gentle breeze blowing. Time to dust off the mountain bikes and go for a ride!
Rode some trails in the Bartram Forest - perfect for a fraidy cats like us. Mostly single track, lots of switchbacks through the tall pines, some ups and downs...wonderful way to spend an afternoon.
Rode some trails in the Bartram Forest - perfect for a fraidy cats like us. Mostly single track, lots of switchbacks through the tall pines, some ups and downs...wonderful way to spend an afternoon.
March 29
Tempo runs are tough when it's this hot and muggy out! It was 73F (23C) when I started my run... 80F (27C) when I got back to the camper!
We bathed the Goldies today!
Chance was definitely more chill about it than Hope...he just flopped in the tub and soaked up the attention. Hope looked like she was planning her revenge.
These tubs are great - I'd love to have one at home. Definitely smells better around here now.
We were enjoying a campfire with our neighbours a couple of nights ago and she mentioned banana pudding and Rob and I said we'd never had it. I believe it's a southern staple. Apparently everyone has their favourite recipe. Well, wouldn't you know it, she showed up at our door just a few minutes ago, with a big bowl of her homemade banana pudding! Very YUMMY!! Another southern food to add to my favourites list.
March 30
Since Sheila's maiden name is Perry, we had to visit a nearby town called Perry! Pretty town - lovely old homes and buildings and beautiful landscaping. Formerly known as Wattsville, in 1824 it was renamed Perry after Commodore Oliver Hazard Perry, a hero from the War of 1812. The 'New Perry Hotel' was built in 1870 and rebuilt in 1925 (not sure why it's "new"?) - mustn't be doing that well as it's for sale. Wish we could have stayed longer, but it started to rain and we don't enjoy being cold and wet.
We're leaving tomorrow, so I've started tearing things down and putting stuff away. One of my chores on our final day is to empty our waste tanks. This has to be the most un-glamourous part of RVing. We've been RVers for 25 years, but I'm still not fond of dealing with the poop chute...or as Cousin Eddie in Christmas Vacation would say, 'Shitter's full!'... lol
We bathed the Goldies today!
Chance was definitely more chill about it than Hope...he just flopped in the tub and soaked up the attention. Hope looked like she was planning her revenge.
These tubs are great - I'd love to have one at home. Definitely smells better around here now.
We were enjoying a campfire with our neighbours a couple of nights ago and she mentioned banana pudding and Rob and I said we'd never had it. I believe it's a southern staple. Apparently everyone has their favourite recipe. Well, wouldn't you know it, she showed up at our door just a few minutes ago, with a big bowl of her homemade banana pudding! Very YUMMY!! Another southern food to add to my favourites list.
March 30
Since Sheila's maiden name is Perry, we had to visit a nearby town called Perry! Pretty town - lovely old homes and buildings and beautiful landscaping. Formerly known as Wattsville, in 1824 it was renamed Perry after Commodore Oliver Hazard Perry, a hero from the War of 1812. The 'New Perry Hotel' was built in 1870 and rebuilt in 1925 (not sure why it's "new"?) - mustn't be doing that well as it's for sale. Wish we could have stayed longer, but it started to rain and we don't enjoy being cold and wet.
We're leaving tomorrow, so I've started tearing things down and putting stuff away. One of my chores on our final day is to empty our waste tanks. This has to be the most un-glamourous part of RVing. We've been RVers for 25 years, but I'm still not fond of dealing with the poop chute...or as Cousin Eddie in Christmas Vacation would say, 'Shitter's full!'... lol
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