The morning of Day 3 started out very wet from the rain the night before. Delays getting started while we waited for the tent to dry. Luckily, the sun came out and we were on the way in an hour. We rode 34 miles (plus a few extra that were my fault) today.
The morning started out along Highway 106 and Highway 3. Very different from the previous days. These roads were busier with lots of traffic. On the positive side, they had wider shoulders (even some dedicated bike lanes), less grade (fewer hills), and lots of stores. We were able to pick up a few grocery items.
After that, we rode through some little towns. Lots of cute churches and really old, small cemeteries. Took a break in Pembroke to admire their War Memorial. Lots of beautiful well-maintained homes, which was different from yesterday. The whole day, we were very close to the city of Concord, so this is apparently where the commuters live. We even passed by several very new condo communities and residential sub-divisions.
Stopped for lunch in Manchester at Billy’s Sport Bar and Grill. We voted it the best menu and food on this trip yet. We both devoured a hearty meal. After lunch, we got off the busy highway and on to the back roads. Took a break by a classic old dilapidated barn. Was really moved by the “Age Deepens Character” sign fading on the barn wall.
After this break, we rode 2-3 more miles before Sidekick Sue (me) realized that she no longer had her bicycle gloves which she had removed to take a picture. Rode back to look for them (hence the extra miles) with no luck (first casualty of the trip).
Finished the ride into tonight’s campground. Luckily, I have a can of Cutter because Black Fly Season (those who know NH know what I’m talking about) has officially started.
