Day 7 Norwich, VT to Menden, VT - Tot: 276.3 miles

Starting out from the Norwich Inn

               Judd in Nancy's car, Melanie in Melanie's car, Allane in the truck, 3 riders onward!
Meeting John B and Mary in Quechee for breakfast at the Skinny Pancake. Then Mary in her van and John B. now riding, a short hop to Woodstock. Allane managed to snag a wifi password and log in to the UU Annual meeting in time for her Treasurer's report.  Since Melanie has spent considerable time in this area, she suggested that we might like a quick trip to the Fat Hat clothing shop. Did we EVER!  Did anyone take a picture of that curiously cute little store? Maybe I'll have to go back....  

Covered bridge in Quechee

The riders headed onward towards Woodstock. This is a beautiful section of Vermont. The farms are old, generally well kept, lawns and gardens are tended and neat. The stretch between Norwich and Woodstock is well worth another visit. The riders got under cover at Billings Farm, a stunning landmark and part of the National Park Service property. A worrisome spate of thunder and light rain made a snack stop appropriate. Tallest apple pie we had ever seen!  John W and Nancy packed up their bikes, and we said goodbye to all but the Benzigers.  It was so special to have Judd and John and Nancy take part in the first (and most difficult) part of the ride.  

Happily the rain stayed light as John B and Steve steered up Killington.  Another long, hard climb, followed by a sweeping ride with increasing sunshine down to the Vermont Inn in Menden.  Drinks and snacks in a sunny, comfy sitting room at the Inn.  Many restaurants closed after ski season, but we happened upon Sushi Yoshi and had delicious sushi and asian dishes.  Still feeling on top of the world!
 

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