3 toed box turtle

https://www.inaturalist.org/taxa/39818-Terrapene-carolina-triunguis

You may not be susceptible to the toxins in poison ivy or poison oak, I'm not either because I didn't grow up with it, but the more you're exposed to it the more likely you can suddenly have a most unpleasant reaction to it. So it pays to steer clear.

I just discovered your journal, I'll definitely be following along. The Transam was my first and most memorable tour to date, I'm sure you will have a grand adventure. Once you get through Missouri you have completed all the really hard parts and the western mountains await you. Best of luck!

Still plenty of them out there but I'm glad we missed most

You can always ask at any churches you run across for free shelter for the night. They may not have showers but they are very friendly and supportive of cyclists.

You will get better Mexican food the farther West you go!

Smart move. By doing this, you will be missing most of the dogs of Kentucky.

Rest days are very important!

We really enjoyed the Blue Ridge Parkway but it is challenging!

Harmless northern water snake.

https://www.inaturalist.org/taxa/29306-Nerodia-sipedon-sipedon

It's such a weight off my shoulders. Now we can just focus on enjoying the ride

I hadn't done enough research on Charlottesville, but now I know it's somewhere I'd like to spend more time if I'm ever in Virginia again

I’m glad you were able to get your bike fixed! Sorry there is so much traffic.

Yes, bike repairs en route ard something one tends to forget (I know I did). Sounds like the repair experience and subsequent opportunity to absorb the Charlottesville vibe were pretty pleasant.

Sorry about your bike problems. That’s wonderful you were able to get someone to pick you up! I’m amazed you were able to get it functional so you can get to bike shop. I hope it all works out.