Judy Grillo
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Georgia, Georgia

4/11/2017

12 Comments

 

I've never spent any time in the hills of Georgia so I found a spot that looked interesting, and landed in Irwinton, just East of Macon. The draw was a hostel called "The Blue Goose" that caters to cyclists. I expected to arrive to a house full of spandex-clad riders that would help me up the hills, and perhaps share some fun social hours, too. Little did I know that my timing was off -- I had just missed the Blue Goose Road Race and was a bit too early for the Banana Puddin' Festival & Puddin' Pedal. 

​
So, lo and behold, I had the entire home to myself for five nights (at $25/night). Now Irwinton (population 583) is no booming metropolis but I did enjoy the cycling, and felt like I was on a retreat. I spent the days riding, eating good food, and reading on the back patio. It was actually a very relaxing, lovely few days.

There are two items that must receive mention, however. One day I cycled through nearby Toomsboro, and was quite amused to find the "one-stop" that appeared to be the town.  As I pedaled toward Main Street, it was literally a ghost town of empty buildings and storefronts. Lo and behold, the entire town is for sale. Maybe I can create my own Bicycle City! 

My second surprise was a visit to the Irwinton Baptist Church next door. I love going to Palm Sunday service, and the reading of the Passion Play. I will say that Pastor Gary Horton was full of spirit, but this was not like any Palm Sunday I ever remember! I did get invited for the post-service potluck "with the best southern fried chicken you'll ever have," but I politely declined.

It was an unexpectedly mellow visit to The Blue Goose, and I've now landed in Greenville, South Carolina for a few weeks. 

12 Comments
Fred
4/18/2017 08:24:40 pm

Wow a whole town for sale -- what were they asking?! Interested to hear what you think of Greenville as you make your way north Judy :)

Reply
Judy
4/19/2017 07:33:01 pm

Fred! No asking price listed but it's an interesting idea! Its proximity to Macon could make for a quaint weekend getaway spot! Liking Greenville and staying 2 weeks as WorkAway then 5 nights in the tent. Stay tuned. Any getaways for you? j.

Reply
Eileen
4/20/2017 11:18:43 am

Judy: Laughing at your description of Toomsboro which reminded me of Paul's first assignment and our arrival in Pyote, Texas. Shocked to experience the town consisted of exactly that one same building servicing our community.

Am always impressed by the lovely, inviting hostels you continue to highlight. Eileen

Reply
Judy
4/21/2017 06:40:56 pm

Eileen, I know -- so easy to forget that these small towns of a few hundred folks still exist. I found this hostel because there's a Blue Goose in St. Mary's GA that they own, too. I got the inside story on the ferry situation! j.

Reply
Claudette
4/22/2017 02:19:50 pm

Quite unbelievable that a whole town could be for sale. The Hostel looks lovely and at least you got some rest in a very peaceful looking environment.
When I read Greenville I was hoping it was North Carolina. I am visiting Greenville, N.C. next week for 2 days, then to Raleigh to visit Kevin. Too bad I will miss seeing you. I'll watch for your next blog. Love your descriptions of the areas you are in.

Reply
Judy
4/24/2017 04:48:35 pm

Claudette,
Thanks ...yes, the hostel was the house one of the owners grew up in so she's attached and takes great care. Have fun in NC! J.

Reply
Anne-Marie
4/26/2017 08:30:36 am

"comes as sweet and clear as moonlight through the pines. . ."

Reply
Judy
4/26/2017 10:44:28 am

Did you look that up???

Reply
Sue Tyler
4/26/2017 05:28:17 pm

Hey, thinking of you as I prep for the Bethany Beach Ride on Sat. Where the heck are you now?

Reply
Judy
4/26/2017 08:01:43 pm

Sue...So glad to hear you're riding! Any of the crew joining you? Email a photo or 2! I'm in my last few days in Greenville SC & will do that blog soon. Great town. Next stop is Stone Mountain, NC. J

Reply
Karen
4/29/2017 08:26:51 am

Wow...Let's buy it and create our own Stars Hollow where everyone walks or bikes to move around the town. Of course, you would have to be mayor!

Reply
Judy
4/29/2017 03:44:59 pm

Karen ... I am GAME for the bike/ped and mayor! You'll have to run the Town Council! j.

Reply



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