Robtown -- it is amazing how much space some of these trees take when they are laying down. Makes you wonder what things looked like when they first cleared the land. I rode the eastern 26-27 miles on the C & O on Sunday and it was clear although you could see lots of debris on the sides of the towpath. I gather you were out riding the canal in training for the charity ride in September. I will be doing a charity ride down the C & O this weekend, although with a much more relaxed schedule than yours. Good luck with your ride.
No commute for me as the bike and I are resting up. Tonight I'll give the drivetrain a good cleaning and make sure everything is tightened down and I'll be ready to hit the trail. Then I just have to pack my stuff. There is always so much to do on that last night.
Velo -- I agree, go with the "Relaxer" tag, it sounds like you have it all planned out.