Perfect shade for a hot humid day, and/or a cool end-of-day bike ride. A deer had just walked across the road into the woods before I took this shot. Sorry I missed getting it in the picture.


Heading off down the gravel road across from our farm. Blue Ridge mountains in the distance.
12+ miles on our local tree shaded gravel roads. No mud thankfully, just harmless ditch puddles from the recent downpours late this afternoon. Temps and humidity were both hellish throughout the morning and afternoon, and I had too many projects leaving me no time to ride. Towards evening, however, after the thunderstorms, it was cool and inviting with nice breezes. An after dinner bike ride was calling me, so kissed hubby goodbye while he continued relaxing with his reading and the dogs to their napping. It was a good time to add a few more miles as the freshly washed gravel roads were peaceful with several sightings of deer and one red fox. And exactly 3 cars. Wasn't in any hurry - the route was so serene and beautiful with deep shade almost the entire way, and multiple views of the mountains. Got home just a few minutes before sunset, relaxed and happy. Really loving the new bike.