SC...loop trip

J wanted to take a loop trip to Lick Fork Lake & campground in Sumter National Forest.  This was a trip and a half where the pavement turned to a dirt/gravel road with bent young pines almost brushing the top of the truck.  The pines became bent from this winter's ice storms.  No sign of a campground as after arriving back at our campsite and computer search...we did not take a turn another road as there was a closed gate.  According to the computer...this was the road to take; but, the campground does not open until May 1.  So, no wonder the road was CLOSED.  We wound along this road crossing a low bridge over Lick Fork Creek finding a neat

old hunting hut with land FOR SALE.  LOL  What do you think of this?  Our drive took us along a country road with beautiful homes, horse paddocks, and a Polled Hereford farm.  The Polled Hereford are hornless cattle bred for their high quality beef.  Seems every other house had a pond in front.  Nice!

As we drove from Edgefield to North Augusta, SC, the air was filled with pollen.  Looked like a fog or smoke.  What a mess.  Everything around is yellow/green.  UGH!  As we made a turn on the River Parkway a Fireman was on the corner with a boot collecting donations.  SDOT was out in full force mowing and picking up trash in preparation for the Master's Golf Tournament this upcoming week.

Traffic was horrible.  Bumper to bumper.  I found SAM'S CLUB for gas with J driving around the outer edge of the long lines ( 10 + vehicles) to keep going as he was NOT going to burn gas waiting.  The long lines for $3.27.9 reminded us of the gas wars of the seventies.  We did find Aldi's and Public's grocery stores and a Walmart for future reference.  A stop at a Food Lion...we picked up a few things along with this nice chicken.  Back at camp I butterflied the bird, seasoned, and sprayed with Olive Oil Pam for J to grill over the campfire.  OH YUM!  That smoked flavor is awesome!

Slider turtles have the yellow/green pollen on their shells as they slide up on nearby logs to sun.  What a day!  Hockey is tied 2-2 in the third period.  Guess we are in for overtime.  Until next time...take care...travel safe...see you by the campfire.