Finally made it to Asheville

I left the motel early this morning, like at 6:30 a.m.. I wanted to get at that lock early so I would have time to do something about it if the key didn't fit. Well, didn't fit! I quickly called "my" locksmith here in the Asheville area, Steve Fox whose business is aptly named "fox on the Run", and he came over to the storage right away and opened the lock so fast I couldn't believe it. He also gave me a used lock (that works) he had on hand so I wouldn't have to buy a new one for the few days I'm here. If anyone in the Asheville/Swannanoa/Black Mountain area needs a locksmith I can recommend Steve without hesitation. He also works with lawn mowers, weed eaters, etc. He's honest and the charge is reasonable. That's my plug for today.

I decided to take I-81 to I-26 and into Asheville that way. I normally go down I-77 and then west on I-40 from Statesville, but I knew that 77 would be socked in by fog and mist in the vicinity of Fancy Gap. I should have gone through Fancy Gap. The GPS, which I was beginning to like, routed me on I-381 to I-26. I figured I-381 was an interstate the 26 miles to I-26, but NO. The interstate part of it ends after about a mile, then you drive through Bristol VA/TN (one side of the street supposedly is in Virginia, and the other side is in Tennessee). I ended up going 26 miles on a regular highway that went past Walmarts, Lowes, auto dealers, gas stations, and every fast food chain you could name. Then when I finally arrived at I-26 the speed limit was 55mph. The worst is that I could have stayed on I-81 for a few more exits and then picked up I-26 where they intersect. A GPS isn't much good if you have to check them before going anywhere you need a GPS. I think I will write a letter to Garmin.

The plan is to enjoy visiting with my cousin for the two days she is here, and if I can get a bit of work out of her I will be pleased. You know these young kids though, they love to stay up late and sleep in late in the morning. (She recently took an early retirement from a career with the EPA). I hope to bring a few boxes at a time to the motel and sort through them and repack the boxes. I took a quick look this morning and I think I will be able to get it done by Wednesday afternoon.

It is warm here - not uncomfortable to me although the dog can't stay in the car for long. I found a bit of shade at the storage and opened all the windows, and did the same at a few other stops. One stop I've been looking forward to is breakfast at the Huddle House. Since I wanted something quick so as not to be reported for dog abuse, I only ordered the biscuits and gravy, but the next visit there I intend to get the bacon and eggs, and best of all, the grits! (Sorry Canadians).

I drove by the vet's office that I used to take Lady to, and stopped in to see if by any chance they board dogs during the day. I am in luck, and I have her scheduled for doggie daycare on Monday, Tuesday and Wednesday! I haven't told her yet but they are going to clip her nails as well, and I won't have to watch. It has always taken 3 people to hold her down, and one to cut the claws. I just hope she's chilled out a little since she's gotten to be an old Lady. I had considered the possibility of boarding her for at least a day, so I brought her shot records with me. Good thinking, Marty!