South, Through My Kentucky Mountains

Today, my nurse-friend, Gail and I delivered bags of candy, popcorn, pens, membership applications, and notices of our organization's upcoming events to clinics in South Central Kentucky.  We've been members of the American Nephrology Nurses' Association for several years.  The scattered clinics are always quite pleased with our 'goody bags.'  We are promoting and celebrating national "Nephrology Nurses' Week" next week.

It is always good to head SOUTH on I-75 and watch the land gradually change from rolling hills to mountains.  Since the small towns and even the interchanges are few and far between, we get an unbridled view of the peaks and valleys.  The further we travel, the higher the mountains reach, and the more blue layers we see in the distance.

South Central Kentucky mountains.

From Lexington, we motor south to Richmond, London, Corbin, then head east to visit Pineville and Harlan.  Everyone we chat with is extremely friendly and grateful to get a bag of goodies.  We are gratified that many have already heard of our upcoming October events and are planning on attending.

There are surprises: the computer print-out of clinics is out-of-date with several addresses.  The GPS system has not been updated, either!  We wandered around Corbin, asked a local person for directions, finally called the clinic - twice!- for directions.  This is the third year our group has done this.  I am embarrassed that I have come different ways three times.

Side road bridging a deep gully in the Kentucky Mountains.

 

If you like mountain views, come to Southern and Eastern Kentucky.  The roads off the interstate (I-75) are two-lane divided from Corbin east to Pineville.  Then on to Harlan the roads are two-lane but good.  I would highly recommend Pine Mountain State Resort Park and Cumberland Falls State Resort Park in this area.

I lived in Hazard, Kentucky, from 1964 to 1966.  I'm not exaggerating to say that the Eastern Kentucky roads at that time were horrible, paved-over cow paths.  It would strike terror into one's heart to see a giant coal truck barreling fast in the opposite lane on roads with no guard rails!!  Now most of the mountain roads have been widened and straightened, with passing lanes on the curves.

It occurred to me earlier today, that in three days, I have traveled from Lexington, north on I-75 to Toledo and back, then south on I-75 to Corbin and beyond, and back.  Good thing I like road trips!

"Welcome to Harlan" banner.

This is the first time I've been all the way to Harlan.  I want to prove it!