Boiling Springs, PA (USA)

I squeezed the most juice I could out of the AT this weekend - no doubt! It was raining when I woke at the Holly Inn, but I dressed accordingly and parked the car near PA-174 (in a pretty little town, Boiling Springs). Hiked back up to the top of the ridge (near where I stopped last night) where the old AT midpoint used to be located and marveled at the view of the Cumberland Valley below. Rain stopped, so I backtracked to PA-74. Had to slog through mud all the way but (now that I made it into the valley: goodbye to South Mountain) it was all relatively flat. A bigger problem this whole weekend was the unleashed dogs I encountered periodically, ranging from very friendly to downright vicious. Fortunately, I didn't have to run or fight - the owners were usually nearby... Thought about pushing farther today - still feeling good - but more incoming rain made me call it quits at 12 miles. Plus, the drive home is getting longer every time! Stopped at Fort Detrick again for some good beer and then headed home (via US-15, I-270, I-495). All around: a great weekend on the trail! AT today = 6.04 / Grand Total = 309.74.

Mount Holly Springs, PA (USA)

Slept later than I intended (making up a sleep deficit from earlier in the week...) and then spent an hour encountering road blocks that prevented me from using my bike (to avoid backtracks). In the end, I even had to "re-hike" a section of AT from yesterday to get started (uughhh). It didn't end up mattering, though - I used every remaining second of the daylight (including dusk) of this warm day and hiked 20 miles! I felt a difference from my last attempts at this distance (July & August) - this time, I was on my feet, trying to keep it all from ending... I moved the car twice, finishing two sections (Pole Steeple Trail to Tagg Run Shelter, PA-94 to Alec Kennedy Shelter). Highlight was a series of rocky areas (on the map, they were appropriately called "mazes") where I encountered climbers with huge "fall mats" - it looked like fun, if just a little on the edge of insanity. Also encountered lots of holly on the mountain - perhaps the source of the nearby town's name... Bittersweet moment, though, was realizing I've finished all of Michaux (pronounced "mishwa") State Forest - it is now one of my favorite parts of the AT. Returned to the Holly Inn and soaked my bones. Whew! Later, went down to the pub and joined in with the karaoke singing. Had a great time with my new friends: Colby, Kelly, Dan and Tom. Bed late... Total today on AT = 9.68 miles / G.T. = 303.7 (200 miles since August 23!)

Mount Holly Springs, PA (USA)

Left work in DC at 1230 and made it back to Michaux SF by 1430 (via I-395, GW Parkway, I-495, I-270, US-15, PA-94). I'm planning two to three days of trail time before work starts again. Found a good place to park near Mt. Holly Springs so I could maximize the daylight. Hiked between PA-94 and Tagg Run Shelter. Temps were sooo nice - sun just above the western ridge kept me warm with just two layers until after it disappeared completely. Logged 6.5 miles and scouted tomorrow's route. Only saw one person (probably Mennonite)... Once I got back to my car, I headed into town. Spent the night at hiker friendly place called the Holly Inn. Ate dinner and had some drinks in the pub - good all around. They actually had a live band tonight at their pub (karaoke tomorrow - hmmmm...). Before going to bed, I called my friend George to congratulate him on his engagement. Excited for tomorrow! I'm starting to think that with enough time, I can get the whole AT finished! Total today = 3.2 miles / Grand Total AT = 294.02 miles.

Front Royal, VA (USA)

Headed to Shenandoah NP before sunup (via I-495, I-66, US-29, US-211) - warm weather predicted. Saw a beautiful sunrise! The only tough thing to contend with today was a strong wind. After parking my car at Thornton Gap, rode my bike north on Skyline Drive to Elkwallow before it was officially open (8 miles). Saw more deer than ever - fearless and fat. Hiking back to my car, found that the trees were good shielding from the blustery breezes that tried to take my hat. Went between being certain that gloves and three layers of clothes were needed and (because of the sun) a feeling I could get away with short sleeves... Passing my car, continued up a steep climb to Mary's Rock. Saw several families out for a Christmas stroll to see the spectacular view. I made good time through around 12.5 miles of hiking before I was done. Feeling good all around - a great day (and made room for pie)! Drove home (used I-66 and I-495) and got cleaned up. Drove down to Woodbridge (on US-1) and had a great Christmas dinner with Kelly and her family. It was fun to hang out with them (especially, the kids' post-Christmas frenzy of toys...). Headed home around 2100 and talked to my kids on the way. It was snowing a little bit and I got a little disoriented. Ended up on Fairfax County Parkway eventually, though, and then made it to my house. Very tired... Total AT today = 10.01 miles / G.T. = 290.82 miles

Washington, DC (USA)

[all day at work, the girls were texting me about getting together - so I asked Nicky to drop them off at the Metro and have them come down to go to Mass and have dinner - only Brenna and Mollie ended up showing up at L'Enfant (1600) but I was still happy - we took the Metro farther (to Foggy Bottom) and then walked over to St. Stephen Martyr - like my last visit to the parish, it was great to to listen to Kim's concert ("Prelude") before Mass and the girls enjoyed the Homily - after it was over, we wanted to meet up with Kim but she had to race to another service - I had wanted to take the kids to dinner but we figured out (too late) that almost all the restaurants were closed (before 1900!) - OK, I realize that it was Christmas Eve, but really? - ended up trying several (Pentagon City, etc.) and eventually headed back to my car at Huntington - we drove down US-1, looking for more restaurants but had no luck until we located a TGI Friday's (2015) - we were immediately told that they were closing at any minute but we sat down anyway - our food took about another hour and a half (!) and we had to wait on some domestic abuse that was going on in the bar - until then, the music had been blaring so loud that I could barely think - once the guys from DC finished beating up their woman friend (and all the people in the place got out their smart phones to document the drama) the music stopped - the police and paramedics eventually came by - we had a good meal, despite the troubles, it was a good visit and I was sad to have to drop them off... - got home very late]

Indian Head, MD (USA)

[had a chance to spend the whole day with Mollie - picked her up at around 0845 and drove her to the nearby TopGolf, where Bob and I sometimes hit the driving range - today, they were hosting a kids Holiday Party, complete with free golf, breakfast and meet up with Santa - Mollie was interested in hitting the balls (and scoring points!) and we enjoyed several games with the father/son pair we got teamed with - breakfast was good, but the demand far outstripped the food that was available (we were lucky to eat, actually) - after we finished our fun (around 1130), we got gas and then drove over to Maryland - my customer (Bob) has been telling me about his Christmas Tree Farm near Nanjemoy for several years - figured we'd check it out, since the weather wasn't too bad - we drove down to Indian Head and it looked like it would be easy to find - however, we got a little turned around on MD-6 and had to backtrack to eventually locate the dirt road where it was located - it was well worth the effort, though, since he was very glad to see us - he showed us around and we watched him sell a tree to a last-second-desparate couple - we walked around on his wife's ancestral farm and enjoyed the beach along the Potomac (lots of animal tracks, no wind, sandy) - Mollie didn't want to leave but it started to get darker - she also mentioned she wanted to see a movie with me before the day ended - so, we stopped for a late lunch at Burger King in Indian Head and then headed north to I-495 - drove over to Kingstowne, where we ended up watching the "Hobbit: Battle of the Five Armies" (it was good!) - Nicky started freaking out about where we were by that point, so I took Mollie directly home - it was a great day with her (I hope for more, now that school is out for a few days...)]

Washington, DC (USA)

[one of our co-workers was leaving the company today, so we planned a farewell lunch at Hill Country BBQ - when we arrived (1130), we found out they were closed for a private event - moved down the street to Bar Louie's and had a great lunch - went back to work - later, went to Chevy's for drinks and dinner with Stephanie - home around 2100]

Arlington, VA (USA)

[work - took Metro with Sabrina to Pentagon City - met Jim R. and Kelly at Epic for dinner and drinks - later, went next door to party with friends (at Gramercy) - stayed pretty late - home just before midnight]

Arlington, VA (USA)

[work - then party at Joe R.'s (River House) - finished around 2200]

Paris, VA (USA)

Got up around 0530 (tough, because of the previous night), packed quickly and drove out to the AT trailhead west of Purcellville on VA-7. I didn't have to stop for almost any lights on the way (miracle) and made it right at 0700, as planned. I'd been waiting to complete this section of the AT since late July ("near death" experience). This was the last part of a longer 154 mile section, extending from northern Shenandoah NP to northern Michaux SF. Thanks to a generous ride from my friend, Lee, I was able to hike the eight peaks that fell in quick succession between Ashby Gap and the Bears Den Rocks without a backtrack. The weather was pleasant but there was a cold winter wind to contend with all day. In addition, the walk was accompanied by the disconcerting sound of old trees creaking to their breaking point. Saw just a few people today: one lady ("Tree Hugger") and her dog, who was training on this section for a through hike (and lamented release of recent hiking movies); a teenage couple, who were startled when I interupted their canoodling ("I like your hat"); a couple in their 20s who apparently took a wrong turn into the Rollercoaster area; and an older man who seemed to be hiking the area for fun. When I reached Bear's Den Rocks, it was great to know I was on the home stretch - but it got windier and colder. Finished at my car well ahead of my own schedule. It took me six hours but I'm proud to say that I didn't need to stop very often. Could not have done this nine months ago... I conquered the Rollercoaster! Drive home (VA-7 to I-495) took much longer but still at the house by 1500. AT today = 11.34 miles / Grand Total = 280.81 miles.

Arlington, VA (USA)

Took Ol' Reliable out on the Mount Vernon Trail today - I wanted to finish the northernmost section before the weather sours... Got an early start (0730) and parked near Reagan National Airport. First, I rode to Roslyn, past Theodore Roosevelt Island, until I joined the Custis Trail. The weather was brisk and clear - I saw very few other people (mostly joggers). The view of the monuments across the Potomac was nice, especially with the sun so low to the east. I watched c...rew rowers and large groups of waterfowl as they floated on the calm water. There was a huge traffic jam on the GW Parkway (rally in DC) but it didn't slow me down... Backtracking, I finished the bike trail on the south side of the airport (where it joined Four Mile Trail) around 1300. Altogether, I fit in around 11 miles - another trail in the books... The brakes on the bike have worn down to nothing during the last 20 years, so I took her over to Spokes Bike Shop in Belle Haven - they made Ol' Reliable just like new (now I can actually stop when I want!) in about an hour... She is ready for much more trail riding in 2015! Picked up some toys on the way home for the company Toys for Tots drive. Went home for several hours and cleaned myself up, getting ready for our company Holiday Party. Drove to pick up Stephanie at her place off Columbia Pike and encountered major traffic on I-395. Used back roads (e.g., Mount Vernon) to get back to Old Town, where we got Sabrina. The party was being held at the Hyatt Regency in Crystal City (very fancy) and we were the first ones there (1800). We drank at the bar until the company happy hour began and then we mingled (with some good snacks!) for another hour. By the time we were seated for dinner, it was quite late (2100). Had to split up our merry band (seating arrangements) and I found myself at the "old folks" table somehow... Still had a great time (outstanding food) and watched some of our friends win door prizes. When the dance floor opened up, it was already around 2230. Most people left, but we had a diehard contingent of people from my office who stayed very late, enjoying the chance to let their hair down. I ended up in a very interesting salsa dance with Dirse (had no idea what I was doing but made it through without falling down...). Kept looking at my watch, since I had promised to meet Lee at 0700 in the morning - ended up staying far later than I planned (but that was a good thing, really). Eventually, Sabrina and Stephanie were ready to go, so I drove them home. It was past midnight by the time I got back on I-395 (thank goodness there was little traffic). Settled into bed and fell right to sleep, fortunately...

Arlington, VA (USA)

[work - went to Chevy's for dinner with Stephanie - home around 2100]

Fayetteville, PA (USA)

Up at 0600 - ready to go! After a good breakfast at Flamingo, drove up onto South Mountain. The full moon was stunning - could have hiked without the sun... But the earth spins, doesn't it? With some recce (driving on Ridge Road), I found a way to use my bike to get the most out of the cold, clear day on the AT. It was great, all around - almost 19 miles of hiking and 7 miles of biking - sunrise to sunset! Only saw four people all day (all in the State Park). Today, I hiked from Birch Run Shelter to Pole Steeple Trail - just love Michaux State Forest... Very cold on the front (ice everywhere) and quickly declining temps near the end (gloves, hat, triple layers required). What a day - is this the last one in 2014? AT Total today = 12.44 miles / G.T. = 269.47 miles.

Hancock, MD (USA)

Rain everywhere... Thought the day would be a bust until it occurred to me to just go biking anyway! At noon, I drove northwest to the WMRT again, hoping to put some more distance on Ol' Reliable (she is celebrating a 20 year birthday in a few months!) and finish the trail. From mile marker nine (with backtrack to six), I rode through cold raindrops on slippery pavement, saw no people (even in the Town of Hancock when I rode through), dodged more than 25 white-tailed deer (a...nd hunters - but not together) and saw some good views of the Potomac. Along the way, the weather tried to demotivate me - my goal was the end (mile marker 22) but I thought about turning around at several earlier mile markers. Ultimately, I figured I was already soaked and frozen - why not just finish? So I did: total was 32 miles - most ever on my mountain bike and most on ANY bike in several decades! Leg muscles very sore when I finished, but I recovered quickly. Afterwards, repositioned near Michaux State Forest for some AT hiking tomorrow (in the sun). Stayed at the Rite Spot Motel again (AT Hiker Guide sure has saved me money this year!).

Falls Church, VA (USA)

[drove to work - afterwards, Vie - then Track Meet at TJ - working in storage building]

Washington, DC (USA)

[after work, went to Vie - then Acadiana (in cab) to celebrate Kelly's BDay - Metro home around 2030]

Thanksgiving Trip - Day 5

[up around 0700 (took care of some work on the computer) - girls took a while to get ready and eat breakfast - left Katie's house around 0930 (carrying leftovers - her fridge was packed!) - got gas in Hingham (0945 - full serve) and got on MA-3, heading towards Boston - changed to I-93 and I-95 to get to the Mass Pike (I-90) - snow everywhere! - traffic was OK for awhile but ended up having to get off west of Auburn (used US-20) - once we were on I-84, things were easier for a bit - slowed down a lot due to traffic trying to exit onto NY Thruway (I-87) - then we were making good time again until we ended up in some kind of moving blockade game (Texas plated-truck was preventing everyone from passing him - he nearly caused several major accidents) - after we finally got by this mess, we were fine for quite a long time - made it on I-81 with no issues and later got gas (and ate a late lunch / early dinner at Burger King) in Pine Grove, Pennsylvania (1605) - hit major traffic backup north of Harrisburg (I-78 issues, I guess) but then got off on US-15 south - it was dark by the time we made it back into Maryland - stopped for icecream and a bathroom break at Wendy's in Thurmont, Maryland (1845) - back on US-15, all the way to I-270 - more traffic started there and it was slow all the way to Montgomery County - when speed picked up again, we didn't have any more traffic all the way home (even on I-495!) - dropped kids off around 2000 (it took just a tiny bit less time to drive via ththe "western" route) - overall: what a great trip!]

Thanksgiving Trip - Day 4

[got up pretty early (tough to roust the kids) - left Katie's around 0900 (got gas) and then drove down MA-3 to Cape Cod - took them exploring to see all the places related to my childhood (first school, job, friend's house, our old house, etc.) - ended up stopping in Brewster, Dennis and Yarmouth - also visited my Mom's grave site - drove back to Sandwich to Dad's house (a little "where are you?" and "why are you taking so long?" from Carolyn and Katie) - after everyone was back together, we drove to Subway for lunch (1345) - took a nice walk on a beach nearby with everyone (cold but fun) - around 1600, I took Carolyon and the kids to do some shopping at the Christmas Tree Shops (1550) near the Sagamore Bridge - on the way back, we stopped for a view of the Canal with Carolyn - we were going to do some more shopping but I got a call from John that he wanted to drop Ella and Johnnie off with me - met them at Dad's and John & Aria went home - Beth took Erin and Brenna to shop some more at her favorite places - meanwhile, Carolyn entertained Mollie and Katie's kids with some elaborate card/board games - fun was had by all! - spent several more hours with Dad, capping it off with a huge Chinese Restaurant (more leftovers!) - around 2000, got everyone in the car and took MA-3 back to Hanover - arrived early enough to do some packing and still have time to watch one of the Ironman movies - will need to get an early start in the morning, so went to bed before everyone else...]

Thanksgiving Trip - Day 3

[up early - took care of some work related stuff while waiting for everyone to get up - Carolyn arrived around 10 and Katie took all the girls to the Mall (etc.) - John and I stayed at the house and watched TV, movies - eventually, everyone returned and we had great leftovers for lunch - later in the day, we drove (two cars) into Boston (hated that drive...) - parking tough to locate - after getting together again, we walked around at the Fanuel Hall (AKA Quincy) Marketplace - when we walked inside, it brought back a lot of memories from the past - everyone got separated really quickly (curiosity caused the kids to split up and look in lots of little shops - eventually, we assembled the group again (whew) - we took a bunch of pictures - it was pretty cold outside but everyone was in good spirits - we later walked into the North End (past lots of historic buildings and cemeteries) until we arrived at Macy's - they had a Christmas Tree Lighting event going on (with good musical entertainment - Mayor was even there) - it was FREEZING but I saw the kids were paying close attention to everything (almost forgetting the temperature) - afterwards, the girls all wanted autographs from "Before You Exit" (boy band) and Katie & Carolyn decided to wait - it was tough to find bathrooms when needed... - after a long delay, John and I decided to walk back to Quincy Market to look for a place to eat dinner - while waiting, we had tall beers at Bertucci's while (1900) - later, everyone else made it to where we were and we had a pizza feast (LOTS of leftovers!) - we were finished at 2045 and went back to our cars - ended up with Aria in our car (Mollie with Katie) and, after we all got separated, she navigated us to her house - Carolyn went down to the Cape - it was still "early", so more movies and other festivities began at Katie's house, ending very late - stayed up this time (tired, though) - what a fun time we are having!]

Thanksgiving Trip - Day 2

[up pretty early (0600) - found John, Katie and her kids were already awake (Turkey Trot - and they actually missed the start) - ate breakfast and managed to get Brenna to go with me and John to watch Aria and her marching band play at halftime of the Norwell-Hanover football game - they were good! (Earth, Wind & Fire songs) - headed back to the house and spent a few hours helping with Thanksgiving meal components (peeling potatoes, setting up table, general cleanup, etc.) - the larger family started to arrive around noon and everyone was there by 1400 - we had a great meal (28 years since I was with all of them and first time ever for the kids) - afterwards, Katie had set up some games (beyond the "I'm Thankful For...") - we had some great laughs answering "deep thought" type questions (e.g., "If you could be any animal, what would it be and why?") - afterwards, the kids spread out and watched movies and played video games - everyone was cozy in the house (nice fire in the woodstove) and enjoyed each other's company... - stayed up later, but still beat the kids to bed (they are sharing rooms with their cousins)]

Thanksgiving Trip - Day 1

[Thanksgiving with Katie - up around 0500 - finished packing - drove to ATM, got gas for Explorer (0605 - right when pumps opened, slow) - went to Giant (0625) to pick up snack foods - already raining... - drove to Nicky's and swapped out cars (cleaned up Chrysler before we left) - packed the girls, on the road by 0700 - left and drove on I-495 to I-95 - traffic good (just some slow downs due to weather) - took I-695 around Baltimore (avoiding most tolls) - back on I-95 through Maryland (toll at 0910), Delaware (toll at 0930) - used I-295 to cross Delaware River and stayed on it through the first half of New Jersey until met up with I-95 again (Jersey Turnpike) - made pretty good time (snow falling) and crossed into New York around 1145 - crossed George Washington Bridge (NYC) at noon and continued on I-95 into Connecticut - then the traffic slowed down to crawl - snow falling, but main reason was NYC commuters and construction all the way to I-91 - actually, traffic looked much worse going south on I-95 all the way... - when we finally got moving again, we had to stop for bathroom break and gas (Branford, CT - 1430) - back on I-95, traffic thinned out and we made good time all the way until reaching Rhode Island - then, the snow began to affect us: I-295 around Providence did not appear to have been plowed and there were some dicey ice/slush moments - plus, it got dark - we finally made it into Massachusetts, where the plows were driving along either side of us as we drove north of Attleboro - decided to get off the Interstate early and drove through Stoughton and Brockton on backroads (weather degrading by the minute) until reaching Katie's house in Hanover - check engine light came on right when we stopped for the night (whew) - it took about 10 hours, all told... - it was great to see Katie and her family! - we raced to get all of the bags in from the car as the snow kept falling - had a great dinner and then got settled for the night - I was tired, so I went to bed before the kids...]

Fayetteville, PA (USA)

Being so near the trail this morning, I got a really early start - enough to see the remnants of the sunrise during my drive up South Mountain on a gravel road. My first few hours took me (and my bad knee) down a big hill to Caledonia State Park (where I left off yesterday). When I turned around, my knee felt much better - good thing, since the climb required it... When I reached the car again, I repositioned about three miles north and biked back to where I started. Hike...d all the way to Birch Run Shelter (and back) for a total of 16 miles. Felt really good - even with some challenging hill work. Just like yesterday, I rarely stopped and averaged 3 miles an hour - great stamina after this year of hiking! Saw lots of Boy Scouts today - not a surprise with the great weather (temps at 7:30 same as high all day yesterday...). [Ol' Reliable was almost stolen!] Finished at around 2:30, so took advantage of the remaining sunlight to ride 6 miles (and back) of the Western Maryland Rail Trail. Biked a total of 15 miles today. Saw the sun set over the Potomac before heading home. Bring on Turkey Day! Total AT today = 9.4 miles / G.T. = 257.03 (!!!!!)

Fayetteville, PA (USA)

Another great day on the trail in PA! Cold again (30s) with snow and ice, but 18 miles of hiking and 5 miles of biking can warm up anyone... I hiked south from PA-233 to Old Forge Picnic Area (where I turned around last weekend) and then back to my car. All of the hiking in the morning was in Michaux State Forest. Highlight was the spectacular view (east) from Chimney Rocks. Next, I rode my bike north to Caledonia State Park and then hiked back to my car again - around 7 ...hours outside - felt great! Only saw a few other people all day. One deer crossed my path but didn't see much other wildlife. After finishing, I had a good dinner at the Flamingo Family Restaurant (Fayetteville). Felt good enough that I decided to spend the night here so I can do some more tomorrow. Stayed in the Rite Spot Motel (recommended in my AT Hiker Guide). Can't believe I'm still able to hike this late in November! Total today = 11.3 miles / Grand Total AT = 247.63 miles.

Alexandria, VA (USA)

[work - happy hour at Vie in the city - rode Metro to King Street - met up with Joe R. and his wife - Winesday at Whole Foods: "Casablanca Nights" (Food / Wine - Cooked Carrot Salad with Toasted Cumin Dressing / Riebeek Sauvignon Blanc; Morroccan Lentil Soup / Belgrano Malbec; Lamb Tagine / Les Dauphin Cotes du Rhone; Butternut Harissa Hummus / Erbach Riesling; Pumpkin Cheesecake / Villa Jolanda Moscato d'Asti)]

Pen-Mar, PA (USA)

It was quite cold but clear - I decided (early) it was another good opportunity for an AT hike! Drove up via I-495, I-270 and US-15 until I reached PA-16 (northwest of Emmitsburg). Spent the day between Pen-Mar Park and Old Forge Picnic Area (southern PA) and fit in more than 15 miles. There was actually snow on the ground in several places - glad I dressed warmly... Traveled some of the way with other hikers (Don and Jeff, father & son) and had some good conversations. Very little wildlife or vegetation of note - what a difference a month makes! Felt pretty good until the very end (knee) but glad I didn't waste this chance (possibly last for the year?). On the way home (US-15, I-270, I-495), stopped at Fort Detrick to get some Saranac beer and Bacardi. Even with some traffic, made it home in pretty good time. Total on AT today = 7.2 miles / G.T. = 236.33 miles.

Alexandria, VA (USA)

[worked all day and then met up with happy hour group at Vie de France - later, Sabrina, Stephanie, Zach and I got a ride with Kelly to Old Town - Winesday at Whole Foods: "Cheese Lover's Delight" (Food / Wine - Smoked Gouda and Apple Salad / Quail Creek Chardonnay; Broccoli, Cheese and Kale Soup / Globeratti Sauvignon Blanc; Spinach, Mushroom & Chicken Quiche / Nicolas Pinot Noir; Balsamic Baked Tomatoes / Gran Conti Montepulciano; Red Velvet Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting / Voulet Casoorzo) - Jim R. met us and we hung out for several hours at the bar in the wine section - it was another great night! - got home really late...]

Front Royal, VA (USA)

Knee rested, unseasonably warm weather, fee-free day and an Uncle-Sam-mandated day-off = time for a hike! Got an early start - enjoying Shenandoah NP before almost anyone else arrived. Biked from Skyline Drive mile marker 17.7 to Elkwallow Wayside (mm 24) and then headed back NOBO. Not in a hurry - took my time enjoying clear skies, talking to other hikers and marveling at several stunning views of the Shenandoah Valley below. At the end of the day, I got a great view (from South Marshall Mt.) of my entire hike - ridge after ridge in the distance. Nearly 15 miles in the books today - awesome way to spend Veterans Day! After I drove back to Alexandria, I picked up Mollie for dinner. We ate at Red, Hot & Blue (one of our favorites). I had a nice time before I took her home. Total on AT today = 6.7 miles / Grand Total = 229.13 miles.

Alexandria, VA (USA)

[I was sick all day (actually, all weekend) - by the time I'd slept away most of the last 48 hours, I finally began to feel better - so the entire weekend was not a complete waste, I checked with Mollie to see if she would want to try to see "Book of Life" again - she was up for the challenge, so I picked her up and we drove to Hoffman Plaza and got in without any difficult (third time is a charm) - it was a pretty good movie - afterwards, we had a nice dinner at the nearby California Tortilla - I took her home after that and I got organized for my one day week (due to the holiday on November 11...]

Alexandria, VA (USA)

[after work today, I started out happy hour at Vie de France (as usual) and was planning to head over to Old Town - soon learned that the rest of the crowd was not up for the trip - so I bailed on them to go by myself - rode the Metro down to King Street - Winesday at Whole Foods: "Comida Latina" (Food / Wine - Caesar Salad / Orlana Vinho Verde; Sancocho / Natura Chardonnay; Flank Steak with Chimichurri / Alta Corte Tinto; Coconut Rice & Pinto Beans; Mocha Buttercream / Flare Sparkling Moscatel) - enjoyed the evening again but it wasn't exactly the same by myself (finished early)... - even though it looked like rain, I decided to look for my lawyer's office (since I have an appointment in a few weeks) - walked through the area south of Old Town and near Eisenhower Avenue - it was a pleasant walk and I figured out I would only need to take the Metro one additional stop to get to my car]

Washington, DC (USA)

[was glad to get the hour of sleep back (time change) with my late arrival last night - woke up around 0730 - drove to Franconia-Springfield Metro Station - took the train into DC to attend Mass at St. Stephen Martyr in Washington - after visiting the choir loft when I arrived, I ended up sitting with David and his dad - heard Kim play and enjoyed an amazing performance by her choir as they sang the Requiem Mass in D Minor, Gabriel Faure - there was a crazy protestor lady outside that was hard to avoid - afterwards, we all walked down to Cafe Duluxe at M Street and 22nd Street (NW) - enjoyed a nice brunch with Kim, David and her friends - since I had promised Mollie another chance to see "Book of Life", I left the restaurant round 1345, walking back to Foggy Bottom Metro - first took the train to L'Enfant plaza but quickly learned that very few Yellow Line trains were running - so I backtracked on the Blue Line back out of the city - unfortunately, I got stuck with a single tracking scenario at that point - Nicky was trying to meet me at the Hoffman Center (Eisenower Station) but it didn't work out (missed the one showing time) - took train back to my car and then headed home - ended up on the phone with Nicky for awhile - relaxed at the apartment for the rest of the night]

Morgantown, WV (USA)

[since the beginning of the year, I had been planning to attend the Notre Dame - Navy football game at FedEx Field this weekend - I had won the ticket lottery and purchased four (good) seats, thinking this would be the chance of a lifetime for the kids to see the Fighting Irish play - however, lots of events conspired to ensure none of the plans took place - first, Brenna and Erin were asked to present at a Writing Center in Orlando, Florida - that was an outstanding opportunity that could not be missed, so I understood - second, Nicky wanted to use the tickets with Mollie and some friends - at that point, I was the odd man out - by September, I was convinced this weekend would involve a hike - however, I didn't count on the outstanding memory of my friend, Mary, who worked at our company until May - she had remembered (back in 2012) that Mollie liked the TCU Horned Frogs and that we would want to see them play the West Virginia Mountaineers in Morgantown - I received a call that she had tickets ("did I want to come?" - "of course!") - so, by the time I left Alexandria this morning, I felt really good about my prospects for a great college football experience - I departed around 0700, using I-495, I-270, I-70 and I-68 - I made it (even with a fuel stop near Cumberland, Maryland) by around 1200 - no problem finding the place (near WVU campus) - Mary and her fiance, Jimmy, and lots of her college friends were there, prepping for the big tailgate: drinks, pepperoni rolls, sandwiches, etc. - around 1330, we walked about four blocks down the street to the parking lot outside Milan Puskar Stadium - the area was awash in blue and gold (not the kind I was used to, but it looked familiar) - people were very friendly - at one point, Jimmy nearly took Mary out with a falling cooler but she was rescued by a passer-by, who was happy to take a can of beer for being helpful - we arrived at the tailgate (run by Mary's brother-in-law, a Fraternity President at WVU several years back) - there was lots of alumni and frat-house business while we all drank and stayed out of the drizzle and wind (brrrrrr) - at one point, just before kickoff, the sun actually came out and we all hoped it would last (but it didn't) - we went inside the stadium and parted ways (tickets spread out) - Mary and Jimmy were in the endzone (up high) but I was about eight rows up near the Goal Line - I had some amazing views of several scoring plays and the band ("Pride of West Virginia") - it was FREEZING by half time - I had on about three layers of coats, a hoodie, gloves, winter had and a rain poncho but it didn't really help - I guess I've become a wuss since I attended four years' worth of home games in South Bend... - I marveled at the band as they played in the cold and we watched a series of West Virginia turnovers keep TCU in the game until a last second field goal destroyed the crowd's mood (loss) - we went back to the tailgater and spent another 45 minutes there before the cold drove us back to the house - the traffic was so nightmarish by this point that I waited it out with Mary, Jimmy and all her friends - helped to clean up and polish off some food that otherwise would have spoiled :-) - around 2100, I got on the road again - the traffic had died down a lot and I had no problem getting back to I-68 - on the big hill east of town, I saw a runaway truck grinding brakes off (hot sparks) all the way down and encountered my first taste of the snowy weather that could derail my plans to return home - I almost hit a deer after I got back into Maryland and started to worry about getting stuck in snow every time I went uphill into the clouds - one of my friends texted me around 2330 and scolded me when I answered (weather, late, texting while driving - I deserved it) - by the time I reached Cumberland, the weather improved and I just had to worry about whether I might fall asleep - did OK, though, and was home by 0100 on November 2nd (getting an hour of sleep back)... - what a great trip - thanks Mary!]

Woodbridge, VA (USA)

[worked all day - midway through, I found out that I couldn't go trick-or-treating with Mollie (Halloween Party) - that bummed me out for a bit - headed home at the end of the day (no happy hour) - just before dark, I took a walk near the apartment - just when I finishing (1800), Kelly texted to see if I wanted to come down to her house for a big party they were having - I quickly got ready and drove down to Woodbridge via US-1 - got there pretty quickly but had a hard time parking, there were so many kids out and parents in their cars everywhere - found Kelly's place and got to see her kids (and Laura's) all dressed up with tons of candy - Jason had gone all out with decorations and costumes - what a production! - spent several hours with them, enjoying Halloween movies, good food and some snuggles from little Emma and Sloane :-) - drove back to my house close to 2300 and was in bed before midnight (after a nice evening with my friends)]

Alexandria, VA (USA)

[worked a full day - I took the Metro to Old Town - met up with Joe R. and Kelly - Winesday at Whole Foods: "Halloween" (Food / Wine - Gravel & Chopped Kidneys Lentil & Beet Salad / Rubus Chardonnay Reg.; Hansel & Gretel Stew Bread & Tomato Soup / Bricco dei Tati Barbera; Squealer's Leg Cranberry Pecan Pork Loin / Riebeek Pinotage; Bloody Brains Baked Cauliflower / Bubo Cabernet Sauvignon Reg; Harvest Carrot Cake / Decolio Moscato) - had another nice experience with the food-wine pairings and hung out for a bit longer afterwards (compared to last week) - the crowd was different this time but we had an even better time - Joe B. showed up and we had some funny exchanges with an older lady who was sitting near our table ("who needs a stool to rest?") - let's just say that lots of photos, texting and social media were involved (for our friends who couldn't make it) - everyone was all smiles by the end and I left for the Metro wishing it could have continued...]

Beltsville, MD (USA)

[got up early and drove (I-495 and I-95) to Brother Jim in Beltsville - arrived around 0830 and spent several hours with him, talking, eating, visiting with the other Brothers at the residence - we also took a walk around the property to see the places he lived and worked over the last half century - he is in good health and has been a great friend to me for the last several years - I left his place around 1130 and drove east (via US-1) to get gas and then MD-201 back to I-495 - drove down to US-50 and over to Annapolis - then went north to Crownsville to see Chris - met him (again) at his boat on the river - spent several hours hanging out with him and his daughters - talked about work and my hiking trip - had a nice time - left a little after 1500 and headed back towards my house (US-50, I-495, etc.) - phone calls on the way - stopped off at the high school for about an hour to get some miles in (walking) on the track - relaxed at the house in the evening]

Smithsburg, MD (USA)

[got up early and drove up to Smithsburg, Maryland, to support an all-volunteer AT Work Crew near the Raven Rocks - used I-495, I-270, I-70 (with a stop at a rest area near the AT), MD-66 and MD-491 - the opportunity presented itself when I got a ride from this same location (a little more than a month ago) - my new friend (driver), Mike, told me I could pay back the Trail Magic when the crew got started this month - I was glad to help - the trail improvment project involved building a rock staircase to the top of the hill on the north side of route 491 - it was a beautiful day to be outside (short sleeve weather, sunny and pleasant breeze) - I learned how to shop for rocks, place the risers, crush the rocks (pack stones that hold larger stones in place) and set gargoyles along the edges - there was lots of heavy lifting, sledgehammering and strategizing of how to best take the trail up the hill - overall, it was a great experience and I met a lot of good people (they support this work often) - I would definitely like to do this again... - as I returned to the car to leave, I encountered a swarm of ladybugs that joined me in the car while I was driving home (Note - they spent the next few weeks leaving...) - I called Mollie and found out that she was up for dinner and movie tonight - backtracked on the roads to get to the house (not a bad drive, actually - early) - got a shower at at Nicky's before we left (had been covered with dirt, dust, sweat after my busy day!) - we drove towards Springfield and had a nice dinner at Magic Wok, a place we had wanted to try for awhile - later, we walked around in the revamped mall (under renovation since we've lived in the area) - we wanted to see the movie "Book of Life" but learned it was sold out - we will have to try again... - drove Mollie home and headed back to my place - fell right to sleep (tired)...]

Arlington, VA (USA)

[after work, went to happy hour at our normal spot (Vie) - Joe R. invited several of us over to a house warming oarty at his new apartment at Pentagon City (I missed an earlier one while I was on my slackpacking trip) - it was a great place with lots of awesome views of DC and the Pentagon - left around 2200, walking back to the Metro (not bad) - home around 2300]

Alexandria, VA (USA)

[after a normal work day, started with a short happy hour at Vie de France (per usual) - Kelly drove several of us over to Old Town for our first Winesday at Whole Foods - the grocery story does a great job getting you in the mood to spend money: for $5, you can taste five different food-wine pairings (based on a particular theme) - this week's theme was "Loire Valley" (Food / Wine - Fennel & Orange Salad / Pieter Cruythoff Chenin Blanc; Vichyssoise Soup / Sierra Cruz Sauvignon Blanc; Chicken Fricassee / Quail Creek Pinot Noir; Eggplant Tian / Legado Cabernet Franc; French Apple Tart / Hogue Late Harvest Riesling) - had great conversations with the group all the way through (and enjoyed talking to the servers) - when we got done, we hung out for several more hours with potential work colleages and customers at the bar in the wine section - overall, a great time (will have to do this again...) - walked back to Metro quite late and home later]

Alexandria, VA (USA)

[worked normal day in the city - attended an ATCA Young Aviation Professionals (YAP) event at Vie de France with friends from work - afterwards, went to dinner at the 219 Restaurant in Alexandria with Jim R. and Stephanie - good meal and great company - Jim R. drove me back to Metro at around 2230 - home soon afterwards...]

Slackpacking Trip - Day 15

It was raining all over the North Country, so the time seemed right to wrap things up... I started the day early at my hotel in Masena. First, I drove back to the Eisenhower Locks to see if I could catch a ship transiting - no luck again. Then, I drove south (via NY-131, NY-37 and NY-56) to Potsdam and met up with Eileen at the Village Diner (0900). I'll admit that my stomach was in knots all the way there. Both before and after the meeting, I heard Phil Collins' "Against All Odds" on the radio - surprised at the coincidence. Spent a little more two hours with her - it was so great to talk and catch up. Still feeling unsettled by the end of the visit - I couldn't even finish the meal... Said goodbye and then departed Potsdam (1115) using US-11. Passed by St. Lawrence University (where she works) on the way out of the area. Took I-781 to get around Watertown and made good time to I-81 (despite the rain) and then headed south. Stopped at a rest area for a break (1300) and for gas & snack in Preble, New York (1415). Stoipped again at a rest area near I-81/I-78 merge (1545). Then used I-83, US-15, I-270 and I-495 to get to the house. Home around 2000 - pretty good time (around nine hours). It was strange to get back into town and at my apartment. This trip allowed me to complete over 132 miles of hiking and nearly 23 miles of biking. I climbed several peaks and saw many spectacular views. Spent time with family and started/rekindled friendships. Clothes loose - the belt doesn't even help! This trip was definitely enough to recharge the batteries and I definitely didn't want it to end...

Slackpacking Trip - Day 14

Cooler, but clear. Up at 0700, ready to go - but waited for a bit for the weather to improve. At 0900, I drove a short distance to the trailhead (ASRC SUNY Albany Field Station) for the climb up Whiteface Mountain. The access road was closed, so the only way to the summit was the trail. Had read up a bit on the internet about where to access the trail for the best experience. It was a good thing, too, since there were lots of other trails that distracted me. Plus, there were no more white blazes (yellow, instead)... The earliest part of the trail followed an old ski lift cutout - a pretty good climb. Passed a few other hikers about a mile in - they were concerned about the incline. But after what I've already seen on this trip, this section seemed easy. After the initial climb, I entered an alpine forest and caught up to the cloud layer (no more views of the ADK) - this area was much more muddy and rocky. It got progressively colder and cloudier until I had no frame of reference for anything but the "river" I was walking in (from yesterday's rain showers, I guess...). I actually started out in shorts and a t-shirt but ended up putting on everything else I was carrying (coat, winter hat and gloves) by the end. I encountered a huge retaining wall (like something out of "Monty Python") that showed me I was close to the access road. Clamberd up slippery rocks and encountered the research station at the top (brrrr!) as it emerged out of the fog. The conditions were basically the same as the day I hiked Katahdin: very windy and summit was in a cloud (no view). Had seen no other people for several hours but encountered some staff (Rich & Paul) from SUNY Albany ASRC. They were conducting cloud, wind, pollution studies and they gave me a tour of their facility - it was very interesting. Exchanged emails with Eileen from the top (only place I've had a signal all day) and then walked a short distance down to the "castle". Thought about backtracking on the trail but decided instead to take the road back down the mountain. As I emerged from the cloud, saw some spectacular views of the surrounding area - could see for miles, actually! Probably walked about two miles from the summit (on a five mile road) before a third member of the ASRC staff picked me up, shortening the hike back to my car tremendously. Left the area at 1345 and drove into Lake Placid. Had lunch at McDonalds (1455) and then took care of work emails and timesheets. Used NY-86 and drove towards Saranac Lake, then got on NY-30. Stopped to explore the ADK "Museum" at VIC (a college). Continued north on NY-30 until I left the Adirondacks. Kept driving until I reached the Eisenhower Locks on the St. Lawrence Seaway (used US-11W, NY-11C, StLawCR-53, NY-37C, NY-37). Didn't see any ships transiting, but enjoyed a nice sunset (1730) on Barnhart Island in Robert Moses State Park (close to the Canadian border). There were deer everywhere! Eventually stopped for the night at Bob's Motel near Massena (1815). Spent a few hours watching TV and surfing the internet. Bed at 2200. Felt good after about 7 miles of hiking today. More North Country tomorrow!

Slackpacking Trip - Day 13

Rainy and miserable... Woke up at 0700 but spent a few hours trying to figure out what to do (to hike or not to hike?). Ate breakfast (apple turnovers and coffee - rare for me) in the Orchard Store with the owner. It was an interesting conversation about leaving life behind to purchase an orchard... Eventually (0900), I drove east on US-4 to the AT trailhead (near Killington) and decided I'd try to hike. I got all my rain gear on, remaining determined to cover a little more AT before I have to go home... Started SOBO but (after only a mile in the pouring rain) gave up and turned around. As I was backtracking, I actually ran into another section hiker (he seemed more motivated) but I never regretted my decision - I was drenched when I got back in the car (0945)! Guess this will be the end of the AT hiking for this trip... Drove west on US-4 into New York, passing the birthplace of the US Navy: Whitehall. Changed to NY-149 and continued into the Lake George area (where I found drier weather). Right as I reached US-9 (1100), I noticed a bike trail along the road. Ol' Reliable was ready! Over the next few hours, I biked on a nice rail trail that ran between a little outlet mall and the town of Lake George. It was still overcast and cool, so there weren't many people out on the trail - or in town. Saw some vintage ferry boats plying the lake and passed by historic Fort William Henry (of "Last of the Mohicans" fame). Not many places of business (including McDonalds!) were actually open, but I enjoyed lunch at one of the only open restaurants in town: Mezzaluna's (ate pizza). After a nice meal, I rode back on the rail trail to the car. Overall, I finished about 16 miles of biking and finished just as the rain began (1300) - got lucky again! Used NY-9A to get to I-87 and drove north. Stopped at a rest area for information (1345). When I finally got cell signal for few minutes, I received an email from Carolyn, telling me she'd heard good things about hiking Whiteface Mountain. Decided I'll hike that in the morning! Got off the Thruway at Exit 30 and drove on US-9 and NY-73 into the Lake Placid area. Along the way, I enjoyed miles of Adirondack wilderness: swollen rivers, impressive terrain, quaint towns... Drove on NY-9N to Jay and then took NY-86 to the Whiteface Mountain Ski Center. Continued up NY-86 to NY-431 and explored the Whiteface access road (prep for tomorrow's hike). Found a place to stay (North Pole Resort) in Wilmington, arriving at 1530. Got a quick shower and then got back in the car (needed to gas in Lake Placid). Delayed for a bit because of an accident on NY-86 but found a gas station before running out of fuel (1605). Drove back to Wilmington and stopped for a late-afternoon hike (another mile, just as the rain stopped again) on the Flume Trails (ADK). Just down the street, there was a restaurant that looked good: D. E. McDougall's (Hungry Trout). Stopped for the ADK Burger and a Labatt (1730) and enjoyed the atmosphere. Back at the Resort around 1900, repacked my stuff and went to bed early. AT total today = 1.01 / G.T. = 222.43.

Slackpacking Trip - Day 12

Started my day at 0700 and left the hotel by 0800. Headed east on VT-11 to the trailhead (0805) and enjoyed another great day on the AT. First, hiked NOBO to the summit of Bromley Mountain (a ski resort). It was a smooth climb on the north side of the highway. Saw some day hikers in this section and also encountered an AT Work Crew (mostly kids). Backtracked to VT-11 and changed my shirt (hot) at the car (1045) before tackling the south side of the road: Spruce Peak. Found the shelter and turned around (saw one day hiker in the area but he ignored me). This section of the trail was much rougher (roots, rocks, mud), pretty demotivating, actually... Due to continuing knee pain on the way back down the hill, I decided to use a snowmobile trail and VT-11 to get back to my car. By the end (1330), I was very tired. Repositioned (drove to US-7, exited at Denby) to the area east of Mt. Tabor, to a section of AT south of USFR-10 in White Rocks National Recreation Area. Parked at the trailhead (1400) and hiked SOBO along a flat area until I reached the Big Branch Shelter. Ran into two Long Trail (runs from the northern to southern borders of VT - including the same route as AT, south of Killington) hikers (John and Jason, friends). I talked to them for a while - it sounds like they've been having a great trip! Continued SOBO with them all the way to the fork in the trail near Old Job Shelter. Headed back to my car - fell down on the way (not just knee pain to deal with now...). When I was done this afternoon (1600), I'd hiked almost 15 miles. Got back on US-7N and, after a detour near Clarendon, arrived in Rutland (switching to US-4E). Eventually found a place to stay, east of town (Mendom Mountain Orchard: cottages). After getting settled, drove down into Rutland (1800) and had dinner at East Asia Restaurant (mmmm... good). Spent the evening watching TV, planning my next day of hiking and surfing the internet. Bed relatively early... Today on AT = 7.25 miles / Grand Total = 221.42 miles.

Slackpacking Trip - Day 11

Weather was nicer today and I got an early start (0600 wake, packing, 0715 depart). Drove into Bennington Center and got gas at Prouty's. Stopped at Burger King for breakfast, waiting out some mist (0730) before continuing to the east on VT-9. Missed the trailhead and had to turn around. Found a parking area by 0825 and ended up hiking on both sides of the road: NOBO first to one AT shelter and then SOBO to a second (almost 6 miles and back). As I was turning around the second time, I ran into another section hiker (Bruce). I enjoyed the company on the way back to my car (nice to hear more stories of AT adventures). However, my knee (which has been bothering me for a few days, intermitently) was now hurting on every downhill step. Found that the only way to get back down (one of the steepest hills I've seen since Katahdin) was by walking slowly and stepping down with my left foot every time. Hoping that the pain isn't going to follow me all the way to the end of this trip... By 1500, I was done with the section and I ended up giving Bruce a ride to a hotel (actually, the one I used last night). It was nice to pay back some Trail Magic! Afterwards, I headed north on US-7. Suddenly found I had a cell signal again, so I took care of some email/calls. Then decided I would explore the AT east of US-7 in the National Forest. After some driving around for a bit (near Arlington), I found a route that looked like it would work: Stratton-Arlington Road (also called Kelly Stand Road). This gravel road into the mountains was closed completely after it was washed out during Hurricane Irene (2011) - it only reopened recently. Because of this, I wasn't sure I would make it to my destination (a trailhead located near Stratton Mountain, place that inspired the AT) - but I did. This allowed me to squeeze in some more hiking before the sun went down (SOBO to Black Brook). I was finished for the day by 1715. Saw a note on my map about a historical marker nearby and I found it: it said that Daniel Webster once gave a speech to 15,000 people in this area in 1840. I doubt that there are that many people living within 50 miles now! As I was getting ready to leave, I met a local couple who was out looking for moose (apparently, I missed seeing one by just a few minutes). I backtracked down the gravel road to VT-7A and drove north into Manchester. Had dinner at McDonalds (1830). Unfortunately, the office located me this evening (oh well, the solitude was good while it lasted...). Drove up to Peru (VT-11), looking for a hotel listed in the AT Trail Guide, but couldn't find it. Ended up heading back towards Manchester again - stopped at the Red Sled Motel for the night (1930). Spent the rest of the evening watching Netflix movies in the room (including "The Way", movie about hiking El Camino de Santiago de Compostella). Felt good after another day on the trail, despite the knee pain. Day AT Total = 7.01 miles / Grand Total = 214.17 miles.

Slackpacking Trip - Day 10

Up at 0630 but the day started out wet and windy - seemed hiking was a no-go. Talked with Nicky for a bit before leaving my hotel (0845). Drove north on US-7 and soon reached a drier area (MA-8). Stopped in Cheshire and decided to give the trail a try... Picked up some snacks at a local convenience store and then located a parking area near the Ashuwillticook Rail Trail (0945). I hiked NOBO on the AT for awhile (towards Mount Graylock) and encountered a SOBO day-hike couple (with dog). Backtracked into Cheshire and continued SOBO. Highlight was the Cheshire Cobbles, a white marble rock ledge with an amazing view of the Hoosic Reservoir below. Saw lots of day hikers, despite the brisk weather... Turned around again at the Crystal Mountain Campsite (on a hill above town). Met up with two ladies who were section hiking - for a moment, I thought I might be able to get a ride from them for a longer day (it didn't work out, though...). Walking back towards my car, I found some good Trail Magic in a neighborhood on the edge of town: a fresh apple - it was good! When I reached my car again (1445) - after around 13 miles of hiking - I rested for a bit and ate a light lunch. Decided I should take advantage of the fact I had parked next to a bike trail (Ol' Reliable has been wanting to get off the bike rack). I lightened my backpack (1515) and rode south along the Reservoir (Cheshire to Lanesborough South), enjoying 12 miles of biking on a very scenic (and flat) trail. Once I'd finished for the day (1630), I headed north again on MA-8 to set up for drier weather tomorrow. Found MA-2 and stopped for ice cream at Friendly's in North Adams (1700). About half an hour later, I was on the road again, bound for Vermont. The Berkshires have been good - but the Green Mountains are calling! Found a Trail Guide recommended hotel (Catamount Hotel) in Bennington (1800) - got the hiker rate, despite some skepticism on the part of the owner... Watched TV, used the internet and got to bed early. AT Today = 6.21 miles / G.T. = 207.16 miles.

Slackpacking Trip - Day 9

After "taking a zero" yesterday on Cape Cod, I decided to get back into the hiking. Woke up at 0630 at Dad's, got packed and then drove (with him and Beth) over to the Friendly's at Sagamore Bridge for breakfast. Had a nice time and was sad to leave... Departed for western MA (0800) via US-6 to Wareham (got gas), then MA-25, I-495 all the way to MA-2. Stopped at Johnny Appleseed Rest Area (0930) for some maps and then continued all the way on MA-2 until reaching North Adams. I planned to meet up with my brother-in-law, John, to hike up Mount Greylock. Since he was running a bit late, I explored the trailhead parking on US-2 and then drove up the mountain. Beautiful day! It was very crowded and it took a long time to find a parking place at the summit (1215). However, the timing was good and John arrived in his car shortly afterwards (using the cars to shuttle back and forth saved a bit of time and made the day less stressful). We headed down the mountain again and parked in a lot on MA-2. In my haste to meet up, I had forgotten to change into my hiking boots, but it didn't matter in the end. What a great hike! John ("The Stream") and I ("Workaround") chatted as we climbed and kept a good pace. The trail had a nice grade and we crossed several smaller mountain ridges on the way to the main peak. The views at the summit - especially with the amazing weather were tremendous! It was actually possible to see peaks (e.g., Mount Monadnock) nearly 60 miles away! Got some great pictures. I signed the AT log at the top before we reached my car (1645). Next time we will have to hike up the other side! Afterwards, we drove down to get John's (actually, Carolyn's - thanks!) car and headed to Great Barrington (for dinner with Katie, Carolyn Coogan and the kids). It was a pretty good drive, actually: MA-2 to Williamstown, US-7S to MA-102, MA-183 to the Brick House Pub. We were "late" (1830, dark) and everyone was really hungry. Problem was, though, that the service was extremely slow. John and I were buzzing from our hike, so we drank beer and ate poutine while we waited. Everyone else was thoroughly annoyed when the food finally arrived (2030). No matter (to me) - it was great to see them all, tell stories of the trail, pull a fabric softener strip out of my shirt (like a magician) and relax. After it was over, I decided to head back to the north on US-7 to find a place to stay. Used my AT Trail Guide (and stopped at a few other places to inquire about cost). Eventually located the Wagon Wheel motel in Lenox and stopped for the night (2200). Relaxed for a while, watching TV, before hitting the hay. Total AT today = 6.31 miles / Grand Total AT = 200.95 miles.

Slackpacking Trip - Day 8

Woke up around 0700 at Dad and Beth's house. After getting ready, Dad took me over to get some breakfast at the nearby coffee shop (closed) but ended up settling for a donut at Market Basket. We then drove down to the Canal Museum and toured it for awhile. Immediately afterwards, we looked around the fish market next door and watched the harbor patrol rescue a sailboat (in distress) in the Canal. Went back to the house and relaxed for a short time. Ate lunch there and then Dad took me on a tour of the local places he frequents during his daily routine. First, we stopped at the Library, where he read the paper (I ended up following his lead, out of pure boredom). Then we drove down to the beach - didn't end up geting out of the car because it was still raining. On the way back to the house, we stopped to check on his RV to see whether the had done any damage to it. Dad also found a yard sale nearby and he hopped out to see if there were any bargains there. Thought we were done by this point, but Dad then drove me around nearby State Park, where he sometimes works as a volunteer during the summer. Eventually, we met up with Beth at the house. We spent the remaining afternoon working on a huge jigsaw puzzle together. Around 1830, we drove over to Wareham to eat dinner the Ninety-Nine restaurant. It was a very nice meal and I enjoyed the conversation and catching up. We looked around the area for a bit (they showed me several interesting landmarks) on the way back to the house. For the rest of the evening, we watched a crime show on TV for most of the evening. Turned in around 2200.

Slackpacking Trip - Day 7

Despite the trouble I'd had finding a place to stay the previous night, I was still close to the trail when I woke this morning. The hotel breakfast area was packed (0730), so I must have been really lucky to get this room... Drove north to Norwich (Vermont) and used my bike (0800) to cross the Connecticut River to Hanover (New Hampshire), just to the east. After locking my bike on the edge of the Dartmouth College campus (intersection of NH-10A and NH-120). My first hiking segment included a nice climb up to the heights east of town. Explored the area around the so-called "Velvet Rocks" (including the AT shelter), enjoying the crisp, cool weather. Backtracking, I headed back towards Vermont, strolling through the college on the way (it made me feel 25 years younger). Passing my car, I continued west on the AT for another 3 miles (Elm Street and trail, all the way to "Woods Road"). Saw one SOBO through hiker and found some Trail Magic (energy bar!) when I backtracked... Altogether, I hiked nearly 10 miles and biked almost 3 more. Finished relatively early and drove back across the river to retrieve my bike. Due to the difficulty getting lodging, I decided to drive down to visit my family on Cape Cod for the night, planning to take a break from hiking for a day or so. Used I-91 all the way to MA-2 - it was a pleasant way to drive through the eastern edge of the Berkshires and I made good time. Arrived at I-495 and headed south. Thought I would be OK until I started running into a huge traffic jam at EVERY interchange! Eventually, couldn't take it any more and got off the Interstate at Marlborough, "exploring" for a bit until I could get back on with less traffic. Honestly, it didn't work out... After weathering more traffic all the way to MA-25, I exited near Wareham onto US-6 and drove down to the "new" flyover at the Sagamore Bridge. It wasn't dark when I crossed the Canal, so I didn't stop in Sandwich. Instead, I drove all the way out to Dennis and took Air Line Road to Satucket Road and then took A.P. Newcomb Road to MA-6A. Paid my respects to my Mom at the Brewster Cemetery just as the sun went down. Then headed back to Sandwich via MA-6A (to Yarmouthport) and US-6 (to MA-130). Arrived at Dad's house at 1900. Went to dinner with him at Sandwich Pizza and had a nice talk. Spent the rest of the evening watching movies on TV with him & Beth (and their dogs). Bed at 2300. Total AT today = 5.71 miles / Grand Total AT = 194.64 miles.

Slackpacking Trip - Day 6

Whew, what a day! Got an early start (0630), packing up and leaving the hiker lodge by 0715. Ate breakfast at McDonalds and then drove east of Gorham to the AT Trailhead (0730). Headed NOBO and hiked up Mount Hayes (2500 feet). Great views (weather much improved) and no people on the trail (second day in a row). A lot less muddy, rocky and root-infested, thankfully... After returning to my car, continued hiking SOBO on the other side of US-2 (along the Rattle River). Turned around again at the shelter and went back to my car (1240). Felt good and wanted more... I then drove down NH-16 to Pinkham Notch (at the foot of Mount Washington), arriving at 1320. The weather was decidedly cooler and I laughed inside to see how bundled up everyone else was when I exited my car with just pants and a long sleeved shirt. Explored the area near the Visitor's Center and then set out on another hike (without gear this time). Started NOBO, tracking along a pretty lake through rocks, roots and mud. I actually exited the AT about a mile into the hike, taking another trail back towards NH-16. However, I soon discovered that this trail was blocked by a swollen river. After hiking down the river for about 1/2 a mile, looking for a place where I could cross on rocks, I decided I'd need to try something else or would have to make a big backtrack. So, I shimmied across on a fallen log - it could have been really messy if I actually fell in the frigid waters - but I only got a little wet. This decision allowed me to hiking back to my car along NH-16. I decided to continue SOBO on AT for short distance before turning around again. Before I left the area, I also hiked the Crystal Cascades Trail and found a pretty waterfall. All told, I completed around 15 miles of hiking today! Back in my car (1520), I explored a bit more and found some ski areas I'd visited in the 1980s (Wildcat & Attitash). I then tracked roads that followed the AT towards the south, making my way across New Hampshire (US-302W, US-3S, I-93S, NH-112, NH-118, NH-25, NH-25A, NH-10, NH-120, I-89S, US-4E, I-89, NH-12A). I did find several other trailheads but couldn't find any open lodging nearby. All the hostels in my trail guide were closed for the season and I couldn't even find vacancy at any hotels until I crossed into Vermont on US-4W. Then cost and vacancy were an issue - so by the time I'd reached Woodstock, I gave up and turned around. Drove back and forth across the Connecticut River several times and even drove through Hanover and the Dartmouth College campus (no luck). Made several calls to Dad, Carolyn and Katie, seeing if there was a chance to stay with them tonight or tomorrow. Seriously thought I'd end up sleeping in my car... Drove back to I-89/I-91 again and eventually stopped for gas in White River Junction (2130). I was very frustrated - disappointed that I might not be able to stay in NH any longer. However, as I left the parking lot of the gas station, I spotted a Super 8 motel (backed up on the exit ramp to go check it out). Price was OK and I was happy to have a chance to get a bath. However, I probably won't have a lot of luck like this during the Columbus Day Weekend unless I get creative. I may actually have to suspend my hiking plans until after the weekend, since there are so many colored-leaf-seekers. Oh well - THEY will have to back to work on Tuesday and I won't! Bed at midnight... AT today = 7.25 / G.T. = 188.93.

Slackpacking Trip - Day 5

Without an alarm clock, I still found myself awake this morning at 0515. The forecast had predicted rain across most of Maine, so I decided to reposition to better weather. Didn't have to tiptoe out of the AT Lodge this time (different area, fewer people) and I packed up my car for a day of driving. Already pouring rain when I left Millinocket (0630) and made my way towards I-95 (Medway). When I got near Bangor (0745), I tried to find a Walmart - no luck, so I kept driving. Eventually, when I got off the interstate at US-2 (Newport), I found one (0830). I picked up new poles and poly blend shirts - some things I've figured out no hikers should be without. It started to get warmer as I continued west - the rain also stopped as I got closer to the Rangley Lake area. Saw eagles soaring above me near a big lake... Got gas in Rumford (1015). Turned onto ME-17 and found an AT parking lot north of Mexico (1130). After waiting for what appeared to be impending showers to disperse, I realized I was nowhere near the actual trail. So I repositioned down the road at Height of Land, a great vista I've visited before (see MAY 2008). I was treated to a great view of the lake(s) there - from cloud level. Surveying the terrain (and weather) to the south, I decided to head NOBO. It was still very wet on the trail - the "beaten path" was basically a river... I was able to hike in shorts and my new shirt but I had to put on my poncho a few times along the way, since little showers started and stopped all the way. The trail was hilly, covered with roots and - at one point - required some rock climbing to get through an area where trees had blocked my path. It was all worth the effort: there were outstanding views of a huge, windswept lake from several overlooks. I continued past Sabbath Day Pond Shelter and turned around at Houghton Road. Took my time walking back and was treated to a snake on the trail, many grouses (visible today, but still able to startle!), and an ominous dark shape in the woods (moose? bear?). For the rest of the hike, I wondered what it was... By the time I got back to my car (1600), I had completed a total of around 9 miles. After all the weather I've seen in the last 24 hours, it was great to get any hiking in today, despite the weather. Felt good by the end - and the poly-blend shirt worked well (still dry!). Right after I got back to the car, it started to pour again - lucky... I checked email before leaving - it was the one place where there was a signal for the last five hours. As I headed back south towards Mexico, I ate the rest of my whoopie pie and listened to Howie Carr (I remember my Dad always listened to him when I was younger - I'll admit that he is entertaining...). A moose crossing the road interrupted an otherwise quiet drive. I used US-2 to get to New Hampshire and I checked into another hostel (recommended by the AT Guide): "Hikers Paradise" in Gorham. Spent the rest of the evening watching some TV, reading, surfing the internet and chatting with other hikers in the lodge. One of them was a firefighter who has climbed 42 or the mountains in New Hampshire that are over 4,000 feet (I think there are 48 total). We talked about Navy stuff, hiking trails, his different jobs (when he isn't working as a fireman). I also talked to a few older guys who have flip-flopped and are heading south. It was nice to relax with other hikers. By the time I went to bed, I was excited to take advantage of tomorrow's better weather! AT Total today = 4.54 miles / Grand Total = 181.68.

Slackpacking Trip - Day 4

Woke up at 0530 to make sure I could finish hiking up Katahdin before the forecasted rain. Tiptoed through the hostel to avoid waking all the other hikers... Ready to go (as planned) at 0600 but I waited for a bit to see if any of the other hikers wanted a ride. There were no takers, so I headed north towards Baxter State Park. I arrived at the gate and found a small line of cars (already!) at 0630 - I paid the fee and then took a wrong turn in the dark, ending up at Roaring Brook Campground - on the opposite side of the mountain from where I wanted to be... A ranger steered me back to my intended destination (a 16 mile correction - on a gravel road with 20 mph speed limit - for my error...). Despite these setbacks, I arrived at Katahdin Stream Campground at 0730. It was overcast and cool (high 30s again). I took a look at the other hikers who were starting off from KSC and dressed to match - very layered with more warm stuff in my backpack. Checked in at the hiker registration and started up the mountain (0740). By the time I'd hiked a mile, I was already sweating - but couldn't take off layers because it got colder as I climbed. I passed two groups of school kids - it buoyed my spirits (if they can do it, so can I!). By the end of the climb, however, I came to the conclusion that the teachers/chaperones were crazy... The mountain trail was very strenuous (as advertised) - you are hiking up nearly 4500 feet in just over five miles. This is as varsity as I've ever seen, but it was the rock climbing (rebar railings required) that really startled me. Plus, add 25-40 mph winds and cold cloud environment (basically, fog) and you've got the Stairmaster from Hell! At least one other hiker seemed to be having the same kind of day and we assisted each other with handing items up and down to each other as we climbed. Saw several other people in the fog who didn't seem to be dressed for this weather (or even with packs)... Eventually, though, I got separated from everyone else and figured they all gave up. Strangely, though, I saw no one coming back down the Hunt Trail. About three miles into my climb (it seemed like 26), I became very worried that I would never make it up to the top (much less down). I had the determination and the stamina, but I was genuinely concerned that I would slip or lose my grip on a vertical. My second pole, which had survived my fall on the first day in Maine, ultimately became a casualty of the day when I just left it next to a rock (I was afraid to carry it any farther up, since I need both hands to hold on!). At any given point, I could only see about 20 yards ahead - the phantom ridges in the clouds never seemed to end... Actually, I was so sure I'd made a colossal error in doing this that I was surprised to encounter people when I reached the top. A few through hikers were celebrating and one die-hard Katahdin fan (has been hiking it annually for 25 years) took my picture at the summit. It was reassuring at that point - all of the other hikers shared my concerns about the return hike - so we proceeded down on a different route (Saddle & Chimney Pond Trails). It was a sheltered route (less wind) but almost as dangerous (rocks loose underfoot - settled with each step). Still, it was good to be with other hikers and I enjoyed hearing the tales of their through hike - highs, lows, challenges, etc. By the time we'd hiked about two miles, I realized it would actually be a farther distance than the climb. I sped up and hurried downhill as fast as I could, stopping only to take in great views of the lakes when we got below the cloud layer. We saw lots of people who were headed up the mountain - they would never make it to the summit today, though. When I got to Roaring Springs Campground (1430), I had to face the consequences of my decision: it would be very difficult to get a ride back to where I parked... A ranger was nice enough to get me three miles (out of 16) closer to my car and then I hiked two more miles in the rain. Eventually, my hitchhiking efforts paid off and I got a ride from some nice people from Chicago to the toll booth (entrance). When I got there, I asked the ranger collecting fees for help getting a ride the rest of the way. The very next car had some people nice people from Indiana who were happy to drive me up to KSC, since they were picking up a family member who finished his through hike today. By the time I reached my car (1600), I calculated that I had hiked roughly 13 miles. I was drenched - even without steady rain - but THEN it started raining for real... Realized at that point I hadn't eaten anything all day! As I was driving back into Millinocket, I had to wait for a big moose to cross the road. I arrived at the AT Lodge (1715) again just as it got dark (somehow got a cell signal). Decided to take Woody and his friends (e.g., Austin) up on the offer to join them at Pelletier Loggers Family Restaurant for dinner. It was Taco Tuesday - food was very filling (I didn't even go back for seconds) - tasted a bit of whoopie pie for desert (mmm...). Very tired when I got to my room (a double bed in a warmer section of the hostel), so I just read for a bit, packed and planned for the next day. Fell asleep at 2130 - after a very satisfying day! Today = 5.31 miles / Grand Total AT = 177.14.

Slackpacking Trip - Day 3

Today was actually much easier, now that I know the rules of the Maine woods... Woke up without an alarm (0630) and ate a huge breakfast at Shaw's with the two hikers who shared the bunk room with me last night. It was way more than I usually eat but it definitely kept me going all day! Got some more trail tips from Heidi ("I don't care if I finish - I just want to know I COULD have finished") and Blueberry Bear before heading out to my car to resume the hiking adventure... It was a beautiful, clear day! I returned to the ME-15 trailhead (where I parked yesterday) and hiked SOBO (0820). Much of the trail today followed ATV and snowmobile trails. Did I mention it was COLD (36 degrees F this morning)? Obviously, this ensured less sweating than usual... It eventually warmed up. Didn't see anyone for the whole outbound hike (seemed like the claim of the "last" Bubble yesterday was real...). However, when I stopped to rest after the first half at the Shirley-Blanchard Road, a couple (NOBO) came out of the woods on the other side. They weren't in any hurry and shrugged at the idea they might not finish the AT this season. I followed them for the rest of the day. There was a tough hill in the middle that made the hike interesting (in both directions), but it provided some great views. The roots and rocks made their appearances again but I didn't fall today. All told, I put in more than 13 miles (more than I planned because I got lost again due to confusing trail markings). After getting finished, I drove back into Monson, filled up the gas tank and got money from a sketchy ATM (1420). Used ME-15, ME-150 and ME-16 to get to ME-11 and made my way north to Millinocket. I had beautiful views of the mountains all the way! When I arrived at my destination (1630), I realized I no longer had any cell signal - even in town. This was a challenge, since the AT Lodge (where I wanted to stay) required check in with a phone call. Eventually, I moved to a place where I could reach the proprietors and arranged my stay. After getting settled in a nice room on the third floor of the big hostel, I encountered two through hikers who were devouring a pizza after finishing Katahdin earlier in the day. I asked about the source of the food and they pointed down the street to a place called Angelo's. It was brisk (and already getting dark!), but I walked over there and ordered a pie. While I waited, they recommended I get a Schlitz (that is a blast from the past!). After I started drinking, some of the locals asked me to join them at their table (they weren't even waiting for pizza - the place was their Monday night hangout location). I ended up having a great time with Woody and his friends - talking about the old paper mill (closed), winter homes in Reno, drone hunting and their kids. They even tried to convince me to buy a summer home in Millinocket. The prices were very cheap and I was tempted... After several hours, I got to leave and they asked me to join them on Tuesday night at the next hang-out joint (Pelletiers) - I told them I would see how I felt after finishing Katahdin. Walked back to the AT Lodge and read for about an hour. Bed (with some of the windows in the next room open!) at 2130. Today's total = 5.82 (more, actually - but yesterday's hike was slightly shorter than I thought) / Grand Total AT = 171.83!

Slackpacking Trip - Day 2

It was still raining this morning when I woke up (0630), so my plan to climb Mount Katahdin was out. Decided to start hiking in an area at the southern end of 100 Mile Wilderness. To get there, I drove north out of Pittsfield (0700) on Higgens Road to US-2E and then turned onto ME-152N at Palmyra. Also used ME-154W, ME-152N and ME-150N to Guilford. Stopped at an IGA there and picked up snacks for the trail. When I departed town, I ended up hitting a dead-end at Sebec Lake. Turned around and found a gravel road that took me through Willimantic. Continued to Borestone Mountain road into Bodfish Valley. The road kept changing names: Wilson Stream Road, Elliotsville Road until I found ME-15 near Monson. Found the trailhead north of town (0915). By that time, the rain had stopped and I headed into the woods, bound for Little Wilson Falls. It was cool and windy and I'm glad I dressed well for the experience. On a few stretches, I spotted the distinctive s-shaped pattern on the trail (~ ~ ~) that I've seen all over the AT. I wonder about the cause of that pattern... In addition to some great vistas, I experienced two things Maine has that I hadn't seen before: BIG tree roots and slippery slate surfaces. Add lots of fallen foliage and remnants of the recent rain and the game was on: Jim vs the AT... Still, after all the rocks I've already crossed, I thought I was ready. Two big falls later (one of which broke one of my hiking poles under me), I was much humbler. Fortunately, no breaks or cuts - there would be no help coming in this stretch. Much of the trail required actual rock climbing - varsity stuff. I also had to get really creative to cross swollen streams (jump!). My spirits were lifted, though, when I encountered the last NOBO Bubble of the season (several groups of hikers who have stayed close during their through hike). They are all excited to nearly be finished - felt good to share the vibe... Followed a couple of them for a bit and saw the rest on the backtrack. Waterfall was well worth all the effort (and I kept telling myself all the way back - gritted it out). The view of the falls was great, too. Saw a deer and some beautiful lake views on the way back. After more than 14 miles today (some due to getting a bit lost, due to downed trees and missing blazes), I made it back to my car (1715). Using my AT Hiker's Guide book, I found a place to stay in town - Shaw's (hikers lodge) - there was no one there when I arrived but a sign on the door said "make yourself at home." I found two other hikers inside "Blueberry Bear" (flip-flopper, finished entire AT today) and "Heidi" and visited with them until the owners returned. Found out that most of these hostels will be cash only - will need to find an ATM. Watched some baseball this evening, read more of "The Shipping News". Also spent time sharing stories of the AT (and Heidi talked about the PCT) - it got me even more excited about the trip! Total today = 6.99 miles / AT Grand Total = 166.01.

Slackpacking Trip - Day 1

I woke up at 0530 and left the house by 0600. Filled up with gas on the way out of town. I took I-495, I-270, US-15 to I-81 and then I-84. It was raining almost all day (when it wasn't extremely foggy) but (fortunately) there was almost no traffic. However, the cars I did see behaved oddly, though: no lights on in the weather, close interval lane changes, lots of left lane slow-pokes. Saw a horrific accident in Pennsylvania (near Scranton) of a Ford Mustang that had wedged under a tractor trailer in the mountains. At 1100, I stopped for gas in Montgomery, New York - also got lunch at Burger King. Back on the road, crossed the Hudson and drove through Connecticut into Massachusetts. Drove on the Mass Pike until hitting I-495 and then drove around Boston to New Hampshire. Made really good time, arriving in West Gardiner, Maine, at 1700. Got some dinner at Quiznos at the rest area and then got on the road again. Met a toll booth operator who started off on a series of conspiracy theories. Drove north to Augusta and then started looking for a place to stay. No luck in Waterville but eventually located a cheap place in Pittsfield. Once I was settled, I watched some Notre Dame football and read more of "The Shipping News" before I went to sleep. Very excited about this trip - a great chance to get away from stress and get some time in the outdoors!

Arlington, VA (USA)

[worked a full day and then headed over (on Metro) to Pentagon City with Joey - had margaritas at Chevy's (happy hour) before heading back home to pack - Vacation Time!!!!]

Oxon Hill, MD (USA)

[drove into city early - worked a full day and then changed into formal attire again - drove Stephanie down to National Harbor and got there in time for happy hour before the the ATCA Dinner began - we were later joined by Kevin and Dave P. - sat at a table with German Air Force controllers and had a great night - the dinner was held in honor of Monte Belger and featured a Dean Martin impersonator, speeches by several DOT and FAA administrators and other co-workers of Mr. Belger, outstanding food and drink, and some good networking opportunities (again) - after it was over, I drove Stephanie home one more time and headed back to my place - bittersweet ending to the ATCA week: it was awesome to have these experiences but it is sad to have to wait another year to go! - already planning ahead...]

Oxon Hill, MD (USA)

[this morning, I parked at National Harbor so the day would be easier (not as much traffic craziness) - I attended the ATCA "New Member Breakfast" (all dressed up) at 0830 and then took the ATCA Shuttle into the City - arrived pretty quickly and put in a full day of work - caught the shuttle bus (with Sabrina) back to National Harbor around 1630 and met up with everyone from work, who was already there - had a few drinks on the Convention Floor before going to a high-end party at the Old Hickory Steakhouse - after that, we headed to the Excelis Party near the top of the hotel and had a very fun evening with almost everyone we work with (including our competitors and customers) - overall, this was definitely the highlight of the entire week! - around 2230, I drove Stephanie and Sabrina back to their apartments and used Mount Vernon (Del Rey) again to get back to my house - home by midnight - what a great night!]

Oxon Hill, MD (USA)

[worked a normal day - got changed into more formal attire before leaving the office - took the Metro back to my car and then drove over to National Harbor, where the ATCA Convention was taking place at the Gaylord - met up with friends from work and then walked the Conference Floor - there were lots of little "happy hours" going on at the vendor booths - I saw lots of people I knew and had several great discussions with others that I didn't (until I ran out of business cards) - around 1900, I headed over to the JMA Solutions "Party with a Purpose" (fundraiser) event, where we enjoyed a night of fun while supporting the Wounded Warrior Project - afterwards (2200), I drove Stephanie to her apartment in Arlington before heading home (via Mount Vernon Avenue and Del Rey, due to another traffic jam on I-395) - bed late]

Oxon Hill, MD (USA)

[home for most of the day - around 1800, I drove to the Gaylord National (at National Harbor) and met up with folks from my company for drinks and dinner - this week, there is a big conference related to our business and we worked on engagement strategies and prepped for the networking opportunities - drove home late (2200)]

Front Royal, VA (USA)

[hiking on AT again - woke up a later than I wanted to (0800) but got on the road quickly - used I-495 and I-66 to get out to Front Royal (used VA-55 to enter town) - wanted to get food but all the restaurants were really crowded by the time I got there (1000) - entered Shenandoah National Park (fee free day) and drove to the Dickey Ridge Visitor Center - later parked at mile marker 15.9 (where Mollie and I had taken a nature hike with a park ranger (see SEP 2013) - hopped on my bike and rode back to the north - lots of southbound bicycle riders waved to me (I guess that is a thing for serious riders...) - locked up my bike at Compton Gap (mile marker 10.4) and hiked all the way down to the Floyd Shelter (1100) - it was farther than I thought it would be... - ran into several day hikers on both sides of Skyline Drive - weather was great! - trail was mostly smooth, with only a few areas where rocks were tough - however, what had made the bike ride easy (downhill) made the hike back to the car (mile marker 15.9) pretty hard - it was almost all uphill - saw some amazing views from the high ridge and trail brought me really close to them - after passing Compton Gap again, I didn't see almost anyone for the rest of the hike - I did meet up (again - I'd seen them near Floyd Shelter when I was NOBO) with two SOBO through hikers (guys from Georgia) - I shadowed them for several miles before they stopped to adjust their huge backpacks - I kept going and arrived at my car around 1500 - had originally planned to do more, but was very sore and tired - drove back out of the park and made it home without too much trouble (I-66 and Fairfax County Parkway) - picked up Chinese food for dinner - when I arrived at the house, I saw Bob for the first time in a week... - 8.7 miles for day Total / 159.02 miles Grand Total.]

Washington, DC (USA)

[drove to office again today (3 days in a row!) - after work, I walked down to Drew's apartment (across the street from Nationals Stadium) for a cookout party - lots of work friends (including those who have left our company) were there: Lizzie, Kaitlin, Brian, Matt, Drew, Cara, Gloria - went to Nationals/Marlins game at 1900 - met up with Phil and Emily - stayed for almost the whole game but was not paying a lot of attention to the action, as we had set up at tables at the Scoreboard Bar - Nats lost... - afterwards, we walked over to Bluejacket for a few more drinks - got carded on the way in and the bouncer commented that I don't look anything like my drivers license (that felt good - at least he didn't say I was old...) - it was REALLY crowded inside - but fun! - got ride back to my car around 2330 - headed home right away but hit a traffic jam on I-395 that slowed me down a lot (bailed out at Landmark Mall and got home soon after midnight) - in bed very late...]

Washington, DC (USA)

[drove in to work very early - worked until around 1330 - walked over to Nationals Stadium to meet with Randy and his friends for the makeup game (from last night) between Mets/Nats - arrived late (1400) but got to enjoy great seats in the Club Section (209) - it was tremendously different experience than my normal seats... - almost no one was in the stadium for this mid day game - Nats lost... - took Metro back to my car (1715) - after making it out of DC, I picked up Mollie and we went to dinner at Johnny Rockets in Kingstowne - right after that, we went next door to watch movies ("Dolphin Tail 2") - it was a nice evening! - I dropped her off and headed home around 2230 - on the phone with Nicky until late... (uggghhh)]

Washington, DC (USA)

[drove to office this morning - worked until late in the afternoon - walked down to Nationals Stadium around 1700 - met up with Randy and his friends (including my former work colleague, Lee) - ate dinner at the Red Porch restaurant until it started to rain - we began to head to our seats in the club section, getting ready for the game to start (1915) - before we made it, though, the game was cancelled and rescheduled to the following day - since the rain hadn't gotten too bad yet (and the Metro looked crowded), I walked back to my car - it started to rain harder when I got on the interstate and I was in a traffic jam for a long time before I got home (2145) - too bad, I wanted to see the game...]

Washington, DC (USA)

[after work, went over to the Navy Yard and met up with my friend, Scott, for drinks at Gordon Biersch - spent about two hours there before heading back to L'Enfant - had some more fun with my friends at Vie de France before calling it a night (2000)]

Pen Mar, PA (USA)

Finished all of the AT through Maryland today - it only took five weekends. Woke up early (0730) and drove north (via I-495, I-270 and US-15). After stopping for information at the Catoctin Mountain National Park Visitor's Center, I parked at the same place I used the previous weekend (MD-77). I hiked northbound to the Mason-Dixon Line (and across into PA). The toughest part was crossing a huge boulder-field (twice). Whenever I've hiked in these areas, I've noticed the map calls them "The Devil's Racecourse" - an appropriate name, I think. Heading back towards my car was harder, especially because of the climb up to High Rocks. All day long, I heard, saw and felt a steady rain of falling acorns. The views, especially at Pen-Mar Park, were amazing. As I was nearing the end of my hike (would have been 17 miles), I encountered a trail volunteer (Mike) who was clearing the trail. We got to talking and he offered me a ride back to my car at the next road crossing. This meeting turned out to be very fortunate (for me) because it started raining right afterwards. As a result, I only had to hike about 15 (and wasn't drenched). Gotta love the Trail Magic! Total today = 8.35 miles (not counting backtrack) / Grand Total = 150.32 miles on AT.

Alexandria, VA (USA)

[did some driver training (stick shift) with Brenna this morning at the high school and on some backroads - she made some great progress! - after dropping her off again, I stopped by the library to update some software on my computer - did a little bit of shopping and then headed over to the Mount Vernon Yacht Club to meet up with Randy and Sharon - Sabrina was supposed to join us, be she bailed (not feeling well) - we took Randy's boat south on the Potomac River to the mouth of Mattawoman Creek (I drove!) - I was the only one who went swimming and waterskiing (!) this afternoon (it was the first time in more than 30 years I've tried that) - I stayed up longer than I ever did before - after the way things turned out, I'm looking forward to next year so I can get another chance to try again - Thanks Randy and Sharon for the great day! - helped clean up the boat and then headed home (2000) - it is fun using the new shortcut to the house from US-1 to Telegraph Road!)]

Alexandria, VA (USA)

[worked all day at the office, looking forward to our group's visit to the Capital Wheel (at National Harbor) - it would have been our second attempt - instead, we started out with drinks at Vie de France (per normal) - lots of our happy hour friends bailed on the whole plan, so Kelly suggested we go to Old Town for dinner at the 219 Restaurant (Jim R.'s favorite) - she drove us there and we had good food and conversation until the jazz band set up (2100) - I stayed for a few sets before walking back to the Metro - made it to my car around 2200 - home soon after]

Smithsburg, MD (USA)

Got up early and drove to northern Maryland (I-495, I-270 and US-15 to Thurmont - then west on MD-77). Parked near Smithsburg. Perfect weather for hiking! Lucky, too, since the word of the day was "ROCKS" (trail rocks, that is - expletive should be added while shouting). Even after finishing, I still felt like I was living a nightmare where I'm a mountain goat about to fall and bust my @ss. Started southbound where the trail crossed the road (just west of Catoctin Mountain). Hiked around 16 miles total - mostly flat, but covered with randomly placed stones that took all of my concentration to navigate. Saw very few people - only a few day hikers and Boy Scouts near the roads and the scenic Annapolis Rocks (which I visited two weeks ago). Felt good all day - even with the steep climb in the last mile of the backtrack. I'm almost done with MD now! Starting near Shenandoah National Park, I have now hiked almost the entire section through to the Pennsylvania border. I hope to finish the Roller Coaster section (near US-17) before it gets cold and then I'll have a continuous 100+ mile section. Drive home was pretty easy but it is starting to get dark earlier... Total today = 8.06 miles (not counting backtrack) / Grand Total on A.T. = 141.97 (with correction).

The Plains, VA (USA)

I only had a few hours for exercise today - and it was already raining when I started riding from Mount Vernon (mile marker 0). But I had enough time to ride out to mile marker 9 and back (also fitting in a few side trails). The Potomac River views - especially the coves, marshes and estuaries - were great. There were also several historical markers and buildings - things I never noticed when driving by in my car... Highlight was Jones Point Park and a glimpse of the first DC boundary marker... It was pouring by the end, but I still feel good after completing around 19 miles! - later in the day (after rain stopped), I went to pick up Brenna and Mollie - we met Kelly, Monica and Jason at the Dogfish Grill on US-50 (Chantilly) - once all the cars were grouped, we drove west on I-66 to The Plains again for an afternoon/evening of Twilight Polo at Great Meadow (1830). I had fun with my friends while Brenna and Mollie enjoyed their time playing with several other kids. We even ate a picnic dinner - it was a great way to end the Summer! Everything was going well until Nicky started pestering me about bringing them home. As a result, we lost the opportunity to be part of the post-match dancing. Arrived - safely, thank you very much - at the house at 2330. After I got home, had to endure lots of texting with Nicky before I could fall asleep...

Bethesda, MD (USA)

[went into work earlier than normal (Metro) - around 0830 (after a few hours of work), I got back on the Metro (Red Line) and headed over to a doctors appointment at Bethesda - got great news (17 years in the making - lots of second opinions - bottom line: I don't have a nasty condition I thought I did!) - overall, the doctor experience was very good - I then headed back to work - later in the day, I rode (Metro again) to Pentagon City - Stephanie and Dave texted that I should join them at Redrocks (in Arlington) for pizza and beer - caught a cab outside the station and got there in a flash - had a great time chatting and relaxing after a busy week - Dave drove me back to Metro - when I arrived home, I found out it was actually game night with Bob and friends - I learned how to play "Settlers of Cataan" and enjoyed all of the comraderie and shared interest in strategy games - bed late]

Warrenton, VA (USA)

[up very early - drove to Warrenton, where I worked all day - ate at Smashburger with the entire office team for lunch - after knocking off for the day, I drove home via the Fairfax County Parkway so I could squeeze in a bike ride - parked off the Parkway and completed a circuit of the Burke Lake Trail (almost 7 miles) - felt really good after the exercise! - home round sunset]

Arlington, VA (USA)

[after work, went to Vie de France for happy hour - after about an hour, Kelly drove me over to Crystal City - we had drinks and dinner at Bar Louie with Joe R. and Joe B. - it was like a maze finding my way back to the Metro afterwards (especially with the "helpful" directions from Joe B....]

Boonsboro, MD (USA)

Woke up at 0700 but still got a bit of a late start on the trail (1000 - because I stopped for breakfast at Roy Rogers near Frederick) - used I-495, I-270, I-70 and US-40A. Regardless, the timing ended up being perfect by the end! Parked at Turners Gap (US-40A) again - headed south this time. I planned to hike to Crampton's Gap Shelter (roughly 7 miles). Made good time in the pleasant weather and talk...ed to several folks (especially near White Rocks Overlook). Right at the turnaround point, I stopped to sync up my pedometer with the map mileage (iPhone not tracking right). My behavior attracted the attention of two section hikers, Lisa and Sue. After a few minutes of friendly chit-chat with them, I learned they were hiking all the way to Weverton Road, which would connect two sections for me. They graciously offered to give me a ride back to my car, since they were going anyway, so I tagged along with them all the way through nearly 15 miles of A.T. and side trails (one direction for once - no backtracks!). We enjoyed great weather, amazing views and made great time as a group. Highlight was Weverton Cliff, overlooking the Potomac River. When we eventually got back to my car (1700), they asked me to join them for dinner at the Old South Mountain Inn, a nearly 300 year old building on the trail. Had a great time with them - good food, conversation and well-deserved rest! 13.89 miles today / 133.92 Total on A.T.

Indian Head, MD (USA)

Hot day - storms threatening... After waking at 0800, I drove down to Indian Head for a morning on the Indian Head Rail Trail (IHRT). I used I-495 and MD-210, stopping for breakfast at McDonalds just before arriving at my destination. Started riding the trail at 0900. In the first mile, I unexpectedly passed a friend from work (Ceriese) - had a good laugh about the small world... When I got to mile marker 5, a sign informed me I couldn't complete the last 8.5 miles of the trail today (due to construction). As I stood there (I guess I looked disappointed), a local rider (Deborah) rode by and said "I'm not going to let that stop me!" (as she continued into the "closed" section. I caught up to her and we rode another 4 miles - feeling "naughty"... Altogether (because of the bonus), I was able to complete close to 20 miles in the blazing sun, passing through/by fields of bright-colored flowers, lily-pad ponds and Egret-filled Mattawoman Creek. It was a good workout! Afterwards, I drove onto the base to pick up supplies and then took my time driving home. It started to rain in afternoon, so I just rested at the house.