Winter Break Trip - Day 5

[breakfast (pancakes, eggs), rested all morning, lunch (Bertucci’s, gift card, finished at 1330), we all took a nature walk at Reservation, rested in the afternoon, went with Katie and family to a friend’s NYE party, stayed until around 11:00 PM, home for NYC ball drop]

Winter Break Trip - Day 4

[breakfast (with John & Eric at Butterfields), shopping at Ocean State Job Lot, drove with Mollie to Cape (used US-6 to Willow Street, then MA-6A), Yarmouthport (Gray's Beach - walked on Bass Hole boardwalk), Dennis (old home and schools), Brewster (Slough Pond, Old Mill, Mom's cemetery, Nickerson State Park), Orleans, lunch (snacks), gas fillup (Shell at 1330) and shopping at Stop & Shop (old Purity Supreme, at 1345), drove on Mid Cape highway to MA-132 and then MA-6A to Sandy Neck State Park, arrived at Dad & Beth’s house around 2:00 PM, Katie and family arrived later, dinner (Chinese), saw Christmas lights in Sandwich, drove back to Hanover around 8:00 PM, movies]

Winter Break Trip - Day 3

[snow, breakfast (eggs), resting all morning (I was sick with a head cold), lunch (tuna fish and chips), I went on a nice walk on the nearby trail (back via MA-123), dinner (lasagna – Mollie helped Katie make it), movies, TV]

Winter Break Trip - Day 2

[breakfast (Ella made pancakes), ice skating, lunch at Lynwood Cafe (pizza), rested in the afternoon (TV), dinner (chicken pot pie), movies]

Winter Break Trip - Day 1

[beginning a Winter Break Trip with Mollie - got up at 0500 and left Alexandria by 0615 (had to backtrack to get food), breakfast in the car (fruit, snacks), drove via I-83 to I-84, gas in Milford (PA) at 1055 - lunch in the car (sandwiches).  Wanting a break from the car, Mollie and I caught a quick hike just before we entered Connecticut (from NY-52 and across I-84, NOBO).  It was short 3+ miles - pretty easy and pleasant for December 27. – later, crossed Connecticut on back roads (avoiding traffic), then I-95, dinner (Burger King at 1700), arrived at Katie’s around 1800 – we ate again (rotisserie chicken), watched movies and TV, bed late - AT Today = 1.60 miles / G.T. AT = 591.60 miles]

Alexandria, VA (USA)

[slept in - ate breakfast (eggs, toast) - we cleaned up my apartment (cleared it of all decorations) - ate lunch (leftovers) and then went for walk in Huntley Meadows - dinner (leftovers - lots of them!) - we watched a Redbox movie and then headed to bed]

Falls Church, VA (USA)

[we exchanged presents - ate breakfast - watched movies - we drove to Kim's (1330) in Falls Church - ate lunch with her and her family (enjoyed her Christmas music at the end) - we then drove to Woodbridge - shopping at Wawa (1800) - we first went to Kelly's but figured out she was at Jason's house - once we'd arrived, we had a nice late dinner with Kelly, Jason, their kids and extended family - Mollie and I stayed until 2200 - we drove home and went straight to bed]

Washington, DC (USA)

[I was teleworking for the day - Mollie slept late - breakfast (cereal) - house cleanup - lunch (flat bread and hummus, apple) - Mollie and I checked on Frosty and got a few things from Nicky’s house - we drove to the Metro and headed into the city (around 1500) - we went to my office at Navy Yard and then walked back to L’Enfant (saw my friends, Jan and Ron) - we then walked to Freer-Sackler Gallery and enjoyed the Sotetsu exhibit - afterwards, we walked over to Penn Quarter and ate dinner at Carmine's (finished at 1800) - walked back to L'Enfant (1815) - rode home - made Key Lime pie with Mollie - movies - opened presents - went to Mass at St. John Neumann in Reston to hear Kim play the organ (with a choir and orchestra!) - service was really great and we left around 2345 - bed when we got home]

Arlington, VA (USA)

[was supposed to see kids at 1700 but they had other plans - I found out that Joey and Stephanie were having dinner and drinks on Columbia Pike - I managed to find my way there solo (first time) - we met up at William Jeffrey's Tavern and had some good wine and hummus/pitas/veggies while we watched lots of "first dates" and lonely hearts - we finished around 1930 - Joey's friend Erik was arriving at Reagan Airport, so I accompanied them (after stopping at Pentagon City, in case I wanted to go home already - didn't) - on the way back to their apartment, Stephanie picked up a delicious Ledo's pizza and we all sampled some - Joey dropped me off at the Metro around 2000 and I made my way home]

Arlington, VA (USA)

[lots of back and forth on Metro all day (meetings) - lunch (farewell for Kevin H.) at 1130 - after work was done, I went to Vie de France for a while and then went to Frat House with Kelly around 1800 - the party was great (lots of people) - we had a ball for several hours - ended up at Crystal City Restaurant around 2300 - Joey got me an Uber home and I went straight to bed]

Arlington, VA (USA)

[left work in the morning and headed to Pentagon City - took care of business at USAA - picked up lunch at Popeye's (1130) on the way home]

Burke, VA (USA)

[Mollie slept late again, breakfast was sausage and cheese balls, Mass (St. Lawrence), went walking all the way around Burke Lake, bought fish at Petsmart, shopping for Christmas items and groceries at Giant (1445), wrapping presents, developing menu for Winter Break, I dropped Mollie off at her house (1700 PM)]

Washington, DC (USA)

[Mollie slept really late, breakfast was eggs and biscuits, homework and house cleaning, lunch was leftovers, drove to Huntington Metro (TopGolf on the way), shopping for Christmas presents (Brenna & Erin and Nicky) at Fashion Center at Pentagon City (Mere Minerals and Teavana) between 1400 and 1530 - rode Metro to see a White House Christmas Tree - walked down Pennsylvania Avenue to see Congressional Christmas Tree, walked to Union Station and had dinner at Thunder Grill (seafood gumbo and salad, key lime pie) - finished at 1830 - explored Union Station - walked back to L'Enfant and took Metro back to the car, got gas on way home (1950), Mollie cooking (for breakfast), watched movie ("A Grandpa for Christmas") - bed around 2230 PM]

Alexandria, VA (USA)

[teleworked all day - took care of legal issues at the Hoffman Center in the early afternoon - Nicky dropped Mollie off (1700 PM) - dinner was tortellini with marinara sauce and green beans - we watched episodes of "The Flash" on Netflix - bed around 2200 PM]

Alexandria, VA (USA)

[I bought one of my co-workers a Secret Santa gift (at CVS and Buffalo Wild Wings - 0945 and 1130) - during lunch time, we had a project All Hands at Capital Gallery - after work, our Account held its annual holiday party, complete with great food, music (karaoke), video games and hobbity horse races (our team won!) - on the way home, I had a choice of two happy hours (one with Sean and the other with Sabrina) - critical mass was achieved at the Port City Brewing Company (off Duke Street), so I drove there from the Metro Station - it turned out to be an Embry-Riddle Alumni mixer and was really fun (got some good stuff - shirts, aviation cookie cutters) - afterwards (1930), our group went to Rustico (on Slaters Lane) - we met additional friends there and stayed until closing (2300) - made it home around 2345]

Alexandria, VA (USA)

[went to ATCA holiday party - left office around 1045 - met up with Phil Y. on the Metro and hung out on King Street (at their headquarters) until around 1300 - then we headed back to the office for the rest of the day of work]

Chantilly, VA (USA)

[up early - forgot my company ID, returned to get it (0615) - got in traffic jam on the way to Metro station - arrived at work and realized I forgot my key for the desk (ughhh!) - used a kiosk machine for several hours and then went to a meeting at headquarters - headed home via Braddock Road and met with Colberte - worked from home for several hours - met Nicky and kids at doctor's office - left there around 1600 and drove (via three attempts to cross I-95) to Chantilly - happy hour at Wellington's (1715) - later met up with Jackie, Mike, Eric and Steve for dinner - had great time - got gas in Centreville and then drove home around 1945]

Buchanan, VA (USA)

[I left the hotel at 0615 - it was pitch black with fog and the car was covered in frost. After getting some gas (0635), I drove up VA-43 to the Blue Ridge Parkway and witnessed a spectacular sunrise. I used the same parking area as yesterday (0700) and hiked SOBO into the frosty, dimly lit forest. Off in the distance to the west, I could see gray ridges shrouded in mist - my camera couldn't even capture the beauty... Only a few hundred yards down the trail, I encountered a section hiker ("Blaze of Glory") who had spent the night in a shelter a few miles away. We chatted for a bit before I continued. The section was a "roller coaster" (+/- 1000 feet four times) and it was tough going most of the day. I was trying to reach a turnaround in the woods from May 2014, when I had surrendered during my climb up Fullhardt Knob because I was so out of shape (understatement). I chatted with several other section hikers (one was "Socrates") and wasn't in a particular hurry because of the distance I'd targeted (18 miles). The sounds of train whistles in the Valley were nearly continuous all morning. I was able to peel off gloves, ear muffs and my pullover by 0900 and was sweating by noon. I reached my destination (about half a mile south of the shelter), although it was initially hard to locate my turnaround, exactly, because of the changes in seasons. It felt good to overcome my limitations and close the loop on a previous "failure". I headed back quickly and only paused twice - to talk to hikers. It was definitely a day for socializing as we caught our breaths... The last person I encountered was a SOBO thru hiker (a Mainer who departed Katahdin on August 4) and he gave me some great tips for longer jaunts in the future. The only thing missing was any wildlife encounters. It was a long climb back to the car but I finished by 1430 - whew! After eating a quick meal in Buchanan, I made good time back to NoVA. This could be the last AT hike of the year - finished around 280 miles in the last 12 months (a pretty nice amount, considering that I hiked on fewer weekends, took no multi-week trips and had surgery)... Hope I can keep up the pace in 2016! AT Today = 9.00 miles / G.T. = 590.00 miles]

Buchanan, VA (USA)

[It was a late start again (after I got to go to a late movie with Brenna last night). I got on the road by 0930 (after a gas fillup in Alexandria) - used I-66 and I-81 - but had no particular destination in mind. I was actually just hoping to fit in a couple more days of hiking before the end of the year... Used the restroom and got lunch at Wendy's in Raphine (1200). Got off the interstate for good at Buchanan and used VA-43 to get to the Blue Ridge Parkway. I parked at Blackhorse Gap (1300) and biked back (around 5 miles) to the place where I started this journey in May 2014 (Bobblets Gap). There sure has been a lot of water under the bridge since then! I did get turned around a few times because of poor blaze markings but otherwise had a nice hike on the trail. The weather was great! I only saw one other person all day (a trail runner with three dogs on a "sled line", following behind him). There was some evidence of snow along the BRP, which I had to cross a few times. When I reached my car again, I drove back to retrieve my bike and then repositioned at the trailhead on VA-43. Even though it was almost dark by this point (1600), I hiked NOBO to the top of Cove Mountain (**three trees**) and saw a beautiful sunset, followed by all the colors deepening to black on the distant ridges. For the second time in as many months, I finished my day in the dark. It was cold but not unbearable... After finishing (1715) nearly 9 miles of hiking for the day, I drove into town and found a hiker friendly motel (Wattstull Inn - nice caretaker, had lots to talk to me about). Picked up "dinner" (snacks) at the Shell at the bottom of the hill (brisk walking!) at 1900. More hiking planned for tomorrow - I'm hoping to tie up a loose end near Troutville... AT Today = 6.50 miles / Grand Total AT = 581.00 miles]

Alexandria, VA (USA)

[The girls slept late (it was a rainy day). I made breakfast (breakfast burritos, orange slices). We went to 1215 Mass (St. Raymond of Penafort) on Pohick Road. Afterwards, we returned to my apartment and the kids ate lunch (leftovers). Brenna wanted to do some more school work, so Mollie and I went to the movies ("The Good Dinosaur"). We came back and got Brenna so we could all go shopping for “girl essentials” (hair products, toiletries) that were lacking in my place. Before they left, we cleaned up the apartment. After they went home, Brenna texted me to say she had a nice time. It was a great Thanksgiving week!]

Washington, DC (USA)

[Brenna slept late. I made breakfast for her (scrambled eggs, bacon, toast, apple, loaded mashed potatoes) and we ate together. Brenna unloaded the dishwasher and cleaned up a bit. Meanwhile, I drove to Woodbridge to pick up Mollie (around 1100). I visited with Kelly and her kids for a while before Mollie and I left. Back at the house, I made Mollie some lunch (ground beef soft tacos, sliced apple). Mollie loaded the dishwasher and Brenna worked on college essays. Mollie and I watched Christmas specials on TV. Later in the afternoon, Brenna asked to go home so she could work on college applications. Mollie and I tinkered around in the house for the rest of the afternoon. After a few hours, though, she asked me to come get her so we could go to Zoo Lights at the National Zoo. I quickly got ready and we picked her up a little later (1630). On the way to the Metro, she complained that her mom bought Erin all kinds of things on Black Friday but nothing for her. After charging their fare cards, we all took the Metro (yellow & red lines) to Woodley Park. We got drinks at McDonalds and then walked to the National Zoo. This was Brenna's first time at this event and she really liked it. It sprinkled a bit, but I'd brought an umbrella and the kids both had brought cold weather coats I lent them (they don't have their own for some reason). We stayed for hours and then walked back to the Metro. On the way home, we got off at Gallery Place and walked over to Cuba Libre (because Brenna wanted "Mexican" food and it was the closest place I knew). We briefly watched street music performers on the way. We had no problem getting a table (2000). Our dinner was empanadas, rice, Cuban black beans, Cuban bread, Cuban sandwich. Everyone was happy… The Wizards game let out as we were finishing dinner (2145) so we walked to Archives and caught a Metro home (both kids resting sleepy heads on shoulders). We arrived home around 2230. I heard lots of giggling coming from shared bedroom. I watched (iPhone) the end of ND-Stanford game (Irish lost) and went to bed very late.]

Woodbridge, VA (USA)

[I made breakfast for the kids (cereal, bagels, leftovers). Brenna spent the morning working on college applications while Mollie watched YouTube videos. Lunch was leftovers. Around 1300, Brenna asked me to take her to Springfield Mall because she'd heard that Erin and Nicky had found good things there on “Black Friday.” I left Mollie at home and drove Brenna to go shopping. We walked all over the Mall, looking for deals, but didn't buy anything. We had a nice talk about me being in her life and our future relationship. She asked lots of questions about Christmas traveling, next Thanksgiving (possibly with the Morans) and decorating my house for Christmas. We got home around 1500. My friend, Kelly, had told me about a tree lighting in Woodbridge and she said that it started at 1820. I was able to convince Brenna to go by telling her to bring her laptop. All of us went to the Stonebridge shopping center around 1715 and met up with Kelly and her Uncle Jeff at Firebirds. We ended up having to move across the street to Not Your Average Joe's and got a table right next to the huge Christmas tree. We had drinks and appetizers until Kelly’s husband, Jason, arrived with their kids, Emma and Aidan. Everyone had a great time watching the festivities (dancing gnomes, sparkly light wands, music and crowds). I even got to see Brenna and Mollie playing a hand slap game together... The tree lighting didn't work out well (there was a big countdown to no lights came on) but they eventually got part of it lit (it looked like layer cake) and then the rest by the end. After it was over, we drove over to Kelly's and (after I carved the leftover turkey) she made an amazing dish she called "Turkey Spaghetti". The kids played the game of "Life" and the adults watched football. Emma wanted Mollie to stay overnight, so Brenna and I left at around 2200. We had another good talk on the way home. Before she went to bed, she worked more on her essays.]

Alexandria, VA (USA)

[Everyone slept in until around 0900. Mollie made breakfast (sausage and cheese balls) and we watched the Macy’s Parade. Brenna did homework. After she woke up, Erin decided that she wanted to leave go home to be with her mother. Brenna and Mollie and I watched the dog show on TV. After that, we were cooking for hours. Brenna learned a lot of new things (she said she never gets to cook at home). We made loaded potato casserole, stuffing balls, Panera mac & cheese, pumpkin pie, turkey breast (cryovac), Black Forest ham. Mollie and I returned the Redbox movie and went walking in Huntley Meadows. We talked a lot - the weather was beautiful and there were lots of birds to watch. Back at the apartment, we watched "Guardians of the Galaxy". We later set the table for Bob to visit for Thanksgiving dinner. He arrived around 1915 and we ate a great big meal. The kids were proud of their creations. I spent a while afterwards with cleanup. For the rest of the evening, we played a game that Bob brought (Munchkins). We all had fun and Brenna won. After he left, we watched the rest of movie and went to bed late.]

Chantilly, VA (USA)

[slept late - lunch at Matsui Sushi Restaurant (1200) - drove to Dulles Town Center to shop at Eastern Mountain Sports (gift certificate) - then went shopping at Target (for new sheets, comforter and a vacuum for my apartment) - when I got back to apartment, I watched movies - after it got dark, I walked to Giant for groceries - ate dinner at McDonalds]

Washington, DC (USA)

[I worked from home in the morning - got a haircut - took Metro to Navy Memorial - met up with Kelly, Sabrina and Monica at Plan B - we moved to Hill Country Barbecue Market (finished at 1730) - Frank and Stephanie joined us there - later, we went to Penn Social and played games - we took an Uber to Adams Morgan and had drinks at Madam's Organ (finished at 2130) - I distinctly remember having trouble doing math by this point... - eventually, we found ourselves at the Bukom Cafe (Ethiopian Restaurant) for more drinks and dancing to reggae music - when that place started to get slow, we moved over to a have jumbo slices at Pizza Boli (around 0045) - we took an Uber back to Old Town (everyone else was completely lost, so I had to be the navigator) - after we dropped off Kelly and Sabrina, Monica and I caught the Metro at King Street - I drove Monica home - back at my house at 0200]

Woodbridge, VA (USA)

[I got a text from Joey (when I was lounging around at my apartment), inviting me to a brunch with our regular happy hour group - I drove to Old Town and met everyone at O'Connell's Pub - we had lots of mimosas - I spent several hours there - in the end, I drove Emma and Aidan home and had dinner with them and Kelly at their house - drove home around 2100]

Washington, DC (USA)

[work - lunch at Bonchon with Eric (1200) - worked for several more hours - went to Cuba Libre in Chinatown for one of the many November birthday parties for our friends - stayed until 2030 - walked back to Archives - home around 2145]

Manassas, VA (USA)

It was Vets Day & fee-free, so I headed to SNP again to chip away at the roughly 50 miles I had left on AT in the park. Hit the road at 0700, parked my car at around 0900 (near Skyland Resort) and biked south on Skyline Drive. I was in the vicinity of the highest point in the park, so the ride was tough. In fact, I had several "bail out" stops selected so I could ditch Ol' Reliable and use my feet instead. But I didn't need any of them! Instead, I started hiking from Milam Gap (beyond my goal) by 1015... I didn't see any people for a long time as I headed NOBO - but there were plenty of (completely unafraid) deer. I passed a pretty cemetery, the Big Meadows Lodge and got some amazing views of the Shenandoah Valley below. All the leaves were off the trees, so I could see for miles (pictures don't do the scenery justice)! I could even see where I needed to go (across valleys and ridges) all day long but, strangely, I never crossed Skyline Drive. Just like over the weekend, I was bundled up warm when I started but was in short sleeves about an hour into the hike. This led to a rather funny encounter with two tourists at an overlook above me - I guess I photobombed their selfie (aimed down into the valley). I don't think they expected to see anyone at all and certainly not a person without the winter gear they were wearing. They pointed and laughed in my direction. So I waved happily at them until they ran back to their car... Soon after, I started to encounter more day hikers. I had a nice chat with a couple staying in a campground I passed - they warned me to watch out not to fall down the steep embankments... Mostly, though, I was alone as I trudged through mud and a limitless swath of fallen leaves. I also had to contend with some strong wind in a few places. But I made good time back to my car. By then, I only had a few miles left on Stony Man & Little Stony Man (to meet up with the last section I did in the area). Unfortunately, I only had about two hours before the NPS planned to close Skyline Drive (supposedly at 1700). The choice was between hiking over the mountains in both directions or using the road on the way back (it would be an extra 2 miles). I elected the first strategy and powered through... I haven't felt so good on hills since when I could still run the Bass River Golf Course XC course! Though I really didn't have time to enjoy it, I found probably the most beautiful vista I've seen in Virginia yet at the top. Ultimately, I made it back to my car, drove south again, retrieved my bike and exited at Swift Run - with 30 minutes to spare. I headed back towards DC and stopped to eat dinner at Golden Corral (free) in Manassas (arrived at 1800, got to my seat by 1845). It was community seating for Vets and I met some great people, including one couple who just celebrated their 55th anniversary. I was stuffed and physically exhausted by the time I got home. All told, I ended up biking 12 miles and hiking almost 14 miles. Part of the mountain climbing was backtrack and I had to subtract about a mile I hiked in the same area back in 1992, when I first imagined that finishing AT was possible... No matter how long the delay from concept to execution, I'm doing it now! AT Today = 11.10 miles / Grand Total AT = 574.50 miles

Washington, DC (USA)

[work - Bar Louie with Kathy and Atousa (Sabrina bailed) - stayed until 1830]

Milam Gap, VA (USA)

The day started with temps in the high 30s. I reached the trailhead at 0700. The sun might have risen in the east, but ridges in that direction screened it from view. I saw deer finishing late night snacks in distant fields but didn't see any people in the misty light of dawn. I was initially wearing layers but shed them as I got warmer. I didn't encounter other hikers while SOBO towards Calf Mountain Shelter and was actually startled when a camper stumbled out of the brush as I arrived. He said there were plenty of people who spent the night in the woods with him. A faster hiker passed me when I turned NOBO and I tried to keep up with him for awhile (unsuccessfully). But when I reached Skyline Drive, I used to road to backtrack to the parking lot. This shortcut allowed me to pass him (I wonder what he was thinking when he caught me a few miles later). I made my way even farther North, passing lots of day hikers, all enjoying the cool, clear day. I was laughing inside to see them bundled up with hats, mittens, heavy jackets. More than one commented on my short sleeves... ?? The wildlife I saw included a few deer, birds, squirrels, chipmunks - and a beautiful blue-colored hawk, who landed on a tree next to me. When I reached the road at my planned turnaround (Rip Rap Trail parking area), I used it again to get back to my car. Someone driving by actually offered me a ride but I passed it up for the exercise. As a result, my day consisted of almost 19 miles - and it felt good!!! I was done at about 2:15 and headed back towards NoVA, departing SNP at Swift Run. Stopped for gas in Bealeton (1515). Later, had to weather nasty traffic on I-66 to get home - the only lowlight of an otherwise great weekend! AT Today = 9.40 miles / Grand Total AT = 563.40 miles

Waynesboro, VA (USA)

Early start today - left my apartment at 0515 and drove south (via I-495, I-66, US-29 and I-64) - stopped to check for lodging in Waynesboro (to avoid repeat of last hiking weekend) about 2.5 hours later. It took longer to get to the AT Trailhead because it was out in the middle of nowhere... I used the BRP and saw great views of the wilderness below. Changed to VA-56 (Crabtree Highway) and stopped for gas at Montebello Camp & Fish Store (0855). I then made my way (carefully) on a rather unsettling road through the mountains. After I parked (0900), I crossed the Tye River on what the locals called a "swinging bridge" and continued NOBO up Three Ridges Mountain. It had started to rain and fog covered the hills in every direction. I hiked more than five miles before I saw anyone (all SOBO & wet). By that point, I thought was nearing the end of my 3000 foot climb but got a surprise after reaching a Tolkien-like citadel of towering rocks - there was still another huge climb to go... I made it up to the top, though, and then realized I'd entered the clouds (and was drenched to the bones). I didn't dally long (no views) and made good time on the hike down. I actually caught up to several hikers, including June Bug, a sandal clad grandmother, who was finishing a short section she'd previously skipped (for weather). I took my time coming down with her and she told me about how she was almost finished with the AT all the way from Springer Mountain to Port Clinton (wow!). She planned to resume from the latter location, with pit-crew help from her husband, after filling in this section. Saw lots of campers again, setting up well before dark (puzzling). Talked to a young couple with a well behaved black lab and two college buddies from NC who were making a weekend circuit hike. Saw June Bug's husband waiting for her at the swinging bridge and found my car by 1500. All told, hiked about 12.5 miles in the rain and lots of climbing. The rain never dampened my spirits, though! Doubled back to the hotel, discovering Wintergreen Ski Area and several breweries (will have to check them out next time). Got cleaned up (and locked myself out of the room, had credit card and room power issues - wow). Ate dinner at Mi Rancho Mexican Restaurant in Waynesboro (repeat visit) at 1730. Crashed early to get ready for another day on the trail... AT Today = 6.10 miles / Grand Total AT = 554.00 miles

Oxon Hill, MD (USA)

[worked a normal day - contacted Kelly late and found out there were tickets for the ATCA dinner - I went home and changed and then drove to the Gaylord National (traffic was horrendous) - I arrived around 1815 and got a ticket from Sheila - I had a nice time at our company table - stayed for after-party - got home around 2200]

Oxon Hill, MD (USA)

[spent part of the day at the ATCA Convention at the Gaylord National - in the morning, I attend the member breakfast - took the shuttle back to my office - in the afternoon, Greta took me back to the Gaylord - spent several hours networking on the exhibit floor - got some drinks at the pub - attended the JMA Party with all my FAA friends - moved to the RVA Party later in the evening - when everything started to die down, several of us walked to Bobby McKey's piano bar (arrived at 2200) - we stayed until closing and had a great time - went back to find Jim R.'s room before I left to drive home home (in bed around 0100)]

Middletown, DE (USA)

[finishing trip back from Philadelphia... - didn't have to stop for gas, which was nice - back on US-50 to I-495 - made good time, arriving around 0145 - cleaning up after my trip, I got to witness the "fall back" before going to bed - when I woke up, hours later, I drove over to Nicky's house to get the kids - however, they weren't available and I had to give up - spent the rest of the day at my house, resting and watching movies...]

Philadelphia, PA (USA)

[had won the ND Ticket Lottery (back in the spring) for the ND-Temple game - who knew it would pit a 6-1 Irish team against a 7-0 Owl team! - spent the day with Mollie (she got up late and then did homework) - after I dropped her off at her mother's house (1415), I headed towards Philadelphia (via I-495, US-50 & Bay Bridge at 1500), US-301 to US-40) - got gas near Glasgow, DE (1620) - used DE-1 to get to I-95 and continued all the way to the Philadelphia Sports Complex (exit 17) - traffic was already pretty bad near the parking lots so I tried to park on the Navy Yard property - the guard warned me that they would secure the gates before the game ended, so I went back to trying the main lots - I found a place to park near the baseball stadium (all four sports play in this area) at 1730 - I spent around an hour exploring the Xfinity Entertainment Zone (bars, restaurants) and tailgate areas - had one Leinenkugel (pumpkin flavored) - my buddy, Dan, had said he might meet up with me but it didn't work out - after weeks of trying to get someone to go to the game with me, I had an extra ticket left - I was able to sell it for almost the cost of what I paid (didn't enjoy that process but it worked out OK) - afterwards, I went inside Lincoln Financial Field and had another beer and a hotdog - I enjoyed talking to the vendors and seat checkers because it wasn't too busy - learned a lot about activities at the field, including that they may continue an annual Cheesesteak Festival in October in the future! - my seats were very high up in one of the endzones (directly opposite from the Temple student section) - the game started around 2000 and it was close - I enjoyed the entertainment during the TV breaks and met a few people around me (mix of ND and Temple fans) - no one ever came to sit in (my) seat next to me... - stayed until the end of the third quarter and then made my way back to the car (2245) - there were already a lot of drunk people all over the parking lots (funny conversations with them) - parking lot exit was a maze and lots of roads were closed - but I found I-95 (south) - drive back was pretty uneventful and I listened to the end of the game (Irish win: 24-20!) on the radio - I traced back to US-301 (just before toll plaza in DE) and saw almost no traffic - still driving at midnight...]

Fairfax, VA (USA)

[I had to take care of legal stuff at Fairfax Judicial Center (0830), so I used the Fairfax County Parkway and VA-123 to get there (lots of traffic and the steady rain didn't make things easier...) - made it to the courthouse with barely enough time to get inside - I actually had to run after I located the parking garage - I wasn't late, fortunately, and we were done in around 30 minutes - I explored a bit longer so I would be ready if I have to do this again - driving home took less time - worked from my apartment for the rest of the day]

Mason Neck, VA (USA)

[after a very slow day of working on business issues at home, I drove to Mason Neck around 1700 and tried out the new mountain bike trails (on foot) - I ended up finding Old Colchester and came back to Gunston Road via a the road (from the south) - it was a maze!]

Waynesboro, VA (USA)

[Turning my attention south, now... Wasn't sure I was hiking AT today so left late. Got gas before leaving (0845) and headed out on I-495, I-66, US-29. Stopped for lunch at Chick-fil-A (mobbed again) in Charlottesville at 1100 and then continued (via I-64 and the Blue Ridge Parkway) to the trailhead at Reids (or Reeds - it was spelled differently in several places) Gap by around noon. All the parking lots were packed - it was peak foliage season! First hiked SOBO, climbing all the way, until I reached the summit of Three Ridges Mountain (3984'). On the way, I passed scores of campers and passed day hikers who apparently didn't know that the trail in this area was a mini-rollercoaster. I met more than a few families who seemed to have decided they needed to turn around before reaching the last ridge - what a shame... Reversed direction and, passing my car, hiked all the way to Dripping Rock (where Mollie and I hiked almost two months ago). I passed a family in this section who told me to watch out for a "big black bear" - for the rest of the hike, I kept my head on a swivel. Luckily, I didn't see him... When I arrived at Ol' Reliable (mountain bike), which I'd left along the trail so I could ride back on BRP to my car, it was nearly dark. But I made it back to the car without difficulty, finishing off the day with around 14.5 miles of hiking and around 4 miles of biking at around 6:30 PM. Will have to climb this peak from the other side next time - looking forward to it! Wanted to stay for another day but the hotels were all booked. So I headed home (via I-64, US-29 - got gas in Gainesville at 2030 - I-66 and I-495), arriving home at around 2100. AT Today = 9.46 miles / G.T. = 547.9 miles]

Rockville, MD (USA)

[drove to Rockville for work (left my house at 0615) - walked to Rio and made it back before meetings began at LM campus (0800) - fire drill - met up with Ray, Tri and Bill - later ate lunch at LJ's cafe (1205) with Bill - afterwards (1500), paid a visit to Pat - we visited with each other and she cooked a really good chicken dinner - I actually didn't leave until 1900 - fortunately, traffic was OK on the way back - Brenna studying at my apartment when I arrived (2000), so I spent time with her :-)]

Palmerton, PA (USA)

[Finished PA today! I was up before 0500 but the sub-freezing temps delayed my departure. Got breakfast (McDonalds in Hometown - 0725) and then retraced last night's drive (Tamaqua to Palmerton). I was parked at the Superfund Trailhead by 8:00 and I trekked NOBO to where I turned around last night. It was brisk but the sun was shining brightly and it was great hiking weather! I backtracked to PA-248 and crossed the Lehigh River so I could climb back up on the opposite ridge. The grade was 1000 feet per... mile, so I took frequent breaks. Had a great conversation with two guys at the shelter about halfway up the hill before I continued to the top. There were lots of people camping overnight and the smell of cannabis was quite strong near a few of the sites. Almost nothing delayed me on this last segment and I turned around at Lehigh Furnace. It was great to accomplish my goal for the weekend and I quickly returned the way I'd come. There were lots of deer out today and a few day hikers. I stopped to talk to Critter/Deja(Through) for a bit - she was on her third AT through hike (but first one SOBO). I had actually greeted her by her campfire last night (in the dark, near Little Gap Road) and perhaps I will see her again in Virginia over the next few months... Three day hikers I met near the woodpecker trail warned me about a copperhead snake on the trail but I didn't see it, fortunately. I finished at 1300 (after a little more than 12 mile) and immediately headed for home. It started raining soon afterwards (lucky I stayed dry on the trail!). As a result of the deteriorating weather and lots of construction, it took me 4.5 hours to get back to my apartment (used back roads - without a map - but found PA-143 and then got on I-78). I got gas in Shartlesville at 1410, then used I-81, I-83, PA-581, US-15, I-270, I-495 - messy... Oh well - last drive for AT in PA! AT Today = 5.80 miles / G.T. AT = 538.44 miles]

Palmerton, PA (USA)

[Didn't get on the road early today, but it was for a good reason: dinner last night and brunch today with the kids. After getting gas in Thurmont (MD) at 1255, I made good time (via I-495, I-270, US-15, PA-581, I-83, I-81, I-78, PA-145 through Allentown and side roads without a map!) to the trailhead on Little Gap Road (near Danielsville, PA). At 1545, I headed SOBO on a gravel road that led me into the Palmerton Zinc Pile Superfund Site (on the ridge east of the Lehigh River). After about half a mile, I realized that I was not on the AT (no blazes). However, I decided to keep going to maximize the distance before my... backtrack. In the waning daylight, I learned a lot about the restoration process for land that was significantly affected by over 80 years of mining. Signs of improvement could be seen (trees) and I enjoyed the rock and root free trail. I spotted a drone (perhaps monitoring the property?). The wind picked up as the sun got lower in the sky and I was glad to have brought my warmer clothes. The only people I encountered today appeared to be locals in nature walks... My hiking goal was the western end of the ridge (where there was 1000 foot drop to PA-248). After I found the AT at the end of the service road (required some bushwhacking), I hit the target. I even hiked about halfway down the sheer rock face before turning around (to save time tomorrow). The climb back up was steep (about as precarious as Katahdin) and I noticed there was an equally challenging ridge on the other side of the valley... It got progressively darker, especially after I followed the AT on the way back (through brightly colored leaves and rolling, grass covered terrain). I found a sign that said the AT had been temporarily rerouted, so I guess I covered all bases... After the sun set, I put on my head lamp (thanks girls!) and finished the last several miles (for a total of about 9.5 miles) in the dark - it was a much slower pace. It got much colder (could see my breath) and I was surprised to see people camping out for the night. The views into the valley were tremendous and I saw the Blue Mountain Ski area lit up like a beacon to help me find my car. I finished around 1945 and had to drive nearly 30 miles (via PA-248, PA-895, PA-309) to find a place to stay (Pines Motel, north of Tamaqua - 2030). Hope to finish the PA portion of the AT tomorrow (less than 6 miles left)... AT Today = 4.50 miles / Grand Total AT = 532.64 miles]

Mason Neck, VA (USA)

I spent the day relaxing at my apartment with Mollie. After she left, I picked up my drycleaning (1715) and then headed over to Mason Neck for a walk in the Wildlife Refuge. There were some cars in the parking lot but I never saw any people during the nearly two hours I spent walking the trails. What I did get to see, though, was lots of wildlife. Two bald eagles left a tree above me when I walked by, making a loud noise - it was so great (and unexpected) to see them up close. Later, I watched thousands of birds flying over the marsh in huge flocks, making so much noise and barely settling in the trees or water. A grey heron flew through the wild crowd and settled on a tree across the water from me. Later, I startled two white tailed deer on the trail and they ran away with a loud noise. But I encountered them again later (with the same result). When I finished walking (probably around three miles total), it was nearly dark. On the way home, I figured out that there is a new parking lot for another wildlife area with two miles of mountain bike trails - will have to check that out! I love having this remote area near the house. I watched football with Bob and his mom later in the evening.

Washington, DC (USA)

[got Mollie and Katie up for her mom to pick her up (0800) - after breakfast, Mollie and I got ready and went to Mass (Fort Belvoir) - we returned home and ate lunch at my apartment - after that (1200), we drove into DC (parking near my old office) and walked from L'Enfant to Gallery Place (through the "Taste of DC"), took the Red Line to Woodley Park Metro Station and then walked down Connecticut Avenue to the National Zoo - we saw the panda outside (rare treat), the tigers and lions, watched the seals being fed and getting a checkup - despite our many visits to this place, we still managed to find some new things (e.g., aviary) - we walked a lot and saw a ton of great things (as usual) - we left around 1600 and retraced our steps to the car - we wanted some gelato but the prices were outrageous - as we crossed the mall, we had to navigate huge crowds (for the nice weather and leftover mess from the previous day's 20th Anniversary of the Million Man March, plus "Justice or Else" rally) - but we didn't have any trouble getting out of the city in my car, fortunately - drove home via Wegmans, where we picked up sushi (Spicy Alaskan Salmon and Chicken Tempura) for dinner (1725) - we watched a movie ("Wild Hearts Can't be Broken") - bed at 2230]

Williamsburg, VA (USA)

[up early (0600) - breakfast - gas fill-up (0700) - picked up Brenna and then we got Mollie's friend Katie - we then drove to Williamsburg (via I-95, I-295 and I-64) - nearly saw a major accident on the way (jeep nearly took out a group of motorcyclists) we arrived at Busch Gardens at 0915 and got the good parking (up close), in case it rained - it had been over seven years since I was in the park - there were a lot of changes - we immediately started on the roller coasters, riding the Loch Ness Monster and Alpengeist (twice) with no lines - we also checked out Verbolten (new ride) and it was good - it was sprinkling but never really started raining hard - we continued exploring for a few hours before there was almost anyone in the park - several of our favorite rides were closed (Pompeii, Log Flume, etc.) - Mollie didn't like the roller coasters much, so Brenna and Katie went on several while I spent time with her exploring the Jack Hanna preserve (wolves, eagles, etc.) - we all met up again and had lunch at Ristorante Della Piazza (1145) - after that, we went to one of the Halloween shows ("Fiends") - it was ridiculously baudy and rather adult but we stayed dry - later, Brenna and Katie went on a few more rides - Mollie and I saw "More Pet Shenanigans" (hasn't changed in all these years) and we visited with the trainers afterwards - Brenna and I got some food from the car (picnic) and then returned to meet up with Katie and Mollie - we rode some more rides in Festa Italia (everyone's favorite) and Brenna and I rode the train - then we all headed to New France for the start of Howl-o-Scream - there were demons, pirates, a Wendigo, vampires and rippers this time (the clowns were gone) - Brenna was genuinely scared of all the cast members but we did get some information about how to avoid being chased - Katie and Mollie didn't seem to be phased at all and the even went in one of the haunted houses (Cornered) - Brenna and I rode the Carousel and then watched a show in the Festhaus ("Night Beats") while eating some deserts (mmmm) - when we finally found Mollie and Katie again (1945), we walked to the exit (navigating more scary people) - we left park at 2000 and drove home (via I-64, I-295 and I-95) - there was only a little traffic - we dropped Brenna off at 2230 - Katie and Mollie had a sleepover (I heard them whispering until really late!)]

Washington, DC (USA)

[left work around 1600 and walked to L'Enfant - saw on the marquee that the Yellow and Blue line were single tracking but felt good when I got on the one Yellow Line ("Franconia Springfield) that came by - however, the train ended up at Waterfront Station (wrong way - but why?) - I stuck with the train until it made it to Anacostia Station and changed to a Green Line (thanks, WMATA) - tried to get a cab with two other strangers I met - however, the station master told us not to exit the station (for our safety) - we took the next Green back to Navy Yard and I caught a taxi cab with another guy (Jim) on South Capital - the other Jim used the Waze App to cross the river and avoid the traffic on I-295 for as long as possible - still, the cabbie nearly killed us a few times as we headed towards the Wilson Bridge - I finally got into my car at Huntington around 1730 (what a crappy commute!) - drove to pick up Mollie - we went to dinner at Ledo Pizza for a fundraiser being held for Mollie's school - we finished at 1830 and I dropped her off at home]

Bensville, MD (USA)

[Mollie and I finished another section (about 8 miles) of the Indian Head Rail Trail again, despite the cool, overcast day. We started at Bensville Road and worked our way back to the 5 mile marker in Indian Head. We got chased (and I mean CHASED) by a flock of angry turkeys - funny, it isn't even November yet. Only one small section near White Plains left until we are done! - gas fillup (1400) - Burger King for lunch in Bryans Road MD (1500) - after Mollie got picked up, I drove over to Total Wine & More (1745) to use the housewarming gift card from Greta]

Washington, DC (USA)

[it was a regular work day - but after it ended, I spent a little more than an hour at the Witi/TYPS happy hour at the Big Stick (Navy Yard) until 1730 - I walked back to L'Enfant, where I enjoyed several more hours at the ATCA YAP networking even - it was really fun and I stayed until it ended at 2100 - didn't get home until after 2200]

Arlington, VA (USA)

[Didn't stray too far today... Spent several hours biking on the Mount Vernon trail (20 miles, between Roslyn and Fort Hunt - fell off my bike but didn't get hurt just after getting north of Old Town again) before adding about 3.5 miles at my favorite secret hiking spot in the area. One highlight was watching the rowing teams on the Potomac. It was great to be outside and around lots of active people. Once again, it didn't rain (gotta love those forecasts)... But the temperatures are perfect now - hoping for more great hiking weather before the Fall is over!]

Sperryville, VA (USA)

Despite the threat of inclement weather, I was not going to pass up another "fee-free day" at Shenandoah National Park! I got a later start than I'd hoped (drove via I-495, I-66, US-29, US-211), but I still made it to the trailhead by 10:00. Wearing my rain poncho, I started NOBO and hiked to Mary's Rock (hadn't been there since Christmas - hard to believe). It was extremely foggy initially - and when the fog began to lift, it was only because the wind picked up... The temperature never got above 70 F on the trail. This section was well travelled - saw lots of people with their dogs and chatted with many of them. For the rest of the day, I was alone and I focused on ignoring physical pain (toe, knee) and on wiping my memory banks. My new phone reliably tracks steps and miles, so I haven't needed to worry about expended batteries or activating my running app - I can take my time and forget about tracking anything (my AT guidebook gives me the distance anyway). I took a brief break at the Byrd's Nest #3 Hut after turning around (I was in no particular hurry today...). When I reached my car again, I still had the mental urge to hike more so I just kept going SOBO. The views in this direction got better as I went and I made no plan as to the turn around point. I'd finally had enough at the Little Stony Man parking lot and walked back on Skyline Drive (completing over 12 miles by 3:00). The picnic area near my car was packed with people when I left. Best thing, though: it never rained! Headed home (drove via US-211, US-29, I-66, I-495)to avoid tomorrow's forecasted monsoon... Next SNP day will be Veteran's Day! AT Today = 6.10 miles / Grand Total AT = 528.14 miles

Woodbridge, VA (USA)

[worked a normal day in the city - in the middle of the day, Elaine gathered several of us for lunch at Gordon Biersch, nearby - it turned out to be an epic fail: service was so slow and we got no updates, so after more than an hour, we left and got dinner back in our office building - after work, I rode Metro back to my car - Kelly asked me if I wanted to join her and her friends in Woodbridge, so I went to meet up with them there - we started at Firebirds (margaritas) and then moved to Travinia (beer) - by around 2000, we drove over to Kelly's apartment for wine and Prime Time TV - she ordered sushi (good) - I stayed until around 2145 and then headed home]

Rockville, MD (USA)

[due to the Papal visit to Washington, I drove to Rockville (left at 0630) so I could join my customer at the Lockheed Martin campus for meetings - since I arrived early, I decided to go walking near the and ended up down at the Rio Washingtonian Center area - it was really great and I hadn't known it was so close - I took a pleasant stroll around the lake there before heading back to my car - had meetings until noon - was planning to meet Pat for lunch but she texted to tell me she couldn't meet up with me - instead, I ate lunch at Uncle Julio's with Tri and Bill - afterwards, I drove back to Alexandria and teleworked for the rest of the day]

Burke, VA (USA)

[I cooked breakfast (eggs, sausage, fruit). Mollie didn't wake up until much later and then took a while to get ready. As a result, we went to Mass (St. Lawrence) and then walked around at Kingstowne Centre during lunch time when she wasn't hungry. We had eventually had ice cream at Kaliedescoops (1155) and then went to watch "Inside Out" at Regal Cinemas (1215). We got an extra bonus: free popcorn from our Regal Crown Club rewards. The movie was really good! Afterwards, we drove west and went walking around Burke Lake until Mollie had to go home.]

The Plains, VA (USA)

[Mollie and I had breakfast (yogurt & bagels) and set up fish tank in the morning. We then went canoeing and hiking at Lake Accotink Park (1200-1300). Back at the house, Mollie made lunch (tuna quesadillas and fruit). Mollie did homework and read a book I loaned her ("How the Irish Saved Civilization") for a school project. Then we packed up our Twilight Polo gear and picked up food (1815) at Wendy's (we used some of Mollie's gift card!). We met up with my friends and enjoyed the beautiful evening weather while eating a picnic dinner. We stayed for the entire event (several matches) and even enjoyed some of the dancing at the end of the night. We didn't leave until around 2215 - got gas in Haymarket at Sheetz (2330) and made it home after midnight.]

Mount Vernon, VA (USA)

[after work, I met up with my friend Randy and he drove me out of the city - we stopped to pick up dinner and beer at Balducci's in Old Town and then changed clothes at the Mount Vernon Marina - almost no one was around and we headed out into the Potomac to enjoy dinner and the sunset just across the river from Fort Belvoir - we cleaned up the boat and Randy dropped me off at Huntington]

Port Clinton, PA (USA)

Woke up early again - feeling pretty good (although my feet were feeling the wear of three straight days of hiking). It was much cooler, a bit windy and overcast. After getting gas nearby (0815), I drove a short distance back to the east (and then north of Port Clinton) to find the AT Trail-head again on Hawk Mountain Road. Started uphill around 0830 and made it to the top of the ridge in less than an hour. This was a really short section I'd saved so I could hike trails in the Sanctuary and today was a good day for that! I used the Skyline Trail (and part of the Golden Eagle Trail) to get to the East Rocks. I'd wanted to go farther, but the weather continued to degrade. I headed back down the hill, stopping only once to watch a spider weaving its web (fascinating). It was only about six miles on the trail today but I don't feel like I missed anything - after all, I still had the drive home. It was a good weekend overall and I look forward to completing the AT in PA the next time I'm up this way! Home via I-78, I-81, I-83, PA-581, US-15, I-270, I-495. AT Today = 1.69 miles / Grand Total = 522.04 miles

Bath, PA (USA)

It took all night and part of this morning to feel like myself again - I really overdid it yesterday... Got breakfast at McDonalds next door (0755). I followed PA-512 from Wind Gap until I located Smith Gap Road - it turned into a gravel road on the way up Blue Mountain. I did find the trail-head (recognized it from my trip to this location - on foot - back in June). I hiked SOBO again, towards Little Gap. The trail was much flatter than yesterday (except for the rocks at the end - but I'll take it). Found a memorial for a plane crash along the trail - hadn't expected that. Saw almost no one in the morning (just white tailed deer running into the woods) but met a family on a nature hike up to the Ski Lodge as I was resting near my turnaround (at Little Gap Road). I also encountered a German man who didn't speak to me on the way outbound but was more chatty when I saw him on the way back. Saw many more solo SOBOs and couples out for a weekend overnight trip. I'm sometimes a little jealous of the one-way section hikers (no backtracking required)... Then again, it started to rain about half way back to my car and then I considered how nice it was going be to get out of the elements! I was much dryer and prepared than I was on Thursday - but it still wasn't funny to get drenched. Wanted to get through the nearly 15 miles quickly but the slippery rocks and mud made that difficult. I was entertained a bit when I saw a man sitting in the middle of the trail, trying to use a tarp to collect rainwater to replenish his reservoir. Fortunately, I never had his problem. Cleaned up at my car and then scouted my last AT big section in Pennsylvania (about 10 miles near Palmerton) - will have to visit that on another weekend (weather too unpredictable for Lehigh Gap right now, I think). It continued to pour... Got lunch in Schnecksville at China Wok (1530). Drove back to Shartlesville to reposition for the morning - stayed at Dutch Inn (1710) - watched TV and kept working on my phone. AT Today = 7.30 miles / Grand Total = 520.35 miles

Delaware Water Gap, PA (USA)

As I posted before, I found out I had a problem with my cell phone last night. My fears were confirmed this morning, so I drove to Stroudsburg (north on PA-33) and found an AT&T store west of town (Bartonsville). Had to wait for it to open (at 0900), so I ate "breakfast" at Giant (0800). It took several hours for me to get my new phone working this morning (finished at 1200). It had gotten much warmer by that point but the sun was shining and there were hardly any clouds. Used I-80 to get to PA-611 and located the trail-head near the town of Delaware Water Gap. Got started (SOBO) at around 1230. The start of the hike required a climb of about 1000 feet (tiring!). The trail was poorly marked (had to backtrack a few times). I also fell down on the slippery rocks (ouch!). Had great views on the way up, though: the river, I-80 and several pretty peaks in both directions. Had my new phone camera to capture it all! Saw many more people today (a family with babies, a solo Texas section hiker, a trio of SOBO through hikers, day hikers with their dogs) and heard many voices at the shelter (but I didn't stop). When I reached the top of Mount Minsi, the rest of the trail was mostly flat. I turned around at PA-191 and headed back immediately. Yesterdays slog and the climb today nearly did me in, despite hiking fewer miles than yesterday. I got really exhausted and hungry on the way back. By the time I reached my car, I decided to change into regular shoes and ditch my hiking gear. I then walked through town and finished the last mile across the Delaware River (to New Jersey). On the way back, I talked to locals about their jazz festival, which was starting in the morning. Got finished around 1830 after about 15 miles and was sore, tired, and faint... Drove back to Wind Gap - got gas at Turkey Hill (1910), got cash (1915) and dinner at Arby's (1925) - collapsed in bed at the Travel Inn again. Watched Law & Order CI for a few hours (restless - couldn't get to sleep). Will try to hike again tomorrow but not sure I've got a lot more in me... AT Today = 7.50 miles / G.T. AT = 513.05 miles

Wind Gap, PA (USA)

This morning I got up as early as I could and headed north at 0545 (needed to get away)... Got gas in Rockville (0615) and talked to Eileen on the phone. Made really good time on the road (I-495, I-270, US-15, PA-581, I-83, I-81, I-78, US-22, PA-33) - very little traffic - all the way to Wind Gap (intersection of AT and PA-33). I'd been here in June but only hiked south the last time. Headed NOBO (1000) and had a good walk outbound. It was overcast and a bit cool - great hiking weather! Only saw a few people all day (solo SOBO and one couple). Crossed Wolf Rocks (fun rock climbing!) in the middle of the day but it was mostly flat otherwise. I turned around at Fox Gap (PA-191). Just then, it started to pour. It rained all the way back (hard!). I had my poncho but it wasn't enough to stay dry. Skipped the Wolf Rocks on the way back (flatter bypass made walk a bit easier). I did get to see several deer on the way but the views were all obscured by fog and rain. My waterproof boots were only good on the outside: water got in though my socks and I felt like I was walking in the river by the end. Drenched when done (1630) and I think my phone may be in trouble. All told, hiked 17 miles today (and passed 500 miles on the AT!). Ate dinner at Burger King (1700) and checked into Travel Inn (1800). Working on computer and tried to get my phone charging. Hoping for improved weather tomorrow... AT Today = 8.44 miles / Grand Total = 505.55 miles

Charlottesville, VA (USA)

Had an unexpected special day with Mollie on the trail today! We left the apartment at 0600 and headed down to Charlottesville (via I-66 and US-29). We got gas in Gainesville around 0700 ($2.09 per gallon!). It was actually even cheaper a few miles down the road (we saw $1.95 per gallon). The roads were swarming with State Troopers... We stopped at a rest area after we got on I-64 (west) and then we got off the highway just east of Waynesboro. We drove to around mile marker 10 on the Blue Ridge Parkway (Dripping Rock Parking) and found the AT trailhead. Got started by 0830. Mollie and I had taken some earlier (short) nature walks on AT (2006, 2012, 2013) but this was probably her first true hike (backpack, poles) following the white blazes. Our target was the south face of Humpback Mountain - we climbed up to an overlook I visited in the spring. What great conditions: 70s, sunny but partly cloudy, good trail! I was quite pleased at how Mollie did - even after she was stung by a yellow jacket. It was almost all uphill on the outbound (NOBO) leg but we made pretty good time. We ate a picnic lunch on the ridge. Downhill was much easier and I had to work hard to contain Mollie's daredevil streak on some big rocks before we were done. Only saw a few day hikers and one section (out for two weeks) hiker. Totaled over 4 miles today and felt great. We finished (Mollie's choice) around noon. Would have stayed longer in the area but our adventure weekend (IHRT biking, Animal Park, hike to the Falls, etc.) had to come to a close eventually... After hiking, we stopped for lunch (1230) at a busy Chick-fil-A in Charlottesville (wow!). We had a good drive home (backtrack all the way except used Fairfax County Parkway to finish the trip). Arrived at my apartment at 1500. Spent the rest of the day with cleanup & movies (before Mollie's mom came to get her). Look forward to hiking with Mollie again soon! AT Today = 2.0 miles / Grand Total AT = 497.11 miles

Thurmont, MD (USA)

[I made pancakes for breakfast around 0800 and then Mollie and I packed up gear for a trip to Catoctin – we left the house around 1000 and (using I-495, I-270, US-15) arrived in Thurmont at around 1100 – we first visited the Wild Animal Park, located just off US-15 - it was great to be back (see SEP 2013) - we ate a picnic snack in the middle of the visit - it was pleasant weather and we didn't leave until around 1330 - afterwards, we ate lunch at McDonalds (tried a new chicken sandwich) - we then drove a short distance (MD-77) to Catoctin Mountain National Park, where we hiked to Cunningham Falls (around three miles) - Mollie did really well and it was much easier than our last visit (see SEP 2013) - on the way home, we stopped again to pick up peaches and corn at Pryors Orchards (see SEP 2013) and then visited the Shrine at Mount Saint Mary's for the first time in a while (see JUL 2006) - the whole day was a blast from the past! - we backtracked via US-15, I-270 and I-495, arriving home at around 1800 - I cooked dinner (rice, soup with meat, corn on the cob, peaches) - we cleaned up apartment (did laundry, trash and recycle, cleaned bathrooms, etc.) - watched movies until around 2200, then bed]

Indian Head, MD (USA)

[ate breakfast around 0830 with Mollie (cereal) - did some bike maintenance (mine and hers) - we then drove to Indian Head (MD), arriving at 1000 - Mollie and I rode bikes (about 10 miles) on the Indian Head Rail Trail (IHRT) - we even ate a picnic lunch (trail snacks) before heading back to the car - it was a beautiful day and we saw lots of people smiling as they rode their bikes - we drove back to Alexandria - stopped at Jones Point and walked on trails (finished around 1400) - I then took Mollie to get ice cream at Slaters Market (see JUL 2014) - the nice owner lady gave her extra! - we drove home and got cleaned up - we went to Mass (St. Lawrence) at 1700 - Mollie wanted to put her own money in the collection plate (very proud) - after we got home, we cooked dinner (pizza, veggies and grapes) - we finished the day by watching movies - bed around 2200]

Arlington, VA (USA)

[Nicky needed me to get something notarized, so I left work early and headed over to Pentagon City on the Metro - visited USAA (busy - payday) - then headed home to finish the day (teleworking) - called Katie in the evening]

Beltsville, MD (USA)

[Mollie and I made breakfast (cinnamon rolls) at around 0800 - the kids all got ready and we went to Mass at Fort Belvoir at 0930 - afterwards, Brenna drove us home (first time in a while that she drove) - we ate lunch (leftovers) after that - Mollie and I watched movies while Brenna did summer homework - at 1330, Brenna drove us to Olympians to meet up with Erin and her friend (for a late lunch) - meanwhile, Mollie and I went to Barnes & Noble in Springfield so she could use her gift card - on the way back to get Brenna, we went walking at Wegmans - it turned out that Erin decided to drive Brenna home (we actually beat them there) - the rest of the afternoon was more movies & homework - I dropped kids off at Nicky's at 1700 - I then drove to Beltsville to visit Brother Jim - we had pizza & beer for dinner - afterwards, we went walking (I think we saw the Blue Angels, departing the DC area after a photoex) - I stayed and talked with him until around 2000 - then drove home]

Washington, DC (USA)

[worked a normal day at the office - left for Bar Louie at Gallery Place around 1600 (with Ian) - this was supposed to be a semi-annual company reunion and I had a lot of RSVPs - a lot of people never showed up (funny exchange with the waitress - "minimum parties of six allowed at this table") - in the end, it was me, Ian (and his friend), Randy, Stephanie and Joey (and not all at the same time) - it was great to see them all but I missed seeing the others - stayed until around 1700 and then headed home]

Tamaqua, PA (USA)

[got breakfast at McDonalds in Hometown at 0600 - filled up with gas at Exxon in Andreas (PA) at 0630] - Early start this morning (0645) - misty, cool, quiet at the PA-309 trailhead. I had planned a shorter day than yesterday and, armed with intel from hikers yesterday, knew my work was cut out for me. There were more rocks on this section than I've seen on the AT since climbing Katahdin last fall. There were also lots of spider webs, overgrown grassy paths and briars (ouch). I'm actually amazed that I didn't end taking any ticks home with me... Tough going on the rocks - big ones, slippery ones, loose ones. If I tried this section last winter, I'm sure I would have hurt myself a lot or gotten very lost. Fortunately, today was another nice, snowless and temperate day! I only saw a few hikers all day, although there were large numbers of bird watchers in the south side of the knob. Turned around at Ashfield Road. I had a pretty good day overall, logging around 16.5 miles (serenaded by small arms fire at a nearby gun club) and finishing around 1315. Drove home via PA-309, PA-143, I-78, I-81, I-83, PA-581, US-15, I-270, I-495 (didn't stop at all). It was a good weekend: only a little more than 30 miles left in PA! Ready to take on another work week... AT Today = 8.24 miles / G.T. AT = 495.11 miles]

Tamaqua, PA (USA)

Suddenly had an extra weekend to hike... Wasn't ready to leave my apartment last night, so I woke up very early and drove (via I-495, I-95, I-695, I-83, I-81 and I-78), north - got gas in Frystown (PA) at 0925 and then made my way back (via PA-143) to one of the AT trail heads on Blue Mountain. I was headed SOBO from PA-309 by 10:15 - temperatures were perfect (mid 70s)! Caught up to three section hikers on the outbound leg - the first one seemed annoyed when I tried to make small talk (it made more sense when he stopped and waved his arm dramatically, saying "si vous plais" - at least I know enough French to answer that...), the next two guys were very chatty but were walking too slowly. Only saw one NOBO (all the bubbles have passed, I guess). So I kept walking all the way to the Hawk Mountain Sanctuary trails. I quickly turned back, though, feeling very good and wanting to make sure I wouldn't run out of water before the end (saved those trails for another day). It was much quieter today (no annoying road noises) but I didn't see any wildlife, unfortunately. Encountered the three section hikers on the way back and talked to "Zenith" while resting at an amazing vista. Made it as far as the Allentown Shelter quickly and was planning to keep going until I heard voices. When I ventured over to see who was there, I ended up spending 45 minutes talking to "The Lover" and a local couple who were taking an overnight hike on the weekend before their marriage. Great to spend time with kindred spirits. Had a great conversation and actually didn't want to leave. But it was actually getting dark in the woods when I started back towards my car. Only saw a couple more people before I finished my 20 mile day. Finished my last swig of the three liter reservoir just as I crossed route 309. Drove into Tamaqua, ate dinner [at Skipper Dippers at 2010] and found a place to stay (Pines Motel at 1955) north of town. Planning to tackle some more trails tomorrow! AT Today = 9.81 miles / Grand Total = 486.87 miles

Chantilly, VA (USA)

[teleworked from home in the morning and then drove to our company headquarters for a meeting at 1100 - was all dressed up and got a free lunch, but no one really needed my assistance after all... - stayed a bit longer afterwards (talking with Kim and her boss) and then headed home]

Kempton, PA (USA)

[woke up a bit later - headed east on I-78 again and drove back to the top of the same ridge on Blue Mountain that I visited yesterday (approaching from a different direction). My decision to backtrack to a cheap hotel last night was financially wise but made the whole day harder, on a couple of fronts: First thing was a later start (0800); second thing was using up gas with an already unreliable gas gauge (more about that later). After finding Hawk Mountain Road (and taking a short walk in the Sanctuary), I found the trailhead about halfway down the mountain on the south side. Headed SOBO towards the Pinnacle and Pulpit Rock, hoping to avoid rocks and make good time in the already oppressive heat. I was not disappointed! Most of the trail was a packed gravel road - the section of rocks was on the high ridge and only about half of my 15+ miles today. Did better on pace (~3 miles an hour) and water (didn't run out). Didn't take a lot of pictures because I was in the zone! Encountered a couple I met yesterday, completing their two day hike from Port Clinton (I love to see the faces of hikers when I see them again!). I finished the climb with only mild physical discomfort and by (barely) avoiding a 30 person group that could have really ruined the day. Made even better time on the way down again. During the last two miles, I walked with "Little Tater", who is nearly finished with the first 1200 miles of the AT (before getting back to her Masters Degree - she will pick it up again next year). At my car, managed to get it rolling with help from strangers and made it all the way to the bottom of the hill with little difficulty (it even eventually started again - gotta love stick!). It was a good weekend: beat the heat, kept expenses low and got another big section of PA AT completed. Can't wait to go back! - emergency gas in Kempton (PA) at 1400 - drove south on PA-143 to I-78 and made great time all the way back to Maryland (I-81, I-83, PA-581, US-15) - dinner at Burger King in Thurmont (1550) and then gas fillup at Sheetz (1610) - I-270, I-495 and home by 1930 - AT Today = 7.53 miles / G.T. AT = 477.06 miles.]

Port Clinton, PA (USA)

[with temps expected in the low 90s, I got up really early (0500) and, subsequently, got a really early start (0600) from the AT trailhead this morning (possible because I stayed the night a few miles away). Headed NOBO from Port Clinton, crossing PA-61 and climbing up another mountain as the sun was rising. Saw lots of wildlife (deer, rabbits, heron, etc.) but only encountered tents and hammocks with sleeping hikers for nearly my entire outbound leg. The weather was pleasant and I made good time to the overlook I targeted. View was awesome! Got the unexpected additional bonus of visiting the Pulpit Rock Astronomical Observatory (pointed out by two kids to said they spent the night stargazing there). After resting a bit, I headed back to the west. Saw many more people (mostly day hikers) and encountered various degrees of unleashed dogs all the way back. Heard the noise of the highway below almost all day. The much higher temperature by this point made the going much slower and I blew through my three liters of water before I finished the 15+ mile hike (around 1:00). Luckily, I was close to my car - but I had my new pump/filter, just in case... Very sweaty, tired and sore - but ready for more hiking tomorrow! - after reaching my car again, drove up PA-61 to Pottsville to find the Yuengling Brewery - missed the last tour, but found out that I could enter the sampling room with permission from gift shop employees (well worth the effort) - later, drove back to Hamburg and had an early dinner at Wendy's (1525) - after that, went across PA-61 to walk around in Cabella's (it was nice to be back) - decided to drive back to Myerstown to stay in the Travel Inn again - beat and tired - bed a bit later, though... AT Today = 7.51 miles / Grand Total AT = 469.53 miles]

Point of Rocks, MD (USA)

[teleworked worked at home all morning - at 1300, left Alexandria after filling up the gas tank - drove to Dulles Town Center on I-495, I-66 and VA-28 (grr... traffic) - exchanged a water filter for a better one at Eastern Mountain Sports (1400) - then drove north via VA-7 to US-15 (more traffic!!!) - crossed Potomac at Point of Rocks (ugghhh - even more traffic!) - stopped in Frederick (at Fort Detrick) for some adult beverages (1530) - called Kara after I got headed north again - she said she might be able to meet up with me around 1730 - stopped in Boiling Springs to walk and wait for her to get home - visited with her and Caleb at their house in Mechanicsburg - had dinner (pizza) and helped take care of their grandkids - at around 2000, I took my leave and drove back to US-15 - used it to get to I-81 and then took I-78 - stopped in Myerstown for the night (Travel Inn - I've used it in the past and it is always a good price for a hotel!) - went to bed around 2230]

Mason Neck, VA (USA)

[got the kids up around 0830 - made a light breakfast for them - we then went to 0930 Mass at Fort Belvoir - afterwards, got fuel for the car - headed back to house - the kids worked on more college appslications while Mollie and I watched movies again - we ate lunch (that I cooked) - more movies in the afternoon movies and girls prepped for their trip to Mississippi - I drove them to their mother's house at 1700 - then I drove to Mason Neck and went walking on the trail (ended up at the State Park) - called Bonnie on the way back to my house - took care of bills and such before heading to bed]

Great Meadow, VA (USA)

[woke up early and made breakfast for the kids but they got up much later - watched movies with Mollie while twins worked on college applications again - we ate leftovers for lunch - spent some of the afternoon baking with Mollie (croissants and cookies) - we then watched more movies - around 1630, we started packing up for trip to Great Meadows to watch Twilight Polo - we left my apartment at 1715 - on the way, we had a nice conversation - after we arrived (1815) we met up with my friends (Kelly and Sabrina) - we ate a picnic lunch dinner (food we brought from home) and stayed to watch several matches - Laura showed up with Sloane later - Erin had an "admirer" (who even had the guts to come up to her and ask her to dance near the end of the night) - the kids had a nice time (our first visit since SEP 2014), so we stayed until 2315 - I drove home and everyone went to bed right after we arrived]

Washington, DC (USA)

[worked a normal day at the office - afterwards, I walked with Jackie over to Nationals Stadium for the baseball game (1600 start) - we were supposed to meet up with two different groups from our company - while waiting for Jim L. to show up, we got a drink at the Red Porch - ended up eating dinner at the field-side tables (finished 1730) - by this point, our own office group had nearly all left the game, so we sat with Denny's team on the third base side (pretty good view) - I waited until around the 8th inning before departing - I walked back to L'Enfant and headed home - wanted to return a book I just finished to Bob, so I knocked on his door - ended up staying for awhile, talking to him and watching him play his tank video game - bed late]

State College, PA (USA)

[up at 0430 - stopped for gas in Alexandria (0500) and then arrived at Nicky's shortly afterwards (Erin actually called to see where I was - she was excited!) - drove via I-495, I-95, I-695, I-83 and US-322 - stopped for breakfast at McDonalds in Hunt Valley, Maryland (0615) - arrived at the PSU campus around 0900 - after we parked, a shuttle bus took us to the orientation area - we got the royal treatment at day! - Erin and I visited several sessions (scheduled as "Spend a Summer Day") - after we'd been to several meetings, we ate lunch at the HUB (1300) - walked around some more - round 1400, Erin said she had seen enough - we walked back to our car - ants in our breakfast leftovers! - we backtracked via US-322, I-81, I-83, PA-581, US-15 to get back to Maryland - on the way home, stopped for ice cream and drinks at McDonalds in Lewistown, Pennsylvania (1630) - Erin slept most of the way but I listened to music and stayed awake - filled up with gas in Frederick (MD) at 1915 and used I-270 and I-495 to reach Alexandria - dropped Erin off at her mother's house at around 2015 - what a fun day!]

Arlington, VA (USA)

[this was the first work day complicated by our new office location (near the Navy Yard) in the District - my meetings all morning required me to be at L'Enfant Plaza (near our old office) - when I was done (1130), I headed to Pentagon City and got lunch at Popeye's - finishing up a teleconference, I took the Metro down to Braddock Road and figured out to do the rest of the workday at one of our branch offices (partially successful) - headed home after that and met up with Bob at TopGolf (first time in a long while - stayed until around 2145]

Annapolis, MD (USA)

[Kelly told me about an extra ticket she had for a concert in Annapolis late this evening - I said goodbye to Brenna and Mollie and headed over to meet the group (Jim H., Monica and Kelly) at the Yardhouse (Springfield Mall) - around 1800, I found them and we left together (Jim drove us in Kelly's car) for Annapolis - we parked in the Gott Parking Garage - walked a short distance to the Ramshead Pub (a place I've visited near Chris' house) - we had some drinks and I joined the World Beer Club (1945) - we moved next door to the Stage and set up for a concert - I was sitting at a table with Monica while Kelly and Jim were nearby at another table - we ate a light dinner (hummus) and had some more drinks - we first watched a local Annapolis band and then the main event (Cowboy Mouth) came out - very engaging concert - we finished up around 2230 and then left the club (talking to the lead singer of the warmup band on the way out - we drove home on I-495 (four lanes dropped down to two) - got lost after we got off the Interstate near the Springfield Mall - finally got back to my car - drove home and went to bed around 0100]

Summer Vacation - Day 16

[up around 0600 - finished packing the car - roused the kids from slumber - said all our goodbyes (sad) - John made us Egg McDuffs and Katie packed a great lunch for the road - we were in the car and on MA-3 by 0700 (wow!) - we took I-93 and I-95 to get home (via New York City) - I rarely use this route because of the traffic but the weather and time of day boded well - we made good time (using I-295 around Providence) and encountering very few delays (mainly just a rain squall slowed us down) all the way to the Hudson River - as we cross the George Washington Bridge, we were treated to amazing views of Manhattan (including the new World Trade Center) and the kids seemed to like that - in New Jersey, we couldn't get on I-95 (traffic) so I continued on I-80 all the way out to I-287 and then we got on I-78 - we ate our lunch around that time and even made a gas/bathroom stop in Breinigsville (PA) - we had lots of trouble with the traffic patterns in the area, the wildly fluctuating cost of fuel and the single bathroom with big line but managed to get back on the road eventually (1210) - I was actually surprised at the light traffic all the way home (I-81, PA-581, US-15, I-270, I-495) and we arrived at my apartment (via the post office) around 1600. This was far faster than I'd expected and I wasn't sure about Nicky's whereabouts (Brenna had hinted that she was at Natural Bridge - probably three hours away) - I tried to talk to her on the phone but she was too flustered to tell me how long it would be before she came home. The kids and I finished unpacking the car and then Brenna and Mollie went into "deep cover" in their room to virtually reconnect with their friends - I fed them dinner and we waited for their mother to come home.]

Summer Vacation - Day 15

[up at 0500 - wrote blog notes - John made me an Egg McDuff - we drove over to the Blue Hills Park (near Canton) and hiked up Buck Mountain (~500 feet) - the weather was overcast and cool (perfect hiking weather) - there were some great hills to climb and we saw pretty views of Boston and other areas to the north and south - we finished up with a leisurely stroll back down the hills to Houghton Lake picnic area - on the way home, we picked up munchkins (assorted) at Dunkin Donuts - watched TV with the kids - did dishes and laundry - Brenna, Mollie and I went to Mass (St. Helen in Norwell) at 1600 (!) - it was basically an "Early Bird" special for church and we found it was probably the fastest we've ever attended (30 minutes!) - the girls like the priest and the welcoming environment - we headed back towards Katie's but Brenna said she wanted to do some shopping before we left - we got a gas fillup in Hanover (1655) - and then went to the Christmas Tree Shops (1800) - we had a good time exploring and buying more items for my apartment - we drove back to Katie's and ate dinner that Katie had made before she left - we also ate Ella's brownies - Johnnie and I watched a movie ("Box Trolls") until around 2200 - I then tried to go to sleep after packing things up - I was doing OK until John, Aria and Katie returned around 2300 and everyone in the house descended on the kitchen above me - I really didn't fall asleep until well after 0100...]

Summer Vacation - Day 14

[awake in RV at 0600 - read until 0700 - Brenna up early (!) - Dad made pancakes - when Johnnie got up, we headed to Snake Pond to take a swim - the water was nice but the light wind made it hard to get out - we also stopped at the Fish Hatchery (to feed them!) - we went back to Dad's and got changed - I called Judy and she asked me to come by the house at 1230 - Katie also let me know thar Mollie was doing better (and that the kids went to the movies last night) - we left Johnnie to have an adventure with Dad - Brenna and I took our time on MA-6A and Setucket Road, all the way to Brewster - we stopped for a walk and took some photos at the old mill before driving down the road a short way to visit Dick and Judy - Dick took us walking around the property, talking about family and the former resident of the site - like many moments on this trip, I experienced amazing memories of a place from my youth... - it has been decades since I visited them but we talked about those times and everything came back quickly - we ate lunch on their pretty porch and talked for a while - afterwards, we took a tour of their home and then ride with them by the Thrift Shop, Joseph C Lincoln Home and Ellis Landing Beach - we met up with my cousin, Amy, and her family there - Brian told us about his oyster business - it was a nice visit - on the way back to their house, we stopped to explore the Brewster Store - I had to wrap up some business for work but could only connect via cell phone - I was done around 1615 and we raced back to Dad's - when we got there, we learned that dinner had been pushed to the right - we cleaned up the RV and sat outside under the canopy - Mollie reported that her big burn blister had popped (kind of a relief, actually) - we then followed Dad to the Old Colony Plaza (near Carver - US-44 and MA-80) - dinner was at Olive Garden at 1800, but it took more than a hour to get everyone together - it was a nice time, with everyone catching up from the previous few days - when we were done (1930), Brenna and Johnnie and I drove back to Katie's, stopping at Tedeschi Food Shops at 2000 (picking up Not Your Father's Root Beer and Yuengling) - arrived after both Katie and John - feeling stuffed, Brenna and I took a walk down to the High School for laps on the track - it has been great talking to her and spending one on one with her during the trip - she played mini golf - on the way back, Katie picked her up so she could go to the movies with Aria - I went back to the house and watched "Penguins of Madagascar" with Ella, Mollie and Johnnie - talked to Katie and John about our last day (tomorrow) - bed late (2345)]

Summer Vacation - Day 13

[woke very early (0500) but managed to fall back asleep until around 0830 - had breakfast and did some dishes while waiting for everyone else to wake up - Katie tried to clean Mollie's wounds again (it was really painful!) - since she wasn't in a condition to travel, I left her behind and drove Brenna and Johnnie down to the Cape to visit Dad and Beth - when we arrived (around 1400), I helped Dad get the RV and picked up some cash at the TD Bank (1440) - we then we visited for a bit - we walked down to Sandwich Pizza for Dad & Beth to get a late lunch (1530) - later, we left for the Barnstable County Fair in Falmouth - we paid to park (close by) and then got general admission tickets (1645) - we explored the entire place before coming back to visit all the animals - some of the highlights included: visiting the 4H barn (a little girl told us all about her horse, Penny), holding the bunnies, watching the camel - we explored the prize winning exhibits (flowers, crafts, quilts, art, produce) - we ate dinner (foot long dog, chicken strips, fries and lemonade) - after that, we headed over to the midway and the kids rode on four rides: round up zero gravity, coaster, the zipper (very scary - upside down in a cage) and the bumper cars - we took some chances with the carnival games (water guns, BB guns) and Johnnie won a prize (Hello Kitty) for Brenna - we then looked for fried twinkles (we found them, but I really wanted fried cheesecake but could not find the vendor again) - Brenna had a blonde from Yummy Mummy - then we watched some lady lumberjacks (chainsaws, throwing axes, etc.) - we left to drive home after about four hours at the fair (fun!) - made good time and arrived at Dad's to find the door locked (they forgot!) - but we were able to get inside anyway (don't ask how!) - we played with the digs and watched "The Client" - went to bed in RV right after Dad and Beth returned at around 2300]

Summer Vacation - Day 12

[I really didn't sleep well - when I got up at 0730, I realized I'd probably only had about 2-3 hours... - had breakfast with Katie, Aria and Ella - worked on my computer for several hours (blog posts, email catch up, school emails for Brenna) - around 1000, Katie called in a favor from a doctor friend for Mollie's sunburn (she had a HUGE blister) - John drove me to CVS at 1215 and we picked up the burn cream - we also dropped off Johnnie at a friend's house over in Hanson - when we got back, Katie applied the cream on Mollie and covered her whole back with bandages - Katie later made an order for sandwiches from Subway - we had some nice conversations - by the time we finished lunch - Mollie found the energy to play chess with John - Ella had some friends over to swim in the pool - I called Das to tell him we probably wouldn't come down to the Cape, because of Mollie's burn - exchanged texts with Erin - at 1600, we got ready for our drive to Gerard's (in Plymouth) - we drive back to Hanson to get Johnnie and used several back roads (MA-58, MA-27, MA-80) and a couple of MA-3 exits - got off on US-44W - found Gerard's pretty house (in an area of several huge cranberry bogs near Carver) - Katie and Ella and Dad and Beth (with Elsa and Ana) arrived a bit later - we had pizza, salad and ice cream - this was the first time we'd been to his place and it was nice to sit outside in his backyard (under tall pine trees) - after Katie took the girls home, the guys helped Gerard clean up - then we went over to Colony Place so Johnnie could use his gift card at Best Buy - we headed home at around 2100 - I got a call from Brenna on the way ("where are you?" - it is nice to be missed) - watched some old home movies when we reached Katie's - at around 2200, I took a walk,trying to get close to my 10,000 steps - it was a very nice evening and I enjoyed the walk near the Hanover High School -went to sleep at 2315]

Summer Vacation - Day 11

[woke up around 0700 and had pancakes with Katie - she announced that it was National Junk Food Day - I took care of work emails all morning - got a few visits from the girls after they woke up at 1100 - Mollie had a BAD sunburn - I came upstairs for lunch (pizza, pasta, chips, ice cream) around 1300 and then tried to take a nap - this was difficult, since John was giving drum lessons a few feet away - got some sleep between 1600 and 1800 - came upstairs again to find John grilling outside - ate burgers and hot dogs for dinner - after we were done, the kids and I did dishes - we also watched Disney TV movies for awhile - sunset was beautiful (yellow streaks/fingers) - Brenna went walking with me around the high school track - came back to more TV but I got bored soon after - the girls started a movie at 2230 but I went down to bed - very lazy day for me but I heard the kids awake well past midnight...]

Summer Vacation - Day 10

[up at 0630 - getting ready - light breakfast before departure for the Cape - left Katie's at around 0745 - got gas in Hanover (0800) - ended up chasing John down to Woods Hole (via MA-3, US-6 and MA-28) - Brenna was using her Google app to try to keep up but then we encountered a major traffic jam - Katie and John eventually got us to the ferry landing - dropped kids off at 0915 but didn't get parked until almost 1000 (tried lots of places until discovering a parking lot in West Falmouth) - kids made it over to the island with Katie, though - rode shuttle bus from parking lot to the ferry with John - barely made it to our ferry (1045) - rode over to Vineyard Haven aboard "Island Dream" (and drank Bad Martha beer on the way) - met locals - we arrived at around 1130 and walked to Oak Bluffs (three miles) - stopped for a couple of beers and light lunch at (Sand Dune Bar & Grille) - Katie wanted us to hurry to meet them, so we finished up and arrived at their location in time to catch the bus to the Jaws Bridge - almost all the kids jumped off (!), following in my footsteps (from almost 30 years ago) - the kids were probably out in the blazing sun (hottest day of the summer so far) for about six hours - meanwhile, I was hiding under and umbrella on a bench (writing a short story) - we eventually caught the bus back to Oak Bluffs and everyone changed out of their wet swimsuits - everyone was hungry by this point, so we explored the area near Nancy's again - prices were very high everywhere - we ultimately settled on the Sand Bar & Grille again - started inside but Katie wanted to move outside - I had sushi, Brenna had clam chowder, and Mollie had the "wicked good grill cheese" (with bacon) - everyone was miserably hot by this point... - afterwards (1800), we walked around in town, window shopping at various stores (including the Black Dog and Vineyard Vines) - we then walked into the Martha's Vineyard Camp Meeting Association neighborhood (gingerbread houses) - Brenna told me she wanted to live in one if the pink houses - we walked over to the Flying Horses (old fashioned carousel) - it was so hot and I didn't want to ride anyway, so Brenna and I took refuge across the street at an ice cream shop (Vineyard's Best Ice Cream) - we got a strawberry, mint and butterscotch sundae - Brenna told me she wanted Jeeves to come pick her up in his helicopter - eventually, everyone else joined us - we then walked over to the Steamship Authority landing - I bought tickets (1945) and waited for the ferry to arrive - Mollie and I went walking on the pier for awhile, watching the fishermen - we also checked out the "fast boat" from NYC - we boarded the ship (2030 - last one of the night) and sat on the fantail as the sun disappeared for the day - evening was very pleasant and the kids explored the ship - lots of lights on the coast and ride was short - caught the shuttle back to the Thomas Landers lot - obnoxious drunk girl on bus (almost confronted her) - we got out of the bus right near our car (2150) and headed back to Hanover (via 28N and a wrong turn back to the south - damn - finally on track via MA-28 to US-6 and MA-3 - arrived about 15 minutes after John and Katie - it was very late and everyone was ready for bed - Mollie soaked her sunburn in the tub - I fell asleep after midnight]

Summer Vacation - Day 9

[up at 0530 (felt good) - packed up and cleaned up my bunk area - weather was much improved - could see Cannon peak and the peaks across the Notch - after another entertaining breakfast production (oatmeal, eggs, sausage), we had some more fellowship time - with the approaching inclement weather, I convinced John, Brian and Eric to go early (0820) - we hiked up Lonesome Lake Trail up to Kinsman Ridge Trail (tough - rocky and slippery) - the fog let off a little, so we could see terrain to the west - then we continued up to the summit of Cannon Mountain (~4200') - weather was OK when Brian and I arrived (1000) but the clouds rolled in, the temperature dropped and the rain started right after that - still had time for a group photo - started down right afterwards - saw the rest of our group and the rain started in earnest - tough going all the way back - I helped Eric make it across some tricky rocks - saw families with kids (including babies and one barefoot boy) during the descent - we tried to warn them not to continue up the mountain, but they wouldn't listen - smh - made it back to hut by 1130 - got the rest of my gear and headed down the mountain alone (after watching several guys jump in the lake - rain stopped and sun came out as I descended - it actually got really warm (after 50-60 degree weather, I was spoiled) - dried off and changed clothes after I reached the bottom (1205) and waited for everyone else - John brought up the rear at around 1245 and we headed south - stopped for late lunch in Ashland (Common Man) - group assigned new trail names (mine was "Straight Line") - John bought me a New Hampshire hat - we drove home via I-93 and then NH-132 when we hit traffic near Loudon NASCAR raceway (it was actually race weekend!) - we had no problems south of Concord - made good time all the way back to Hanover (1805) - got laundry going - shower for first time in three days - helped cleanup kitchen while John cooked dinner (spaghetti) - Katie and kids returned from Maine (Kittery) and we all ate dinner together on the deck - it was broiling hot... - it was fun to catch up on the kids' adventures while I was gone (R5 concert, trip to Boston and the North End, Coogan's Pub, outlet shopping in Maine) - after cleaning up the kitchen, we all watched "Monsters University" afterwards while Brenna and Aria entertained guests in the pool - it started to rain, so the party came inside - I finally was able to reclaim the pullout couch bed around 2300 - fell asleep soon afterwards] [NH 4000 Footer #4 of 48]

Summer Vacation - Day 8

[almost no sleep (exhausted) - cold and foggy morning - croo woke us at 0630 with guitar music from the croo - we packed up - breakfast was an even bigger production from last night: skits, more songs, rowdy start to morning - menu was oatmeal, scrambled eggs, bacon - we all got ready and the men's group said a prayer before our departure (0830) - slow start (following same trailblazer as yesterday) - single file up Fishin' Jimmy Trail (aka AT in this section) - most of the early climb, I was listening to conversations between church friends who obviously were very engrossed in the mentor/mentee idea (felt uncomfortable) - finally got by the crowd and then continued a steady climb of about 1500 feet in just over two miles - misty and wet (but no rain, thankfully) - got to Kinsman Ridge Trail pretty easily and then the group of 31 guys began to splinter - by the time we reached the North Peak of the mountain (about 4300 feet elevation), I was hiking only with Brian - we decided to forgo the photo opportunity (no views anyway) and continued to the South Peak (almost 4400 feet) - we had seen very few people all the way up but ran into a Through Hiker that we saw a few more times in the day - Brian and I reached the turnaround point (still no views) - he got a cell signal and texted his wife - we started down and ran into the serious hikers in our group - they seemed genuinely disappointed that they weren't first to the top (ha!) - we backtracked to the fork in the trail and followed the original trail itinerary (emailed to us a few weeks ago): Kinsman Pond Trail and Cascade Brook Trail (aka AT) - Tim joined us a bit later - when we got back, we learned that no one else bothered to go that way (tired, wet, etc.) and we were the only ones to complete the circuit - we encountered a nice shelter (and some through hikers who had left on March 1 - I learned that all AMC properties cost money (seems pretty silly after all the free ones to the south...) - we continued downhill - it was tough going (creek bed, mossy rocks, overgrown) - fortunately, neither of us fell or got hurt - saw some nice waterfalls - almost no wildlife today, unfortunately... - the last mile or so was a steady climb back up to Lonesome Lake - passed lots of day hikers - it was good to get back to the hut (1430) after almost 10 miles - we were definitely some of the earliest finishers (most turned back and some of them weren't even back yet) - tried to get dry (tough) - also tried to take a nap (to make up for the lack of sleep) but I was unsuccessful (loud singing, etc.) - read the winter camping book again (and finished all 200 pages) - then walked down to the lake to get some peace and quiet - it was foggy until around 1745, when the clouds cleared and we got a beautiful view again (it was very short lived) - dinner finally arrived and it was just as rowdy - menu was bread, salad, pea soup, pork, mashed potatoes and chocolate cake - after we were done, I got ready for bed (0830) - the head start was good: despite heavy snoring by roommate again, I slept much better - loud rain storm in the night helped even more! - AT Today = 4.81 miles / G.T. Total = 462.02 miles / NH 4000 Footer #2 and #3 of 48]

Summer Vacation - Day 7

[up at 0730 and got ready for the Epic Hike - John had wanted to leave at 0800 (I wondered why) but we didn't leave the house until around 0845 - after getting gas, I drove John, his brother, Brian, and a friend, Eric up to Woodstock, NH (via I-93) - it took us about 2.5 hours (some traffic but not bad) - toll near Concord - we were about two hours early (1130) so we ate lunch at Landmark II (Greek) in town and walked down to the Pemigewasset River - then we drove back to the Interstate - I got a hiking map of the area at the National Forest Visitors Center (1245) and we took a quick look at the Hobo (Mountain) Railroad - we parked at the McDonalds (North Woodstock) and met most of the 31 guys going on the GuyWire men's group hike (5th year) - after everyone was together, we convoyed to Franconia Notch (Lafayette Place Campground) and (luckily) found a place to park - we started up the Lonesome Lake Trail at around 1420 (after a prayer) - I was using my new boots, backpack, reservoir, etc.) and felt very prepared - it was about a one and a half mile hike with 1000 feet of elevation - no problem with the climb (endurance, etc.) but I lost my footing and broke a hiking pole... - still got to the top of the hill around 1520, near the front of the group - the last 0.3 was AT (seemed anticlimactic)... - checked into the AMC Hut (~ 2800 feet) that overlooked a beautiful lake -the views across the Notch were tremendous - we got settled and hung out with the guys as they swam - saw a big family if ducks - walked around to take photos - snooped around in hut kitchen (intel on cookies, etc.) - journaling - talked to lots of the guys - turned out that a women's group that had been with the men last year was here - dinner was at 1800 - big production (family style, "rules", croo intros, singing, jokes, other rituals) - the menu was black pea soup, bread, couscous, lemon chicken, broccoli, rice, chocolate chocolate chip cookies - lots of conversation - convinced John, Brian and Eric to hike around lake (a little over one mile) - found books in hut (AMC hut volunteer day schedule, White Mountain hiking, "Winter Camping") and then read in my bunk until after lights out (2130) - light rain almost all night - warm with three blankets, though - lots of snoring by one of the guys: probably no sleep / around three miles of trail hiking today]

Summer Vacation - Day 6

[woke at 0530, expecting road workers but they didn't show up! - pastry breakfast (Dad got them at Market Basket) - worked on puzzles while kids woke up - got in touch with Judy and made plans for next Friday - also learned about plans with Gerard for Wednesday and made plans with Dad for the Barnstable County Fair next week - then started packing to leave - left Dad's around 0900 - drove east on Route 6A to Dennis - Old Bass River Road and Hokum Rock Road, looking for Scargo Tower - then found it - climbed up with kids for beautiful view - back on 6A and went to Brewster to visit Mom's grave - then 6A all the way to Orleans (lots of traffic) - drove down to Rock Harbor - back into town and out to Nauset - 6A to Rotary and US-6 to Eastham and National Seashore Visitor's Center - walked on trails nearby in the pleasant (breezy) weather - inside, we learned about endangered terns and about Cape Cod topography - watched kayakers - asked about seals but they were only around at low tide (missed by six hours) - drove across the street to eat lunch at The Lobster Shanty (me = lobster roll, Brenna = clam chowder, Mollie = crab cake) - everyone enjoyed their food - we actually saw a Cape League player (Dallas Baptist) and his family eating there - when we were done with the great meal (1230), we headed back to the Canal on US-6 and up to Katie's on MA-3 (got off at wrong exit) - took a nap for a few hours (1600-1800) - John made dinner for everyone (tacos) and we had a nice meal with the family - the kids watched a movie (Mall Cop 2) while I caught up on work emails (uughhh) and tried the company's new IT service (meh) - did laundry before bed - said goodbye to the kids after they learned we were leaving early - fell asleep around 2330]