White River Junction, VT (USA)

Today was a bittersweet day: Mollie was leaving New Hampshire after nearly nine months of living with me.  We've had some great times and I will miss her.  She woke herself up at around 0745 and continued getting ready for her trip.  I had several meetings in the morning but had enough time to go through the house and check on everything she was leaving behind (so I’d know what to bring Mollie when I traveled to Blacksburg in October).  Actually, I located several items of interest and Mollie packed them in her tremendously full bags.  She also packed lunch/dinner for herself and I loaded up the car at 1100.  We drove over to the train station at White River Junction, talking along the way about how strange it was going to be without seeing each other all the time.  "The Vermonter" (AMTRAK from St. Albans, VT to DC) was running a bit late so I waited with Mollie until it arrived (1150).  We said goodbye and I embarassed her by making her stand still for several pictures .  After she was gone, I went shopping in West Lebanon and headed home (arrived at 1330).  Mollie sent me texts throughout the rest of the day, updating me on her location and scenery she was seeing.  She got to Union Station at around 2200 and Erin picked her up).  Adios, Mollie... Have a great semester!

Enfield, NH (USA)

[went to Mass (1730) at St. Helena in Enfield - said goodbye to Guillaume - had planned to walk on the Northern Rail Trail afterwards but road construction was scheduled (lots of signs) and I didn't want to be trapped in the area]

Cape Cod Trip - Day 6

I woke up at 0630 and got ready to leave Katie’s house.  Mollie got up about an hour later and we hung out in the living room (after the car was packed) until John and Katie came downstairs.  After saying goodbye (and thank you), we left Hanover (0845) and drove (via MA-3 and I-95) to Pawtucket, RI.  On the way, we got breakfast at Chick-Fil-A in Attleboro, MA (0940).  We then took RI-1A to the Slater Mill unit of Blackstone River Valley NHP, one of the newest National Park Units (created in 2014).  We arrived at 1000, just as the visitor center was opening, and Mollie was able to get a passport stamp for her NPS book.  A nice ranger offered to give us a personalized tour of the building where industrial textile production in the US began and we accepted.  The walkthrough we took in the mill was very informative and we learned a lot.  Afterwards, we walked around in the area and Mollie reiterated (as she had in previous visits to Rhode Island) that she “loved the state."  At 1130, we decided to go to another unit of the park and drove across Pawtucket (and Central Falls) to reach it.  We parked at the Blackstone River Valley State Park and walked around nearby.  We crossed the river on a bike bridge and explored the Ashton Mill area.  Mollie was really impressed with how the old factory had been converted into luxury apartments called “The River Lofts”.  We looked around in the remnants of the old Mill Village and then recrossed the river to check out the Wilbur Kelly home and barn.  We met another nice ranger and watched a good video about the area.  Mollie got some more career advice (NPS internship program) and we learned about how the Ashton Mill had produced fireproof materials for the Space Program.  Our impression of the NHP was that it had a lot of potential - not all of the units have been fully integrated but there appears to be a good plan to make a transition to full service soon.  At 1245, we back to the car and got ready to leave.  Brenna called at that moment and we talked to her for a little while.  Mollie and I then started our drive home via I-295, US-6, RI/CT-101, CT-74 and US-44.  We passed through several interesting towns and saw lots of pretty scenery.  There were several crazy drivers who nearly caused accidents around us but survived the scary encounters.  At one point, we tried to follow the Google Maps route away from the traffic but found the road blocked.  This setback caused us to driving an extra 15 miles, most on rural back roads - we arrived at the Springfield Armory NHS just after 1445.  Mollie got another NPS Passport stamp and we took a tour of the museum there and watched a good movie about the park’s history.  Mollie got some souvenirs and presents for her sisters and mother at the Gift Shop (1525).  Before leaving the park, we walked around the grounds of the Armory - some of it had been converted to a technical community college.  At 1600, we departed and drove through Springfield to reach I-91.  By that point, we needed to get gas so I located an Irving (1630) in Whately, MA.  While I was pumping gas, we suggested that we visit the nearby Yankee Candle Village - Mollie was initially reluctant but agreed anyway.  The place was quite impressive (lots of pleasant smells) and we walked around inside for almost an hour.  Afterwards, we drove a short distance to eat dinner at Bueno y Sano in South Deerfield (1710) - it was good!  We continued on our way north (via US-5) and noticed signs for Old Deerfield Village.  This seemed intriguing and we decided to check it out.  We found a pretty (and very historic) town there and walked around for a little while.  Mollie told me this little surprise capped off our trip in a nice way.  We resumed our journey north (got back on I-91) and listened to lots of music in the car.  We arrived home by 1930 and unpacked the car.  About 30 minutes later, we were both relaxing in the condo (I also sent a photo of Smurfey to the girls to show we were home safe).  We both went to bed at around 2200 after agreeing we'd had a great time enjoying another beautiful New England summer day.

Cape Cod Trip - Day 5

Mollie and I got up at around 0700 and cleaned up the campsite/RV.  At 0800, my dad came to pick us up and we went with him and Beth to breakfast at a diner (Al's/Stowell’s) in Manomet.  We had a nice conversation and meal and then (0930) took a scenic drive (beaches, neighborhoods, etc.) in the Sagamore area.  We also drove around in historic Sandwich on the way back to the campground.  After saying goodbye to Beth, we helped my dad pack up the RV (1100).  We then thanked him and said goodbye to him as he departed to service the RV.  Mollie and I drove a short distance, back into historic Sandwich, and explored a nearly 400 year old cemetery.  Mollie enjoyed looking through the ancient markers.  Since the traffic situation was already degrading (typical Friday on Cape Cod), we drove across the Canal and looked around for a place to park near Scusset Beach.  Once successful, Mollie and I took a 45 minute walk on the Canal Bikepath.  Even though we'd taken our time and really enjoyed the morning weather, it was only about 1215.  Since we’d run out of things to do in the area, I checked in with my sister (Katie) and she said we could stop by anytime and even stay overnight if we wanted.  Mollie offered to treat me to “thank you” ice cream so we drove towards Katie’s house and got sundaes (sitting inside) at Friendly’s.  Just after 1300, we arrived at my sister’s house and I started teleworking.  Mollie rested in the living room initially but then did a lot of visiting with her Aunt Katie after she got home.  Katie cooked a pizza and shared some with Mollie.  Johnny suddenly appeared (he’d been napping since we arrived) and left for work.  I took a break and joined Katie and Mollie’s conversation a little bit later (we talked about family, places we’d gone, their planned vacations and Mollie’s upcoming semester).  I went back to work and Mollie then played board games and card games with Katie and John in their RV.  After I finished my telework day (1700), I went in the hot tub in an effort to reduce my leg pain.  Katie left for a house showing, so I talked to John and Mollie for a bit.  When I got done relaxing, we all went back inside and watched old episodes of Masterpiece Theater (“All Creatures Great and Small”).  Mollie also ate a light dinner while I snacked on food we’d brought.  Mollie asked if we could watch a little of the Olympics Opening Ceremonies so we switched over to that broadcast.  At about the same time, Brenna FaceTimed me to ask how she could watch the Olympics without cable or an antenna and I helped her set up my Peacock Premium account on her TV (she later texted that she was happy that it worked).  Mollie and I then decided to continue watching the Masterpiece series (she liked it) until Johnny got home from work (2200).  He seemed to be sick and John and Katie weren’t home yet, so I said goodnight and went to bed (Mollie told me later that she went to bed herself just a bit later).

Cape Cod Trip - Day 4

Mollie and I were both moving early (0700) and quickly got ready to leave the campsite.  I took a shower at the campground but Mollie deferred.  By 0815, we were on our way (via MA-6A and MA-132) to visit my high school friends, Nancy and Rick.  We stopped to pick up breakfast at Burger King (near Hyannis) and then drove the rest of the way via MA-132, MA-6A, Setucket Road, Old Bass River Road and Old Chatham Road.  We then took MA-134 to get on Old Chatham Road again (headed towards Harwich).  Along the way, we stopped to call Katie about the planned afternoon visit to the Barnstable County Fair - she said she’d leave her house at around 1500 and meet us about an hour later at the Fairgrounds.  When we arrived (0915) at a place right near the Dennis, Brewster and Harwich line, we found the home of my friends from Kindergarten and Elementary School, Nancy and Rick.  After visiting at their house for a little while, they took us to a small marina on Bass River and we went on a ride in their whaleboat (“Half Pint”).  We motored out into Nantucket Sound and visited the “Rock Ship” (there were lots of cormorants there).  After that, we headed back to the north until we reached the Mayfair Boat Yard.  Along the way, Mollie got to drive the boat, we saw lots of ospreys and familiar landmarks.  It was great to visit with them and we were on the River for several hours.  Afterwards, we went back to their house and visited the beach they had in their backyard.  By the end of the visit, Mollie told me Rick and Nancy were her “most favorite friends” of mine.  Mollie asked to go to Brewster so we headed that way at around 1315.  We first made our way to the cemetery where my mom is buried and then drove to the Brewster Store, where we explored.  At Mollie's request, we got ice cream at the Brewster Scoop (1405).  About 15 minutes later, we started back for my dad’s house - I texted him so he’d know we were on our way (things seemed ok) and used MA-6A all the way back to Sandwich.  Brenna called Mollie and (with speaker phone) I got to hear the news about my daughter’s new classroom.  When we arrived, we had to weather some drama that occurred because my dad and Beth had different plans for the evening.  Ultimately (1515), I was able to talk to my dad and offer up a trip to the beach instead of the Fair.  Fortunately, my proposed compromise allowed us to leave for Dowses Beach (in Osterville).  My dad and Mollie talked a bunch, he showed us some new buildings and historical locations (including one he’d helped build) and we passed by lots of fancy beach homes.  We spent about 45 minutes at the beach, walking along the shore and collecting shells, and then made our way back to Sandwich (arrived at about 1800).  While my dad was cooking the dinner, Mollie got lots of calls and texts from her mother.  We then spent dinner time relaxing, talking, sharing pictures and enjoying the pleasant weather.  At around 1900, my dad took us back to our campground at Shawme-Crowell State Park and showed us how to use the camper’s generator.  We made plans with him to meet for breakfast the next day and I then teleworked while Mollie tried to start a campfire.  After about an hour of unsuccessful attempts, I went out to help her and she enjoyed the next few hours in front of a roaring fire in our campsite.  Meanwhile, I continued teleworking until 2300 and then went to bed (Mollie was asleep by then).

Cape Cod Trip - Day 3

After waking up early, I teleworked again (from Katie’s house). Mollie got food for me again and entertained herself during several hours of my meetings.  I took a break from work and talked to Mollie about our plans for the coming days (she was excited about visiting Dad and Beth).  Katie and Mollie went exploring and to pick up lunch from Johnny’s restaurant. Meanwhile, I went back to work.  When they got back, I took a break and ate lunch with everybody.  At 1245, we packed up the car and left for Cape Cod (I listened to a work telcon on the way).  We arrived at my dad’s house by 1400 and immediately departed for a swimming hole that my dad liked.  While there, we played with the dog and swam a bunch - Mollie told me she was very happy to be in such warm water.  After we were done, we all went back to Dad’s for more visiting, cleaning up and resting.  At 1645, Mollie and I left for Barnstable Village while Dad and Beth went to dinner in Plymouth.  While waiting to meet my cousin and his wife (David and Pamela), we walked around in town.  Mollie was interested, so we stopped into Barnstable Pottery and I met protégés of Harry Hall, the original owner of Scargo Pottery - I had a great time talking with the other guys about the impact Harry had on our lives.  At 1730, we met David and Pamela at the Dolphin Restaurant and ate a delicious dinner.  We spent time talking about family, work, school and life.  Finished at 2030, I showed them some of the family pictures Gerard had given me the night before.  After that, Mollie and I drove back to Sandwich and met up with Dad and Beth, who took us to Shawme-Crowell State Park, where my dad had set up his camper for us to use.  After they left, Mollie and I relaxed and read in bed - we went to sleep at 2200.  What a nice way to spend a summer day!

Cape Cod Trip - Day 2

When I woke up (very early), I saw that Johnny had texted a photo of a fish that Mollie had caught that night before.  I teleworked again (from Katie’s house) - Mollie visited me a few times (and even brought food to me) before I finished the series of meetings I had (through 1130).  When I had time, we talked about her fishing experience and discussed other plans we had for later in the week.  I took a break from working and Katie and John took us kayaking on the North River (in Marshfield) during the lunch hour.  With two cars (one staged at each end), five kayaks and knowledge of the tide tables, we were able to enjoy a relaxing ride towards the ocean.  Saw plenty of seabirds, fancy moored boats and elite waterfront homes.  Mollie and I made sure to use a lot of sunblock!  Mollie had a great time paddling and hanging out with Johnny and her aunt/uncle.  After we were done, we ate a late lunch at the Marina (Erich's Crab Shack) - Mollie really liked her haddock sandwich!  Because I had a free Fribble coming to me, Mollie, Johnnie and I stopped at Friendly’s (in Pembroke) on the way back to Katie's (1455).  I got ice cream for Mollie and Johnny and (accidentally) got a second free Fribble because I accidentally grabbed the wrong one).  Back at Katie's, I teleworked for a few more hours while Mollie visited with the family.  At 1645, Mollie and I drove down to Plymouth to see my cousin, Gerard.  We ended up sitting with him on his deck from 1730 to 2045, talking and sharing family memories.  Gerard gave us old family photos, presents from Christmas 2019 (we’d never been able to come that year) and things to bring to Katie's family.  I’m quite certain that Mollie really enjoyed the visit.  We headed back to Katie’s and, since Johnny was fishing and Katie/John were still in a Bible Study, we went walking in the neighborhood.  We saw a strange red moon (I found something on the internet later that showed it was due to forest fires out west).  After getting our steps, we headed back to Katie's house and John grilled a late dinner for Mollie.  We later watched some comedy sketches (Katie's favorites) on TV before I went to bed (2230).  What a day!

Cape Cod Trip - Day 1

I'd made arrangements to visit my family on Cape Cod and Mollie had given her notice at work the previous weekend.  Anticipating a nice week, I woke Mollie up early (0645) and we packed up the car.  By 0715, we got on the road, bound for Boscawen.  We used I-89 and NH-11 to reach US-3 and arrived at the State Forest Nursery about an hour after we started our drive.  We had a great talk on the way and, since we arrived before the start time of our tour of the Nursery, we explored the National Cemetery located nearby.  At 0830, we met the Nursery Director (Billy) and he showed us all around the property.  We learned about the processes for planting, harvesting, selling and seed collection and we toured the barn and fields (despite the rain).  We also got to learn about how the State Forest Service preserves the trees and grows habitats for endangered animals.  Mollie got some great ideas for careers in Forestry and I believe she was genuinely happy to have made the trip.  At 1000, we got back on the road and and continued south into Massachusetts.  We took some back roads (including MA-110) and drove to Lowell, where we parked (1115) in the Canal Cultural District and walked around on the historic city blocks.  We managed to locate the Visitors Center for the Lowell NHS unit and Mollie got a stamp in her NPS Passport book (this made her quite happy).  The weather improved and we enjoyed about an hour (until 1215) walking outside.  I’d hoped to take Mollie to another NPS property in Massachusetts but, when we searched online, it turned out that many of them were still closed due to COVID-19 restrictions.  Since it was much earlier than I'd expected to be in Hanover (MA), I contacted Katie and she said it would be OK if we headed down to her house immediately.  Using MA-133, we got back to I-93 and drove south.  We hit a lot of traffic in Boston but still made it to Katie’s by 1330.  We spent about an hour visiting with Katie and John before they suggested we go to lunch at Bertucci’s (their favorite).  We had a great time there and talked a lot about Mollie’s summer and upcoming Fall Semester.  By 1600, we were back at Katie’s house and I started teleworking.  Mollie wanted to go out to do something so Katie and John took her to the beach (Hingham and Hull).  Johnny got home about an hour after Mollie left and we were both surprised that everyone else didn’t return until almost 2030.  Mollie was very happy to have taken the outing, especially because they got ice cream on the way home.  I thought she’d be too tired to do more but I was wrong - she and Johnny decided to go fishing in Scituate (leaving after dark) and I stayed home to visit with my sister and brother-in-law.  I actually didn’t see Mollie again before I went to bed (2315 PM).  Great day!

Lebanon, NH (USA)

After years of planning and building, the Northern Rail Trail and Mascoma River Greenway are officially connected!  On one of the nicest weather days this summer, the Mayor and other local dignities officiated the Grand Opening of the renovated bike tunnel and the Lebanon High School sports teams bashed through a big banner to the strains of “The William Tell Overture” (1600).  Everyone was in good spirits after this momentous occasion in the Upper Valley.  Mollie and I explored the grounds, voted for the best mural proposal (for future tunnel decoration) and got some free stuff from the booths that were scattered around nearby.  We then celebrated with some shopping at the Lebanon Farmers' Market (1730) - great way to spend a summer afternoon!

Weathersfield, VT (USA)

The Prouty finale, wrapping up six months of fundraising and other activities, took place today!  Because the festivities didn't start until 1000, I went to Mass (0800) and then came back to pick Mollie up because she wanted to volunteer the event.  We stopped to get her friend (Patrick) from his hotel and then drove to Dewey Lot on the Dartmouth campus.  I signed in for the Walk and then helped Mollie and Patrick get assignments as volunteers (everyone got T-Shirts!).  Along with several hundred other participants and supporters (including cancer survivors), I then walked along a 5K-long route through Hanover and the Dartmouth campus.  The weather was great for an event like this and everyone was decked out in their Prouty gear.  Once again, I was thinking of my mom, who passed away from Hodgkins almost 35 years ago.  I’m very glad to have had the opportunity to be part of The Prouty- with help from many of my friends, family and company, I've raised over $6000 in the last two years (and was in the @Virtual Prouty” Top 10 in raising funds this year).  These generous donations have gone to support the important work of the Norris Cotton Cancer Center.  Someday, I hope we can all someday celebrate the discovery of a cure for Cancer!  While I was walking the course (1000 to 1100), Mollie and Patrick cheered on the people who were completing the walking course.  It was great to have another family member be part of today’s celebration of the fundraiser.  After I was finished, we ate lunch, provided to participants and volunteers, and then left Hanover (1130).  Mollie told me that she wanted to pick blueberries and we found a place (Bascom Road Blueberry Farm) near Newport.  I used I-89, NH-10 and NH-103 (and some back roads) to reach the Farm so that she and Patrick could fill up a bucket of huge, juicy berries (I helped).  We left the Farm at around 1300 and drove to Claremont, where we did some light sightseeing.  The kids were still looking for something interesting so I took them across the Connecticut River (into Vermont) to Mount Ascutney State Park (we arrived at 1345).  Because the road was actually open this time, I was able to take them most of the way up the mountain on blacktop.  After listening to a Ranger talk on the geology of the mountain (conducted in the parking lot), we climbed 3/4 of a mile (via the Slab Trail) to the observation tower.  What a view!  In addition to peaks across the Granite State, we could the tops of mountains in Vermont, Massachusetts and Maine.  Weather was really nice and we relaxed on some rocks before we headed back down (via the Slot Trail).  We then (1530) made our way (carefully, because of the steep grade) down the mountain road in my car (I was nervous about heating up the brakes).  We'd previously agreed that I could take Mollie to a pre-Birthday dinner in the evening so I drove them back to Hanover (via I-91, I-89 and NH-120).  Patrick told me he needed to pick up a hat he had lost at the Nugget theater the day before so I took him there (and he found the hat).  I then dropped him off (after we stopped to put the blueberries in my condo) at his hotel and Mollie and I continued on to West Lebanon so we could eat dinner at Lui Lui (Italian).  We had to wait for a table for a little bit so we went exploring in the Powerhouse Mall until one was ready (1700).  Once seated, we had a nice time eating, talking and watching people playing Bocci Ball.  We finished eating (and our really busy day) at around 1800 (we were home less than 45 minutes later).  Great day to cap off a weekend of beautiful weather and outdoor activities!

Hanover, NH (USA)

Since I returned early from my hiking trip, I was able to volunteer at The 40th Prouty Bike Ride event this morning!  The only spots that were available when I signed up last night were for the “Finishing Area Cheering Team” - not a job I might normally have chosen to do.  However, I can emphatically say that it was a great experience.  I arrived at Dewey Lot at around 0800 and, along with a few other (way more energetic and loud) folks, waved pom-poms, shook cow-bells and snapped hand-clappers.  The finish line was at the top of the last hill of the 20-mile course, on the edge of the Dartmouth campus.  As a result, we got to watch the reaction of the bikers as they started their climbs.  Mostly, everyone smiled and waved or made fist pumps.  Passing cars often joined in with the celebration, with the people inside waving and beeping horns.  I think everyone in this town of 5000 residents knows the significance of the year’s biggest fundraiser…. Some of the participants were cancer survivors; others wore ribbons in memory of their lost friends or family members.  There was an 85-year old gentleman who proudly crossed the line with his grandson right behind him.  There was an international team of smiling young students (I presume).  Most moving, though, was a large group of cyclists (in matching red uniforms) who were riding with their teammate, a man who’d recently finished a regimen of chemo, and they completely surrounded him in support.  I met Prouty Board members, freelance photographers from across the Upper Valley, Executives from the D-H Hospital and Norris Cotton Cancer Cancer and lots of other 20ish-year volunteers (I was definitely an oddball as a first year person).  The staff running the event were awesome and made me feel very welcome - during my 4.5 hours (done at around 1230) helping out on this glorious July morning, they provided drinks, snacks and generous kudos.  It seems like forever since I was able to do any in-person volunteering and this event made me remember the great sensation of helping to make a difference in the world!

Maine Hiking Week - Day 4

Rain was inbound to my location but it looked like I had enough time to squeeze in the last section I’d planned this week.  I was up early to maximize use of the best weather!  I efficiently packed up the car and got breakfast at North Country General Store (0625).  I then drove (via US-201, US-201A, back roads, ME-16 and Long Falls Dam Road) to the AT Trailhead on Long Falls Dam Road near North New Portland (just east of Flagstaff Lake).  All this driving was worth the effort because I was hiking (NOBO) in mostly dry conditions before 0715.  Temps were in the 50s (so nice!) and it was overcast when I started and, before I’d walked a mile, it started sprinkling.  Fortunately, I was under a thick canopy of branches and leaves - I never even got wet in the 30ish minute “downpour”.  I was chugging along (uphill) when I broke out into a small clearing - there was a sign about reforestation and I was going to go read it when (suddenly) I noticed that there was a BULL MOOSE standing within 50 feet of me!  I was out in the open and wondered if he might charge me (especially after I noticed there was also a cow behind him).  I slowly got out my camera and snapped just one picture before walking back into the woods.  I don’t think he even moved…  Wow!  During the rest of my outbound hike, I passed a group of (9, spread out) SOBO Thru hikers and chatted with some of them.  At the West Carry Pond Lean-to, I turned around and started back towards my car.  The climb up the hill I’d traversed was steeper on the backtrack but I powered through it OK.  I encountered 7 NOBO Thru hikers on the way back but they all seemed to be racing for the Kennebec Ferry and we didn’t talk much.  Near the end of my hike, however, I passed a LASHer couple who told me they were on their annual three week trip.  As I was talking to “Detour” and “Bear Bait”, I figured out that they’d met and married in the Navy, lived and worked in Sardinia and had started section hiking a few years before, trying to finish the whole thing just like I am.  They were very nice and I learned a lot about the Mahoosuc and Bigelow Range from them.  Actually, their experiences and determination went a long way towards raising my own spirits (“if they can do it, so can I”).  Felt very good during the last half mile of my hike and reached my car at around 1100 (after more than 7 miles).  Would love to hike more in the area but 100% chance of rain during the next few days was a deterrent.  After getting back in my car, I retraced my way to ME-16.  I checked the internet (when I finally got a signal in North New Portland) and then used some back roads to reach ME-27.  From there (with intermittent rain), I took US-2 (there were some amazing clouds!), NH-115, US-3, NH-141, Wells Road, NH-116 and then used NH-10 all the way back to Hanover.  I got rained on a bit, with visible precipitation below me in the Valley as I arrived in Piermont.  I arrived at my condo by 1630 and quickly unpacked.  Until next time, Maine!  AT Today = 3.5 miles / G.T. AT = 1840.2 miles / AT Left = 345.1 miles

Maine Hiking Week - Day 3

Some loud neighbors woke me up early again.  This wasn't too much of a problem because I'd slept well.  I packed up my car and went across the street (to North Country General Store) to get breakfast (0635).  I then left Bingham and drove about 20 miles north (on gravel roads) to reach the AT Trailhead on Troutdale (AKA Moxie Pond) Road.  The weather was awesome (temps in the 60s and a high overcast)!  I started SOBO just before 0730 and found myself in a climb almost immediately.  This was not unexpected, though, and the terrain was much easier on my legs/feet than anything I’ve seen in months.  There were still roots and rocks but very little mud or boulders that required scaling.  Even the climbs were only a few hundred feet each time - this gave me time to get psyched before I reached them.  I’d expected to see some of the NOBO Thru hikers I’d met yesterday during my outbound leg but didn’t - instead, I encountered a young man (Thru hiker) who I’d already seen at least twice this year (the last time was in New Hampshire).  He was in a hurry so we didn’t chat long.  I kept on chugging uphill, crossing Middle Mountain, until the views were spectacular - visibility was tremendous!  I found the sign for the Pleasant Pond Mountain summit and took a break in the pleasant breeze.  I heard sounds of people scaling the peak from the other side and decided to keep moving.  During my backtrack, I passed five SOBO Thru hikers and ended up talking to one of them about the 100 Mile Wilderness (he didn’t like it).  He was disappointed to learn that the Kennebec ferry only ran until 1400 (he wasn’t going to make it) because he only had 60 days to reach Harper’s Ferry (yikes!).  While I was chatting with him, another hiker approached from the south - we recognized each other from yesterday.  I wasn’t sure I’d be able to keep up with “Woods” but I ended up hiking with him for over three miles.  He was Thru hiking the AT in two parts (central VA to Katahdin and then central VA to Springer) and was a wealth of information about tough parts I’ve still got to hike.  He told me he was glad to have a hiking partner for a few hours because he’d lost his earlier “AT buddy” in Gorham.  I said goodbye and wished him well when we reached Moxie Pond (1315, almost 11 miles) - it would have been nice to have continued with him but I’ve already hiked all of the next 20-30 miles…  In any case, I’m glad to have filled in another gap in my hiking tracker - every little bit helps!  The cool waters of Moxie Pond were only 50 feet from where I’d parked my car, so the decision to follow up my hike with paddling was a no brainer.  I launched easily and explored the southernmost end of the 7.5 mile long lake.  The wind was very strong and  large waves raced southbound, making things harder.  In fact, I wasn’t able to get through the narrow “neck” that led to the northern part of the lake because I simply couldn’t paddle fast enough… I settled for a circuit in my little part of the pond and allowed the breeze to push me (only steering required) back to the landing.  I was only on the lake for about an hour (finished at around1430) but enjoyed the “cool down” after the hike I’d just finished.  After a great day of hiking and paddling, I headed back to Bingham.  Back in my room, I cleaned up and read some more.  I called Mollie and then ate dinner (snacks in the room).  I told the front desk I'd be checking out in the morning (early) because I'd discovered that a huge rain storm was coming.  Spent the evening doing some telework and working on my travel blog.  I also talked to my dad and read before bed (2200).  AT Today = 4.9 miles / G.T. AT = 1836.7 miles / AT Left = 348.6 miles

Maine Hiking Week - Day 2

This morning I decided to tackle a short section that required me to time the availability the Kennebec River AT Ferry (it’s only open two hours a day for most of the Spring and Fall but extends the schedule to five hours in July and August).  I was up early at my hotel in Farmington because of loud neighbors, got ready and packed my car.  While waiting for the lobby to open, I drove on US-2 near the hotel, checking prices at gas stations nearby - they were all much higher that I wanted to pay.  Came back to hotel and ate breakfast there (0800).  I was on the road about 15 minutes later and headed north (used US-2, ME-27, ME-234, ME-16, US-201A, US-201).  I filled up my gas tank at Sunoco in Bingham (0915).  I met a Navy Retiree and had a good time talking to him.  Back on the road, I encountered a lot of construction and slow traffic.  However, I made it to US-201 AT Trailhead parking in Caratunk, got all my hiking stuff and walked just under half a mile to the ferry landing (arrived at 1000).  The ferryman remembered me from last September (I'd visited to check out the operation) and quickly paddled me across the River.  From there, I walked (SOBO) a little over two miles to fill in a gap I had on my AT tracker.  The trail was rocky, rooty, muddy and hilly but was easier than I’d seen over the last few months.  There was a nice breeze coming off Otter Pond Stream (below the level of the trail) and this offset the increasing temperatures (70s-80s).  I passed two solo Thru hikers early on and, just as I was nearing my turnaround point, encountered a family of seven who were also Thru hiking.  I talked to them briefly but they were in a hurry.  When I resumed my outbound leg, I had trouble finishing the turnaround reference, a log across a small creek.  Fortunately, I had a photograph from my last visit and, after looking at a location from several angles, determined that the “bridge” had actually been washed away over the Winter.  Certain that I’d “closed the loop”, I hiked back to the ferry landing.  Despite their lead on me, the family of Thru hikers had just started their crossings.  No matter - I sat in the shade and enjoyed an even nicer breeze that was blowing down the Kennebec. Finished my hike at around 1300 after around 5.5 miles - a nice morning in Maine!  Even thought it was early, I was ready to call it a day.  So I retraced my steps to Bingham and checked into the Bingham Motor Lodge (1335).  I rested and read in my room (and even did some telework).  I ate dinner (snacks) and talked to Mollie.  Before going to bed, I did some more reading and planning for the next day - asleep by about 2200.  AT Today = 2.0 miles / G.T. AT = 1831.8 miles / AT Left = 353.5 miles

Maine Hiking Week - Day 1

After almost a week of rain, I woke up (very early) to find that the weather was awesome!  I’d anticipated this (packed last night) and was on the road by 0715, bound for Crawford Notch.  I used a similar route for the southwestern Whites (I-91, VT/NH-25, River Road, NH-10, NH-116, Wells Road, NH-18 and NH-141) but then took US-3 to US-302 - I was parked at the AT Trailhead near Ripley Falls by 0900 and was in the woods (NOBO) within 15 minutes.  I crossed the Saco River on a nice bridge.  The temps were in the mid 50s to start (so nice!) and the trail was smooth enough that I began to wonder if the hike wouldn’t be as bad as usual - this happy thought disappeared by the second hour…  Like all my other hikes since the Fall, the trail became a messy rock and root scramble and some of the rocks were slippery granite slabs without foot or hand holds.  Needless to say, this really slowed me down.  I’m not 100% sure, but I believe I encountered a badger during this time!  While contemplating a particularly scary looking (nearly vertical) rock face, I was passed by seven through hikers and one section hiker (all NOBO too).  I wished them a pleasant journey and, when no one was around, continued my snails pace (i.e., careful ascent of Mount Webster).  This section included over 2000 feet of elevation within three miles but it also had some spectacular views from ledges that skirted west side of the ridge.  Looking down on the Wiley House unit of Crawford Notch State Park was amazing (if not worrisome).  I made it to the Webster Cliffs and then had a difficult time finishing my initial climb - every step was hard because of rock and root placement (and the steepness of the drop offs).  Eventually, I reached the summit (3.9K’) of the peak named for NH’s well known native son - he never made it into the Oval Office so he didn’t rate a 4000 footer, I guess… There were other people on the rock face (they’d climbed up from the AMC Highland Center).  Because I wasn’t sure what I wanted to do, I relaxed for almost 30 minutes and enjoyed my lunch (for once).  Since the sun wasn’t making things too hot and there wasn’t much of a breeze, I decided to continue on the AT and summit nearby Mount Jackson.  The elevation change was only about 200 feet (net) on this additional section but I now had to contend with lack of white blazes, a lot more mud and increased traffic (people).  Oh, and one of the scariest, steepest, slipperiest rock faces appeared just before I made it to the top… Fortunately, I made it and found an even better view of the Presidential Range to the north - it was a series of rolling green hills, culminated by majestic (and nearly bald) Mount Washington.  Equally spectacular views were available of the ridge on the opposite side of the Notch - wow.  I spent a bunch more time on this 4K+ foot peak, talking with other hikers, resting and deciding my next move.  In the end, I decided to descend via the Webster-Jackson Trail.  While it was much easier than the AT, overall, it had a steep start (huge granite slab) and lots of mud for the first few miles.  Most of the other people I passed on the way down had talked with me at the top - we were all friends with plenty to gripe about as we descended.  I did pass some folks who were climbing but didn’t really talk to them (focused on footfalls).  When I reached US-302 after a long, muddy slog, I was over three miles from the car (I know because I’d measured on the way into the area).  Telling myself I that my plan to hike back on the road was saving my body from certain injury, I walked quickly down the valley.  By the time I reached my car (1715, after nearly 12 miles), I was exhausted - not physically, actually, but mentally.  As I got myself ready for the drive to my next adventure (stay tuned!), six more Thru hikers came out of the woods from the other ridge.  The ringleader (a lady named “Orange”) was very chatty and told me about her adventures, commiserating with my assessment that the Whites are the hardest part of the AT.  I shared some Trail Magic (Gatorade) and departed to the north.  I used US-302 and then got on US-3, which took me to NH-115.  When I reached US-2, I drove until I was tired.  I talked to Mollie on the way.  I checked into the Colonial Valley Motel in Farmington (2020) and was pleasantly surprised that they hadn't raised their rates for the Summer yet.  I went into my room to rest and read until going to bed at around 2230.  Feeling good about my hike but still intimidated by the nature of the remaining miles I’ve got in New Hampshire…  Thinking happy thoughts!  AT Today = 4.7 miles / Grand Total AT = 1829.8 miles / AT Left = 355.5 miles / NH 4000 Footer #7 of 48

Quechee, VT (USA)

The weather was bad again so I didn’t go hiking.  Instead, I made blueberry pancakes and Mollie ate some when she woke up (0830).  I carefully broached the subject of whether she might like me to take her to the VINS Raptor Center and to get some passport stamps.  I was surprised (and glad) when she said she wanted to go - she'd wanted those stamps since she first arrived!  We packed up lunches and got on the road just after 0930.  We drove through Hanover, crossed the Connecticut River and then drove along US-5.  Google Maps took us on some back roads and US-4 to reach Quechee.  We arrived at the VINS soon after they opened (1030) and went inside to attend a reptile and, later, a hawk/owl presentation.  We then explored the animal cages and walked on the trails, including some high forest platforms (Mollie surprised me with her daredevilry!).  Some exhibits were still closed but we saw a lot of things in just over two hours.  We ate lunch in the car (1230) and then drove west towards Woodstock.  The drive on US-4 wasn't too painful and we arrived at the Marsh-Billings-Rockefeller NHP just after 1300.  The place was REALLY crowded (special festival) so I waited in the car while Mollie went to get a NPS passport stamp - successful!  She’d wanted to visit the animals but we decided against it when I told her that parking was too difficult.  Instead, we followed US-4 back to the east and then took VT-12 (and, later, US-5) to Windsor.  We then crossed the Connecticut River on the Cornish-Windsor Covered Bridge and stopped for a visit to Saint Gaudens NHP.  Much more of the park was open to the public than had been on my previous visits - we were able to access buildings and see art we’ve never encountered during previous visits to Saint Gaudens.  The weather was nice and the flowers we in peak bloom - it was very pleasant to stroll the grounds. Mollie’s spirits were quite high (she got another Passport stamp) by the time we left (1430).  We continued north on NH-12A into Plainfield, where we tried to get ice cream at Mac’s Maple - unfortunately, they were closed.  I recommended that we drive over to Lebanon to visit another ice cream place we’d seen before (Mollie agreed).  Our stop at the Dairy Twirl in Lebanon turned out to be a rousing success and Mollie declared it the “best ice cream” she’d ever had!  After we completed our travels (at my condo by 1530), Mollie told me she’d had a great day!