Smokies Hiking Trip - Day 1

This morning, I woke up at 0530 because I wanted to leave early for my trip to visit my daughters and to hike in the Smoky Mountains.  I left my house by 0630 and drove (via I-89, I-91 and Merritt Parkway) towards the Hudson River.  I was able to telework for around three hours of meetings on the way and stopped just before reaching the Tappanzee.  After crossing the River, I drove (via I-287 and I-80 to Del Water Gap), continuing work phone calls.  At the Delaware River (1200), I encountered LOTS of traffic - it actually seemed like a few truckers tried to run me off the road, I witnessed several fast cars almost get into terrible accidents and had to dodge orange cones that had rolled into the middle of the road.  After several years of traveling between Virginia and New Jersey, I was unhappy to see that the river crossing toll had increased to $3.00 (used EZ Pass, hoping to get a break; note - I didn't get one).  I then continued west to US-209/PA-33 and later used US-22, which merged with I-78, to reach I-81.  I then took I-83, PA-581 and US-15 to get into Maryland.  Stopped for a gas fillup at Mountaindale Convenience Store in Thurmont (1505).  Continued south (listening to the radio) on I-270 and I-495 until I got off at the Kings Highway (Alexandria).  I'd coordinated a meet up with Erin, so I drove straight to Buffalo Wild Wings on US-1 (1630).  After such a long drive, I hung out until Erin arrived (1700) and then we ate dinner (I used the gift card she gave me.  We were finished eating at 1900 and then drove to Nicky's so we could take the dogs for a walk (done at 2000).  After saying goodbye to Erin, I drove to Fort Belvoir and checked into my room (2015).  I had to clean up a few items from the work day so teleworked until 2100.  Then read and rested until bed time (2330),  Whew!