Smokies Hiking Trip - Day 4

Woke up just after 0600 and started teleworking.  I only took a short break (0900) to get some breakfast (instant oatmeal) in the lobby.  Otherwise, I teleworked until 1100, when I had to check out of my room at the Rodeway Inn.  Worked on my computer in the parking lot until around 1115 and then drove a short distance (north on US-441) to Walmart to pick up supplies (1130).  Next, drove south on US-441 to get a gas fillup at Shell in Sevierville (1140).  By that point, I was ready to drive to Fontana Dam so I headed north on US-441 and used it to reach US-321.  I took back roads across the northwest corner of Great Smoky Mountains National Park.  Got on US-321 again for a short time and then used the Foothills Parkway to drive west to US-129.  From there, I found myself on the extremely curvy "Tail of the Dragon" all the way to Deals Gap.  I was lucky because almost everyone else on the road was headed in the other direction.  There were a few folks going my way but, whenever I pulled off on a siding to let faster car enthusiasts pass me, I got a friendly wave and they sped away on the windy road.  There were places that were a bit disconcerting (big drop offs) but most of the time the views were spectacular.  In my little (rented) Honda HR-V, I had a lot of maneuverability and was able to drive quickly on a path that is definitely not for the weak of stomach.  I passed lots of photographers along the way who dutifully snapped photos of each of my passings and I found photos of my car on their website later in the evening.  Most of the other (faster) drivers I encountered were driving little (custom-designed) Hondas.  I wasn’t there for the racing or car/cycle culture but still managed to get my fill of the thrill of the challenging road (“318 curves in 11 miles”) today!  At the end of the ride, I reached NC-28 and used it to get to the Fontana Village Resort.  At about that time, I lost cell signal and didn't regain it again for the rest of the day.  That didn't seem like a big deal at the time... I ate some lunch (snack) in my car and then went into the Resort (1300) to check with the main desk about my room (they said it wasn't yet ready).  While waiting to check-in, I teleworked for another hour (plus) in the main lobby.  There were some Thru hikers there ("Toady Woods" and "Stairmaster") and I talked to them about the AT for a little while.  Before long (1530), I was able to get into my room (down the hill from the main building).  At that point, some "fun" began because I received a voicemail (via Google Voice) from my Shuttle Driver (for April 1) that US-441 was going to close for about 24 hours due to forecasted high winds.  After several attempts to use Google Voice for calls and texts, I figured out that I could do WiFi calls with my AT&T Plan.  From that point, I was able to call the Shuttle Driver (to move my ride to April 2), call the NPS Backcountry Office for Great Smoky Mountain National Park (to reschedule my two shelter reservations to April 2 and 3), call my manager and Government client (to add an extra day to my leave request) and contact my kids about the changes to my plans.  Gotta love modern conveniences!  After finishing this flurry of activity, I walked back up the hill to ask for an extra night in my room (they coordinated a request but suggested I come back in the morning to confirm).  I then wandered down the hill again, looking for the Resort's restaurant/bar ("Wildwood Grill").  When I found it, I explored my options (dining in the big room or sitting in the Pub area) and ended up having a few local beers at the bar.  The ambiance was great so I later ordered dinner (fish & chips).  All the while, I chatted with the nice bartender lady (who showed me lots of photos of her lovely mountain-top home) and other local bar patrons.  I finished eating at around 1830 and returned to my room.  Just then, it started to rain.  For the rest of the evening, I read, relaxed and watched a bit of TV (movies).  Since it didn't seem like I'd be hiking the next day, I was much more relaxed - this helped me to get right to sleep by the time I went to bed (2200).  Not sure what I'm going to do tomorrow - hope the weather improves!

Smokies Hiking Trip - Day 3

I was awake by 0530 again and started teleworking.  All told, I spent about two hours in Brenna's living room, working, until she was ready to go to work (0740).  Outside, it was clear but cool (30s).  We started towards Brenna's school but she forgot her purse and we had to backtrack.  Once we finally made it into Harrisonburg proper (Brenna lives in a little suburb), we arrived at the Chick-fil-A to find that it was under renovation.  Instead, we picked up some breakfast at Mr. J's Bagels (0800). I'd hoped to visit with Brenna some more but she had some things to do at work and wanted to get going.  As a result, I said goodbye to her and drove over to a nearby Shell gas station for a gas fillup (0810).  From there, I headed south on I-81, listening to an audiobook on the way.  After coordinating with Mollie for when and where to meet, I arrived at the Virginia Tech Campus (Squire's Center) just after 1000.  I had to wait for Mollie until 1030 so did some telework in my car.  Once she arrived, I drove her to do some shopping at Kroger and teleworked a little more until she was finished (1100).  We next drove to the house she shared with two other students and I got to see inside for the first time - I'd actually only been there about a year before, just after she'd signed the rental agreement but before she'd moved into the house.  We then took a nice walk in her neighborhood - the weather was beautiful; clear, sunny and temps in the 60s.  After we got done with the walk, we headed over to eat at an Asian Fusion place that Mollie wanted to try (Kuma Moon) and stayed there from about 1145 to 1245.  We had a great talk and the food was really good.  I then took Mollie to the Virginia Tech Campus so she could start her job at the Entomology Lab.  While there, I got to meet one of her colleagues and explored the green houses a little.  Soon, it was time for me to get going again so I said goodbye to Mollie.  Back in my car, I decided that I should probably try to reach Pigeon Forge so I would be close to the hiking zone.  I took I-81 all the way into Tennessee and stayed on that road until I was almost to my destination (one bathroom break in TN).  Listened to audiobooks on the way.  Traffic wasn't too bad on the Interstate and it was great to find that the weather stayed nice (it was also getting warmer).  I reached TN-66 and headed south until I got on US-441.  From there, the traffic got horrendous...  Fortunately, I was able to patiently navigate my way into Pigeon Forge (much busier and crowded than I remember from my last visit) and figure out where I could get an inexpensive hotel.  Once I located it (Rodeway Inn on Henderson Chapel Road, deep in the middle of a huge renovation), I checked in at 1700 (got a military discount because I didn't use the internet to make a reservation).  Started teleworking in my room until I began to feel hungry.  Because it was so nice outside, I took a walk down to the main drag (US-441).  Since a Sonic that I'd last visited with Mollie a few years ago was close to this intersection, I stopped there and ate my dinner there (ordered at 1830).  Spent my meal texting with the girls, thanking all three for entertaining me during my drive to the south.  After another short walk, I was back in my room by about 2000 (still very light outside).  I had time to do some more teleworking.  After getting done (2100), I talked to Eileen on the phone, read and did some Duolingo.  Tired, I went to bed at around 2215.  Whew!

Smokies Hiking Trip - Day 2

I was awake by 0530 and started teleworking.  After taking a break to get breakfast (0615), I was back to teleworking in my hotel room soon afterwards.  At 1000, I checked out of the Comfort Inn and got on I-81 again, bound for Baltimore.  Traffic wasn't too bad, fortunately.  I called Erin to finalize arrangements.  On the way, I joined two different telcons from my car, covering about 1.5 hours of the two hour drive.  I arrived at Erin's apartment complex just before noon and was able to park easily.  After getting a visitor pass, I managed to find my way up to Erin's unit.  After a bit of visiting, we then walked down to Pickles Bar (right next door) to eat lunch.  We had a nice meal and visited for about an hour there (done at about 1255).  Afterwards, we walked around in the area near Camden Yards.  It was clear, sunny and warm (50s) - perfect Spring weather!  We returned to her apartment and had a nice talk before I had to leave for the next phase of my journey (1430).  Just then, I got a call from my AT Shuttle Driver (confirming arrangements).  I used I-95 to reach Beltsville and spent an hour (1500 to 1600) visiting with Brother Jim at LaSalle House.  It was great to spend time with him after all the precautions taken during the COVID-19 era.  On the road again, I used I-495 (going around the north side of DC) to reach I-66.  Traffic wasn't good but it really didn't get frustrating until I reached the newly rebuilt section of I-66.  What used to be about 10 lanes of Interstate Traffic for everyone had been converted to six lanes for "non-payers" and four lanes for HOV payers.  The speed disparity was huge (35 mph for us and 70 mph for them).  As a result, I got stuck in horrible traffic (major accidents) for a LONG time.  I had to stop for some gas in Fairfax (1700) but eventually managed to get back on I-66.  From there, I struggled my way west until I was finally able to drive the speed limit again - whew!  Overall, the delays probably added almost 1.5 hours to my trip...  Audiobooks kept me sane. Mollie checked in with me via phone and we chatted briefly.  I called Brenna to let her know about my delays and she told it was OK.  The traffic on I-81 wasn't too bad (LOTS of trucks, as usual) and I arrived in Harrisonburg at 1915.  I met Brenna at El Charro and we had a nice meal and good conversation until about 2015.  I then followed her to her apartment complex.  After unloading and finding a visitor parking spot, I was able to visit her unit and see how she'd been living since she'd finished school the previous year.  I spent about an hour (2100 to 2200) doing some more telework and then spent the rest of the evening reading and getting organized for my next day of travel.  I went to bed on Brenna's couch at around 2230.  Despite the difficulties in getting around today, it felt good to have managed to see so many people on the way!

Smokies Hiking Trip - Day 1

Since my car was already packed, I was able to depart from the Holiday Inn in White River Junction on I-91, bound for the Smokies at 1400.  Since I still had a telcon for work that started at that time, I stopped at the first rest area to ensure I maintained good cell service.  At 1430, I felt confident enough to begin driving again and was able to stay connected to the call until it ended (1515).  I used I-91 all the way into Massachusetts.  As I neared UMASS, I tried to coordinate a meet up with Johnny but he was busy.  Meanwhile, I listened to audiobooks.  I stopped for some late lunch (or early dinner) at the McDonalds in Greenfield, MA (1545) and then resumed my drive on I-91.  There was lots of traffic in Springfield and Hartford but I managed to switch to I-84 without much trouble and then continued west.  After this, the traffic improved but I still found that I was unused to the volume...  Eileen called me a few times as I made my way to the Hudson River and we had some nice talks.  I also spoke to Brenna and Erin about meeting up the next day.  Still more audiobooks...  I stopped for gas at Shell in Sussex, NJ (1855) and then, back on I-84, made good time (even with construction) to I-81.  After Scranton, I had a good drive all the way to Pine Grove, PA.  At 2115, parked briefly in that town and was able to make a quick online reservation for the nearby Comfort Inn.  Things worked well and I was able to immediately check-in.  I spent the rest of the evening reading and relaxing.  Finally fell asleep at 2230 after a VERY busy day.  It's great to finally be on the road to see my kids and do some AT hiking!

Burst Pipe Adventure - Day 49

[got up by 0545 (in White River Junction) - started teleworking immediately - took a break for breakfast (0645) and then loaded up my car with things I wouldn't need for two weeks - more teleworking - at 0745, I took several items down to my car - a short time later, I drove across the Connecticut River and visited my condo in Hanover - there were actually repair men there (that was a surprise) - got my mail and then met up with Monte (leaving some refrigerated items with him) - after that, he drove me to the Lebanon Airport so I could pick up my rental car from the recently reopened Avis counter (0845) - got my rental car and returned to the Holiday Inn Express, where I teleworked some more - skipped lunch - talked to Eileen - took a few breaks to pack up my rental car - double checked that my home-away-from-home for almost 50 days was all clean - kept on teleworking until 1400 - then transitioned to vacation mode]

Burst Pipe Adventure - Day 48

[awake by 0620 (still at Holiday Inn) - dragging a bit in getting my telework day started but feeling better (even though I keep having the sensation I'm all better, I guess I'm still recovering from my cold) - ate breakfast at 0700 and then returned to teleworking - took a lunch break at 1430 - continued working until around 1645 - then took a 90 minute walk near the hotel (1645 to 1815) - reading - did some more packing in my room - ate a light dinner (1900) - watched movies until bed time (2200)]

Burst Pipe Adventure - Day 47

[awake by 0615 (still in White River Junction) - felt very tired so, after I got breakfast (0650), I tried to take a nap - only mildly successful - ended up skipping church (didn't feel good about leaving the hotel) - instead, watched movies, read, did some Duolingo and continued packing my stuff (more backpack inventories) - ate a light lunch at around 1300 - tried to take another nap but unable to sleep - more reading, more movies - eventually, I decided to go outside for a walk and spent the next 90 minutes (roughly) in the area near my hotel (1715 to 1845) - while I was walking, Mollie called and we talked for a while - ate a light dinner (1915) and relaxed in the room (movies) until around 2200 - had a LOT of trouble falling asleep (loud neighbors, hot, etc.) - even though I have been treated well at the Holiday Inn Express, I'm glad that my stay is almost at an end...]

Burst Pipe Adventure - Day 46

[woke up at 0620 (still in the Holiday Inn) and headed down to breakfast before anyone else was there (0640) - by the time I left the dining area, a large ladies (softball?) team had arrived to eat (glad to have escaped before it was too crowded) - didn't really feel like doing anything but managed to get my room and bags (for moving out in a few days) organized by 1100 - drove to Hanover and went into my condo to find the rest of my hiking trip items (successful) - picked up mail and was on my way back to White River Junction about 30 minutes later - snow was forecasted so settled back into my room for the afternoon - ate a light lunch at about 1330 and watched some movies - since the weather outside was nasty, I did my 10000 steps mostly inside the hotel (1830 to 1930) - for some reason, there weren't many people staying overnight so managed not to bother anyone - spent the evening packing, reading and watching movies - went to bed at around 2245]

Burst Pipe Adventure - Day 45

[didn't sleep well so woke up at about 0640 - started teleworking immediately and ate breakfast late (0710) - back to teleworking - took a break for a lunchtime snack (1230) - more teleworking - finished my work day at 1600 - drove from White River Junction to Lebanon and parked at Sacred Heart Church - from there (1620), I walked down the Mascoma River Greenway until I'd almost reached the Miracle Mile access trail - after walking back to the church (arrived at 1720), I then joined the fifth installment of our Knights' Council Fish Fry - from about 1730 until 2000, I helped to serve food and then clean up the kitchen and dining hall - I did get to eat some of the food for my dinner (unusual) before we were done - it was good to hang out with everyone because this was the last time I was going to be able to participate before Easter - I drove back to the Holiday Inn Express (talking to Mollie and Brenna, briefly, on the way) - I had a scary moment on the I-89/I-91 exit/merge ramp when a person walked across the road as I passed! - back in my hotel room (2030), I read and organized my stuff (prepping for a run to my condo to drop off things over the weekend) - while I'd been gone from the hotel, I received an email from the manager, who told me my request for a late checkout a few days later had been approved - spent the rest of the evening watching movies - went to bed at 2300]

Burst Pipe Adventure - Day 44

[up by 0530 (still in White River Junction) - started teleworking - breakfast at 0630 - feeling better but not completely recovered from my cold - more teleworking (Off-Site Meeting all day) - we got a break at around lunch time - since my colleagues in DC were going on a walk together, they suggested the online participants also participate in that activity - therefore, I went for a walk near the Holiday Inn (1210 to 1255) - this timeframe also ended up being the only break in the rainy day conditions all day - returned to meetings (more teleworking) at 1300 - ate lunch in my hotel room at 1445 - took a break from my work day at around 1530 and left the hotel for Hanover - picked up my mail at the condo and then joined my happy hour friends at Jesse's Steakhouse (1545 to 1745) - afterwards, drove through Hanover to West Lebanon (NH-10) and joined the Connecticut River Conservancy "River Steward Meet & Greet" at the Kilton Library (1800 to 1900) - they had light food, which I counted as "dinner" - I could have stayed longer to network but still wasn't feeling 100% (still tired) - drove back to the Holiday Inn Express (arrived at 1930) and logged back into my work computer to follow up on late-afternoon developments - after finishing work completely, spent the rest of the evening watching movies - went to bed at 2230]

Burst Pipe Adventure - Day 43

[up by 0630 (still in White River Junction) - started teleworking - breakfast at 0650 - feeling better (recovering from my cold) - more teleworking - ate a light lunch (1230) - more teleworking - finished my work day at 1615 - reading - took a walk near the Holiday Inn Express (1810 to 1925) - back in my room, ate a snack (1945) - talked with my dad on the phone - watched movies until bed time (2230)]

Burst Pipe Adventure - Day 42

[I was really dragging this morning (feeling quite sick) - teleworking by 0645 - breakfast after 0700 - more teleworking - very tired - left Holiday Inn at around 0800 and drove across the Connecticut River to West Lebanon to get some supplies at Walmart (finished at 0830) - back to White River Junction and more telework - ate lunch in room at 1400 - more teleworking - still very tired - finished my day at 1730 and then took a nap - still not feeling better - ate a light dinner at 1930 - watched movies until bedtime (2130)]

Burst Pipe Adventure - Day 41

[awoke at 0620 (still in White River Junction) - started teleworking immediately - breakfast at 0700 - more teleworking - ate lunch in my room at 1230 - more teleworking - finished my work day at 1615 - drove to Hanover and walked the trail system at Greensboro Ridge Natural Area (1.0 hours of volunteering) - also stopped by apartment to get some things - went to Sacred Heart to attend a Budget Meeting for our Knights of Columbus Council (1800 to 1900) - then went back to the Holiday Inn (arrived 1930) - ate a light dinner (2000) - watched movies until bed time (2200)]

Burst Pipe Adventure - Day 40

I was awake at 0545 (still at Holiday Inn) and went down to breakfast at 0630.  When I finished, I found I was still quite tired and decided to take a nap.  In the end, I actually got a few hours of good rest before it was time to get ready for my hike. For the last several months, I’ve been hoping to hike with a group from Bradford (VT) on one of their “Dayhike & Dine” excursions.  Today, my schedule aligned and I was able to participate in their climb up Mount Tom, which overlooks the town of Woodstock (arrived at the Billings Farm Trailhead at 1050).  Actually, at the top (south peak) I was almost eye level with the summit of Mount Peg (located across the Ottauquechee Valley), where I skied last weekend.  Temps were in the 20s at the beginning of our three hour adventure and there were light snow flurries.  What made it a true Winter hike, though, was the biting wind that kicked up whenever the trails came into an open farm field.  The group of nine humans and one dog (“Dozer”) ended up hiking seven miles (including our circuit of The Pogue and some gentle climbs), enjoying great exercise and camaraderie. Most of us opted for microspikes because the large trail system, located on property belonging the Marsh-Billings-Rockefeller National Historical Park and Woodstock Inn & Resort Nordic Center, was well groomed for skiing. We finished our walk at 1415 and then drove a short distance to the Worthy Kitchen (ordered at 1435), where we ate a delicious post-hike meal (complete with some local beer).  After finishing lunch (1545), I drove back to White River Junction (I got to talk to Mollie on the way) and was back in my room by 1615.  I was able to swap out linens with the cleaning staff and we exchanged stories about Latin and South America (they were about to return home to Costa Rica and Peru.  Because of my late lunch, I ended up skipping dinner.  Spent the rest of the evening resting and watching movies - bed at 2230.  The hiking event today was very fun and I truly enjoyed meeting new folks from the Upper Valley!  Hopefully, I can join again soon... 

Burst Pipe Adventure - Day 39

I woke up this morning at 0545 (still at Holiday Inn) and got ready for my day.  Early on, I did some Duolingo and Sudoku.  I arrived at breakfast exactly at 0630 (wanted to beat the Swim Meet Kids' rush) and then returned to my room.  After that, I left the Holiday Inn and drove to UVAC so I could volunteer with the Parking Team (from 0715 to 1015) during another Swim Meet.  This time, it was only cool and a little windy - a far cry from my stint in February!  When my shift was over, I got a free wrap, drink and chips (for the road).  Back at the hotel again, I spent some time relaxing in my room for about two hours.  During this time, I ate lunch (the food from UVAC).  At 1230, I left White River Junction and drove to Meriden (arrived by 1250).  My friend, Julie K, arrived about 10 minutes later.  Together, we tried out some of the 10K of cross country trails located in Meriden (behind the Plainfield School) - the weather was beautiful!  I’ve hiked and snowshoed this system before but was interested in seeing how well they’d done with their grooming.  I give it two thumbs up!  The many trails went in and out of the woods, across big fields and up/down some good hills.  Temps were in the 40s and snow was mostly thick enough - just a few patches of grass... Very glad to find another free place to get good winter outdoor time!  We finished skiing just after 1600 and then drove to Lebanon, where we ate dinner at Three Tomatoes.  After some good food and conversation, said goodbye (1800) and I drove back towards White River Junction. On the way, I stopped for gas at Irving (1855); I was in my hotel room again by 1910.  For the rest of the evening, I watched movies - went to bed at 2200.  Great day, all around!

Burst Pipe Adventure - Day 38

[awake (still in White River Junction) at 0545 - coming down with a cold? - started teleworking immediately - breakfast at 0635 and then more teleworking - talked to Eileen - more teleworking - lunch at around 1230 - back to teleworking - I was thinking about taking a walk but it started raining at around that time and didn't stop for several hours - meanwhile, I teleworked some more - when I finished (1530), I looked outside and found better conditions - took a walk near the hotel (got rained on a few times but was otherwise OK) between 1535 and 1635 - then got ready to go to the Sacred Heart Fish Fry - ended up talking to the hotel manager (Ethan) for a little while before getting in my car - on the way to Lebanon, I saw a HUGE (for the Upper Valley) traffic jam on I-89 (I learned later that a Tesla had an accident and burst into a huge fireball) - arrived at the church by 1730 - the Knights of Columbus sponsored Fish Fry included (because it was St. Patrick's Day) some corned beef - as a result, the crowd was really big (our largest yet, maybe 85 people) - I helped serve and spent a lot of time cleaning up - Len and Bert insisted that I take a bunch of the leftovers with me (they gave me a lot) - afterwards (2000), I stayed at the church and enjoyed some green beer and fellowship for another 45 minutes - then drove back to the Holiday Inn (arrived at close to 2100) - watched movies until bed time (2300)]

Burst Pipe Adventure - Day 37

[up very early (0500), still at Holiday Inn in White River Junction - started telework immediately and then went to breakfast at 0630 - back to teleworking for a short time and then drove to the VAMC for my physical therapy appointment (0730) - finished by 0830 and was back to telework by 0845 - skipped lunch - took a short walk near the hotel (1330 to 1430) - teleworking through the afternoon until 1530 - left White River Junction and drove to Hanover so I could join my friends at Happy Hour (1545) - good beer - ended up having dinner ("Montreal Burger") before I was done (1800) - stopped at my condo to get my mail and retrieve some hiking gear - checked out my new ATM card at the bank (it worked) and talked to Mollie - then drove to West Lebanon and got a free (reusable) bag at Hannaford - back to the hotel by 1915 - texted with Erin - read books, watched movies and did some Duolingo until it was time for bed (2215)]

Burst Pipe Adventure - Day 36

[woke up at 0545 (still in White River Junction) and started teleworking at 0600 - ate breakfast in the lobby of the Holiday Inn (0635) and then resumed my telework day - ate lunch in my room (1300) - more teleworking until 1430, when I drove a short distance to UVAC and worked out - 45 minute swim, followed by 36 minutes of biking (7.4 miles) - came back to Holiday Inn at 1600 and did some more teleworking - knocked off for good at 1700 - then worked on travel preparation for my Smokies and NZ/Australia trips - very light dinner (1800) and phone calls with Mollie & Erin - watched movies and did some more reading until bed time (2215)]

Burst Pipe Adventure - Day 35

[up early (still in White River Junction) by 0545 - started teleworking early (0600) - the predicted "snow" storm was a bust (only slush) - ate breakfast at 0630 - back to teleworking - ate lunch at 1230 and then resumed teleworking - finished my work day at 1500 and then took care of some paperwork - spent an hour in the Holiday Inn gym (walking 3 miles on the treadmill) and then ate a light snack for my dinner (1800) - still very snowy (some places to the south got more than a foot but Hanover/WRJ only got a couple of inches) - reading - Eileen called and we talked briefly - then talked to my dad for a while - starting at 0900, watched movies until bed time (2245)]

Burst Pipe Adventure - Day 34

I slept a bit later (still at Holiday Inn) and didn't start my telework day until 0630.  Also went to breakfast late (0700).  Back to teleworking after that.  Ate a light lunch (1300) and then did some more teleworking until 1500 before calling it a day.  Since I'd been having a lot of good days with my skis recently, I thought I should finally check out the Cross Country Course at Dartmouth College - which is, after all the closest skiing venue to my home.  As I drove through the town of Hanover, I thought I’d made a mistake with the plan because almost all the snow was gone or really dirty.  However, my decision to park near the Rugby Center (1525) worked out well in the end; once I figured my way around, I spent two hours on groomed (including tracks) surfaces.  Temps were in the low 40s, it was windy and the snow was patchy in places.  Oh, and about 30 little kids were out with their school ski team.  There were a lot of big hills where I was so I didn’t even try to cross NH-10 or explore near the Dartmouth Outing Club.  Finished at 1725.  It was great to able to explore and sample another X-C ski venue - there certainly are a lot of choices in the Upper Valley!  I'd heard that a snow storm was supposedly coming towards the area so began to hope I'd have yet more opportunities for adventures on skis...  Unfortunately, it started raining just as I left the skiing venue.  I ate a light dinner (snacks) in the car and then drove over to my condo to pick up my mail (1740).  Next, I drove to Lebanon and attended Knights of Columbus Monthly meeting at Sacred Heart (1800),  I also stayed afterwards, hanging out with Father Charles and the guys.  Made it back to the hotel by 2015 and spent the evening reading and following up on some New Zealand trip planning.  Bed by 2200.  Feeling great that I just completed my fifth different trail system on a fifth consecutive day on skis!  

Burst Pipe Adventure - Day 33

With the time change, I woke up tired in White River Junction.  In any case, it was earlier than I'd expected (0530).  To pass the time, I did some Duolingo and reading before breakfast (0630) and then got ready for my day,  First, I drove to Lebanon so I could attend Mass (0800).  After that, I drove to Grantham so I could do some skiing at Eastman.  I arrived at John’s Glen just after 0900 and found very icy tracks (temps were in the low 20s).  Fortunately, the sun warmed up the snow quite quickly and, by the time I finished skiing, everything was turning to slush.  The “Spring Forward” effect seemed to delay the arrival of a large crowd so I was mostly by myself on the trails.  Got lots of hill work - both up and down (wheee!) - and entertained myself at my fourth different cross country course in four days.  Finished three hours of skiing just after noon.  Without much delay, I headed back to my hotel - I talked to Mollie and Brenna on the way.  I'd hoped the housekeeping staff would have gotten to my room (I removed the "Do not Disturb" for the first time since being displaced) but they hadn't.  When I located one of the maids, I found out that the hotel was having trouble with linens again and that I'd need to wait to get new sheets and towels.  It's OK...  I ate a late lunch (1330) and then spent the afternoon reading and doing more New Zealand trip planning.  I finally purchased my last two airline tickets and completed the required visa applications!  Before I realized how much time had passed, it was already 2000 (!).  As a result, I didn't really eat dinner (still felt full from my earlier meal).  Watched movies until bed time (2200).  Glad to have been able to spend another great day on the ski trails!

Burst Pipe Adventure - Day 32

Yesterday, my friend Bert asked me “what mountain are you going to climb this weekend?” - I’ve got an answer now!  I woke up at 0600 (still in White River Junction) and went to breakfast at 0630.  After that, I got ready and left hotel at 0700.  From there, I drove to Sacred Heart in Lebanon and attended the Men of St. Joseph Monthly Meeting (0730 to 0900).  Afterwards, I drove to West Lebanon and did some shopping at Hannaford (0915).  Once finished with that, I back to the Holiday Inn and changed clothes so I could go to the first "Prouty Snow Day."  This event was being held at the Woodstock Inn & Nordic Center today and gave those of us who’d raised money for the Dartmouth Hospital in 2022 a pass for the cross country ski course!  I arrived at 1030 and, after a brunch and philanthropy networking event (it ended at 1145), I headed out on the “Flatlander” Trail.  I definitely enjoyed my first hour of diagonal stride in the tracks!  Looking for something more challenging, I then climbed higher on the “Brookside” Trail (lots of up/downs).  At about the 1.5 hour mark, I noticed that there was a ski trail to the top of Mount Peg (1100’) and, with the encouragement of a few other folks who were thinking the same thing, started uphill on the nearly 1.8 mile climb.  The snow conditions on this trail were awesome and, coupled with temps in the high 30s with mostly sunny, made for a great excursion in the woods.  I reached the summit without too much trouble, took in an amazing view of Woodstock and then started downhill again.  Detoured on “Upper Cross” Trail on the way back and had my only fall of the day on a nasty 270 degree turn.  Otherwise, though, I snowplowed successfully back to the lower levels of the trail system.  Made it to the clubhouse at the three hour mark (1445) and decided to call it a day.  Then rewarded myself with a cold beer at the bar.  While there, I socialized with some of the other skiers (Jennifer and her husband) and the bartender (Taylor).  I didn't realize they were about to close so was still there after the doors were locked (1615) - no one objected, though.  Feeling pretty good about my ability to climb a significant hill and return downhill with minimal effort.  I drove back to the Holiday Inn and ate a light dinner in my room (1730).  After that, I read and watched movies until bed time (2200).  What a great day!

Burst Pipe Adventure - Day 31

This morning, I woke up at 0600 (still at the Holiday Inn) and teleworked until breakfast time (0640).  After getting back from the lobby, I went back to teleworking for a few hours.  Again, the snow conditions enticed me to leave my room for some outdoor fun.  This time, I decided to check out the skiing conditions in the Green Woodlands (Lyme side).  I left White River Junction at 1000 and drove across the River (via I-91 and Thetford exit) and into Lyme.  From there, I followed the long dirt road to reach the parking area for the Green Woodlands (arrived at 1030).  Since my last visit (early last season), my skills have improved tremendously and it allowed me to progress through several long segments (best one = Carriage Loop) in the system with little worry.  Highlight: didn’t have to remove my skis (for too steep uphill or downhill).  Lowlight: I had some big falls. Despite the crowded parking lot, I managed to spend most of the two hours I had without seeing anyone - nice!  Temps were in the mid 30s and the sun was shining brightly (perfect conditions) and I didn’t even wear winter hat or gloves until after falling into a cold snowdrift just short of a big tree... The access road showed signs of imminent mud-season so may not be able to visit again soon.  Too bad, though, since I’ve only scratched the surface in exploring the huge trail map... This location will definitely be a significant part of my “no-ski-pass” strategy for next season!  Afterwards (1230), I drove "home" (via same route as I had in the morning) and resumed teleworking (1300).  I ate lunch in my room (1400) and teleworked until 1715.  After that, I drove back across the River to New Hampshire and spent the next few hours volunteering with the Knights of Columbus at the Sacred Heart Fish Fry.  For once, I got to sit down at one of the tables and eat a full meal for the first time since I've lived in the area.  We were done by 2000 and I drove back to White River Junction.  For the rest of the night, I read and watched movies - bed time was 2230.  Great day on the ski trails!

Burst Pipe Adventure - Day 30

I was awake at 0600 (still at Holiday Inn) and started teleworking immediately.  I ate breakfast in the hotel lobby at 0645 and then went back to teleworking.  Since the snow seemed like it was still good for outdoor activities, I decided to try out the cross country skiing trails in Hartland (a short drive from my hotel). I departed the hotel at 0815. From what I understand, the Hartland Winter Trail system was created by a local resident for his family but he gradually welcomed the local public to use them.  I’d visited this (free) ski area once before but never left the parking lot because there was not enough snow that time.  Today, however, there was definitely enough snowy surface (and tracks!) to make the trip worthwhile.  For about two hours, I followed the trails into the woods on hills above town (in the area near the red trapezoid in the lower right corner of the map).  I had to do some climbing to make it into the main system but that was good exercise.  Temps were in the low 30s and the sun appeared from time to time.  There was a good bit of ice, making it hard to go fast, but I eventually reached a huge “racetrack” shaped loop that gave me a chance to really practice my diagonal stride. I was finished by 1030 and back at the hotel by 1045.  I then did some more teleworking and ate a light lunch in the room (1200).  I talked to Mollie on the phone after she landed in Houston.  After that, I did some more teleworking, finishing my work day at 1530.  As I usually do on Thursdays, I drove to Jesse's in Hanover for Happy Hour.  This time, I ate dinner at the restaurant (finished at 1800).  On the way home, I stopped at my condo to pick up some of my backpacking gear and mail.  After that, I drove back to White River Junction (arrived at 1845) and did a little more teleworking (only to make sure I didn't miss anything from earlier).  For the rest of the night, I practiced Portuguese on Duolingo, read and watched movies.  Went to bed at 2200.  Glad I got to explore part of HWT this season and hope to return soon!  

Burst Pipe Adventure - Day 29

[awake at 0600 (still in White River Junction) - started teleworking and then headed down to breakfast (0650) - back to teleworking - ate light lunch in the room (1245) - went to UVAC for swimming (45 minutes), sauna, biking (30 minutes), rowing and weights (1300 to 1500) - back to teleworking - finished work at 1630 and then did some reading for a while - ate dinner in my room (1830) - talked to Eileen - movies for the rest of the evening - bed at 2200]

Burst Pipe Adventure - Day 28

I was up by 0600 after a restful sleep (still at the Holiday Inn Express) and teleworked until breakfast time (0700).  After that, I continued my telework day and ate a light lunch in my room (1230).  I also went for a walk near the hotel (1240 to 1340) - it was very cold, windy and sleety.  Did some more telework until after 1500 and then drove a short distance to the LISTEN Center (White River Junction) so I could volunteer at one of their nightly Community Dinners.  One of our brother Knights usually coordinates bi-monthly LISTEN Community Dinners (supported by volunteers from our Parish) and several more of us (nearly all Knights) joined him today.  I got there a bit late (1505) and, by then, the Team had already prepared baked haddock, sweet peppers, mixed vegetables and rice.  While waiting for the dinner to start, I helped make sugar cookies.  The doors opened at 1630 and, over the next hour, we served more than 100 meals!  Afterwards, we worked with the permanent staff in cleaning up the kitchen and teeing up everything so that another local group can run things tomorrow afternoon.  What an operation! Afterwards (1805), I drove back to Holiday Inn and ate dinner (1830).  Mollie called and we chatted for a little while.  I spent the rest of the night reading and watching movies.  Bed time was at 2200.  Happy that I got to see another side of LISTEN’s amazing impact on the Upper Valley today and I hope I get to participate in another Community Dinner soon!

Burst Pipe Adventure - Day 27

[I was teleworking by 0615 (still in White River Junction) - went to breakfast at around 0700 (it was less crowded than the weekend had been) and then returned to teleworking - it was VERY windy so didn't go skiing like I'd hoped to do - continued working until I ate a light lunch in my room (1230) and then drove across the Connecticut River to pick up an ink cartridge at Staples in West Lebanon (1240) - drove to Hanover to pick up my mail - on the way back (via the Dartmouth Campus and Norwich), I got a free drink from Cumberland Farms in Wilder - then returned to the Holiday Inn and resumed teleworking - stayed online until 1700 - made some more reservations for my hiking trip in the Smokies at the end of the month - also worked with my insurance company to extend my insurance stay in White River Junction until April - ate dinner in my room (1715) - talked to my dad - went for a walk near the hotel (1750 to 1850) - spent the rest of the evening reading and watching movies - bed at 2230]

Burst Pipe Adventure - Day 26

This morning, I woke up at 0615 (still in the Holiday Inn) and went to breakfast at 0645.  It was crowded again, unfortunately...  I then packed up my stuff for an outing and went to Shaw's to get a free Smartwater (0745).  I attended Mass in Lebanon (0800) and then drove to Grantham, where I parked at the trailhead for the trails at John's Glen (0915).  Comment of the day: "Tracks, glorious tracks (finally)!!!"  For only the third time this season, the full capabilities of the grooming equipment at Eastman Cross Country Center were exercised and I spent three full hours (5ish miles) taking advantage of the optimum conditions for classic cross country skis.  And, since my morning started with sore muscles (across my entire body), that was a real accomplishment.  Back when I started cross country skiing in late 2020, there were many places at John’s Glen that I avoided - too steep, too curvy, too rough.  No longer!  In temps ranging from 30-38 F, light wind and intermittent clouds, I skied every foot of the trails in the woods.  I even climbed one tough hill *six times* during my multiple circuits of the trail system! Did lots of downhill runs in other places.  Big highlight: I tackled a long, steep trail (“John’s Glen Extension”) that took me to the highest point in the area - it felt quite good to be able to climb and descend.  Also checked out the inside of the (toasty warm) Yurt for the first time.  Bonus: no falling today!  Downside: EVERYONE with a pass came out to join me.  It was pretty crowded in places… Fortunately, I had started early and was on my way home as the biggest rush began (1215).  I drove back to White River Junction (arrived at 1245) and ate a light lunch in my hotel room.  A little later, I tried to exchange linens but they were completely out - you should have seen the laundry room!  I bought some food from the little shop in the lobby (trouble getting a receipt).  For the rest of the afternoon, I relaxed and read.  I ate dinner in the room and talked to Eileen.  The rest of the evening was filled by watching movies until bedtime (2215).  Today was my “Buying an Annual Pass was Worth It” Day (cost per visit <$10) - anything more is gravy.  Since the snow just got here, I should have enough days left in the season to check out other X-C venues nearby!  

Burst Pipe Adventure - Day 25

This morning, I woke up at around 0600 (Still at the WRJ Holiday Inn Express) and saw that Mollie had texted, requesting a wake-up call (she was getting on a bus, bound for NoVA).  I called her and we talked briefly.  After that, I got ready and went down to eat breakfast in the hotel lobby (0645).  The room was VERY crowded with kids again.  We got lots of snow overnight but it wasn't done!  I went back to my room and spent the morning finishing up my reservations for the early April backpacking trip in the Smokies.  Also set up Zoom call for me and my daughters (for later in the day) and then spent more time reading and doing some travel planning for NZ-Australia.  Ate lunch in the room.  After waiting until 1245 for the snow to stop falling (I figured out that we got at least six inches during the last 24 hours), I was itching to get back out on the trails at Eastman Cross Country Center!  Their website reported that the whole system was groomed (still no tracks though).  When I arrived (1315), I found at least three new inches had covered over the trails.  This, along with the fact that the snow was really sticky, began an epic afternoon of trail breaking, falling and exploring.  Actually, I’m pretty proud of myself because I stayed out on the trails for three whole hours (5ish miles, my longest session ever), made a complete circuit of all the trails except for two black diamond routes (first time on several of the harder ones), only removed my skis once (for a road crossing) and persisted through some tough ice/snowball buildup in the yellow “skin” area on the bottom of my skis.  Encountered only seven other people (none on “the back nine” of the system - everyone else complained of the same issues I had.  Kept my arms and legs moving almost continuously and accepted all the terrain as it came (a lesson from my Lake Placid weekend).  Felt very good when I finished at 1620! Drove back to my hotel (arrived at 1650) and had just enough time to take a shower before my Zoom call with the girls (1700 to 1830).  Afterwards, I ate a light dinner, read and watched movies until bed time (2200).  Winter isn’t done yet and neither am I!

Burst Pipe Adventure - Day 24

[started my telework day early again (0600) at the hotel in White River Junction - ate breakfast at 0640 and then resumed teleworking - I'd thought about driving to the Green Woodlands but changed my mind due to an upset stomach - ate lunch in the room (1245) and worked until around 1300 and then took a two hour walk near the hotel (1310 to 1510) - the weather was pleasant (almost 40 degrees) but I could see clouds rolling in as I walked - back online at around 1515 and finished my telework day at 1630 - made my first shelter reservation in the Smokies (for my hike in early April) - then drove to Lebanon, stopping for gas at Irving on the way (1710) - from 1715 until 2015, I helped out with my Knights of Columbus Council at the second fish fry of lent - it was well attended and I really didn't take any breaks during the whole window - returned to my hotel (arrived at around 2030) and spent the rest of the night reading and watching movies - it started snowing just before I went to bed at 2300]

Burst Pipe Adventure - Day 23

[someone on the floor above me (in the Holiday Inn at White River Junction) woke up at around 0430 and I ended up getting up about 30 minutes later (couldn't fall back to sleep) - read and did some Duolingo for a little while before starting my telework day (0600) - breakfast at 0630 - more teleworking - snowing a LOT - drove to UVAC for 0730 swim lane reservation - stayed until almost 0900 (swim, bike, row, weights) - back to hotel to telework some more - at 1000, I got an text about joining a meeting that I had no invitation for (my client sent the Zoom info after that) - I then joined an all day "schedule deep dive" meeting - took lunch break at (1300) - the meetings continued until 1500 - after that, I left White River Junction and drove to Lebanon to get a haircut (1530) - afterwards, I drove to Jesse's and joined my regular happy hour from about 1600 to 1745 - then drove to my condo to check the mail and get a few items (talked to Monte while I was there) - back at my hotel by 1830 - spent the rest of the evening reading and watching movies - bed at 2200]

Burst Pipe Adventure - Day 22

Even though I slept pretty well, I was wide awake by 0600 again (still at Holiday Inn in White River Junction) and started immediately teleworking.  I went to breakfast at 0645 and enjoyed the dining area mostly alone.  The food (as usual) was good but the rest of the hotel also showed signs of improvement after the busy "February Vacation" period.  After weeks of huge piles of laundry in the hallways, the hotel seemed to have finally made a dent in the mess!  Back in my room, I had meetings all morning.  I took a break to eat lunch in my room (1200) and then had more meetings until 1500.  After getting done for the day, I took my trash can down the hall to get rid of its contents but then couldn't get back inside my room.  It turned out that my key was only programmed through March 1 (I'd forgotten this).  Fortunately, the front desk lady was very nice and helped me fix the problem.  Next, I drove to Grantham/Eastman to ski (listening to audiobooks on the way).  The road conditions much better than day before so I decided to park at John's Glen.  I spent two hours (1525 to 1725) on all the trails at John’s Glen, despite sticky snow and (still) no tracks.  The best part of the day was that I got much more hill work, building confidence in my backcountry abilities.  It started snowing as I left for home (more audiobooks).  After reaching my hotel I got some more steps by walking around on the different floors of the Holiday Inn (stair work too).  I then settled into my room for the night, first eating dinner in my room (1830) and then watched movies until bed time (2200).  Glad I could keep my skiing streak alive at Lucky Number 7!