I'd arranged to visit Eileen in Potsdam again before I even left for Antarctica and the trip kind of sneaked up on me. In an effort to try to leave early this morning, I'd stayed up late (getting ready). As a result, I was able to get everything packed up in my car by 0830. I wanted to go to Mass before leaving town so drove to Norwich to attend a service (0900) at St. Francis of Assisi (my first time at that Parish). By 0945, I was on the road - I used I-91 to reach I-89 and then drove all the way to VT-14. Used that road to reach VT-107 and then drove on Blackmer Boulevard all the way to VT-125. On the way, I ate "breakfast" (snacks) and listened to audiobooks. I continued driving until I reached the Middlebury College Rikert Outdoor Center (1050). After finding a place to park (tough), I went inside the "clubhouse" and bought a pass for the trails (1055) - got a discount for retired military! It was a beautiful day for some cross country skiing! The course at the Outdoor Center was well groomed, with only a bit of grass showing in well worn places. Between 1110 and 1310, I explored about half of the trails and only fell once, on some patchy ice on a hill (2 hours of skiing, 4 total miles). Met some nice people while I was making my way around the place - it was quite an enjoyable experience. Even though the temps were in the 20s, there was no breeze. End result: perfect! (2 hours, 4 miles). Back in my car, I ate lunch (snacks) and checked on social media. By 1330, I was headed west on VT-125, which I followed until I reached US-7. In Middlebury, I took VT-125 towards Lake Champlain. Along the way, I listened to music. There was very little traffic in most places but had to pass some slow vehicles from time to time. Used VT-22A, VT-125 again and VT-17 - crossed at Crown Point. After that, I got on NY-9N (and used some side streets to cut off turns) and continued to NY-73. Passed lots of skaters on the Cascade Lakes - it looked fun! Bypassed Lake Placid with Old Military Road and then got on NY-86. Later, reached NY-30 and continued (with great weather) to NY-458. Used the cutoff at Wait Road and then continued to NY-11B. Arrived at the Scottish Inn in Potsdam at about 1620 and checked into my room. Unpacked and organized for my coming week. At about 1815, I left the hotel and drove east towards town. Stopped at Eben's Hearth for drinks and dinner. I was pleased to learn that they had huge "Big Beer" (three beers worth) mugs for $14 and a "mug club" (I joined it) - I tried a "In Law's Brewing Company Papa's Lager" and then ordered the Reuben sandwich. Meanwhile, I talked and listened to the other bar patrons, picking up news about events in town, watering holes, skiing conditions, etc. Finished eating at about 1830 and then drove to Walmart to try to redeem deposits on some cans/bottles I'd brought from home. The automated machines didn't work but I got help from customer service. After that, I walked a little (to complete my 10K steps for the day) before returning to the hotel. It was still early but my body was convinced that it was much later - it may take a lot longer to recover from my recent adventure travel... Trying to delay bedtime, I read for a few hours until I couldn't keep my eyes open - went to sleep at 2130. Hoping for another great week in New York's North Country!
