White River Junction, VT (USA)

[teleworked from early in the morning - at 0730, I drove to White River Junction so I could work out at UVAC - swam for 45 minutes (52 lengths) and then drove home (arrived at 0845) - more teleworking]

White River Junction, VT (USA)

[up very early - teleworking until 0645 - drove to White River Junction so I could have blood drawn at the VA Medical Center - that went quickly and I walked across the campus to the ID Card office so I could pick up my VA Volunteer ID Card - done with that by 0800 and then drove to Lebanon - volunteering (Knights of Columbus) for an hour (0815 to 0915) on the Paint Project (chipping and sanding the stairs, deck and walls of the Church Office building at Sacred Heart) - home at 0930 - more teleworking]

White River Junction, VT (USA)

[teleworked from early in the morning - at 1445, I drove to White River Junction so I could work out at UVAC - swam for 45 minutes (52 lengths) and then drove home (arrived at 1615) - more teleworking - As a Virtual Prouty participant, I’ve logged 18 miles in the UVAC pool this year!]

Canaan, VT (USA)

First 2024 day on the water with “Tequila Sunrise”!  Because it was Memorial Day, I didn't have to work and hoped to get a good bit of time outdoors.  I started my day by checking the trails in the Greensboro Ridge Natural Area (volunteering for Hanover Conservancy, 0800 to 0900).  After that, I did some chores and other paperwork at my condo until about 1230.  I had made plans to meet up with Denis I. at Jakes in Enfield and used the back roads through Etna (including King Road) to reach that location.  After I arrived (1300), Denis showed me the home where he'd grown up.  Next, we drove to the Oak Grove Cemetery, where we visited his family plot and honored some veterans in his family.  As promised, Denis showed me some techniques for cleaning old cemetery stones (I'm planning to employ some of them during my next visit to Montreal).  We said goodbye at 1330 and I drove east on US-4 until I reached the Enfield-Canaan town line.  For the last few years, I've eyed a parking lot there - the cartop boat launch area, located next to the Northern Rail Trail bridge across the Mascoma, seemed to afford a nice paddling place and I wanted to try launching from there.  This turned out to be a good decision!  Unlike most of the other sections of this river, the water nearby was mostly calm and easy to paddle - in other words, there were only a few rocks.  The trade off, though, was lots of shallow areas and sandbars.  Even worse, a large number of downed trees made sections nearly impassable.  Between 1400 and 1500, I paddled through all the accessible areas on both sides of US-4.  Encountered some curious calves (fenced) along the way and also found an abandoned RV/Trailer.  Overall, not a big workout but the weather was pretty good for a paddle.  Just as I finished getting my boat back on the car, it started raining.  Feeling lucky, I made my way back home (via US-4, I-89 and NH-120) and was inside my condo by 1530.   Glad I got out on the water earlier than 2023’s First Launch date of June 30th...  

Susquehanna Valley Trip - Day 2

After a pretty good sleep, I woke up at 0530.  I got ready and then drove a short distance west on US-20 so I could have breakfast at McDonalds in Richfield Springs (0605).  Ate the food in the car while I then drove east (on US-20) and south (on back roads) towards Lake Otsego, where I hoped to find the starting line for the 62nd General Clinton Canoe Regatta (62+ mile paddling race from the source of the Susquehanna River to the town of Bainbridge).  Got on NY-80 just north of Brookwood Point and later found the location for the start - lots of other cars with canoes/kayaks were driving down towards the water and I just followed them to the parking area (no one asked me any questions).  By 0640, I was parked and started looking for Eileen and Will.  Literally right at that moment, I spotted their canoe (with an X10 on the side) moving towards the trail to the boat launch.  As a result, I was literally "just in time" to watch them put their boat in the water.  I also met Will's wife (Sue) and dog (Pepper).  Less than five minutes passed before they were off the shoreline and paddling towards the starting line (two red buoys in the middle of the lake).  I walked down some trails towards the north end of the launch area and watched all the other teams assembling.  Everyone was so far away, however, that it became clear I wasn't going to see very much when the race started for the Mixed Amateurs at 0700.  Instead of waiting, I left the water's edge and started walking back towards my car.  On the way, I passed Eileen's friend, Mary, and told her that Eileen/Will had launched (I don't think she knew who I was, even though we'd met before).  I was able to get out of the parking area pretty easily and continued south on NY-80 until I was in Cooperstown.  The day was shaping up to be very pleasant and it would have been great to be able to visit the historic town a bit.  Since I'd come to watch the race, though, I made my way towards the mouth of the Susquehanna River.  From Council Rock Park, I was able to see (using binoculars) the canoes coming south from the start.  However, the boats took a long time to reach the mouth.  Meanwhile, I met a professional photographer and talked to him for a little while.  It was also interesting to watch the drones in the area.  The first boat (with two orange-shirted men paddling) crossed the mouth just after 0715.  I got some good photos and cheered for Eileen and Will as they passed (0720).  After that, I practically ran up the hill to my car so that I could drive a short distance south to where the first portage of the day (Bassett Dam) was taking place.  By the time I parked in the lot for the Bassett Hospital, boats were already coming by.  I asked a lady where the portage was and she pointed back to the north.  Just then, I saw Eileen and Will flash by on the footpath. I knew they'd be in the water again quickly so I moved south towards a nice viewpoint.  At 0725, I was able to cheer for Eileen and Will again.  Their boat's tag (X10) had already sustained some damage and I could see why - there were many logs and branches blocking the river.  In fact, it appeared that the participants had to constantly be on the lookout for dangerous obstacles.  After they'd passed, I checked the times on my phone and was startled to know that I'd only had five minutes between cheering stops.  Realizing I was going to need to go very fast all morning to keep up with them, I jumped back in my car and started driving south (CR-33).  At first, I was following a large group of cars but they started to peel off at different places (river crossing areas).  Instead of joining them, I continued until I reached NY-11C.  By 0740, I was parked (near the Heritage Veterinary Clinic) and joined a small crowd of fans on the Compton Bridge.  We had to wait about 20 minutes before Eileen and Will arrived so I had time to get to know some of my fellow race fans, most of which I saw again through the course of the day.  After cheering for Eileen and Will (I'm almost certain she saw me and my sign), I got back in my car and drove south on CR-33 again.  Again, I followed a few people but saw from my Google Maps that there was a route towards the Susquehanna that no one else used.  Taking Clintonville Road, I reached a dead end on someone's private property.  There were other cars there, however, so I made my way towards the river's edge.  I actually met the homeowner and, after I'd asked for permission to stay (he gladly agreed), we ended up talking for a while about what it was like to see the race chaos each year.  We were located on a high bluff above the river so could see pretty well downriver.  Meanwhile, I met the dad of the orange shirted competitors in the T4 boat and he told me about how the family had all chipped in to get matching orange shirts.  Just after 0850, Eileen and Will passed my viewing location and I cheered (with my sign) again.  This time, Eileen yelled something about "dragging Will along to the finish" - she had a big smile on her face so I knew she was having a great time.  Back in my car again, I headed back to CR-33 and followed it all the way to the end (junction of NY-166).  Due to the many other people who'd chosen this location (the County Sheriff's department was trying to clear cars and spectators by that point), I was parked pretty far from the Milford Bridge.  After walking down to the pavement and seeing very little space for standing, I made my way *under* the bridge.  When I arrived, I found Sue, Pepper and Mary waiting for Eileen and Will.  This time, we all got to visit for a little while (remembering previous encounters) - I also met Mary's husband, Allen.  Everyone liked my sign, including a nearby young girl who was also named Eileen.  At 0920, Eileen and Will came blazing by our location.  As they passed the bridge, they yelled out requests for their upcoming Pit Stop.  Mary shared some locations for later meet ups but we all separated to find other viewing spots.  By this point, I was in need of food and a bathroom.  Continuing south, I crossed the river (on NY-166) and got on NY-28.  Stopping a few times, I didn't have luck on creature comforts until I reached the little hamlet of Portlandville - whew!  After exploring the area, I walked out on to the bridge (1010) and soon found myself surrounded by folks I'd seen earlier in the day.  I also met a mutual friend of Eileen (Ed, from SLVP) while I was waiting.  Everyone shared information about past races, competitors to watch, funny stories and recommendations for future viewing spots.  The Pro racers came by (very fast) at this point, the first time I'd seen them (they started at 0730).  The little girl named Eileen showed up too - this time, I suggested she should cheer loudly for her namesake and, sure enough, she (and her whole family) did just that as Eileen and Will paddled by us (1030).  I got some good videos and photos, which was good because I was the only one of Eileen's support group who was in Portlandville (I kept them all updated about the X10 Team's progress).  Next, I continued south on NY-28 until I approached a huge gaggle of cars next to the Good Year Lake Dam (I saw a sign later that called it "Collier's Dam").  I parked there but soon realized that I couldn't really watch the race action from where I was - the teams were portaging through the trees on the opposite side of the river.  As a result, I departed again (1045) and headed towards the Colliersville Bridge Public Boat Launch.  Once there, I found Mary and Sue, prepping for the Pit Stop (Allen was on the bridge, overhead).  I remained with the ladies and, when Eileen and Will arrived at around 1115, watched as they resupplied the X10.  There were some tense moments (boat tipped precariously) but the canoe was away in less than three minutes.  After we climbed back up to the parking lot, we met Allen and Matt (another of Eileen's friends) and made plans to meet up at the next portage in Oneata.  This time, the map coordination was much more complicated - the route required Interstate highway (NY-28 to NY-7 to CR-47 to I-88).  Continuing west, I got off the highway at NY-23, drove into Oneata and then used back roads (including David We Brenner Road) to reach Neahwa (or Catella?) Park.  After we all met up (1135), we walked (via the trail to Southside Dam and New Island) to the north edge of the Susquehanna.  It was about a 15 minute walk from the cars to the viewing area, located at the end of the third portage.  This spot was full of chaos, with jostling/pushy crews, fire (from people repairing boats) and crowds of spectators.  After some skillful maneuvering to a point away from other viewers, I found a spot where I got to see Eileen and Will pass by (carrying their canoe) on the trail (1205).  Minutes later, they got into the river and were whisked away by the stronger current.  Due to logistics and travel time, my viewing/cheering time was done at that point.  There was a bit of discussion about who would do the next Pit Stop and I almost decided to stay.  However, Matt agreed to fill in for Mary and I stuck with my plan to depart.   Still felt good about my morning - I got to see some amazing examples on teamwork, preparation, pit crews, portaging and stamina.  Also absorbed lots of wonderful energy from the friendly and supportive residents of rural New York!  After walking back to the car (arrived at 1230), I said goodbye to all of Eileen's (and now my) friends and retraced my route to I-88.  Heading east this time, I called Mollie and we chatted for a little while.  Later, I snacked in the car while listening to audiobooks and music.  After a mostly overcast and cool morning, the sun came out and temps rose into the 80s.  My drive went well and, later, I decided to try to listen to race updates on WCDO (internet livestream).  There were lots of updates on the Pros but very little about the Amateurs.  It was still interesting, though...  I passed through the Capital Region on US-20, I-87 and NY-7.  Crossing the Hudson at Troy, I continued (much more traffic) towards Vermont.  Wanting a break (and feeling hungry), I stopped for lunch at Man of Kent in Hoosick Falls (NY) at 1415.  While there, I ordered Elphics (basically a super grilled cheese with turkey) - it was all good.  I stayed in restaurant until 1510.  After that, I continued east on NY-7, took the bypass (NY/VT-279) and then used US-7 to reach Manchester (VT).  I crossed the mountains on VT-11 and VT-103 and got on I-91.  From there, I headed home (usual I-89 and NH-120 route after that) and arrived at my condo by 1715.  After unpacking, I found out that Eileen and Will had completed the race in less than 10 hours (personal best?).  From the same website, I concluded that Will also attained his "700 Miler" pin.  Later heard from Eileen that she'd seen me and my sign, so that made for a great ending to my weekend getaway!

Susquehanna Valley Trip - Day 1

I'd started my weekend with limited plans (all local) but heard from some high school friends that they planned to get together in southwestern Vermont. Last night, I informed Jane, Nancy and Rick that I'd drive over to meet up with them.  Once I'd decided on that activity, I also made plans with my sister (Carolyn) in the Capital Region of New York.  And, since I'd only be another hour away from the General Clinton Canoe Regatta (planned for the following day), I coordinated with Eileen to attend part of the event.  Packing wasn't too hard (only one night away) but I had trouble finding a hotel since everything near Cooperstown, NY was booked.  Finally located a place in the town of Richfield Springs that wasn't too far away and was quite affordable.  I also made a big sign to make sure that Eileen saw me cheering for her (she'd never noticed me when I was at the 2018 Adirondack Canoe Classic).  By 0930, my car was packed and I drove into Hanover to get a gas fillup at Irving (0945).  I then drove across the Connecticut River and got on I-91, which I used to reach VT-11.  Listened to audiobooks on the way.  Next, I drove west to Springfield (VT) and stopped for party supplies (and free items) at Shaws (done at 1045).  I continued west on VT-11 until I was getting close to Londonderry.  At that point, I switched to Thompsonburg Road and followed it to the edge of the West River.  I continued into South Londonderry (got on VT-100 briefly), crossed the river and then drove (via Winhall Hollow Road) to Nancy and Rick's vacation home.  Arriving at 1130, I found that no one else was there.  Fortunately, Jane had told me I could enter the house and I did.  Her dog, Watson, was inside and we became friends quickly.  While waiting for everyone else, I rested and worked on a puzzle that was on the table.  Soon, Jane arrived and we spent the next hour visiting - this was the first time we'd seen each other in more than 35 years.  We also ate some snacks (chips and salsa) and worked some more on the puzzle.  Jane read me some of her poetry (very good).  Nancy and Rick arrived (with their dog, Daisy) at 1245 and there was much more visiting.  Eventually, Jane fired up the grill and cooked ("my dad was a chef") some burgers for us.  Throughout the visit (which decided to call our "Mini-High-School-Reunion"), we commented on how long it had been since we were all together.  At 1430, we all drove (together with the dogs) to the trailhead for the West River Trail.  For the next hour, we walked on a pretty trail system that followed an old rail bed.  There was another, lower, trail that walked close to the West River and we spent time there too.  The dogs loved this latter location even better.  At 1545, we headed back to Nancy and Rick's place and I reluctantly said goodbye.  Departing South Londonderry at 1600, I returned to VT-100 and drove south to VT-30.  From there, I continued to VT-11 and got on US-7.  Near Bennington, I got on the VT/NY-279 bypass and headed towards NY-7.  I continued west on that road (talked to Brenna on the way) and crossed the Hudson River at Troy.  After a short time on I-87, I got off at NY-7 in Latham.  Before long (1730), I arrived at Carolyn's apartment complex (located near the Albany Airport).  For the first time, I got to see her apartment and walk around in her neighborhood.  After a short time visiting, we drove (a very short distance) to have dinner at El Charro Grill (1745).  I tried something called Enchiladas El Guero (green sauce) - it was quite good!  We had some nice conversation during our meal and were done eating at 1830).  Next, we drove back towards Carolyn's apartment and stopped for dessert at Control Tower Ice Cream (1845).  We enjoyed our tasty snack while sitting close to the runways of the airport.  Afterwards, Carolyn drove me back to my car and I departed to the west (1930).  I used NY-7 to reach I-890 and then (after getting off the Interstate) used back roads to reach US-20.  It started to rain after I passed Rotterdam but there was very little traffic.  I made good time all the way to the town of Richfield Springs and checked into my room at The Village Motel at 2045.  By then, it had stopped raining so I walked into town, despite the darkness.  After that, I did some reading and research on the General Clinton - I found the times for Eileen's start and locations where I could watch.  I went to bed at around 2300.  Whew!

White River Junction, VT (USA)

[teleworked from early in the morning - at 0815, I drove to White River Junction so I could work out at UVAC - swam for 45 minutes (52 lengths) and then drove home (arrived at 0930) - more teleworking]

White River Junction, VT (USA)

[teleworked from early in the morning - at 0745, I drove to White River Junction so I could work out at UVAC - swam for 45 minutes (52 lengths) and then drove home (arrived at 0915) - more teleworking]

Woodsville, NH (USA)

"Paddle the Border" day! After canoeing with my friend, Jared, during the Fall edition of this event in 2023, I was excited to join the Spring iteration in 2024.  I got up early and left my condo by 0830.  Drove to Bradford (via I-91) - listening to audiobooks on the way - and arrived at Jared's house at 0915.  We immediately loaded his new tandem kayak on the roof of his car and then drove from his house (north on US-5) to Wells River.  We then crossed the Connecticut River and drove (via the River Road near the bridge) to a launch point in Woodsville.  After we unleaded the kayak, Jared drove to Bedell Bridge State Park.  It took him quite a while to get back (via the free bus) but we were able to launch by 1125. This time, we dropped into the fast-running waters at the Woodsville Community Field and got out again at Bedell Bridge State Park.  Most of today’s section of the Connecticut River (VT/NH Border) was new to me. For nearly three hours, we paddled (along with about 70 other boats) the 14 miles of river in Jared’s new (since yesterday) tandem kayak.  It was overcast but pleasant (high 50s) and we took our time.  Talked with some folks who had brought foldable kayaks, a manager of a local water adventure company, a teacher who was paddling in a canoe built by his students and the coordinator of Paddle the Border for 21 Seasons. Visual highlights included ospreys in their nest, a stealthy bald eagle, Canada Geese families, folks fishing from their farms and distant/inviting peaks.  Along the way, we caught up to folks who’d left the landing an hour before us - although we got passed by speed demons in their Epic kayaks. Finished our fun by enjoying some burgers and corn on the cob at Bedell Bridge (starting at 1410) and listening to some good mountain music. Afterwards, Jared drove me back (by reversing our route from the morning).  I visited with him for a little (after putting away the kayak) before I departed for home (1530). I used US-5 and VT/NH-25 to cross the Connecticut River again and then got on NH-10 and used it to reach Orford.  For a lot of this drive, I was following slow traffic (annoyed a Massh*le).  Eventually, I was able to get on River Road, which had less traffic, and drove towards Lyme.  Before the covered bridge, I somehow annoyed a man mowing his lawn "for going too fast" but I don't think I really was.  In any case, I had no other issues reaching NH-10 on the north end of Hanover.  I did see two town police speed traps before I reached my condo (just after 1600).  I’ve now paddled 70+ miles of Connecticut River - what a great day on the water!

White River Junction, VT (USA)

[doing chores at the house all morning - at 1400, I drove to West Lebanon to do some errands - afterwards, I continued across the Connecticut River (to White River Junction) so I could work out at UVAC - swam for 45 minutes (52 lengths) and then drove to Lebanon - Mass (1600) at Sacred Heart and home by 1700]

White River Junction, VT (USA)

[teleworked from early in the morning - at 1445, I drove to White River Junction so I could work out at UVAC - swam for 45 minutes (52 lengths) and then drove home (arrived at 1615) - more teleworking]

Enfield, NH (USA)

[after work, volunteered with VA Medical Center White River Junction Adaptive Sports Team - detours around Lebanon due to covered bridge being closed - arrived at 1600 but the real event didn't start until 1700 - biked (in side-by-side e-bike) with John nine miles on the Northern Rail Trail (between Forward's Garage and the Gazebo in Enfield next to Lake Mascoma) - finished biking at 1900 and got home by 1930]

Graduation Trip - Day 7

After a restful sleep, I woke up at 0630 and did some reading/Duoligo/Sudoku.  I ate breakfast in the hotel lobby (0730) and then packed up the car. Checked out by 0810 and drove to the gas station next door (Exxon) so I could get some air for my tire.  Left Triadelphia, WV (0815) and drove (via I-70 and I-79) to Pittsburgh.  I knew I wouldn't have a lot of time there but thought it might be nice to get a view of the Three Rivers spot.  Checking the map, I found a place that looked like it had good photo potential: the West End Overlook.  Made my way there (via a lot of rugged roads through depressed areas of the Steel City.  Upon arriving, I found myself alone at a viewpoint that had the photo opportunity I was looking for and spent time looking at the city and river below the bluff (0910).  Was only there for about 15 minutes before I continued my drive to the north, through the middle of the city.  I eventually was able to get on I-79 and drove (through some intermittent rain) until I could switch to I-80 (east).  Since I was in a part of Pennsylvania that I don't normally visit, I thought it would be a good idea to do some more sightseeing.  So, I got off the Interstate and used PA-8 to drive further north.  Since reading “Titan” (Ron Chernow biography of John D. Rockefeller), I’ve been wanting to visit the region of northwestern Pennsylvania where the oil industry began.  On my way through the area today, I decided to stop at several significant sites that featured in the book and launched the human race on its current quest for petroleum.  My exploring began in Oil City (1120) and ended in Titusville (1345), with the clean, quiet presence of Oil Creek in the background of the entire narrative.  After walking a bit (and talking to Eileen a bit) in the first town, I visited the oldest producing well (McClintock), an oil “ghost town” (Petroleum Center in Oil Creek State Park) and the first commercial well (Drake Well Museum).  Active wells and storage tanks lined the side of PA-8 (which was the route I used to find nearly everything of interest) but there was also a lot of “retired” Infrastructure evident.  The oil boom swept through the valley in the late Nineteenth Century, wreaking havoc and destruction everywhere.  You’d never know it, though, because most all of the terrain was green and inviting.  Fortunes were made and lost in the blink of an eye - it was mind blowing to imagine.  One could argue that the area was a cautionary reminder of so many things that people hate but it also seemed to provide some hope.  The book described many instances where Rockefeller’s rapacious behaviors ultimately resulted in medical breakthroughs, major improvements at educational institutions and land preservation (Billings Farm is one example).  Whatever their intention, the investors, roughnecks and anyone else who made their way to Oil Creek completely changed the world.  This area is a monument to the highs and lows of the American Dream and is well worth visiting.  After getting my history fix, I got some lunch at Burger King (1400).  While eating, I spent some time planning the next leg of my trip - decided to head east and look for a place where the North Country Trail crossed the road.  Leaving Titusville (1445), I used PA-27 to reach PA-59, which took me through some beautiful country.  Passed the Allegheny Reservoir, stopping a few times, and later located the NCT Trailhead, where I decided to stop for a bit.  It wasn’t a long hike but I logged a bit more distance on the NCT, this time in the Allegheny National Forest (PA). Parked in a lot on the south side of PA-59 and explored the trail conditions on both sides of the road.  Signed a trail register and found some NCT maps at a nearby Ranger Station.  I definitely need to return to this beautiful area!  Afterwards, I drove a short distance to the Bradford Ranger Station (for the National Forest) and got some maps.  Then continued east until I could switch to PA-770.  Followed that to US-219, which I took all the way into New York and I-86.  After that, continued east.  Even by this point, the long drive was already making me tired.  I listened to audiobooks but also found my speed creeping up unintentionally.  Used cruise control to avoid speed traps.  Eventually, I made it to Binghamton and then used I-81 to reach I-88.  After continuing east to Oneonta, I stopped at Walmart to redeem some deposits for cans (2000).  Before getting back on the Interstate, I squeezed in some walking, Duolingo and social media.  Bought "dinner" (snacks) at Walmart too (2030) and did some more walking while I ate it.  After that, I drove to a nearby Mirabito (first time using the loyalty card, despite having got it in 2016) and filled up my tank (2050).  Back on I-88, I drove all the way to the western suburbs of Albany.  Got off the Interstate before the toll (US-20) but still made good time all the way to I-87.  Next drove north to NY-7 and crossed the Hudson at Troy.  At times, I was stuck behind slow traffic but was able to eventually all of it.  It got really foggy as I approached Vermont.  After using the Bennington bypass (VT-279), I took US-7 north to Manchester.  I crossed the Green Mountains (via VT-11 and VT-103).  Barely staying awake with more audiobooks...  Eventually, I was on I-91 and had no difficulty reaching I-89 or crossing the Connecticut River.  Made it to my condo by 0030, unpacked and was in bed by 0100.  Whew!  It was a good trip, though, and I'm glad I didn't return straight home.  NCT Today = 0.2 miles (hiking) / NCT Total = 15.0 miles

Graduation Trip - Day 6

Family visits and graduation festivities complete!  Last night it struck me that I had some time to make my drive home a bit more interesting than normal and I decided to take a more circuitous (scenic) route.  I woke up at 0530 again and did some reading, Duolingo and made several (popular) social media posts.  Brenna's old computers continued updating until almost 0800.  Meanwhile, I got ready to depart Harrisonburg - got some breakfast (fruit, cake) at Brenna's and then packed up my car.  Since she'd requested it, I woke Brenna up at 0815 and said goodbye.  After I was in the car, I called Mollie and checked to see if there was anything I'd missed when we got cut off the day before (she said their wasn't).  After that, I headed south (via the Weyers Cave route) to get to I-81 and then used I-64 to drive west.  Listening to audiobooks as I drove - traffic was pretty light.  I stopped for a break at the West Virginia Welcome Center and then continued west to Beckley.  Brenna called to check in and later sent photos of some activities she was doing with her teacher friends (they had encountered some students while out in town).  Meanwhile, I tried to find the best way to reach the closest NCT Trailhead.  Since Google Maps always tries to avoid tolls for me, I got off the Interstate at US-19 and drove north.  The timing was quite good because I found a gas station (Sheetz in Mount Hope, WV) with a very low price - filled up the tank gladly (1100).  I next drove across the highway to get some lunch at Arbys (1110).  Eating my food in the car, I continued north on US-19.  At one point, just before reaching the New River Gorge Bridge, Google Maps took me off the main road and I drove around on a series of back roads (quite curvy) until I was able to get back on I-77/I-64.  After that, I was directed off the Interstate in another place because (I think) there was another toll booth.  Eventually, I passed through Charleston and ended up getting on US-35.  During this drive, it was rainy at times but the precipitation eventually stopped.  The highway would have taken me all the way to Columbus if I'd kept going but, once I crossed the Ohio River at Mount Pleasant, I started to take surface streets.  Continued north to the town of Richmond Dale, crossed the Scioto River and drove (via gravel road) to and NCT trailhead (arrived at 1400).  My phone said I was close to the town of Higby, OH (south of Chillicothe) and some signage indicated that the section I'd found was coincident with the Buckeye Trail.  It offered some pretty views of the Scioto River Valley.  The weather was wonderful but I didn’t have a detailed map.  As a result, I only hiked (via blue blazes) for about an hour.  Afterwards, I drove through the woods and into the Scioto Trail State Park - pretty!  Eventually got on US-23 and used it almost all the way to Chillicothe.  Still following the Scioto River (towards the north), took OH-104 to reach the Hopewell Culture NHP (1530), a major archaeological site that I've always wanted to visit.  Like I'd seen during my other stops at this kind of historical park (e.g., Poverty Point, Moundville, Effigy, Ocmulgee, Cahokia, etc.), the fervent dedication of ancient North American Native peoples was on full display.  Somehow, they built massive structures and walls from earth - many of which are built with exacting standards.  It took quite a while to walk the grounds!  There are five other locations within this NPS unit; that seems like a lot but there were hundreds of these mounds/walls once.  So much mystery remains as to who, why and how - perhaps we’ll never completely understand the meaning behind all the work.  Still impressive, though!  Done at 1630, I drove north again (still on OH-104) until I was able to get on I-7.  Things looked good until I encountered a horrible traffic jam.  Blowing off the Google Maps guidance, I took surface streets across Columbus until I was again able to get on I-71.  Used that road to reach I-670 (headed towards the airport) and eventually was able to exit on to US-62.  Ultimately, I arrived at the town of Gahanna (where my mom grew up) at around 1745.  Earlier this year, I found some handwritten notes that my mom had made in memory of a cross-country family trip we did in 1977.  In one entry, she noted that we’d stopped in Gahanna, Ohio.  I recalled that day as the one with a visit to her family’s farm in the suburbs of Columbus.  The images in my head involved fields, big trees and animals but some of those could have been based on stories Mom told us.  During the trip, I think we drove to the farm and she knocked on the front door, asking if we could spend time on the property. A relative confirmed parts of this memory (the location) and shared some amazing photos (taken on Thanksgiving 1950) of my mother and her family.  The US Census from the same year shows the family living in nearby Jefferson Township (Franklin County). The distance between the two places is negligible and the closest Post Office was probably Gahanna.  Hoping to get a feel for what her young life might have been like, I explored the old town (in an area that used to be the main street) and found some good murals, a pretty water-walk (Millrace).  Also encountered lots of kids in prom outfits. The old “downtown” was a pleasant slice of Americana but the residents have improved things with some healthy gentrification.  The locals were very nice and really helped me get a feel for the area.   Walked until I decided I wanted to get some dinner.  Stopped at Signatures Tavern (the former town grocery store) and had a good club sandwich (and their house draft beer).  There were times during my meal (1800 to 1840), when I imagined Mom riding (with her own mother) into Gahanna for the weekly family shopping trip.  Since the farm where my mother's family lived was probably (per 1950 Census) in Jefferson Township (Franklin County), I next drove there via Havens Corner Road.  On the way, I passed lots of new (swanky) neighborhoods and no farms at all.  Really wished I had more information while I was searching... Even so, I’m glad I could reconnect with my mom and see some of her life through my own eyes.  [Note: later, relatives confirmed that I was in the correct location]  The sun was setting and I briefly considered staying overnight nearby so I could hike another Ohio section of the NCT in the morning.  However, I eventually decided that I should try to get into northwestern Pennsylvania before going to bed.  Was feeling very tired by this point so ended up making a reservation for a hotel in Triadelphia, WV.  Used back roads to reach US-40 ("National Road") and then got on I-70.  Fortunately, there was not a lot of traffic.  Meanwhile, it got dark - there was a brilliant sunset!  I arrived at Econolodge by 2115 and checked into my room.  By then, I was VERY tired so only spent a little time catching up on blog and reading before heading to bed (2300).  NCT Today = 0.8 miles (hiking) and 1.4 miles (driving / NCT Total = 14.8 miles

Graduation Trip - Day 5

Brenna had decided to take the entire day off from work but I still needed to preserve my leave for an upcoming vacation.  So, I was up by 0530 and started teleworking immediately.  I took a break for breakfast (in hotel lobby) at 0730 but was quickly back to teleworking.  Brenna got up at about 0900 and then headed down to eat.  During this window, I was able to talk with Eileen and Mollie during another break from teleworking.  I was finished with my main work day by 1100.  Next, Brenna and I packed up the car and checked out of the hotel.  After that, we drove north on US-11 and took side roads to US-460.  We then backtracked (a little) to the Blue Ridge Parkway and drove north.  During the scenic drive, we stopped a few times for the view.  Once again, we had very nice weather - feeling very fortunate.  At one pull-off, we met some Quebecois who'd been all the way to Key West and were one their way home - Brenna was fascinated by their stories.  We continued north to the Peaks of Otter Lodge area (arrived at about 1130) and ended up eating lunch (grilled ham and cheese, beer) in a little café there.  We were finished eating by about 1245 and then went walking around Abbott Lake.  We saw a lot of birds, pretty peaks and an old "Ordinary" (Inn).  We also found some comfy Adirondack Chairs, which we used to continue one of our great talks.  Back on the road (still Blue Ridge Parkway) by 1400, it took us a LONG time to reach I-64.  On the way, Mollie called and talked to us for a little bit before losing signal.  We continued west until we were able to merge on I-81.  Since traffic had started to build, we used back roads (in the direction of Weyer's Cave) to reach Brenna's apartment.  After arriving there, I teleworked from 1645 to 1800.  Once I was done working for good, Brenna and I drove to Purcell Park so we could play basketball.  That turned out to be pretty fun and we had some more good conversation.  Next, we walked for a while in the park, encountering deer and a funny groundhog.  After going back to the apartment, Brenna made a nice salad and I cooked some leftovers in the oven (Brenna's microwave was broken).  We ate dinner and continued our conversations.  Since she had a new machine, Brenna gave me some of her old computers (I will use them as backups for my own).  At about 2100, we started playing card/strategy games.  One was connected to Monopoly (fun) and then we tried a more complicated game called "Coup".  The latter game took several tries to get correct but we had a good time with that one by the end.  At 2230, we were done playing and (both being tired) said goodnight.  I meant to go to sleep but got distracted with some texts and didn't fall asleep until after midnight (0015).  It was fun to hang out with Brenna!

Graduation Trip - Day 4

Today was Mollie's big day: Graduation from Virginia Tech!  Actually, the day may have even been a bigger deal because of all the graduation events that had been canceled for our family since the beginning of 2020.  Feeling excited, I woke up at 0630 and started teleworking from the hotel room.  Brenna didn't get up until 0730 but we were then able to go breakfast in the hotel lobby together.  In addition to the good feed, we had a nice time chatting.  Back in the room, Brenna decided to take a morning nap (!).  Meanwhile, I did some more teleworking and also took a short break for a call with Eileen.  I didn't stop working until noon, when Brenna was finally ready to go.  Just at the moment we were getting in the car, Erin called (there was, apparently, some kind of confusion developing about what the schedule was for the day).  As we were leaving Roanoke, I had to take Brenna in search of "fancy coffee" (she said she REALLY needed it).  After that, we drove south on I-81.  Upon arrival in Christiansburg, Erin called to report that Mollie had canceled our planned family lunch at Alex's apartment.  This meant that the rest of us needed to find a place to eat.  Brenna and I stopped at the Blacksburg Cookout for lunch (I got a Chicken tray with corn dog and cheese sticks).  Even though great minds think alike, it was still a surprise to encounter Erin at the same restaurant.  The unexpected convergence allowed us to exchange gifts (she had some for me from Iceland and I'd brought items from New Hampshire).  We were together at the restaurant from 1315 to 1445 and had a nice visit.  Bonus: I got to see Erin's new engagement ring! Mollie called us during this time and we all arranged to meet after the graduation ceremony.  Brenna and I then drove (via some back roads) to Lane Stadium and parked - we were able to get really close to the stadium.  We found Erin and Alex and I bought Mollie a present (a gray teddy bear, beads and graduation t-shirt).  My daughters had fun naming the bear "Grady".  Going inside the stadium, we coordinated with Mollie (via text) on the best location.  The weather was very nice and it was nice to be able to sit with Brenna, Erin and Alex.  Nicky and Steve arrived just before the start time (1530) of the ceremony, which lasted for about an hour.  We all took lots of photos and videos - and there was much cheering for our family here.  It took four years of hard work.  Brenna laughed at me (and posted on social media") when I told everyone “It’s an exciting time to be a Coogan!” but it was definitely true!  Once the festivities were finished (1630), we found Mollie and took lots more photos.  Mollie liked the gifts we got her.  I got to do some visiting for a little while but Erin was impatient to depart (for Baltimore) and Nicky/Steve left soon afterwards.  Meanwhile, Brenna and I followed (on a VERY bumpy road) Mollie and Alex to his apartment, where we met "Maple" (their dog).  We next took a walk on the trails nearby - the weather remained very pleasant.  At 1800, Brenna and I departed for Kabuki Japanese Steak House in Christiansburg.  When Mollie and Alex arrived a bit later (1830), we had a delicious (and entertaining) dinner.  The chef had some very impressive cooking skills and good aim with the shrimp toss - I caught one in my mouth!  By 2015, we were finished and, after saying goodbye to Mollie and Alex, Brenna and I drove back (via I-81) to Troutville.  We arrived at the hotel by 2100 and Brenna and I then went walking to get the rest of our steps.  It was a very pleasant evening, with a pretty moon outline.  Brenna was fascinated with the many RVs that had parked in the nearby Cracker Barrel's parking lot.  Meanwhile, I enjoyed the chance to talk more with her.  Back in the room, I did some more teleworking until about 2300.  After that, I read a bit before heading to bed (2345).  What a great day!

Graduation Trip - Day 3

After a mostly restful sleep, I was awake by 0630 and started teleworking from Brenna's apartment.  She came out of her room by about 0715 and soon departed for work.  Meanwhile, I teleworked, taking a short break for breakfast (snacks).  I had lots of meetings and paperwork to do so the morning passed quickly.  At 1200, I departed Brenna's apartment and drove to her school.  On the way, I stopped for lunch (to go) at McDonalds in Harrisonburg (1215) and talked to Mollie (updating her on my plans with Brenna).  I arrived at Brenna's school by 1230 and then signed into a volunteer session with her Kindergarten class for the afternoon.  During the few hours I was there, I believed I helped a lot.  The kids were, as usual, very interested in me (as their teacher's dad).  Meanwhile, I only kept my computer on for intermittent telework opportunities between 1245 and 1545.  After school was completely over, I started teleworking in earnest again while Brenna attended a series of work meetings.  Anticipating our departure from Harrisonburg, I left the school at 1700 and drove to pick up some dinner from Panera in Harrisonburg.  After getting the food (rapid pickup), I drove to Brenna's apartment (arrived at 1730).  While waiting for her, I ate my own dinner - Brenna didn't arrive until 1900.  Unfortunately, she then had to pack and that took a little while.  Eventually (1930), we got on the road and drove from Harrisonburg (via I-81) to Raphine.  Brenna told me she wanted to have a call with her mentor (starting at 2000) but we didn't get to a place with good cell signal until about five minutes after the call was supposed to begin.  As a result, she canceled the call.  Meanwhile, I got air for my rental car tire (the low tire pressure indication has been visible almost since I left New Hampshire) at a gas station near the Interstate.  Also got a gas fillup from the same location (2010).  Next, we drove a short distance to the Cyrus McCormick Farm and spent about 20 minutes walking there on a nature trail I knew was there.  We saw lots of cows and birds - I think Brenna started to feel better after this.  Back in the car, we drove to I-81 and headed south.  During our drive, we had a good conversation.  Just before arriving in Roanoke, we got off the Interstate (Troutville exit) and then used US-11 to reach the Quality Inn (located at the roundabout near Daleville).  Due to the desk clerk being on rounds, we had to wait a bit to check into our room (2130) - after that, we got settled quickly.  I did some more teleworking and then went walking near the hotel.  I made it past 10K steps and finished at about 2330.  Brenna had been relaxing while I was gone and actually fell asleep.  Before going to bed, I did some reading and got ready for the next day.  Finally drifted off to sleep at 0015 after a full day.

Graduation Trip - Day 2

Despite my late bedtime, I was still awake early (0630).  Started teleworking immediately, with a short break to get breakfast from hotel lobby.  After confirming a late checkout, I stayed in my room for work meetings and other projects until noon.  Taking a decided break from my job, I had a call (networking and budget planning) with Heidi V.  Meanwhile, I left Carlisle at 1200 and drove south on I-81.  Later, I spent some time talking with Eileen and Mollie and listened to audiobooks.  At 1315, I stopped for lunch at Chick-fil-A in Martinsburg, WV and met up with my work colleague (Mike G.).  For the next two hours, we ate and talked about several work projects.  Just after 1530, I said goodbye to him and started south on I-81 again.  Passed the time with more audiobooks and Pandora music.  The traffic was OK but there were (as usual) LOTS of trucks.  I arrived in Harrisonburg just after 1700 and headed to Brenna's apartment.  She hadn't been answering my calls but she was home and saw me in the parking lot.  We spent a short time visiting but both agreed that we were hungry - as a result, we then (1745) left her apartment to find a place to eat.  We drove around for a while, looking for someplace "just right" - Brenna took me to a few places that had actually closed (without her knowledge) and she had quite a list of things she did/didn't want.  Eventually, I convinced her to stop at a place called "Joe's Diner" (located close to the Cracker Barrel) and we ended up having a really nice meal there.  I had a club sandwich and Brenna had biscuits and gravy.  While eating, we had a nice talk - we might have stayed even longer (after finishing our meal) but Brenna wanted to go for a walk.  So, we then (1845) drove west to Bridgewater and stopped at Wildwood Park, where we took a long walk (probably almost an hour).  It was a nice place, complete with waterfalls, trails, picnics and dogs.  We had some more nice chatting and saw some baby ducks.  By 2045, we were back at Brenna's apartment, where we spent the evening talking and working (I continued my telework day and she did some of her own work).  After a pretty full day, I went to bed (2200) - whew!

Graduation Trip - Day 1

After years of COVID-19 cancelations of family milestones, I finally had a chance to attend the graduation ceremony for one of my daughters!  This would, of course, require a lot of driving but I gladly embraced the challenge.  Today, I woke up very early (0530) and teleworked all morning and early afternoon. At 1345, I took two busses (and walked) to Airport to get Rental Car.  The process was a bit frustrating but I was home by 1515.  After that, I teleworked some more (until 1600).  I'd already done most of my packing so was able to leave Hanover by about 1630.  After getting on I-89 to cross the Connecticut River, I used I-91 all the way into Massachusetts (listened to audiobooks on the way).  The weather was good and traffic wasn't too bad.  I'd planned to see my nephew, Johnny, in the UMASS area and arrived at Whatley Diner by 1730.  However, Johnny (because I mixed up the dates) thought I was coming the next day.  Fortunately, we'd resolved this issue before I got there and my nephew was waiting for me.  We ate dinner (I had meatloaf, mashed potatoes, baked beans and blueberry pie while Johnny had a cheeseburger with some sides) and had a great conversation.  Our visit was finished at 1845 and I departed on I-91.  I'd thought Eileen and I would end up talking (she'd said she was free) but her plans changed.  Instead, I listened to more audio books.  I'd considered using I-84 to reach I-81 but Google Maps said there was a large delay.  Instead, I got off I-91 south of Hartford and continued east on the Parkways (Wilbur Cross, Merritt, etc.) all the way to I-87.  This route allowed me to cross the Hudson on the GW Bridge.  Even though there was lots of traffic, I made it into New Jersey and didn't miss the I-80 exit this time.  After that, I had pretty good driving (some construction) all the way to I-287.  It was already getting very late as I reached I-78.  At that point, Google Maps took me off the Interstate closer to Easton/Phillipsburg than I've done in the past.  The end result was that I ended up paying a huge amount for my fuel at a BP east of Phillipsburg (2225) - I'd seen much better prices a few miles earlier (oh well)... While stopped, I made a reservation for a hotel Rook west of Harrisburg and did my a Duolingo exercise to maintain my bonuses.  After that (2240), I continued west.  Google Maps took me through Phillipsburg until I was on US-22.  I then used this road all the way back to I-78.  The drive on the Interstate was punctuated by slow speeds, trucks, fog and darkness.  Made it to I-81 and the western suburbs of Harrisburg before midnight.  Fortunately, there was no traffic beyond that point and I arrived at the Rodeway Inn in Carlisle by 0030.  It took a while to check into the room but, once I was there, I set up my computers for an early start the next morning.  Before going to sleep, I did some reading and was asleep by 0115.  Whew!

White River Junction, VT (USA)

[teleworked from early in the morning - at 1445, I drove to White River Junction so I could work out at UVAC - swam for 45 minutes (52 lengths) and then drove home (arrived at 1630) - more teleworking]

Lyme, NH (USA)

After I wasn't able to join any of the Connecticut River Conservancy Tree Planting Teams during the last year, I was motivated to participate in 2024.  With that in mind, I got permission (from work) to help out a group in Lyme this morning.  Before departing, though, I teleworked for several hours.  At 0830, I left my condo and drove (via NH-10) all the way to Lyme and located the volunteer meeting location (off Orford Road).  When the planned time (0900) came and went, I spent time on the phone, trying to find out where the tree planting team had moved.  Another volunteer (Scott) showed up shortly after me.  Next, the actual property owner (Dave) arrived and told us he didn't know where the tree team was.  Eventually (0920), I heard back from the CRC coordinator (located in Massachusetts) and learned that the team was working at a location closer to the Connecticut River since they'd already finished planting the area where I was waiting.  Realizing that the site was the same place where I'd volunteered to plant saplings in 2022, I headed west on a nearby "cut-off" road.  Scott wasn't a local so he followed me to River Road.  From there, we drove south towards the Lyme-Thetford bridge,  By 1000, we finally located the team from the NorthWoods Stewardship Center (from the NEK).  Fritz (team lead) apologized for the confusion and, when I noted that this was a place we'd already planted, explained that a recent CRC survey of the area had determined the survival rate was only 30%.  End result: we had to replant the section.  Like last time, digging was hard work - but soon the Riparian Zone was filled with many new trees.  Most of the ones I planted were Silver Maples.  Afterwards (1200), I drove home (via River Road) and (at 1230) resumed teleworking for the rest of the afternoon.  Glad I was able to be part of the tree planting - hoping that the second time’s a charm for this lot in Lyme!