Enfield, NH (USA)

Today, I started the long awaited process of moving out of my condo in Hanover.  This activity was originally supposed to happen when I finished the AT; however, I didn't execute the plan in 2023 because I'd already signed a least through 2024.  After one more year "just because", I decided it was time to move on from my time in the Granite State.  Earlier in the week, I'd rented a storage unit in Lebanon and, after taking care of some chores around the condo, I took my first car load of personal property to the location.  For most of the morning and early afternoon, I loaded and unloaded my Subaru and made five trips in all - I definitely made a big dent in the move process!  After getting done with my last trip, I drove to Mascoma Lakeside Park so I could get some exercise and continue trying to reach my Prouty Goals (100 hiking miles and 75 paddling miles).  Between 1630 and 1730, I walked about three miles on the Northern Rail Trail (walking north from the park and back).  After that, I unloaded Tequila Sunrise and spent the next 90 minutes (1740 to 2010) paddling on the northwestern end of the lake (one counterclockwise loop).  There was a lot of boat traffic, swells and rough water but I did find some pleasant areas with pretty views of homes along the water.  The sky was bright and clear and the temps were in the low 70s - a perfect day to be out on the water.  Several people talked to me from their yards and I got to see a tremendous number of parties and patriotic decorations.  The smells of the backyard barbeques was intoxicating - I'll admit I was a bit envious of their setups...  After I finished, I got the kayak loaded and headed home, arriving at around 2040.  It seems like a big milestone day (because of the move) but I also enjoyed having such a good time outdoors on Independence Day.  I wonder where I'll be next year at this time...