Wow, that was a comfy bed at the Days Inn in Kittery. By far the nicest Days Inn I've ever stayed at. After eating my breakfast and getting ready, John and I meet up and discuss the days events. It's decision time: either 20 miles to a campground, or 25 miles to pricey BnB's, or 40 miles toward Boston and reasonable motels. Normally, 40 miles is not a big deal. But to be able to enjoy the morning - even just a little - at the motel is priceless. We decide to enjoy the beautiful day, and head 20 miles to the Rusnik campground in Salisbury, with no sense of urgency. And what a great day to do it! No rain is forecasted, the weather is picture-perfect, and there's so much to see along the way. Done. Easy day, and I'm feeling like vacation is settling in. I leave that sweet motel, to continue my journey. I'm going to soak in every step today.
As move down the road and approach Portsmouth, people are out biking and walking to work in this community, and it just feels good. Cool breeze, warm sun, and clear skies. I'm out of the tourist area, for now. It's time to cross more bridges! There's rules for which ones you can and can't cross as a pedestrian. I have to watch and be mindful of my actions. The people who live here know, and are happy to help. It's amazing how each area has its own vibe, and this area is active, sparkling and welcoming. Less cars, more people running, walking and biking.
The plan for me, today, you ask? I'm going to take this day "for me". No step I take will be of any hurry or haste. A walking pace of comfort and leisure. I will enjoy New Hampshire every step of the way, and make my way to Massachusetts today. I will stop for a good cup of coffee, shop at a grocery store, and just breathe.
Rusnik Family Campground will be my final destination today. Showers, laundry, and then I just might sit around the pool. Maybe do a little yoga on my mat. Tomorrow will be a day of travel towards Boston. For now, this friendly city is irresistible. No hurry out of here.
I'm happy to have completed the 540 miles of Maine, and look forward to what these next states want to show me.
Enjoy Hump Day!
Cyndi
Wednesday, August 16, 2017
Tuesday, August 15, 2017
Day 15 - Parade of cars
The amount of cars/tourists on Route 1 was unbelievable. They were backed up for miles, inching along. Sometimes at the same speed as me. This area of the various Capes is more popular than I ever knew. I didn't get to see much of the coastal area, as it's well hidden from my view. Although I did reap the benefits of cute stores, many handmade things, and lots of good food. So I took advantage of it all and stopped many times to eat, look at a store, and just enjoy the area. I'm on vacation, and wanted to take the time to see it all while I'm here. Wells was a town that was crazy packed, but York was one town I really enjoyed. It really was a vacation-kind-of-day. I had some amazing homemade veggie lasagna. So delicious. It's been a eating and looking day. It's days like today where I don't get caught up in the miles. I give myself permission to relax and get there, when I get there. Plus, it's my last full day in Maine. And I was loving it.
I came upon a number of cyclists with their touring bikes and packs. I can't wait to do that, too! They are crossing Route 1/Greenway Trail. I also ran into (no pun intended) another guy running Route1 - the opposite way, meaning he only has about 500 miles left. I was so happy for him, and jealous of his cart. He had a double stroller! Very nice, man! Being in such a touristy area makes me a pink elephant in the middle of all the grey elephants. I stand out, and I know it. My cart and shirt tell my purpose, and I'm on day 15 with zero police pullovers. What a difference it makes! The question I'm getting from many people (repeatedly) is, "Are you really going to Key West?". They see it. They just don't believe it. When I explain this is my vacation, it begins to make a tiny bit of sense. Many don't believe me that I'll be done sometime in October. That's the goal!
With time, and rain chasing me off and on today, I roll into Kittery. I'm at the Days Inn, and not sure if rain will really happen tonight or not. It sure is nice not to have to worry about it, and sleep inside. I enjoy the campgrounds, and sleeping out in the cool weather, but a motel here and there is sure relaxing.
Tomorrow is the day. I leave Maine, but take all my great memories with me. I will be in New Hampshire for a whole 17 miles, then into Massachusetts. That state will have about 86 miles on Route 1. Then Rhode Island with 57 miles there. I've never been to these states and look forward to seeing them up close and personal. I'm going to take the time I desire, each day, to stop and enjoy what a town might have to offer. The miles will get done, and it's time to start stopping a little more when an opportunity presents itself, and something catches my eye.
My next job here tonight is to decide the plans for tomorrow - and tomorrow night. I'm going to check it out and see what looks good. John will arrive a little later here in Kittery.
I hope all is well with everyone, and that your week is going as you'd like it to.
Not sure what the plans are yet for tomorrow. But hey, I'm on vacation and know it will be somewhere down Route 1. **Side note: Larry/Ellen have a friend in Andover that would like to host us tomorrow night, but unfortunately it's just too far off course. What good people they are. Thanks for offering!
Enjoy your evening,
Cyndi
Lauren, I'm thinking of you! And David, thanks for going to my Library Board Meeting tonight, and standing (sitting) in for me. You make a great secretary! XO
Day - 15 New Hampshire soon
There's camping, and there's KOA. That's what they tell me. It's pretty fancy here. It's like an amusement park, but yet a campground. Swimming pool, hot tub, bikes, volleyball, you name it, and they have it. The laundry room is wonderful! There's a swing to relax in while you wait for your laundry. No detail is overlooked. There's a cafe onsite, plenty of individual showers, and restrooms like they have at Buckee's. They have Kabins with a K (all were full), and I had a tent site with electricity and water, and a picnic table I slept on. It's all very nice. And easy. Easy is a good word for it. The employees are bubbly and helpful. It's just been a good experience here. I'll definitely look for more KOA 's. They aren't cheap anymore, though. You pay for this nice camp experience. Still a lot cheaper than a motel. The only difference is you sleep outside. Other than that, KOA is on it.
So how do I shower, do laundry and such? I have one hand towel, a bottle of Suave shampoo, and cleaning wipes. Suave shampoo can be used for everything....to wash your hair, your body, your face and your clothes. It's .88 cents of goodness. I bought these all at the Dollar Store after I realized how much camping was going to be involved. These things are obviously not provided, and having them makes everything better - and more normal. You can only dry off with paper towels in the bathroom for so long. It's tedious. I may or may not have done that. So when I shower, those are the only supplies I need, and my toothbrush of course. It's s minimalist life. Everything I need, I push along with me. What item have I used the most? Unexpectedly, my yoga mat. It's great for everything! I'm so glad I have it.
I awoke this morning to a cool 58 degrees. Perfect for camping! John made it in last night, and we have a goal of getting to Kittery today. About 37-38 miles. I've made a motel reservation there, and always look forward to sleeping in a bed. New Hampshire will be just down the road after that. It's been around 540 miles here in Maine. Who knew?!
I'm going to go roll my sleeping bag up, brush my teeth, and get ready for my day.
Have a wonderful Tuesday!
I'll see you later, down the road,
Cyndi
So how do I shower, do laundry and such? I have one hand towel, a bottle of Suave shampoo, and cleaning wipes. Suave shampoo can be used for everything....to wash your hair, your body, your face and your clothes. It's .88 cents of goodness. I bought these all at the Dollar Store after I realized how much camping was going to be involved. These things are obviously not provided, and having them makes everything better - and more normal. You can only dry off with paper towels in the bathroom for so long. It's tedious. I may or may not have done that. So when I shower, those are the only supplies I need, and my toothbrush of course. It's s minimalist life. Everything I need, I push along with me. What item have I used the most? Unexpectedly, my yoga mat. It's great for everything! I'm so glad I have it.
I awoke this morning to a cool 58 degrees. Perfect for camping! John made it in last night, and we have a goal of getting to Kittery today. About 37-38 miles. I've made a motel reservation there, and always look forward to sleeping in a bed. New Hampshire will be just down the road after that. It's been around 540 miles here in Maine. Who knew?!
I'm going to go roll my sleeping bag up, brush my teeth, and get ready for my day.
Have a wonderful Tuesday!
I'll see you later, down the road,
Cyndi
Monday, August 14, 2017
Day 14 - Rejuvenated
I awoke to my alarm, in a completely dark room. The bed is more-than-comfortable, the temperature just right, and I feel like someone must have pushed my "OFF " button last night. I don't think I turned over, heard anything, or remember anything during the night. I was out, completely out. The delicious dinner and dessert Ellen had made was the finale to my day the night before. The guest room and guest bed was a retreat. Darkness, quiet and peaceful. There were no worries. Only rest. I did get up when my alarm sounded. I felt completely rejuvenated, and ready for the day. I go to the kitchen quietly and get my banana/peanut butter and some cold brew coffee they had for me in the refrigerator. I enjoy that sitting up in the luscious bed, just relaxing and enjoying my breakfast quietly. It's then I received a call from Lauren, and she was at the airport waiting for her flight #1, of 2, for the day. We visited and caught up on her weekend that was spent with her good friend in North Carolina. It was good to hear her voice and a great way to start the day. After that, I proceeded to gather my things and get ready to go. What a wonderful visit I had, and considered it my favorite place I've stayed yet. Granted, I've slept outside a lot, but it was glorious just the same. Ellen and Larry get up just as I'm about to head out the door. I hug and say my goodbyes, thank them, review the directions for getting back to Route 1 (I was off course about 1 1/2 miles, and it was certainly well worth it!) and head out the door. I have brought Thank You notes along in my cart, and left them one on the bedside table in the guest room. I just appreciated everything they did so very much. I may have mentioned, but their son has hiked the AT, rock climbs all over the US, and is a adventurer at heart. Needless to say, they "get" me. And welcomed me with open arms. Larry, is a molecular scientist, while Ellen is a retired preschool teacher. I learned so much from them both, and enjoyed getting to know them.
Now, it's go-time. I have a long day (over 40 miles) to get to my KOA campground in Saco/Old Orchard. Add in detours around Portland, and it will be quite a day. I started out well, and saw John along my way to the first town. We talked and caught up. He had made it to Brunswick last night around 10 pm and stayed in a motel. We will meet again tonight at the KOA Saco/Old Orchard Holiday campground. Off I go. I got to the outskirts of Portland with no problems. Matter of fact, it was lovely the whole way there. I ate early, and often. I'm going to stay ahead of my calories due to the mileage and time. I've done well so far, and sometimes just need to make a extra effort to continue it. So I stopped at a French bakery and had a ham and swiss croissant, then later I stopped at a deli and had a pastromi sandwich. I just made sure I was eating every so often.
As I approached Portland, Route 1 joins the Interstate, so I have to find an alternative route. What do I do? Call my travel coordinator, Sheryl (my sister) the Route Master, and she takes a look at the options, drops "a man" in to see how the road's shoulder looks, and checks mileage. After evaluating the options, she suggests to take Baxter St around Back Cove, over to Dartmouth, then to St Johns Rd. This detour will take me to Veterans Memorial Bridge, as only certain bridges can be crossed as pedestrians. This will be the second Bridge I take on Portland, as the first one was still on Route 1. Seeing what Portland has to offer is completely different "on foot". It's just not easy to enjoy what it has to offer. My roadways are limited. I did throughly enjoy the beauty of it, especially going along the path of Back Cove. It literally is a path right beside the water all the way around the Cove. So pretty! I came across an elderly man walking along, and he stops me to inquire about my journey to Key West (it's on the front of my cart). He said that I was going north, the wrong way. I tried to explain I "had to", in order to get back around to Route 1 (without an interstate with it). He said, " I know a better way!". I was super excited someone was going to tell me a shorter way around town! "Go to the airport ". Not funny.
I make all my detours, enjoy all the sites, eat yummy food, and enjoy that Maine breeze I love so much. I know my time in Maine is coming to an end. Another day or so. Gonna miss you, Maine! All 540 miles of you on (mostly) Route 1.
After detouring around Portland, I started moving again nicely. I got to talk to Lauren again while she had a layover in Chicago. I got to talk to David along the way today. It's just been good all the way around! Now I still had a little ways to go to the campground. And then finally, there it was. The biggest KOA sign I've ever seen!! I'm here! Wow, and I'm more tired than I thought I would be. That's okay, as I'm in a safe place and will sleep (most likely) on the picnic table after I take a nice, long shower. That always makes me feel good. Good sure feels good.
It's been another day of site-seeing. I enjoyed (most) every mile! But it's time to shower and settle in. This campground has it all. Everything you need, even a cafe onsite. I'm set!! Time to go unwind, and I hope you get to do the same!
Let's do this again tomorrow,
Cyndi, who needs to figure out where that destination will be. Most likely close to New Hampshire!!
Now, it's go-time. I have a long day (over 40 miles) to get to my KOA campground in Saco/Old Orchard. Add in detours around Portland, and it will be quite a day. I started out well, and saw John along my way to the first town. We talked and caught up. He had made it to Brunswick last night around 10 pm and stayed in a motel. We will meet again tonight at the KOA Saco/Old Orchard Holiday campground. Off I go. I got to the outskirts of Portland with no problems. Matter of fact, it was lovely the whole way there. I ate early, and often. I'm going to stay ahead of my calories due to the mileage and time. I've done well so far, and sometimes just need to make a extra effort to continue it. So I stopped at a French bakery and had a ham and swiss croissant, then later I stopped at a deli and had a pastromi sandwich. I just made sure I was eating every so often.
As I approached Portland, Route 1 joins the Interstate, so I have to find an alternative route. What do I do? Call my travel coordinator, Sheryl (my sister) the Route Master, and she takes a look at the options, drops "a man" in to see how the road's shoulder looks, and checks mileage. After evaluating the options, she suggests to take Baxter St around Back Cove, over to Dartmouth, then to St Johns Rd. This detour will take me to Veterans Memorial Bridge, as only certain bridges can be crossed as pedestrians. This will be the second Bridge I take on Portland, as the first one was still on Route 1. Seeing what Portland has to offer is completely different "on foot". It's just not easy to enjoy what it has to offer. My roadways are limited. I did throughly enjoy the beauty of it, especially going along the path of Back Cove. It literally is a path right beside the water all the way around the Cove. So pretty! I came across an elderly man walking along, and he stops me to inquire about my journey to Key West (it's on the front of my cart). He said that I was going north, the wrong way. I tried to explain I "had to", in order to get back around to Route 1 (without an interstate with it). He said, " I know a better way!". I was super excited someone was going to tell me a shorter way around town! "Go to the airport ". Not funny.
I make all my detours, enjoy all the sites, eat yummy food, and enjoy that Maine breeze I love so much. I know my time in Maine is coming to an end. Another day or so. Gonna miss you, Maine! All 540 miles of you on (mostly) Route 1.
After detouring around Portland, I started moving again nicely. I got to talk to Lauren again while she had a layover in Chicago. I got to talk to David along the way today. It's just been good all the way around! Now I still had a little ways to go to the campground. And then finally, there it was. The biggest KOA sign I've ever seen!! I'm here! Wow, and I'm more tired than I thought I would be. That's okay, as I'm in a safe place and will sleep (most likely) on the picnic table after I take a nice, long shower. That always makes me feel good. Good sure feels good.
It's been another day of site-seeing. I enjoyed (most) every mile! But it's time to shower and settle in. This campground has it all. Everything you need, even a cafe onsite. I'm set!! Time to go unwind, and I hope you get to do the same!
Let's do this again tomorrow,
Cyndi, who needs to figure out where that destination will be. Most likely close to New Hampshire!!
Sunday, August 13, 2017
Day and Night 13 - "Home" for tonight
With the day beginning well (coffee, banana and peanut butter), I was excited to begin my journey to Brunswick. I had my cart stocked, and ready to roll. Along Route 1 today, there will be multiple towns with plentiful drink and food. There was no rain during the night, and none forecasted for the area(s) I would be traveling today. As I headed down the road, the ups and downs begin. I expected a day of it, but those steeper grades turned into more hill-like. And with a large smooth shoulder, this is a combination of goodness. I felt good, and was happy to see even a slight change in the terrain. The bonus was, the direction of Route 1 delivered miles of a shaded shoulder. What's that?! As that has not happened before. But I enjoyed it SO much. Off and on shade is always a treat. And the breeze.....geeezzz...that's one thing I will always remember about Maine. It's the perfect breeze. Right temperature, not to strong , and feels nice. So that was the theme of the day. The picturesque views are a glorious site for my eyes. I felt like I was really on vacation!
When I was coming into the town of Bath, Route 1 turned into a divided highway. That was okay, but after crossing a bridge, I was forced to exit the highway. Strange, and as I tried to get back on (facing traffic side), I couldn't get "up" the exit ramp because the traffic was just too much, and there was no shoulder on the exit ramp. It was a recipe for disaster. I checked out the area on my Maps and noticed Hwy is 26 runs right beside Route 1 for the next 7 miles (while Route 1 is divided, with official entrances and exit ramps). Well, that was a wise decision. It was far safer than trying to get back on Route 1. There was much less traffic, it was actually quiet. There were food places along the way, and I stopped for ice cream, too. I stopped to take pictures, and basically just enjoyed myself all the way. Just before I was getting into Brunswick, I saw it. A Walmart. I'll pop in real quick and stock up on my staples of bananas, peanut butter, bean dip and tortillas. It was a quick in-and -out. Who watches my cart while I shop? This time, the Walmart greeter did. He was a big fan of the thought of this "going across the US thing". When I was leaving, I thanked him, and he said, " You better hurry, you don't have time to dilly dally". Okay then. Off I go! Once in the parking lot, I cut across it, and a truck stops. Are you really going to Key West?! I tell him yes, I really am. He proceeds to tell me he could give me a ride, because that's where he's going for his daughter's wedding. Uh huh. Thanks, but I think I'll pass. He may really be going there. Or not.
I cruise in to Brunswick, and find it super cool! It's my new official favorite city yet. The downtown area, all the shops and cafes, the little foot bridges across the water ways, and its overall vibe. Nice, calm yet cool. When I get to where 26 meets Route 1, I text Larry and tell him I'm close to their house. Turns out, he was out walking (he's a huge fan of walking!) and was close by. I wait at that area for him, and sure enough, he's there, on foot, too! And turns out, the building I'm in front of (an old fixed up super cool building now) is where his office is. He wants to show me their office, and so we go inside. It's been fixed up so nicely! We don't stay long at his office, and it's time to head to their house. He walks to and from work every day, so off we go. It's 1 1/2 mile off course, but I look forward to a real house, with real people and real food. Larry and Ellen are two of the nicest people I'll ever meet! **I met them on the plane from DFW to Boston** So, we get to their house, and I meet Maui, their dog, and Earl, their cat. Being in their home makes me miss home so bad. It's such a beautiful home, with lots of natural light shining in.
I'm sent to the shower (2 days no shower now), and it's the bomb. No wondering about a creepy shower. It's great! Just like being at home. Then, I gather some things out of my cart, and piddle around, getting ready for tomorrow. I notice they are both on the couch with their laptops in their laps, just relaxing. I join in on their laptop party. We talk, visit, look at our devices and just unwind. No hurry to go anywhere or do anything. I learn more about them and their family. They have questions for me, and then we get ready for dinner as we talk. Ellen has cooked Bolognese, and the house is filled with this terrific smell!! We sit down at the kitchen table to eat. Pasta, salad, bread and the meat sauce. Best I've ever had, I loved it! We are talking and enjoying dinner, then she brings out dessert. Blueberry Peach Pie - with whipped cream! There are so many details of this evening, that I don't think I can list them all. My favorite? Maui, their dog, gets to lick everybody's plate after they are done eating. He's knows it too. Also, their favorite show is mine too. Big Bang Theory. Such a nice evening, but I have to go lay down. I'm just really tired! I thank them a thousand times over. So very grateful! I'm ready to go hop in a regular bed. So ready.
My eyes are trying to close, so I'll cut this short. Synopsis: This day Rivals as a favorite-day-yet, for me! The trip here AND the wonderful company has made this day marvelous. Oh, and this little city. Another favorite!! I loved everything about this day!! And it's about to continue the reign of goodness when I sleep in this bed. I'm so very fortunate to be around such kind people. And a good cook!
Time to rest,
Cyndi
Update: John will also be here at a motel in Brunswick later tonight. Then we'll be back in sync!
When I was coming into the town of Bath, Route 1 turned into a divided highway. That was okay, but after crossing a bridge, I was forced to exit the highway. Strange, and as I tried to get back on (facing traffic side), I couldn't get "up" the exit ramp because the traffic was just too much, and there was no shoulder on the exit ramp. It was a recipe for disaster. I checked out the area on my Maps and noticed Hwy is 26 runs right beside Route 1 for the next 7 miles (while Route 1 is divided, with official entrances and exit ramps). Well, that was a wise decision. It was far safer than trying to get back on Route 1. There was much less traffic, it was actually quiet. There were food places along the way, and I stopped for ice cream, too. I stopped to take pictures, and basically just enjoyed myself all the way. Just before I was getting into Brunswick, I saw it. A Walmart. I'll pop in real quick and stock up on my staples of bananas, peanut butter, bean dip and tortillas. It was a quick in-and -out. Who watches my cart while I shop? This time, the Walmart greeter did. He was a big fan of the thought of this "going across the US thing". When I was leaving, I thanked him, and he said, " You better hurry, you don't have time to dilly dally". Okay then. Off I go! Once in the parking lot, I cut across it, and a truck stops. Are you really going to Key West?! I tell him yes, I really am. He proceeds to tell me he could give me a ride, because that's where he's going for his daughter's wedding. Uh huh. Thanks, but I think I'll pass. He may really be going there. Or not.
I cruise in to Brunswick, and find it super cool! It's my new official favorite city yet. The downtown area, all the shops and cafes, the little foot bridges across the water ways, and its overall vibe. Nice, calm yet cool. When I get to where 26 meets Route 1, I text Larry and tell him I'm close to their house. Turns out, he was out walking (he's a huge fan of walking!) and was close by. I wait at that area for him, and sure enough, he's there, on foot, too! And turns out, the building I'm in front of (an old fixed up super cool building now) is where his office is. He wants to show me their office, and so we go inside. It's been fixed up so nicely! We don't stay long at his office, and it's time to head to their house. He walks to and from work every day, so off we go. It's 1 1/2 mile off course, but I look forward to a real house, with real people and real food. Larry and Ellen are two of the nicest people I'll ever meet! **I met them on the plane from DFW to Boston** So, we get to their house, and I meet Maui, their dog, and Earl, their cat. Being in their home makes me miss home so bad. It's such a beautiful home, with lots of natural light shining in.
I'm sent to the shower (2 days no shower now), and it's the bomb. No wondering about a creepy shower. It's great! Just like being at home. Then, I gather some things out of my cart, and piddle around, getting ready for tomorrow. I notice they are both on the couch with their laptops in their laps, just relaxing. I join in on their laptop party. We talk, visit, look at our devices and just unwind. No hurry to go anywhere or do anything. I learn more about them and their family. They have questions for me, and then we get ready for dinner as we talk. Ellen has cooked Bolognese, and the house is filled with this terrific smell!! We sit down at the kitchen table to eat. Pasta, salad, bread and the meat sauce. Best I've ever had, I loved it! We are talking and enjoying dinner, then she brings out dessert. Blueberry Peach Pie - with whipped cream! There are so many details of this evening, that I don't think I can list them all. My favorite? Maui, their dog, gets to lick everybody's plate after they are done eating. He's knows it too. Also, their favorite show is mine too. Big Bang Theory. Such a nice evening, but I have to go lay down. I'm just really tired! I thank them a thousand times over. So very grateful! I'm ready to go hop in a regular bed. So ready.
My eyes are trying to close, so I'll cut this short. Synopsis: This day Rivals as a favorite-day-yet, for me! The trip here AND the wonderful company has made this day marvelous. Oh, and this little city. Another favorite!! I loved everything about this day!! And it's about to continue the reign of goodness when I sleep in this bed. I'm so very fortunate to be around such kind people. And a good cook!
Time to rest,
Cyndi
Update: John will also be here at a motel in Brunswick later tonight. Then we'll be back in sync!
Day 13 - Turn of Events
Despite every blessing, things are not always rainbows, butterflies and unicorns. I was in the perfect place last night. On a covered porch of a Veterinarian Clinic. It was well lit, yet well concealed, close to the highway, and just down the way for a McDonald's coffee in the morning. I had settled on my spot for the night, put my sleeping bag out, and got a text from John saying he couldn't get there, and had to stop. Since all motels, Inn's and B&B's are full along the Atlantic Coast Highway (for the most part), he did find a motel that put up a rollaway bed in a back room for him. They even let him shower, and he seemed better after settling in there. He's back in Waldosboro, and our plans are to meet back up soon. I was apprehensive to sleep outside like that by myself last night. I had no choice really, as I called the few local motels and such in Damariscotta, all full. "Good luck to you", they would say as they hung up. My faith will see me through this.
I ended up sleeping well, as yesterday was a really rough day (for both John and I). I set my alarm to get up, and was sound asleep when it went off. The temperature was perfect for outdoor 'camping ', and turns out, no rain. I could have slept for many more hours like that. But McDonald's coffee was awaiting me. Gotta go! I packed what few things I had unpacked, and headed down the road. No fog, nice! It's very damp in the air, but overall, just right. Everything feels damp. My sleeping bag, my clothes. No worries, it's not a big deal. Breakfast is complete, I brush my teeth in their bathroom, and I'm off again, feeling brand new and oh-so-thankful for all this around me. I have everything I need.
For now though, I am headed to Brunswick to stay with Larry and Ellen. That will be a wonderful retreat! I should find out how John is feeling after awhile. I imagine I'll wait for him sometime tomorrow. He already said he won't make it to my friends tonight. So probably tomorrow we'll sync up our schedules. Portland is down the pipeline of cities coming up. I checked there....motels booked up like crazy. So I went ahead and made a reservation at a KOA for Monday night, so I'll have a "sure" place to stay. It's around there John and I should get back on track.
Everyday is such a new and different experience. Almost like waking up and it's Christmas! I'll see what today brings.
Enjoy your beautiful Sunday,
Cyndi
I ended up sleeping well, as yesterday was a really rough day (for both John and I). I set my alarm to get up, and was sound asleep when it went off. The temperature was perfect for outdoor 'camping ', and turns out, no rain. I could have slept for many more hours like that. But McDonald's coffee was awaiting me. Gotta go! I packed what few things I had unpacked, and headed down the road. No fog, nice! It's very damp in the air, but overall, just right. Everything feels damp. My sleeping bag, my clothes. No worries, it's not a big deal. Breakfast is complete, I brush my teeth in their bathroom, and I'm off again, feeling brand new and oh-so-thankful for all this around me. I have everything I need.
For now though, I am headed to Brunswick to stay with Larry and Ellen. That will be a wonderful retreat! I should find out how John is feeling after awhile. I imagine I'll wait for him sometime tomorrow. He already said he won't make it to my friends tonight. So probably tomorrow we'll sync up our schedules. Portland is down the pipeline of cities coming up. I checked there....motels booked up like crazy. So I went ahead and made a reservation at a KOA for Monday night, so I'll have a "sure" place to stay. It's around there John and I should get back on track.
Everyday is such a new and different experience. Almost like waking up and it's Christmas! I'll see what today brings.
Enjoy your beautiful Sunday,
Cyndi
Saturday, August 12, 2017
Night 12 - Rain, Rain, Go Away
Your can't sugar coat this. Rain, shoulder issues (part of the way), back in the mountains and I am a little tired. The ups and downs (literally) won today. The mountains beat me. It rained til around noon, then cleared up nicely. I didn't really like the rain, but it was warm and just a regular rain. No big wind or storms. Just rain coming straight down. It was the mountain grades that got me today. Route 1 moved away from the coast a bit, and you know what that means in Maine. Mountains.
My morning actually started telling Richard goodbye. (His wife wasn't up yet). He offered us coffee, but I declined, as he had done more than enough by letting me take cover under their awning of their RV, and the use of their reclining outdoor chairs. It was pretty nice!! And I so appreciate it. I told him thank you, thank you, thank you!! And down the road I went.
I did stop a few times to tape hot spots on my feet. I stopped for coffee once. I used any excuse to stop, to get out of the rain. But I was making horrible time, and it looked like a long day ahead of me. That's okay, I'll get there eventually. I just had trouble lighting a fire under myself today. I was moving at warp speed. The only thing fast were the cars flying by me. The traffic was like someone had turned on a facet....and instead of water coming out, cars did. They were one after the other, for miles and miles! I could hardly believe it, it was a constant stream. The road noise was a little much. I spent the day heading to Damariscotta. The motels are full, as most any Inn, B&B and certainly motel is full. Only the super expensive places are left with vacancy. I can't tell you how many places I've gone by that day "No Vacancy ". It's the weekend, I'm in a tourist hotspot, and on a popular highway. It's so very beautiful with lots to do.
So in my situation, it's about finding a place to camp for the night, as we've done a number of times now. There's no campground close, so I've picked out two spots so far. 1) The Vet Clinic that has a fabulous deck with coverage, or 2) The covered dugout at the high school. I haven't made a final decision, but it will be one of those, most likely.
My day was very uneventful, mainly very dreary. Fog, clouds and rain. So much that I could not see the ocean whenever it presented itself. I understand the fog here is completely normal. It did all burn off by around noon, and that amazing breeze showed up. It's one of my favorite things about Maine. The breeze is refreshing. Not hot, not cold, just right. I've had several vehicles beep-beep a friendly hello and wave frantically. Some have seen me previously, some may be encouraging me, but mostly it's s friendly "Hello!", and I appreciate it. I always wave back.
Upon arriving in Damariscotta, I started looking for a "camp site". What I did come across was a Subway, next to a laundromat. Since I had plenty of time, I decided to do some laundry. It was great! I could also charge my devices (phone, flashing blinking lights - much needed in the am!). I used their restroom there to wash my face and clean up a bit. I even washed my sleeping bag because it REALLY needed it. I ate dinner at Subway, and will go by the grocery store here, as well. Just regular maintenance things, and I'm fortunate it's all in such close proximity.
My best news of the day came when Larry contacted me. Remember him? The Scientist. He and his wife, Ellen sat next to me on my flight from DFW to Boston. They asked me to pop by when I pass through their town. Larry works right off Route 1, and they live about 1 1/2 miles away from Route 1. Coincidentally, that's my 'landing' spot tomorrow. They live in Topshan, and I'll be going to Brunswick tomorrow, which is adjacent to where they live. Of course, Larry won't be at his office on Sunday, but they have invited me to stay with them tomorrow night. They mentioned dinner, a spare room, shower and a laundry opportunity. How wonderful, and I'm super excited about sleeping in a regular bed, having a family dinner, and maybe coffee in the morning. But mostly, it will be nice to visit with them.
Going to wind things up, and head to a spot to lay my head.
Enjoy your evening,
Cyndi
My morning actually started telling Richard goodbye. (His wife wasn't up yet). He offered us coffee, but I declined, as he had done more than enough by letting me take cover under their awning of their RV, and the use of their reclining outdoor chairs. It was pretty nice!! And I so appreciate it. I told him thank you, thank you, thank you!! And down the road I went.
I did stop a few times to tape hot spots on my feet. I stopped for coffee once. I used any excuse to stop, to get out of the rain. But I was making horrible time, and it looked like a long day ahead of me. That's okay, I'll get there eventually. I just had trouble lighting a fire under myself today. I was moving at warp speed. The only thing fast were the cars flying by me. The traffic was like someone had turned on a facet....and instead of water coming out, cars did. They were one after the other, for miles and miles! I could hardly believe it, it was a constant stream. The road noise was a little much. I spent the day heading to Damariscotta. The motels are full, as most any Inn, B&B and certainly motel is full. Only the super expensive places are left with vacancy. I can't tell you how many places I've gone by that day "No Vacancy ". It's the weekend, I'm in a tourist hotspot, and on a popular highway. It's so very beautiful with lots to do.
So in my situation, it's about finding a place to camp for the night, as we've done a number of times now. There's no campground close, so I've picked out two spots so far. 1) The Vet Clinic that has a fabulous deck with coverage, or 2) The covered dugout at the high school. I haven't made a final decision, but it will be one of those, most likely.
My day was very uneventful, mainly very dreary. Fog, clouds and rain. So much that I could not see the ocean whenever it presented itself. I understand the fog here is completely normal. It did all burn off by around noon, and that amazing breeze showed up. It's one of my favorite things about Maine. The breeze is refreshing. Not hot, not cold, just right. I've had several vehicles beep-beep a friendly hello and wave frantically. Some have seen me previously, some may be encouraging me, but mostly it's s friendly "Hello!", and I appreciate it. I always wave back.
Upon arriving in Damariscotta, I started looking for a "camp site". What I did come across was a Subway, next to a laundromat. Since I had plenty of time, I decided to do some laundry. It was great! I could also charge my devices (phone, flashing blinking lights - much needed in the am!). I used their restroom there to wash my face and clean up a bit. I even washed my sleeping bag because it REALLY needed it. I ate dinner at Subway, and will go by the grocery store here, as well. Just regular maintenance things, and I'm fortunate it's all in such close proximity.
My best news of the day came when Larry contacted me. Remember him? The Scientist. He and his wife, Ellen sat next to me on my flight from DFW to Boston. They asked me to pop by when I pass through their town. Larry works right off Route 1, and they live about 1 1/2 miles away from Route 1. Coincidentally, that's my 'landing' spot tomorrow. They live in Topshan, and I'll be going to Brunswick tomorrow, which is adjacent to where they live. Of course, Larry won't be at his office on Sunday, but they have invited me to stay with them tomorrow night. They mentioned dinner, a spare room, shower and a laundry opportunity. How wonderful, and I'm super excited about sleeping in a regular bed, having a family dinner, and maybe coffee in the morning. But mostly, it will be nice to visit with them.
Going to wind things up, and head to a spot to lay my head.
Enjoy your evening,
Cyndi
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