The Home Stretch (August 30-September 1)

On Monday, I arrived in Oneonta (oh-nee-on-ta), NY around 11:00. I had a "lunch date" scheduled with my poetry comrade, Robb, at Noon, so I strolled around the SUNY Oneonta campus in the meantime. Beautiful! I probably should have stopped by the HR office to check on vacant positions.

SUNY College at Oneonta

I met up with Robb at Noon and we had a nice little chat over lunch. Robb and I met through ACUI where Robb started the CUPSI poetry slam tournament. After meeting all of the great poets from SUNY Oneonta, it was wonderful to finally see the campus and to chat with Robb on his home turf.

Clarion Oaks Golf Club

After lunch, it was off to Clarion, PA to visit my buddy, Steve. I was immediately impressed by Steve's living/working environment at Reinhard Villages. The community is really nice, and the apartments are extremely impressive. I was very comfortable with my own bedroom and bathroom--luxury! I guess Steve joined the "time is now" tour simply by hosting me--I was his first overnight guest in the new apartment. We went to dinner at the Pizza Pub where I enjoyed great pizza and a "fishbowl" of Yuengling lager. The evening was low key with chatting, TV, and relaxing. On Tuesday morning, we ventured out to Clarion Oaks Golf Club for 18 challenging holes of golf. No earth shattering scores to report, but the course was beautiful and the weather was very pleasant. We grabbed a quick lunch at Arby's (OK, not so quick--I ate nearly two meals), then I cleaned up a bit before the next road trip. Prior to departure, Steve gave me a tour of the Reinhard Villages Community Center, including his office. After the tour, it was time to move on to Ohio.

Steve at his office desk

Me from Steve's desk point of view

I did attempt a quick visit with Brett, a fellow BGSU alum and student affairs colleague, who works at Clarion University. However, parking and timelines were working against me. Ohio was beckoning, and it was time to answer the call.

I arrived in Columbiana, OH just in time to meet Erich after work. We chatted briefly and then headed out for 9 holes at Lake Front Golf Course where Erich had a pretty good round (40-something) and I...well, I did not. After golf, we stopped by the Canfield Fair Grounds so Erich could take care of a few details before opening day. Dinner and Golden Tee video golf were fully enjoyed at Aces Wild Wings in Boardman; I stuffed myself with pierogies, a reuben sandwich, and some wings (and a salad? don't remember). We stayed up pretty late just hanging out that night.

Wednesday morning was my 37th birthday, and I started it right--I slept in! While Erich was at work, I took the opportunity to catch up on some blog posting and other communications. In the afternoon, we grabbed a quick bite and then played the front nine at Copeland Hills--a fun course with a fair amount of challenge from length, trees, and bunkers. My game fell apart a few times, but we had a great experience. I look forward to playing there again, and especially to playing the full 18 holes.

Erich and I said our goodbyes at the Copeland Hills parking lot, and I started my short trek home to Elyria. I stopped on the way for some road snacks (Chicken Selects strips from McDonalds) and had a very uneventful drive home. I arrived at my parents' house in Elyria around 9:30pm. Although the house is undergoing serious renovations, it felt good to arrive home.

Upstate New York (August 28-30)

On Saturday (8/28), I arrived at my hotel in Endwell, NY (near Binghamton) very late--it was just after midnight, so I guess it was technically Sunday. I checked in, relaxed, and had a decent night sleep on a bed the felt like a box spring with no mattress.

On Sunday morning, I slept in late and checked out around 11am, heading out to Schenectady, NY and Union College. I arrived in Schenectady just before 2:00 and drove around town for awhile (my host, Connie, was away on a work retreat). Driving around was slightly crazy, even with Garmin, because of the "historical" layout of the road system, including a few one-way areas--oh, and the weekly farmers' market that closes two blocks of downtown roadways. I found parking and walked around looking for a local fare for lunch. I ended up at the Katz Kafe. The sandwich and iced coffee were both fully enjoyed!

Nott Memorial

West College Hall

I met up with Connie in her Union College abode around 3:00. We chatted for awhile, and then took a walking tour of campus. I took a couple of pictures, including the Nott Memorial.

After the tour, it was time to set out for "time is now" experiences. Our first stop was Bumpy's Polar Freeze--the venue was not a first-time place, but riding the bumper boats was a first-time experience. I've never been in bumper boats before, so I can't really compare; it was awkward learning to maneuver the crafts, and the "bumps" tended to be less-than-dramatic. Regardless, it was fun and I particularly enjoyed spinning in circles (don't you wish there was video!).

bumper boats at Bumpy's

Connie at Bumpy's

Mohawk River from Riverside Park

While at Bumpy's, we also enjoyed some scrumptious ice cream! From there, we went in search of parks. We first landed at Riverside Park on the shore of the Mohawk River. Connie and I challenged our imaginations, offering each other fictional "tours" of the park's offerings. After Riverside, we went on to Central Park and the Central Park Rose Garden. The following is borrowed from Wikipedia:

Central Park Rose Garden

Central Park is the crown jewel of Schenectady's parks. Central Park is the highest elevation point in the city. The Common Council voted in 1913 to purchase the land for the present site of the park. The park features an acclaimed rose garden, Iroquois Lake, and a stadium tennis court which was the former home to the New York Buzz of the World Team Tennis league (as of 2008).

The Rose Garden was beautiful! It was such a joy to literally stop and smell the roses--everywhere! I never realized how varied rose fragrances can be, and I was imagining how the park must smell when the flowers are in peak bloom. The rest of the park made for a very nice stroll, including the ponds, pool, amphitheater, and picnic areas.

Central Park Rose Garden

Central Park Rose Garden

Central Park Rose Garden

After the park, we went in search of dining options on a Sunday night, finally selecting The Waters Edge Lighthouse Restaurant. Although we did not get to sit outside, the food was VERY good and the atmosphere was nice. After dinner, Connie humored me by participating in a late-night MBTI consultation, and then it was time for bed (although I stayed up for awhile utilizing the ethernet connection). Although Connie's cat, Albus, kept me company on the couch part of the night, I neglected to take any pictures.

On Monday morning, it was back to work for Connie and back to the road for me. I headed out for Clarion, PA with a lunch stop anticipated in Oneonta, NY.

Tour Map: 9/1/2010

Today is September 1, 2010. I turned 37 today. I also completed 20 consecutive days of travel, ending a full travel month totaling more than 5800 miles. I'm back home in Elyria, OH, where my parents' house is undergoing serious renovations.

I will soon finish the blog posts for the trip, including Schenectady, Oneonta, Clarion, and Columbiana. However, in the upcoming days before the weekend, my priorities will be job applications and progress toward graduation (paperwork if nothing else). At some point, other writing projects will develop from this trip, but all in due time.

Over 5800 miles in 31 days

The travel, the journeys, and the stories are not over. Whether by car or by plane, and whether a quick visit or extended tour, I will make my way to the west coast as promised (Alameda and Seattle, if not others). I just am not sure of a timeline. I also intend to keep the "time is now" project alive beyond this 2010 tour; more information forthcoming.

For the moment, I wish everyone well and extend another "thank you" to all of my hosts along the way!

Gettysburg, PA (August 28)

Driving into PA, I stopped at a Welcome Center for a rest and for Gettysburg literature. I basically learned three things:

1. All of Gettysburg is pretty much a giant National Park of battle fields
2. Driving tours (guided and self-guided audio) are popular
3. The layout of the area (two maps)

With this information, I continued on to Gettysburg. I could not navigate really well alone in the car, but I somewhat intuitively/randomly ended up at the National Park Service Visitors Center. I went inside to explore, and purchased a ticket to the museum where I compared Civil War history lessons with my recently-acquired knowledge from Richmond, and learned the history of the Gettysburg battles of July 1, 2, and 3, 1863. I think the most overwhelming moment for me was reading and hearing the Gettysburg Address--Lincoln truly was gifted in his writing and his ability to appropriately fit a moment (as reflected in his very brief comments now termed the Gettysburg Address). By some good fortune or fate, I had just enough time to finish the museum tour before it closed, and then browse the gift shop before closing. I purchased a CD Auto Tour which I used very briefly later in the day; I expect to visit again sometime and complete the tour. Upon exiting, I snapped the following picture of Lincoln's statue outside the center.

Entrance

As I walked toward the parking lot, I noticed signs for a walking trail leading to the Gettysburg National Cemetery. In need of exercise and happy for some beautiful weather, I started my hike. Within a few minutes, I arrived at the cemetery where I spent about 30 minutes exploring and taking photos.

Site of Gettysburg Address

Unknown Soldiers

Monument

Monument ( close up)

From the cemetery, I somewhat aimlessly wandered around the grounds, passing through The Brian Farm area and arriving at the High Water Mark area, marking the furthest northern encroachment of confederate troops during the war.

The Brian Farm

The High Water Mark

As sunset was drawing near, I quickly hiked back to my car at the Visitors Center and checked the map for any "must see" items before my departure. I decided the Eternal Light Peace Memorial was a must see, so I listened to some of the audio tour while driving to the north end of town. I won't even try putting into words at this point the experience of seeing the memorial against the setting sun. I will simply provide a few photos.

Eternal Light Peace Memorial at Oak Hill

"Peace Eternal in a Nation United"

East side of memorial

West side of memorial

As I post these photos, I am still overwhelmed with emotion, not only from the memorial, but also from my new-found understanding of the war overall. I am without appropriate words; I have tried, but none seem to accurately portray my sentiments or emotions.

With a glimpse of twilight on the horizon, I set back to my road trip heading for my overnight stay near Binghamton, NY.

West Virginia (August 27-28)

I arrived in Capon Bridge, WV around 7:00. Liberty Gas Station was the rendezvous point with Kimber, and we proceeded to Anthony's Pizza to order takeout for the cabin. Kimber and I chatted while the pizza baked, then made the long and winding mountain trek (in cars, of course) up to the cabin. I fully enjoyed my cheesesteak pizza over various conversations with Kimber and Cathy. Later, Kimber stayed up with me as I took a long and laborious route on the information superhighway to book a hotel room in NY for the next night; I'm guessing the process took about 2 hours--don't ask.

I formally met the newest members to my family circle, Margaret and Kate, in the morning. We all enjoyed breakfast and various morning activities before heading down to the pond/beach/playground. It was a joyous morning of relaxation and play that I'm sure to remember for a very long time. Margaret and Kate are absolutely adorable, and I'm excited to know them! I stayed longer than anticipated, but it was still a very quick trip (and with no photos--so sorry). As playtime concluded and beach items were packed into cars in anticipation of lunch time, I bid my farewells and headed back to the highway en route to Gettysburg, PA.

Richmond, VA (August 25-27)

Fortunately on Wednesday (8/25) morning, there were no traces of rain from the previous night because I left my sunroof open--that's what I get for having it open during night drives. I got on the road about two hours later than anticipated, but I really needed the sleep. Once I got on I-95 northbound, I laughed because Garmin said "continue 559 miles," making it the single longest stretch of road I have driven. Usually there are some sort of little interchanges or "keep lefts" along the way but this was just one single stretch of 559 miles. Of course, I exited for breaks a few times.

One thing I've decided about road food is that I'm going to fully enjoy the fast food if that's going to be the option. As such, I held out for a Chick-fil-A exit. Great choice 'cause I love me some Chick-fil-A! I ate an entire sandwich along with a small order of nuggets--aahh! This particular restaurant was kind enough to leave pitchers of sweet tea and plain tea out on the counter, so I did not have to suffer a wait at the counter for a refill. With my tummy full of chick, I headed back out on the road.

Welcome Sign for South of the Border

I also stopped at South of the Border (technically Dillon, South Carolina). Many years ago, I noticed this little tourist trap driving home from Myrtle Beach and swore I would stop if ever driving through again. So, it happened on this day. I filled up the gas tank and visited the public restrooms (which was weird because it was sort of like a beach facility but without a beach). The little amusement park seemed to be closed, so I just snapped a few pictures, purchased beverages from the general store, and then got back on the interstate into North Carolina.

South of the Border amusements

It was dark as I drove into Richmond, and I found my way (thanks, Garmin) to "The Diamond" where I met my hosts, Jim and Beth. I arrived during the 3rd inning of a game between the Richmond Flying Squirrels and the Reading Phillies. The home team lost 2-4, but there were still fireworks after. In fact, the fireworks rivaled many July 4 municipal displays! Although it was late, Jim & Beth entertained my request for dinner, taking me to a local tavern. I enjoyed a relatively healthy chicken wrap along with fantastic conversation! I'm pretty sure we could have enjoyed this experience for many more hours, but it was late and Beth needed to be at work pretty early the next day. So, after some brief chat back at the house, we called it a night. I did spend some time on my computer before sleeping, at which point I first encountered a terrible grinding sound from inside my MacBook--an unpleasant discovery for sure.

I never heard Beth getting ready for work on Thursday morning, and Jim woke me before heading out to an appointment, so I had the house to myself as I cleaned up and got ready for the day. I attended to some business online before Jim came home, and he helped me schedule an appointment to have my MacBook serviced. Then we went to Buz and Ned's Real Barbecue for a fabulous bbq lunch. The air was thick with aroma from the outdoor smokers, and we steeped in a bath of smoky goodness at our outdoor seats. The food was almost as wonderful as the company! 

Later in the afternoon, we toured the American Civil War Center, an experience I highly recommend for anyone in or near Richmond. Whether visiting the museum or just curious, be sure to check out their podcasts intended for use along the tour. This was Jim's entry to the "time is now" tour. I've never been much of a Civll War student (or history student), so I probably increased my Civil War knowledge about 10 fold during this afternoon. Jim and I engaged in inquisitive, and occasionally scholarly, discussion throughout the tour and beyond. After leaving the museum, we visited the statue of Lincoln with his son, Tad, near the center. Despite any protest regarding the memorial's placement here in Richmond, I found it very fitting.

Beth was home from work when we returned to the house, and she drove me to the mall for my Apple Store (Genius Bar) appointment. In the end, I had a diagnostic report filed, no service completed, and I purchased an external hard drive for backup purposes. As of this posting, my MacBook is still functioning fine--knock on wood. Although it was an odd excursion for this visit, I fully enjoyed the chat time with Beth, an experience for which I am grateful.

Dinner was carry out pizza and lasagna from a local restaurant [sorry, no name on this one]--it was fabulous and the lasagna was quite possibly the best I've ever had! The rest of the evening was very low key around the homestead, including some very entertaining Rock Band [video game] experiences. FYI, Jim rocks out on the drums. The night also included a healthy dose of beer (for me, anyway) along with plentiful laughter and smiles!

At my request, Beth did wake me for a "farewell" as she left for work Friday morning (since I would be leaving before her return home). I went back to sleep, and Jim let me sleep in until after 11:00--whoa! To some extent, a wasted morning but a good rest regardless. Jim took me to lunch at The Dairy Bar where we both enjoyed absolutely fabulous patty melts and milkshakes (mine was chocolate and peanut butter). We went back to the house and used our remaining time for an MBTI (Myers-Briggs) discussion/consultation. As is typical, the experience opened up some great dialogue and I think it was a very good experience for both of us. Shortly after 3:30, I was on the road heading to West Virginia.

As with most of my tour stops, this one was WAY to quick. It is sad that the three of us have not been together since their wedding 10 years ago. I depart with extremely joyous memories and expectations for much more frequent rendezvous in the future.