END OF THE LINE

Northern Virginia

During the first couple of days in May, Paula and I found ourselves at the South Fork Campground in Front Royal, Virginia.  From here, we rode the motorcycle to the Apple Blossom Festival in Winchester one day, and up into the Shenandoah National Park and the Skyline Drive the next.

Skyline Drive Vista

Mechanicsburg and Hershey Chocolate World

We stayed with my friends, Ron & Margie Santo, in Mechanicsburg, PA  for several days.  Margie’s son, Andrew, was also there visiting from Pensacola, Florida, so we filled up the house.  Ron was recovering from some serious health issues, so the days were not as enjoyable for them as what they otherwise might have been.  Despite this, we had a great time sampling several local eateries, which included a great sushi spot and a local breakfast favorite, “Diener’s” in downtown Mechanicsburg.  We even caught an end-of-the-year music program that one of Ron’s granddaughter’s was in, which reminded us of our younger days and elementary school gyms.

We couldn't pass within smelling distance of Hershey, Pennsylvania without stopping at the Hershey Chocolate World.  Paula has a real penchant for chocolate and I admit to having an occasional craving myself.  We designed our own candy bar, attended a tasting class, rode a trolley through the chocolate factory, and left with many chocolate "gifts" for others.  Some of the gifts did not make it home! 

Christian Brothers and Uncle Al

Uncle Al with Paula at his side

After an overnight visit to the Hollywood Casino northeast of Harrisburg, Paula and I camped at Colonial Woods RV Resort just to the south and east of Allentown, PA near the Delaware River and New Jersey stateline.  There we prepared to visit her uncle Al at a Christian Brothers nursing home in Lincroft, NJ.  The “De LaSalle” Brothers took excellent care of us during our visit there.  They shared 3 wonderful meals each day in the dining hall, provided a very walkable campus near the Christian Brothers Academy, and invited us to a short Sunday Mass with the brothers.  Paula's Uncle has devoted his life to education and related activities, along with the other men in this group.  


After leaving New Jersey, we spent only two more days on the road before reentering the State of Vermont and returning home.  It is now the last week in May, and Paula and I are still “moving back into” the area and re-establishing our normal daily routines.  The trip was an outstanding experience, but I am very happy to be home among my Green Mountain friends once again.  Thank you for traveling with me, and sharing my adventures!

Love, Tim