If It's Tuesday, It Must Be Pennsylvania/Tales of Day Six

If you want to enjoy beautiful scenery, pristine farmland, rolling hills, scenic country roads, friendly people, and miles of state forests, look no further than the great US of A. We have been so fortunate to discover some of the most beautiful rides through the countryside as we make our way through New York, New Jersey, and Pennsylvania. I have never been on a game show, won a lottery or otherwise got the "grand prize" but I can honestly say that yesterday I came as close as I ever to experiencing the excitement that comes from such a surprising event. When I pulled up to the tollhouse to check in to Panther Lake campground yesterday, the girl in the booth asked me if I had a reservation. About the time that my brain was processing something familiar about her voice, she turned to me, took off her sunglasses and said 'surprise". Ding, ding, ding, we have a winner, how surprised and excited to see that it was my cousin Melissa, and right behind her jumping out of the booth, my Aunt Joanie. They tracked us down to offer their support and be part of this wonderful experience. We found our campsite, and were able to demonstrate our competency in setting up camp. It was such a generous show of support for them to make the trip from New York. An action of love and surprise that will be indelibly imprinted in the tale of this journey.

An additional surprise upon arriving at Panther Lake was that the owner, George, after hearing about our ride gave us the night at the campground without charge. You see, George recently lost his mother in law to breast cancer. He is a sweet man, and the entire staff at Panther Lake showed us much caring and support. Another great meal last night, tomato, fresh basil, feta and balsamic, hummus, carrots, and cheese and apple, all in the camper.

Today's ride was probably the most phenomenal ride I have ever experience. Miles and miles of freshly paved roads, no cars, rolling farms, horse farms, down along the Delaware River, just beautiful. We put on almost another hundred miles today.

Tomorrow we head to Exton, Pa. where my brother and his wife reside. Betsy will take a breather and head home for a few days, and Andy will jump on board. Next Monday, Betsy returns with Jake and Liza, and Mom heads back with Andy.

It's all good. Lot's of time for self reflection, practicing love, peace, joy and gratitude. and more importantly, practicing coming back to love peace, joy and gratitude, when the mind wants to stray away.

Lots of love to you all, for supporting, understanding, and valuing that which is so important to us. Hop on ..........let's go!!!!