On Beyond the East Coast

OK... So much has happened since we left Washington D.C. that it truly seems otherworldly. Let's begin at leaving the Capitol.

We used the new purchase of 'The Most Scenic Drives in America,' to guide us through the Maryland Panhandle en route to Morgantown, West Virginia. The timing could not have been better, as we were treated to some of the most fantastically brilliant foliage either of us had ever seen. Every hill seemed to open up a new vista of color, previously unprecedented. A wrong turn turned out to be so right, only in the Allegheny's will you see a goat on a stoop.

We then took a leg stretch of a hike at Split Rock State Park to see the Canyon Overlook Trail if you could even call it a trail. The view was spectacular though.

Onto Cumberland, Maryland which was a cute little town with a Steam Engine Locomotive billowing soot as we arrived off the highway ramp. It was a beautiful little spot for a picnic on a table on the main drag. Apparently, travel magazine named it one of the 'Eight Small Towns to Visit' in the whole world. Also on that list: Montauk, NY and Breckenridge, CO!

Nick's cousin Tommy warmly greeted us in Morgantown, and even though we missed all of the college craziness of the weekend, we were treated to their turn hosting a weekly Sunday family meal (Virginia Ham and Shrimp Scampi - not bad for college eats!) Chris, Ben, Tommy, Brenden, and Raja (the kitty) were so hospitable we had a blast just recooping from the first leg of the journey and touring the campus. (also - Monorail!)
More Sweetness to Come!