Is it Ever TOO Hot to RV? RoadAbode RoadTrip August 2016

Too hot to RV? In a word - No. You just have to plan some different activities.
It was suppose to be DisneyWorld for August. But we found our house heating/cooling system needs to be replaced. So to save money, we opted for a "mini-trip." Right now I'm in RoadAbode relaxing at the beautiful Cherry Hill Campground in College Park Md. As I lie on the bed typing this, Amy is doing some work for The Table food pantry next to me and our girls are watching cartoons. It's 10 am and already it's over 90 humid degrees out.
I understand "it's not the heat, but the humidity" but each day's heat index has been over 102F.
The east coast has been in a heat wave for five days, and relief is not coming for a few more. Last night was the first time walking around the campground at twilight I've ever seen not a single soul sitting outside, or speaking with neighbors. A small troop of boy scout left early this morning - the heat just too much. Kind of glad we didn't do the expense of Disney this time!
So we are huddled in RoadAbode, a comfortably 79 degrees, doing things we want to do. Maybe not first choices, but definitely different than if we were home. So even though this weekend is not enjoying outdoors, we can still enjoy some "downtime". There are other things to do in this heat.

Cherry Hill Park Entrance

Yesterday, we treated ourselves to an IHOP down the road from Cherry Hill PArk, and then we stayed out of the heat and enjoyed a roadtrip to the Steven F. Udvar-Hazy Center in Virginia. This annex of the Washington DC Air and Space Museum displays some of the hundreds of planes the Smithsonian has in it's possession. And most important on this overly hot day - air conditioned! Some of the more interesting large craft include a Lockheed Blackbird, the Concord, and the Space Shuttle Discovery. Other smaller craft that I found interesting were World War Two craft, including a wooden glider with a swastika on the tail fin. I found this interesting because my father told me of his memories as a boy, seeing these craft being pulled up into the air in farm fields by motorcycle. The enormity and variety of aircraft to see was almost overwhelming. One I did not expect to see was the Red Bull Stratos Capsule - which parachutist Felix Baumgartner used for his free fall from space.

The Red Bull Stratos

One that evoked mixed feeling was also on display. Though I know the Enola Gay is part of history, seeing this plane that had a part in the death of over 150,000 civilians saddened me. From the first floor viewing area, it almost seems as if the plane was on pedestals, looming over us. I understand that this is to help view the plane from the second floor catwalk. I hope we citizens of earth become smart enough to never repeat the decisions that led to what occurred in Hiroshima.

The Enola Gay

Other interesting craft included a section dedicated to helicopters, balloon flight, and stunt planes. A separate wing is totally devoted to spacecraft and rocketry, both from the United States and former Soviet Union's military and space programs.
The histories told and type of aircraft to learn about was almost overwhelming. We did not even make it to see the wide variety of military aircraft on display. Another trip is in order.
We did get to the mock air control tower they had setup. It provides a bird's eye view of it's next door neighbor, Washington Dulles International Airport, and the surrounding area countryside. Pretty cool to hear the radio chatter between the real air tower and pilots landing. The expansive windows in the viewing area allow you to see the planes take off and land.
The last stop we made was to the gift shop. We purchased a few sew on patches to add to our collection, and the girls got a few interesting trinkets and books
On the way back to Cherry Hill Park, we located on Google Maps a few thrift shops enroute. Two seemed pretty close to each other in the Silver Springs area. It turns out they were next to each other! Side by side, Unique Thrift and Value Village Thrift Store, and sharing space between these two stores, some interesting small retailers selling everything from electronics, phone accessories and apparel. There was even a small cafe/eatery in one corner. It was an odd setup, and from the signage found inside, the two stores must have the same owner. They were in the midst of a sale, so all summer type clothing was 50% off! I didn't need anything, but the girls found some great bargains on things that were already great prices. The preschool teacher of the family found plenty of books to share with her students. If someone was starting a first house or apartment, this would definitely be a great place to hit.
Once back to RoadAbode, the girls hit the pool, I took a nap and then we convened together at the Star cafe near the pool for dinner.  Cherry Hill Park has a great cafe, and from previous outings in years past I was looking forward to an authentic handmaid broiled Maryland crab cake. Alas, the cooks must have changed, as a crab cake was no longer on the menu, but the burgers, pulled pork and gyro we all had were very good, and not overpriced. They also  have a great list of breakfast muffins and pastries, and some very good selections of ice cream for your sweet tooth. Everything is fresh, made to order, and their kitchen prep areas are noticeably very clean. I'd say it's the best campground cafe we have ever been to!
After dinner, we opted to watch some tv and play some card games. If you've never experienced Exploding Kittens, I'd suggest adding it to your repertoire of "games to play for all ages."

A card game about Explosions. Kittens. And sometimes Goats.

Overnight we had a pretty intense thunderstorm. This was according to the girls and Amy, apparently I slept through it. Today was a "swim day" so we had breakfast, and relaxed by surfing the web (girls) doing some work (Amy) or reading (me). The pool opens rather late - Noon - so we had plenty of time for these activities.  Once we got to the pool, I was surprised how few were taking advantage of a dip during the heatwave. Then I remembered that many people come here to hit Washington DC, and were probably sightseeing. It was great to have two pools almost all to ourselves! It was also nice to see they had a lifeguard positioned between the two pools, actively scanning the waters for trouble. So few campgrounds have lifeguard staff anymore, and rely on "swim at your own risk" signs. We stayed in the pool for a few hours. The water could have been a few degrees cooler, and felt warm. I did cool off once I stepped out for a bit. Not sure if the pools are heated, or it was just the action of the sun warming up the water.

Cherry Hill Park "mushroom" water feature in one of two pools

Checkout is a little early - 11am - (but then check-in is early too at the same - 11am) than usual for us, so we just lounged a bit and slowly readied RoadAbode for departure. The ride home is almost all freeways. I mentioned to Amy we should come more often - the ride is really only about three hours from RoadAbode's home - depending on time of day traffic of course.

More About Cherry Hill Park - This is a top park to visit. This is the first time we stayed more to "home base" and relaxed than go visit DC. There is plenty to do in the area besides Washington DC. Cherry Hill Park is also close to area restaurants, and a great pizza place and a large grocery store is only about a mile up the road. The office staff are very knowledgeable and helpful for getting around to the various attractions. Think of them as more of a concierge service that just someone to check you in, or ring up a sale. The store itself has plenty of Washington DC souvenirs for sale, a small grocery aisle and a large RV parts department. While there I picked up some some items, a nice sewer cap with a handle I'd been wanting to replace (lost when we had a tire blowout), and some washers with filter screens built in. I did a price comparison and they were about the same as Amazon or less (not including shipping) In fact, if you needed work done to your RV, you could make an appointment to have that done by an onsite tech while you are out sightseeing for the day. Check them out at www.cherryhillpark.com

Decorative Pond at Cherry Hill Park at sunset

Yours truly with lazy summer beard and the college-bound youngest at the Steven F. Udvar-Hazy Center.

RoadAbode's Hidden Gems - Janes Island State Park, Maryland

RoadAbode campsite at Janes Island, Crisfield Maryland

Today we are sharing a hidden gem in the state of Maryland. Maybe not exactly hidden to locals or those who have experienced the tranquility and simple, natural beauty found at Janes Island State Park. Janes Island is located on the Lower Eastern Shore region of the Chesapeake Bay. This Maryland state park is partially on mainland and partially on the island itself, is a great spot to settle into with your RV. According to the Maryland State Parks Department website, the island portion of the park – Janes Island – includes over 2,900 acres of salt-marsh, over 30 miles of water trails, and miles of isolated pristine beaches.

In the campground, sites are level and most are shaded by tall pine trees. The best RVing sites seem to be in the "B" loop, and most include 30 amp electrical. There is a water fill and separate dump station available as you enter or leave the loop. Bathhouse B underwent a renovation updating project in the fall of 2014. Though the Park does not have a swimming area, you can reach remote Chesapeake Bay beaches on the island, only accessible by following water trails by kayak or canoe.

There is plenty of wildlife to see and encounter. Turtles, heron, egret and other shore line fauna make their home in and around the island. Janes Island is a salt marsh, so be sure to bring your bug spray to fend off the mosquitoes and biting flies - which are especially prevalent the end of June into July. Hiking, biking or boating, there are plenty of opportunities to see local wildlife. To learn about wildlife stop in at the nature center. Rangers regularly give educational talks about the local area and the unique ecosystem of the  Chesapeake Bay.

Janes Island State Park - Maryland

Besides providing lovely campsites, Janes Island itself has lots to offer.

Boating

Whether kayak, canoe, or something bigger, Janes Island State Park is a great place to enjoy a paddle or cruise on the water. Daughtery Creek passes right along the campground, and the dock by the nature center and park store offer easy access for personal water craft. There are marked water trails that wind throughout the island’s saltmarsh. Most of the waterways are protected from wind and current, providing a great paddle experience for newbies or the experienced alike.If you did not bring your own kayak or canoe, they are available for rent.

Crabbing and Fishing

This is actually where the RoadAbode Crew learned how to crab! We really had fun learning, and crabbing with friends that biked over from the neighboring town of Crisfield. They had purchased a few acre "getaway" here, and after a few years decided to make Crisfield their home. The park rangers on occasion give crabbing lessons as part of planned activities at the park. Crabbing is great to do with your family because you can have lots of fun with only a little bit of equipment. The main things you need to go crabbing are a ball of twine, pieces of uncooked chicken (chicken necks work best), a clean 5 Gallon bucket and a landing net to pull in your lured crab. All that needs to be done at Janes Island is to sit youself at one of the piers along the Daugherty Creek/Canal tie your chicken neck tightly on your twine, and lower it into the water. Crabs will find the bait, and try to carry it away to somewhere safe for a snack. When you see your line start to "walk" you gently and slowly pull it up - with your landing net at the ready. Once you see the crab in the water still holding onto it's found meal, you dip the landing net underneath and get a crab! It takes a few tries to learn technique, but you'll be capturing the little guys in no time. Whether you opt to throw them back or cook them is up to you, but check in with the ranger station on what sizes or other restrictions there are on your catch. As of this writing, recreational crabbing is free in Maryland - without needing a license: For more crabbing information check the Maryland Department of Natural Resources website
A revamped fish cleaning station was added to the dock area in 2014. Opportunities to cast for flounder, croaker, perch and other types of fish abound. .Though you can fish from the bank, your best possibilites will be from a charter boat or your personal watercraft. A fishing license is required for those16 years or older - but there are exceptions to getting a license free or cheaper. For more information check in at the Park Store, or the Department of Natural Resources website

Other great activities near Janes Island

Crisfield's iconic Water Tower - "Crab Capital of the World"

Access to Crisfield

According to Wikipedia, Crisfield was initially a small fishing village called Annemessex Neck. During European colonization in the 1600's, it was renamed Somers Cove, after Benjamin Summers. When the business potential for seafood was discovered, John W. Crisfield decided to bring the Pennsylvania Railroad to Crisfield, and the quiet fishing town grew.This southernmost town in Maryland is now known as the "Seafood Capital of the World".
While staying in your RV at Janes Island, this small town just a few minutes away would be the best place to grab some groceries, a pizza, or stop and get your fill of fresh seafood. The town is not a location with fancy eateries or upscale cafes. Enjoy a  walk at the city pier and over to the Ice Cream Shoppe located near the city dock for a cone of handmade deliciousness. Observe the work boats bringing in their catch each day and watch the process crabs go through to be ready for your plate.Take a cruise or rent a boat to experience life on the water.

Smith Island Cake is available on Smith Island and in Crisfield
By Jane Thomas (Flickr: smith island cake) [CC BY 2.0
(http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/2.0)],
via Wikimedia Commons

Smith Island

One delicious reason to know Smith Island is as the origin of Maryland's official State dessert, Smith Island Cake. This multi-layered cake's most common flavor is yellow cake with chocolate icing, but other flavors such as coconut, fig, strawberry, lemon and orange are also available. Known simply as Smith Island Cake, the dessert is baked for any occasion and not reserved only for specific holidays.
Smith Island is also known for it's residents, which speak with a unique dialect.The island was first settled between 1659 and 1686 by English and Welsh settlers. The inhabitants of the island today can trace their ancestry back twelve generations to those original farmers and fishermen . Even though Smith Island was first found and mapped by explorer John Smith it is not named for him, but Henry Smith, an early land owner. Visit the island and learn it's history, take in the scenery and slow down to a pace of life from long ago.
Smith Island is accessible by ferry or charter from Crisfield's shores. Learn more about Smith Island by visiting their website

Wallops Visitor Center

Chinoteague and NASA Wallops Center

Want to see the wild ponies or learn about space exploration (FREE). Both located on Virginia's Eastern Shore are less than an hour away from Janes Island. Chinoteague is home of the famous Wild Pony Swim and Roundup and Virginia's only resort Island. Plenty of opportunities to shop dine or enjoy the beauty of the area and this quaint resort town
The Wallops Center is a NASA research facility that regularly has testing of rockets and training flights of aircraft. The Visitor Center is located approximately 4 miles from the launch pads with a perfect view of every launch from ground to sky. Inside the visitors center learn about the Wallops facility history, aeronautics, upcoming launches and don't forget to hit  the gift shop for a variety of NASA souvenirs.

These are just some of the adventures you can enjoy at Janes Island and using the campground as your home base. Or, perhaps you'd rather sit by a campfire, enjoy the flora and fauna and just stay at your campsite by this hidden gem of the Eastern shore of the Chesapeake Bay. Either way Janes Island should be on your "todo" camping list. For more information about Janes Island here is the Maryland State Park Official Link

Guys Weekend 2014

This years Guys Weekend Ed, Kev, and I took RoadAbode down to Abingdon Maryland to relax at Bar Harbor RV Park & Marina. The beauty of this place is location. Situated on the Bush River, a feeder to the Upper Chesapeake, the RV sites face toward a boardwalk along the banks of the river. One of the few campsites where we keep the driver area curtain open because of the view out over the water. Egrets, heron, hawks and other feathery wildlife abound in this quiet place.

Friday Ed and I headed out about noon to RoadAbode. We stowed our gear, and headed for Kev. Kev was waiting for Leann to get home to "tag Team" for caring for thier son, who was under the weather. It was nice to just sit and talk, and let Ed see the beautiful garden at Kev's home - even though I was itching to get on the road. Once Kev's gear was stowed and we were on our way, the trip south from Souderton was uneventful - which is usually for the best. Google Maps decided that the best way to skirt the traffic mess of the Blue route to i-95 was to hit Route 30 towards Lancaster and then south on Route 10. I think it was a little longer of a trip, but the scenery and driving was much more appealing. The route dropped us on i-95 slightly above the Millard E. Tydings Memorial Bridge, which crosses over the Susquehanna River. Another 20 minutes and we were at the campground.
Once we setup our site and took a stroll around the shoreline and park, we headed out to Pat's Pizza. for dinner. A great little eatery recently refurbished with great oven baked specialty pizzas. IT may be our age, but we couldn't finish the Stuffed steak pizza we ordered, and had to take some slices back with us. We stopped for some supplies and introduced Ed to an Aldi market. Last stop for the eve was for some ice at the Seven-Eleven on the road leading to the campground. Once back we relaxed outside with a campfire and some adult beverages. Had some fun looking thru the High School yearbook Ed brought.
Saturday we visited the town of Havre de Grace. A great little town where the Susquehanna empties into the Chesapeake. Some of the highlights for us there were the Visitors Center - where we learned of some of the revolutionary war history of the town - the river walk from the lighthouse to the town marina, and a wonderfully tasty family owned restaurant called El Jalapeno For dessert (and treats for home) we stopped in Bomboy's Candies. A little on the pricey side, but worth it - and the $5 grab bags hold some yummy treasures!
Dinner was at the local Golden Coral, We jokingly mention we were "seniors". When we sat at the table - we saw we got a discount!
Sunday, We traveled to Susquehanna State Park and walked the abandoned rails along the river, and investigated the old Rock Run Grist Mill. This mill was erected by John Stump in 1794. The engineering of the conveyor elevators, sifting machinery, and  how the grains were made into flour was amazing to see in the water driven mill.
After we stopped at the only winery.in the area, Mt. Felix winery.A bumpy dirt road led us to an Italian inspired villa atop a hill with a beautiful view of the grapes and the Chesapeake beyond. We samples, then bough a bottle a d sat at an outside table, while listening to opera.  The winery may not have the most delectable of wines, but it was quite a relaxing and fun time!
Dinner was Joe's Crab Shack where I was able to dine on they're Cajun prawn special. Not Maryland crab but still a great treat.
Back at the RV Park we enjoyed a swim and more a taste of a few whiskeys. Not a everyday thing for any of us, but interesting to sample and appreciate the different flavor notes of each.

Monday we had breakfast at an old favorite - Waffle House - and then packed up and headed home. Another relaxing Guys Weekend!

At Bar Harbor RV Park ~ Storm Coming

Pretty cool last eve watching a storm come up the bay from the south. The white caps grew on the water, moored boats strained their lines,  and you could see the sheet of rain work its way up on the water.
Today the open water is still, as we eat breakfast and ready to go hiking in Susquehanna State Park.

Storm coming just as we came in from our hike and shopping. Tide is quite high.

Girls enjoying the view before the rains fall.

Enjoying the Chesapeake

The RoadAbode Crew had a great day touring Havre de Grace and Susquehanna State Park. Enjoyed checking in at the Lighthouse and will stop back to peruse the shopping district Friday or Saturday. After checking the camping area in Susquehanna, glad we couldn't get in, and opted to try out Bar Harbor. Coming back to our spot at Bar Harbor RV Park and Marina is absolutely restful. I enjoy watching the waterfowl gliding by and are more interesting to watch fishing than their human counterparts.

A New Neighbor at Bar Harbor RV Park in MD

A new neighbor pulled in at Bar Harbor RV Park. Stopped by to say hello and complement the paint scheme, and was gifted with some Jelly Bellies! Lucky couple gets to travel around the US, and give out Jelly Belly jellybeans at various festivals, concerts and other events. Have a matching VW as a toad. Quite cool!

Sitting on the dock of the bay

Evening in College Park, MD

Made it down 95 without a hitch to Cherry Hill RV Park. Had a late lunch in their great cafe, enjoyed a swim with the girls (even fit in a nap) and just relaxed and laughed for a good bit. Caught a photo of the girls playing with sparklers. Looking forward to touring a bit of DC tomorrow. 

Medival Times

Medival Times
On Tuesday Night we surprised the girls with a Trip to "Medieval Times" a Dinner Theater with audience participation located about 40 minutes from Cherry Hill Park. Our "roles" were as lords and ladies of the kingdom, taking part in festivities at an 11th century castle - guests of the King Phillipe of Leone, and his daughter Princess Leonore. As we enjoyed our feast of a half chicken, we were entertained by a falconer, dancing horses, and finally, a match of six knights. Ours was the Green Knight, Don Temple. Turns out he was the bad guy.
For a great show, and a surprisingly great meal, check out Medieval Times - They have "castles" across the US
Some Pictures: from the Evening

Dancing Horse

Entrance of Medieval Times

Our Ladies Ready for the Show

Library of Congress

Library of Congress

New Day, Bright Skies

A New Day and Bright Skies. Molly and I found a great trail that takes us around the perimeter of the campground. As Molly and I made the rounds, Am started making our breakfast of walnut pancakes and fresh fruit salad. Since the weather was expected to be beautiful all day, we planned on travelling to Arlington Cemetery to see The Women In Military Service Memorial, and the National Zoo.

By the Women in Military Service Memorial

At the National Zoo

Panda Feeding on Bamboo

White House - and the Skies Open Up

What a Wet Day!
Today started at 5am for our family. Back in November, through Congressman Chaka Fattah office, we requested to tour the Whitehouse during our time in DC. Just a few weeks ago our request was approved. So we needed to be @ the check in point by 8:45am for our 9am tour today. We pre-bought our metro tickets last night, and Amy and I did a dry run to the parking at the College Park station.  We didn't want to miss our train. After a good walk around the campground for Molly, we got everyone breakfast and together and out by 7:15am. A 10 minute car ride later, we were at the College Park Metro Station. We were concerned for Granny's ability to do the steps in and out of the stations, and to walk the distance to the Whitehouse. As it was, we all did fine. As we waited for our turn to get checked in, a slight drizzle started. We were able to get in the Whitehouse before the skies opened up. Each of us (even the girls) were verified with picture ID, and verified our information, more than once. It seemed our check-in process took longer than our self-guided tour.
I'm thankful we were able to see the inside of our wonderful Presidential Mansion, but after all the waiting, it seemed almost anti-climatic. I must admit though, the amount of history in the place, knowing what has occurred within it's walls, and who had spent time in the rooms we toured, gave a feeling of being in hallowed halls.
When we exited, rain was pouring down, so we donned our rain gear as we headed out. We ducked into a Souvenir shop for a bit - girls bought a few trinkets. With the rain, wind, and granny not up for  too much walking, we took a break under cover of the Ronald Reagan Building . The Metro Station is right there so we decided to come back to the Campground and relax for the rest of the day. Glad we did - as the rains and winds really rocked us all day, and I heard from other campers that they had to do detours from flooding and fallen debris coming up from Annapolis.
Got some reading in, watched the rain, and tracked it on TV. Enjoyed some time in Cherry hill's cafe & lounge as well. And a Rainy Day is not complete without a little nap to the sound of rain on the roof. Not a productive day, but still a good one.

Waiting at L Enfant Plaza for the Metro to RoadAbode

Washington DC RoadTrip

After finishing a few last minute items at work, (remote work) packed up the car and headed down toward Cherry Hill Campground in College Park., MD. On the way, was able to help troubleshoot a log-on issue at work. Just glad it got fixed for them. First time using EZ-Pass, made the trip a bit quicker - til we hit the traffic close to DC. Left RoadAbode's Storage around 1pm, and pulled into our Spot @ Cherry Hill about 4:30pm.

Cherry Hill already has their pools open - which was a surprise. Em may get enough gumption to take a swim - too cool for me though. Had our usual Friday Night Pizza - and enjoyed some curly fries and Onion rings as appetizers from the Cafe here. Everything here at Cherry Hill is well laid out, well done, and cared for. Great Campground, and well run. Looking forward to our tour of the Whitehouse tomorrow Morning. It will be an early start - but we're excited. Time to turn in for the night.

Home Again

Left from Crisfeild about 2pm or so, after a morning of good-byes, packing up, and a last bit of crabbing. Was fun, and enjoyed the hospitality of friends, and the beauty of where we travelled. Won't miss the mosquitoes though! Made it home about 7pm, after dropping RoadAbode @ Storage.

A Map of Our Adventures:

View June 2009 RoadAbode Whirlwind Tour in a larger map

And Some Pictures - a work in Progress....

Dinner with friends

Homemade blueberry pie made by R on the riight

Lazy Day

Lazy Day - staying near camp, although the little ones and Moms are going to the Y to swim. Enjoying the meadow this morn, reading, snacking, and may do some more crabbing. Tonight - dinner at our friends abode.

Friday Night Pizza

As per the family custom, we had Friday Pizza Night. Our friends provided us with the phone number of the only "true" pizza place in Crisfield, The Pizza Shoppe. K and I picked up the pizza, and our friends brought salad and Colas to our campsite. A denser dough than home, but rich with cheese and our other toppings. the sauce was not as sweet, but very enjoyable!

We took an evening stroll around the park, as the the girls collected pine cones to be added to the already well-stoked fire. We then hopped into our cars and headed toward the docks of Crisfield, where, hidden up a narrow alley, was a ice cream shop with some enticing flavors. We walked and took in the beauty of the bay from the city dock, and then departed for, each to our own homes.

Sat up and watch a bit of the Simpson Movie DVD. Another great day of camping !

Crabbing

Crabbing at Janes Island

A package of "chicken necks", a washed out old joint compound bucket, some string, and a few nets; stir in some friends, and you can have a great time on the Chesapeake! At Jane's Island, the Daugherty Canal is only a short walk from our campsite. From late morning to about 3pm, we caught about 30 or more crabs. Most were too small, but a few would have been size-worthy for the pot! But, we were here only for catch and release. The method is simple, and for the girls more fun than fishing - Tie a chicken neck to a length of string, then drop it into the water. Watch to see if the line seems to start "walking away" then slowly pull it in. As the piece of chicken rises, (hopefully with a crab handing on) someone helps by positioning a hand net under your catch. And crabs seem to be greedy little fellows! The girls were quite entertained, filling the buckets - then releasing on the grass and watching the crabs run for the water. I was entertained at least!

K and L were deemed as winners of the "Biggest Crab Contest" - And when this size, they do have some beautiful coloration of Blues, mixed with cream and green. And watch out for those claws!

The Meadow

Woodpeckers and wrens, robins and cardinals, and more I've spotted in the small meadow behind RoadAbode.

Quiet Morning

Our campsite at Janes Island