I take my time kayaking and don't realize how late it is when I paddle back to return the kayak. I decided to make life easier and check the availability at the state campground just across the road.
With the low cost of camping ($20 for NY residents), I can get a shower, a picnic table, and a beautiful lake view. That's worth it, so I book two nights to free up my brain and time from searching for a camping spot.
Now that living on the road is my life, hiking and exploring aren't the main focus anymore. They're still my passions, but I need to balance all aspects of my life together.
I've been applying for winter jobs and finally got some interviews. I've also received some rejections and am learning to accept disappointments. So, I need to find libraries with Wi-Fi to answer emails and set up interviews.
And yes, I want to keep writing—it's now a new passion and has become my livelihood. If you enjoy my stories and feel inspired to support my work, you're invited to join me for just $5 a month. Your support means the world to me and helps keep the adventure going! https://substack.com/@nomadiccolorguru
My campsite is lovely! The picnic table is a great spot for my yoga mat and much-needed stretching. With very few mosquitoes, I can enjoy cooking dinner and relaxing.
My plan is to go for a short hike before sitting down to work, but the relaxing view gives me permission to take my time in the morning and not overfill my day.
Google Maps directs me to the nearest library at Paul Smith's College, the perfect combination of work and a stunning view—the Adirondacks' lakes and mountains surround me. The campus is quiet, with the Loon's songs as my background sound. Who can ask for more?
I am not sure why I didn't think of it sooner, but the three Facebook solo women travel groups I am in are a great source of support and information. I posted about my power station challenge and found out I was doing it wrong. Plugging my cooler into the 12-volt plug instead of the AC plug saves power. I also realize charging while driving isn't sufficient. I did manage to thread the solar panel cord into my car and lock the doors as I park, while resting the solar panel on the cargo box—another improvement!
Good morning, rain. I am unsure how long you'll stay, but I'll continue traveling to Lake Placid. If it's still raining when I get there, I'll find a seat at the library.
On the way, I scan my surroundings. If there's a gas station, I'll stop to boost my power station. On a second decision, I pull into a small car dealer; maybe they have an outside AC plug.
Kevin immediately makes an effort to help me. While my power station is boosting, Kevin and I converse about the power of the universe.
It's a sweet feeling when I let perspective change my thinking. What a beautiful gift when a "struggle" becomes a blessing, and I get the opportunity to connect with beautiful souls as a result.
Finally the skies clear up, and the mountain view from my desk in the library calls me to go outside.
I have time for a short hike since it's already late in the afternoon. I check my options on AllTrails and choose to hike up Mount Van Hoevenberg.
After an hour of climbing, I reach the top and stand free with the wind. The heavy, low clouds limit the view, but I still find the magic in the endless mountain panorama as the colors of the atmosphere create a silhouette of folded mountains.
As I start my descent, the rain begins. By the time I reach my car, it's pouring rain. I sit for a while in my car, trying to figure out what's next. The parking lot is empty, and I could park here for the night, but that heavy feeling in my gut tells me to move on. I've learned to respect that intuition. It's there for a reason.
I go with Plan B and park at the local supermarket lot. Since it's still early evening, I find the nearest hotel where I can sit in the lobby and wash up in their bathroom. I always like to give back if I feel I am taking, so I treat myself to the sweet taste of a glass of Baileys and enjoy a lovely conversation with Karoline and her husband.
Good morning, new day! Hello sun! Where are you? The day is calling for more on-and-off rain. While I have reception, I check for a short hike. Roaring Brook Falls sounds like a good option. It will let me continue driving through the beautiful Adirondacks.
Sometimes, you must make a second decision and let instinct guide you to a perfect place to have breakfast with a view. That's how I find myself at Upper Cascade Lake early in the morning, with the place all to myself, relaxing into a new day.
I let iOverlander determine my next destination. An hour away in Lake George, there's a small public beach. Perfect!
The drive is absolutely stunning! I still have my settings on Google Maps to avoid highways, which keeps me on country roads lined with wildflowers, ponds, and small, quaint towns.
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