We are a little behind the vacation curve as we are just gearing up for our getaway. Most folks have already gone to the beach or done a theme park or two and they have the suitcases all nicely stashed away and the hotel soap is already melted down the drain. Not us. We are just getting packed and adding the finishing touches to our itinerary.
That’s just the way we roll. We have traditionally preferred to plan our trips post Labor Day when most of the tourists are back in school. There are many good reasons for this. Crowds are typically thinner. Prices are often a bit lower. And temperatures are slightly cooler, depending upon where you are heading anyway! So I am at this moment getting pretty excited about our upcoming trip because we are going to the southwest and I have never been there before.
I love America. Is it okay for me to admit that? I know it’s very old fashioned and not very progressive of me, but in spite of the many flaws and deficiencies of our homeland, I still have a simple nostalgic appreciation for the US of A! Perhaps it is just the way I was raised, brought up by a patriotic Navy dad who didn’t always agree with politics but always proudly waved his flag. Perhaps it is the freedom that we often take for granted but still enjoy that keeps me appreciative. I’m sure it’s many things combined, but nonetheless, I love America and I love travelling through the diverse regions in our nation to discover her beauty and hidden gems.
Our trip will last seven days and we will be exploring numerous states and landmarks. It is kind of amazing to me that in one week I will be able to experience several natural wonders of the world and a few man-made wonders as well across four states. Our country has a diversity of features from mountains to woodlands to deserts to wetlands that boggle the mind. I know there are beautiful places to see all around the globe and all of these breathtaking marvels testify and proclaim the creative genius of God Himself, but I am convinced that I could spend a lifetime exploring our own great nation and never exhaust its treasures.
Just consider for a moment the glories of our own state of Pennsylvania. Did you know that Pennsylvania leads our nation in rural population with millions of acres of farmland, as well as the greatest acreage of State Game Lands full of rolling hills and lush forests? The Susquehanna River is the longest river on the east coast. Potter County is the home to one of only fourteen Dark Sky Parks in the nation. Cherry Springs State Park is a popular spot for stargazers and astronomy enthusiasts from all over the east coast to observe the heavens. Pennsylvania also has its own Grand Canyon, numerous glacial boulder fields, several historic caves and caverns as well as countless waterfall rich parks and scenic areas. Just a short drive northwest of us takes you to some of the most picturesque landscapes of the endless mountains of PA. We are very blessed to live here aren’t we?
Yes, I am preparing for a busy week of rising early each morning and driving, hiking, sightseeing and putting on my best tourist smile. We don’t crash on the beach or lounge on a cruise when we vacation. We have plans for every minute of the adventure and it’s always worth it. I hope this next experience yields some nice material for a column or two! Regardless, it will be fun to discover some new places with my family and appreciate the rich heritage of our wonderful country. God Bless the USA!