440 miles via I-95, I-895 through Baltimore, I-95 again, the New Jersey Turnpike, I-95 again across the George Washington Bridge in New York City, CT 15/Hutchinson Parkway, I-91, I-84, I-90 and I-290. Auto miles: 447. Cumulative route miles: 1,471. Cumulative auto miles: 1,512.
This was a LONG day. We departed at 7am, stopped for gas on our way to I-95, made one bio stop in MD, then drove non-stop to MA. Traffic was brutal around DC (no surprise – it was the morning rush) and again in NYC at noon (again no surprise – the George Washington Bridge is always backed up). But the weather was fine and there were no unexpected slowdowns.
I usually try to avoid I-95 when traveling between VA and MA, both because of the heavy traffic and the heavy tolls, but we wanted to get to MA in time to meet up with brother-in-law Ray, so time was of the essence.
We arrived at 4:02pm, so total travel time was almost exactly 9 hours. And we didn’t have to refuel again before arriving, but the tank was nearly empty (driving range: 0) when we got there. I refueled after unpacking the car and catching up a bit with Ray.
Our home for two nights was the home of my stepson Devin and his wife Mary. Also the home of my step grandson Zachary. Zachary just turned 14 and is growing up quickly. He immediately challenged me to a chess match. I was doing fine until I made a bonehead move and lost my queen, but recovered to play him to a draw. He played well. He might beat me next time.
We were treated to dinner out both nights, with the entire family and my other stepson Joshua and his wife, along with Mary’s brother Will who was visiting from Florida.
Thanks, all, for making us feel welcome in VA.