I'm so excited!!
 

We're finally coming to the lake!! We've got a cabin for the 4th of July and I can't wait!!:D

Where?
 

We';re all happy for you, I'm sure. Tell us all about it!

I know the feeling. I hope you have the best time ever !!!

I remember my first time coming to the lake last year and now we're living here! Such an adventure - please tell us all about it :liplick:

We're leaving Oregon on June 24 and driving to NH. We're going to spend a couple days in the Boston area before heading up to the lakes. I can't wait! :D

I just hope the doctor clears me for driving as it will only be 2 weeks after having arthroscopic surgery on my right knee. It doesn't matter, much, as I'll probably do some driving anyway... :rolleye2:

16 days and counting!!!

You'll be fine, that's from someone who has several scopes on both knees. Just take the Midwest states that you can use cruise control:)

Funny thing about cruise control... it doesn't work! It'll still be fun. How long did it take you to get back to a normal routine after your scopes?

I have had 3 knee scopes (and a few other scopes in other places not worth bragging about!). The recovery time for knee scopes is quick and easy.

And, as someone who has had 13 operations my one piece of advice is this: Don't be nervous. Before the operation they put in an IV and give you something to relax you. Then you won't care what happens.

When I had my first knee operation in 1984, once they gave me the IV drugs I didn't care if they came in with a chainsaw and cut my legs off! As someone who has no experience with drugs, I kind of get it!!

You will enjoy the lake!!

TiltonBB is correct. Now a days it's quick. Just sleep it off when you get home

Funny, my first ACL repair was in '84 also.

Bummer about the cruise control.

Funny you should mention them using a chain saw... I had a dream the other night that the doctors just did exactly that!!! :eek:

Waiting is so hard.... 15 days till we leave! :D

you're reminding me of the new 'great wolf lodge' commercial.
:laugh:

14 days..... uuuuuuuhhhhhhhhhhhh (till we leave.) uuuuhhhhh.

I feel like that kid in the commercial!

Had my scope done. My doc says he wants me to use crutches (or a walker) for 2 months. Gonna be fun... :rolleye1: House hunting with crutches... good thing my husband can climb stairs to the second floors and take pictures for me!

Be well
 

I've driven from No. CA to NH then NH to No. CA great drive. Enjoy the lake. We know you will.

8 days till we start on our journey east! Can't wait. Hope my knee gets un-numb by then.

We're planning our trip and Marvin is coming with us! 4 days until we leave!!

Where are you staying when you're at the lake?

We're staying at Proctor's Lakehouse Cottages for the 3-5 of July. Then we'll be staying with my sister-in-law in Auburn for the rest of our stay. We've got a list of places to look at around the Lakes while we're there. I'm excited! :D :laugh:

Don't forget the Illudium Pu-36 explosive space modulator for those pesky traffic jams! What could be more fun? A cross country drive ending up at Winni! Have a great trip.

Have a safe trip and have a great time when you're there. I hope you have good weather and have fun exploring the area. I have four more weeks til I'm there and have already started packing.

Proctor's will be fun! Enjoy your stay!

Wishing you a safe trip East! Enjoy your stay and let us know all about it!

K-9 units safely ensconced at K-9 hotel. We leave tomorrow!! :D

Have a safe journey! Who knows, maybe we'll even cross paths while you're here. You never can tell!

That would be great!

Have a fun, safe, trip!!

If we knew who to look for, I'd honk as I go through the channel if we head into Paugus bay during these dates.

Enjoy! :)

Look for the lady with either crutches or a cane and a bright red Pentax camera!

We're in Rock Springs, Wyoming today headed towards Kearney, Nebraska. I hope we get a better motel tonight. I hate hard as a rock beds!

So far the weather's been great! We'll cross the Continental Divide today.

Safe Travels!
 

Oregonrain - glad you are on your way to beautiful Lake Winnipesaukee. We are all rooting for you.

Not all of us are at the Lake, but mentally we all are.... I currently live & work in Chicago, far from NH! But will get back as soon as I can. Grew up going to NH every weekend - any time you get there will be wonderful and full of good memories.

BTW - re: Fireflies. In Chicago suburbs, I have had fireflies every night for the last week. They usually show up here around July 4th fireworks - they are early this year. Not sure when they arrive at Winnipesaukee, maybe a couple weeks later?

Good luck, look for moose very early 6:00 AM-ish, and fireflies mid-dusk - maybe 8:45-9:30 PM.... ENJOY :)

I've had many at my house in Bedford for the last week or so.

We're in Kearney, NE tonight. We should be in Davenport, IA by tomorrow night. I know this isn't lake related, but I thought this crane was awesome. I got the picture while driving past at 75 mph. I wasn't able to get the entire crane... It was in Wyoming just past the first Continental Divide.

Thank you for taking us along with you on your adventure!

We spent the night in Galesburg, IA and are heading to Pittsburgh, PA today. Can't wait to get to Boston. We're spending a couple days there to see where my husband grew up. It will be good to have some time not to drive for 10 hours a day!

Hats off to all the truckers out there, it's not an easy job to drive all day!!

Davenport, IA
 

I spent a year in Davenport, IA one week. :rolleye2: The lake is much nicer!

Spent a week, or a year?

It is actually a joke, but I thought it was Philadelphia. Humor is tough on the Internet. Davenport is a small town.

Let's not digress from this really nice thread.

Gotcha!

Keep the adventure pictures coming!

Well I got it.

Woohoo...shippin' up to Boston! What neighborhood is your husband from?

He's from Lynn. We're in Lynn now and have seen the places he's lived and hung out. Wow, traffic here is WAY different than in Oregon. We got stuck on the George Washington Bridge for 3 hours. While we were waiting in traffic, an ice cream truck was handing out free ice cream cups. That was cool. Driving in New York City after dark wasn't very cool at all. Once we got into Connecticut I had to pull over and have a mini break down... :eek2: I've never driven in such traffic before. I'm so glad to be out of it and we'll definitely take a different route home!! A couple more days and we'll be at the Lake! I can't wait!!

By the way... We DIDN'T bring the rain with us! We left Oregon with blue skies and sunshine!! The storms started in Indiana and (according to the weather channel) will be in New Hampshire by this coming Friday. However, we didn't bring it with us!! lol :laugh:

George Washington Bridge is a nightmare
 

Oregonrain, When you head home you should take the Tappan Zee Bridge and not the GW. You took the worst route possible to get to New England going thru New York City. Search on this forum for the threads discussing the best possible routes in and out of New England. I live 12 miles from the GW Bridge and I avoid it at all costs!

Here are the directions from Northern New Jersey to the lake that I previously posted for someone heading to NH from PA. You can just reverse them to head back. If you plan to get Route 80 to head back west, you can get directly from the Garden State Parkway to Route 80 West at Parkway Exit 59:

This is the route I take: The Garden State Parkway to NY Thruway. Tappan Zee to 287 East. Take Exit 9N and get on the Merritt Parkway. Take the Merritt (15) to 91N in Meriden, CT. This brings you to 84E in East Hartford. 84 to Mass Pike to Exit 11a for 495 North. I take 3 North in Chelmsford to the Everett Turnpike. The Everett merges with 93 in Hooksett. Take 93 to Exit 20 in Tilton. Take 3 North into Laconia and follow 3 to Paugus Bay.

Only modification I would make to those directions is get off Mass Pike (I90) at exit #10 take 290 East to 495 N and resume ghfromaltonbay directions from there.

This will usually cut out 10 minutes ...... however if it's during a rush hour (4-6p) avoid this route like the plague !




.

My gps took me off the gw bridge through bed/sty and back to the bridge! All I could think of was Sherman McCoy in Bonfire of the Vanaties!

Bed/Sty
 

Bed/Sty is in Brooklyn, no where near the GW (NJ to the Bronx) I think you need a new GPS :eek:

Thanks for the directions everyone! One more day and we'll be at the lake! I can't wait! I hope the tropical storm Arthur won't ruin any fireworks plans. See you soon!!

Ooooops! I guess i was lost! I don't know NYC, obviously!

When I drove I-90 from OR to NH in 2004 I got off of I-90 in Albany, and then took Route 7 to Vermont then 9 to Concord, NH. Unless you have a need to head south I think it makes more sense to avoid it if you can.

Ghfromaltonbay is correct!!
 

That is the route I always take, unless you want to see NYC just to see it, the Tappan Zee is the place to bee!!

I agree
 

I also take Exit 10 to 290 most of the time. You are right about avoiding it during rush hour though. I just figured since Oregonrain was doing this just for one trip I didn't want to get into a discussion of when to take or not take the shortcut thru Worcester on 290. Last month when I came home I would have been going thru there around 5:30 pm so I stayed on 495 to exit 22 and picked up the Mass Pike in Westborough.

I'm heading up tomorrow from NJ, and since I'll be going thru Worcester around 10 a.m. I'll definitely take 290. It is 7 miles shorter than staying on the Mass Pike to 495. When you're travelling 300+ miles, every little bit helps.

We cooled off today in the Atlantic. It's been a good trip from west coast to east coast. But the fun is about to really start when we get to the Lake tomorrow!! Woo Hoo! :D

I was going to post a picture of the ocean, but the wifi in this motel isn't the best. Besides, I think you all are aware of what the Atlantic looks like... I'm just excited to be here!

I believe they are expecting you.
I have heard talk about parades and fireworks !

PCMC --

THAT was funny !! :laugh:

Wow!! A parade in MY honor??? lol. But, when are the parades? I've never been to a fourth of July parade before...

Really?
 

Never been to a 4th of July parade? Better go to a few because they're all different and give the flavor of the town it's in. There's a list on NH.com, but you might want to check the individual town's web site to confirm. A lot of stuff has been rescheduled due to weather (Arthur). On the other hand, it is very difficult to reschedule a parade, so get out your poncho.

Many fireworks have been rescheduled. You've probably seen the thread on the Forum, and there's a good, updated list at WMUR.com. Do the Weirs by boat if you can, since you're in that area, right? The boats are a light show in their own right.

And look for a pancake breakfast to go to. Plenty to choose from.

July 4 is big stuff around here.

Sometimes I prefer this more pleasant, although not necessarily faster, alternative to avoid the Mass. Pike and 495 North. Stay on 91N to Brattleboro, Vt., then take 9 East to Hopkinton, where 89S takes you to 93N.

Love the thunder storm we're having here in Laconia! It's way better fireworks!!

Sad to say, but yes, I've never been to a 4th of July parade. In my previous life, my ex wasn't into going to social things like that. But in my new life, my new husband and I love it!! :)

Lake drive
 

Now that you're here and it looks like a wash out 4th, why not take a drive around the lake to get a feel for things? Stop for lunch somewhere. Come to Wolfeboro and visit shops:)

That's what we plan on doing. There are several towns we're interested in and I'd like to get a feel for the area. So far, I really like what I'm seeing. Rain is nothing, in Oregon we get rain 9 months out of the year. Fireworks are fun, but not necessary for us to enjoy ourselves. I want to explore places and get lots of information about rentals that will accept two big dogs. And I'm gonna do more swimming! This place rocks!!

I woke up early this morning, around 5:15 am. and watched the sunrise over the lake. As I was watching, I heard some loons. I think loons are some of the best birds to listen to. It is hard to describe how their song makes me feel. I just really like it. I could get used to waking up and hearing them!

I don't care for the swollen feet, though. I was told it's because of the heat and humidity. My feet don't swell up at home and we get heat and some humidity there too. It was 99 degrees over the 4th back home. I hope this is something that will go away soon!

I'm really enjoying everything here!

We also went on the Mount Washington today. It was fun and very windy!!

I hope you manage to get to the top of Mt. Washington.

We took the cog railway to the top: recommended.

For bathing and sunning yourself in the sand, it is hard to beat Ellacoya state park in Gilford.

When I fly back this August, no doubt I'll feel like "a stranger in a strange land" given the lack of fir trees in the background and the lack of older cars and pickup trucks on the New England roadside.

May I recommend a drive along the Kancamagus Hwy...
 

A nice way to see the White Mountains. Take Rt. 3 north then take the Kancamagus to North Conway. Stay off Rt. 93 for a nice relaxing drive. Bretton Woods is worth a side trip.

That's one of the things we wanted to do. Thanks.

Mount Washington Hotel
 

If you go to Bretton Woods, check out the Mount Washington Hotel across the street.

OK the feet I could of done without. :D

Newburgh Bridge
 

You may want to try the Newburgh Bridge as well. Take the Mass Pike to I-84 and follow that through Danbury Ct. Then you won't have to worry about any NYC traffic.

My feet swell when I travel to hot climates. Last April mine stayed swollen the whole week I was in the Carribean. They don't swell at home.
I think sitting ( driving ) for long periods causes venous stasis and swelling, especially as you have your knees bent. Sit down, elevate your feet, and enjoy a glass of wine to help you diurese!

We took Hwy 3 up to Clark's Trading Post and got there just in time for the last show and train ride. It was fun! After that we went to Gilford to the State park there and swam until they closed. I am falling in love with this area! I wish we were moving here now and not later!

It is a nice area and it sounds like your having fun but don't forget about the "off season" and specially winters. That time of the year when the sidewalks are rolled up and lots of establishments close for the season. You owe yourself a couple week visit then also.

If you ski, winter hike, snowshoe, snowmobile or ice fish, there is no real "off season" here, just a change of gear. Agree that you should visit in the winter if considering a move here from a different climate.

The winters here are slightly different than where we live. Your precipitation falls as snow, ours as rain. Although, we do get some snow. Granted not as much as y'all get here. I believe with the proper clothes that the winter won't be too difficult to handle (I could be wrong, it wouldn't be the first time!) At least I'd finally learn how to drive in the snow! We'll just have to wait and see what happens. I do love the lakes region, but I also liked the Franconia area as well, and the White Mountains. They are impressive!

Franconia Notch has been my second home for 40 years. Still brings a little chill everytime I drive through. If you have time, make sure to do the usual tourist stops like the Basin walk, the Flume walk, and ride the tram to the top of Cannon MT. Classic northern NH.

Clearly you still have a lot to learn about the area! ;)

I would love to do the walks, but my knees aren't up to it! We did go candle pin bowling tonight (my knees gave out after 2 games) I enjoyed it. I like it better than regular bowling. The balls are lighter and there's no finger holes. Sadly, our time is running out. I know there is a lot of things I need to learn about this area. I'm a 'hands on' learner so moving here will give me a good 'education'. :)

Bowling
 

I thought candlepin bowling was regular bowling.

Rte from Auburn, NH to lake
 

Definitely try the backroads to the lake while you stay in Auburn. It is not a long trip and you'll see more of NH than the interstate. Since we live in Epsom, east of Concord, Rte 28 to Alton and Wolfeboro is a favorite. But we also enjoy Rte 106 up to Laconia and Meredith. These routes do not pass through village centers so you may want to make some side trips. I highly recommend a stop at Canterbury Shaker Village and the Fox Country Smokehouse.:liplick:

Well, tomorrow is our last day here and I don't know what to do. Should we have one more day at the lake (yes! :D) or should we do laundry, and rearrange the Tahoe (no, but needs to be done...) We have 6 looooong days on the road till I'm reunited with my oh so comfy bed (which I'm really missing right now!) I wish we didn't have to leave. I don't want to go! :( I've really enjoyed my time here and can't wait to move!:D

Sit in a lakeside chair from sunrise to sunset and really visualize living here. That is how I reflect on a great vacation!

Time to say goodbye
 

Well everyone, my time here has come to an end. I really love NH, the Lakes region (and north) especially! Now it's time to go home and get packed and put the house up for sale so I can come back!! Thank you, everyone, for all the helpful advice and humor! I look forward to coming back to stay. ;)

Did the visit help? Did you decide on which area you want to buy? Or are you more confused than ever?

Have a good, safe trip home.

Yes....
 

Be careful, you have a long drive home, it has been nice following your trip, I felt like i was there with you......a few more weeks, and I will be on my way up. Now, I cant wait!!

I like the north and east sides of the lake... or the less crowded parts. The visit helped a lot.

I hated to leave! If I could have, I would have stayed! We're in Effingham, IL tonight. 4 more days of driving and I'll be home in my own bed! Then the work begins in earnest and getting our house up for sale is #1 on the list! Have fun at the lakes. I hope to be back as soon as possible. It all depends on how soon things get done and our house sells (and his parents get moved too)

Off season . . .
 

can be the best season. ;)

We enjoyed your visit, too.

I agree, but you did visit at the absolute busiest time of year. Realize that the crowded areas are usually much more manageable.

After 5 days of hard driving, we are in Mountain Home, Idaho. We are within a day of home, but we may not get there as there are 11 wildfires currently burning in Central and Eastern Oregon. We need to go directly through the area to get to the Willamette Valley.

It seems that while we were away enjoying the rain and lightening storms in New Hampshire, they were enjoying a dry heat wave and lightening storms which set off the 11 wildfires covering several thousands of acres all told... I hope this isn't a bad year for fires!

Enjoy Mt. Home.
 

I was stationed there in the 1970's. Take rte 20 and for a short trip, go to Anderson Ranch Dam and reservoir. Beautiful area. Or drive to Sun Valley. or go southeast of the town to Bruneau Canyon, then continue to the C J Strike Dam and back to Mt Home. or go to Boise and enjoy the beautiful park.

Yeah, I loved the area.

Hope you don't get delayed too much.;)

Upthesuakee....
 

Man, you sure know your way around!!

It could've been home, we liked it that much. I put in for there, and the whole Pacific NW, when coming back from Thailand. Got Bossier City LA. Oh well... I don't think they have a Caddo Lake forum. ;)

Sent from my GT-P5210 using Tapatalk

We made it home!! In spite of the long driving days, we enjoyed the travel. We enjoyed it so much that we've (almost) decided to become full-time RVer's. :laugh:

That's the way I go when I come up. Nice welcome center in VT too

http://i44.tinypic.com/1499wms.gif missedbass , I just noticed that you are fairly new to posting on the forum after joining back in October 2013. We are glad that you have come aboard and joined us. Have fun and enjoy the Winni Forum while making many new friends.

Thanks for joining and hopefully we will see lots more you from now on.:)

http://i54.tinypic.com/2e56yqf.gif

http://i44.tinypic.com/1499wms.gif AdamHirshan , I just noticed that you are fairly new to posting on the forum after joining back in July 2013. We are glad that you have come aboard and joined us. Have fun and enjoy the Winni Forum while making many new friends.

Glad to see you here on the forum. Hopefully we will be seeing more of you for now on.:)

http://i54.tinypic.com/2e56yqf.gif

Thailand
 

When and where in Thailand?

Now that you are back home after seeing paradise in the summer. Time to plan a trip in February. Try Alton Bay the 2nd weekend for the best time. Ice is two feet thick, temp about 20 degrees and cars, trucks, bob houses and every other thing on the ice. This is the time I like it best.

PM sent, Steveo
 

Sent a PM so as not to hijack the thread. Oregon Rain has had quite a journey!!!!!