What better way to pregame for our road trip to Alabama next week than with a road trip to Canada this week?

Evelyn and I had a four day weekend and got a head start by hitting the road shortly after work on Thursday.

Our first stop was on the 495 just across the MD state line. Yes friends, the Beltway traffic was heavy.

Once it cleared we continued onto PA.

The route we took would have been considerably shorter had we taken the right exit off the Turnpike.

Even though our route was extended, it was lovely to drive through the mountains during sunset.

The first day of our drive taught us some valuable lessons about convertible ownership. First of all, going topless allows you to enjoy nature more. As we drove through Maryland, we picked up a hop on. Literally.

Also, lots of friends have told me riding with my top off but my windows up will keep me nice and toasty. Sadly, this myth was dispelled long before the temperature plunged below sixty.

In fact, installing the wind shield and firing up the heated seats didn’t prevent the near hypothermia from any surface areas not in direct contact with said seats. In the future, Evelyn and will both attempt to dress appropriately.

Finally, we discovered it’s fun to guess where you are based upon the local scents. And, boy howdy, there are a lot of livestock in Pennsylvania. Stay tuned for Day Two or as I like to call it, the Niagara Falls Follies!