Everyone needs a vacation!  No Real Estate talked about in this post.....  just what goes on when I'm on vacation.  (Ok, I'll say one thing, there isn't any property available to purchase on Assateague Island, but if you are interested in the surrounding areas - Ocean City, Ocean Pines, Bethany, Lewes, etc, let me know - I can put you in touch with a Real Estate Agent)

Ocean City, Maryland is our "beach spot".  Usually we rent a condo for a week, this year, it didn't look like we were going to get to vacation.... last minute, we took off and headed to visit my parents (and their oceanfront rental).  I am comfortable travelling the different ways (laying on the beach, doing the 'tourist' stuff, just a break from the fone, outdoors, indoors, etc).  This year, we did more than usual - including a quick, non planned trip to Assateague State Park.  It was only about a 30 minute drive from Ocean City, MD.

You've probably heard of the large, organized Pony Swim, when they corral the horses to swim in the ocean together. I understand that is a wild time, with lots of people!  When we were there (Aug 07) people were around, but there was plenty of 'space'.  The horses roam wherever they chose, and eat without being 'fed'.

What an experience!  Horses on the beach! Horses waltzing through the parking lot! Horses walking up the boardwalk to the beach (excuuu-uuuse us!)! 

You can camp, hike, beach, geocache, clam, crab, swim, learn, and so much more!

Morgan, my four year old, enjoyed the Seahorse at the Visitor's Center!  It is worth stopping, they have other sealife that you can pick up and touch!

The pictures help describe the beauty - but if you have a chance, be sure and check it out!

Bike ? Walk ? Run ? Jog ? Fish ? Swim ?  Geocache? You just have to check out the Struble Trail in Chester County, PA!

I will get some pictures to accompany this blog, but its on my mind to get the blog done tonight :)

This paved trail is currently 5.2 miles total round trip with a few segments branching off in different areas.  I actually like to park at The Ponds, or back in my day, called "Kardon Park", in Downingtown.  There is a paved trail that leads to Rt 282 (Creek Rd) where you can link to the Struble Trail.  Part of the trail runs alongside the Brandywine Creek and there are even a couple of areas I've seen people fishing (artificial lure trout) and swimming.  There is even a robe to swing from located on the traill side of the Shady Acres Campground!  I'm not sure if its officially permitted, but there is a place my father and friends used to jump off a bridge into the creek - I still see kids do it today - not something I endorse or would try!!!

Hopefully the future plans for Struble Trail happen sooner rather than later. It is planned to be 16 miles in length, extending to Honeybrook through Glenmoore and Lyndell, passing by Springton Manor Farm.

There are a lot of trees (yeah for shade at this time of year) and fairly flat.  I'm sure the advanced cycler would not chose this trail as their exclusive ride, however, there are endless options of different extensions you could take from the path to give some hilly challenges.

If you go to the trail when its not raining or snowing, you are guaranteed to see some people passing.  Its one of the most used trails around for bikers, walkers, joggers, and talkers!  It's also very welcoming to the four legged creatures on leashes, of course.  I enjoy seeing so many people enjoying the outdoors, being together, and just being active! 

If you like Geocaching (a newfound fun for me!) there are quite a few finds located on and around this path.

Today, as we got our bikes off the car rack, a pack of about 25 professional riders zoomed by.... we are a part of the other extreme.... barely making it the entire 2.6 miles before we turn around.  You see, I'm not in shape by any means, and I have my four-year old 45 lb. "helper" on the back.  We use the Trail-a-Bike that hooks onto my bike, with its own wheel and pedals.  Morgan, prefers to pedal backwards, thats more fun.... for her.....  Ashley, my 21 year old is a trooper helping to watch her sister and being the caboose bike with the occassional amusing 'race' with us.  Hopefully, adding on a little bit more each day, we'll get to the complete trail in no time and others will see us zoom by :)

If you are a new resident to Chester County, be sure and check out Struble Trail!  If you have been in the area for a while, and like me, have not taken advantage of the park - COME BACK!  I'd love to hear what you think!