50 Counties and a Bit of Car Trouble Going Out East

It's been a while since I've taken a weeklong trip. Parenthood will do that. In many ways, we're always testing the waters. When Little Dude was born, it was hard for me to even get away for 24 hours. He is more self-sufficient, so lately, I've found I can get away for an extended weekend.

We decided to try a week. I picked a week in July since I figured I'd have long days. This would allow me to maximize the daylight and visit as many counties as possible. The one thing I hadn't really thought about for July was the chances of extreme weather.

Extreme weather seems to have been a theme, especially in the past year or two. In July, there was a chance of extreme heat. The further south you go, the higher the chance for it. The rest of the country was not immune either. I know certain areas were breaking heat records.

To the east, massive rainstorms and flooding seemed like an issue. To the west, the opposite was true. Drought and massive wildfires were the main threats, making trip planning challenging.

With the extreme heat, it's hard to sleep in the car. I find anything over 75F is hard to sleep in. Worrying about flooding is a big issue, especially with mapping applications. They like to take you on dumb routes. If it's raining and I'm not familiar with the area, I could see how I could accidentally turn down a back road. It could have a low water crossing. I may find myself in trouble fast, especially when driving at night.

What scares me the most are fires. They can pop up out of nowhere and seem to move fast. I've heard of people only having minutes to evacuate after a fire has been started. Seeing the pictures and videos on the news makes it look like hell on earth. I want to avoid areas where there is a high risk of fires popping up at all costs.

That said, it looks like going east would be my best bet. Vermont had received some flooding before my trip, but I hoped the waters would subside. It appeared that the temperatures would be reasonable. Barring any severe storms, this would be the perfect area to visit. Weather forecast display on TV showing a meteorologist presenting pool weather temperatures for early next week across multiple US cities including Minneapolis, Chicago, Cleveland, Boston, Cincinnati, Washington DC, Omaha, and St. Louis, with temperatures ranging from upper 70s to low 90s displayed on a color-coded map

I used AI for my planning and was also able to confirm I'd have good weather on my itinerary. ChatGPT mobile interface showing a weather forecast table for July 2024 with daily conditions (mostly sunny and partly cloudy) and temperatures in the mid-70s to 80s, with iPhone keyboard visible at bottom

I also was happy that I was driving. My trip happened when the major computer outages were hitting the airlines hard. TV news broadcast showing MAJOR COMPUTER OUTAGES WORLDWIDE breaking news chyron on the Today show, with news anchor on left and newsroom with computer workstations visible in background

I packed the car and got ready to go. I made sure to swap out the 12V adapter for the GPS with a USB adapter. This would free up more ports to charge my phone or do other things. Car center console showing climate control panel with AUTO and A/C buttons, and a dual-port USB car charger plugged into 12V outlet with illuminated display showing 4G and charging cable connected

Additionally, because I knew I'd be off the grid for a while, I bought a backup device for my phone. The last thing I'd want to do is lose pictures. Hand holding a SanDisk iXpand Flash Drive with dual Lightning and USB connectors against denim jeans fabric in car interior

I dropped Little Dude off at daycare and then went to Casey's to top off and get breakfast. White plastic shopping bag containing Alani Cherry Slush energy drink, Ellison's bacon egg and cheese croissant in clear packaging, and partially visible additional items

Since I didn't want to burn up my phone data, I would primarily use my GPS. I had to use AI to hack things a bit. Manually entering addresses takes forever. I was able to create contacts on my phone with the courthouse addresses. They are displayed in a particular order, so I could easily send them to the GPS via the app. Mobile phone screenshot of Courthouses list showing entries 001-015 for Michigan counties (Calhoun, Jackson, Washtenaw, Wayne, Monroe) and Ohio counties (Lucas, Wood, Sandusky, Ottawa, Erie, Huron, Lorain, Cuyahoga, Lake, Geauga), with some entries crossed out GPS navigation device mounted in car displaying Ready to Navigate notification for 001 MI Calhoun County Courthouse other with message was received from your phone and OK/Go buttons visible

I hit the road and made it through Illinois and Indiana. I ran into some traffic jams around the Chicago area, but I was in Michigan soon enough. Highway with overhead PURE MICHIGAN - Welcome to Michigan sign featuring state silhouette logo, multi-lane roadway with traffic, clear blue sky with clouds, and trees lining both sides

I tried to find one of the closest counties that I hadn't completed yet to start my journey. I decided to follow a row of counties in Michigan. The first county was Calhoun County. Modern courthouse building with dark reflective glass facade and tan brick sections, contemporary architecture with horizontal lines, number 181 at entrance, wide entrance steps, clear blue sky

Southern Michigan seems to be the land of non-descript gas stations. There don't seem to be chains like Kwik Trip there. This generic station was my first gas stop as I made it to Jackson County. Single-story commercial strip building with peaked central roof, tan brick lower section and white metal siding upper section, multiple storefronts with bollards, handicapped parking spaces, and maroon vehicle parked in front Historic multi-story Jackson County Building with red brick construction and white limestone classical detailing on lower floors, arched windows, approximately 6-7 stories tall, people near entrance, vehicles on street

I did some more interstate driving to Washtenaw County. Highway with overhead green signs indicating Mound Rd and M-59 Hall Road/Van Dyke exits, route markers for M-53 and US-25, multi-lane roadway, partly cloudy sky, trees lining highway Mid-century modern institutional building approximately 4 stories tall with pink/copper-colored paneling and large windows, American flag on flagpole, trees in front, people near entrance, typical 1960s-70s government architecture

I appreciated the express lanes on my way to Wayne County. These lanes had limited exits, and I could quickly get downtown to visit the new and old courthouses. Highway with blue pedestrian overpass bridge, overhead green sign reading 6 Mile Market Rd, multi-lane roadway with white pickup truck, partly cloudy sky, trees and vegetation along sides Brutalist government complex with two tall rectangular buildings featuring grid pattern windows and light-colored concrete facades, connected by elevated walkway, 1960s-70s architecture, modern vehicles at street level Grand historic courthouse in classical/baroque revival style with ornate white stone facade, prominent clock tower with copper/green dome, columns and arched windows, statue visible in front, late 19th/early 20th century architecture

I fought traffic on my way to Monroe County. Heavy highway traffic scene with commercial semi-trailers in left lane, white sedan and other vehicles in center lanes, pedestrian overpass in distance, trees on right side, partly cloudy sky with dramatic clouds Historic Victorian/Second Empire courthouse with white facade and tall clock tower with mansard roof, classical columns and arched windows, triangular pediment over entrance, American flag, landscaped grounds with trees

I was soon in Ohio and visiting Lucas County. Highway scene with overhead electronic message sign on gantry structure, multi-lane roadway with light traffic, dark vehicle in distance, trees lining both sides, partly cloudy sky with clear lane markings Grand neoclassical government building with symmetrical wings, cream-colored limestone facade, triangular pediment over central entrance with columns and three arched doorways, manicured lawn and circular landscaped garden bed in foreground

I could have kept driving a long way on the road I was on, but I had a mission to follow. I was soon in Wood County. Highway view with green distance sign showing Dayton 133 miles, Lexington 115 miles, and Tampa 1103 miles, concrete overpass ahead, pine trees lining right side, partly cloudy sky Romanesque Revival courthouse with tall central clock tower, four rounded corner turrets with conical roofs, light gray stone construction, slate roof, arched entrance with steps, landscaped grounds, dramatic sky

I had to drive slower following a semi on the two-lane roads to Sandusky County. Rural two-lane highway view following large white JXTRA semi-trailer, flat agricultural fields on both sides, small blue road sign visible on right shoulder, clear sky at sunrise or sunset Historic courthouse with prominent colonnade of tall white classical columns along side facade, red brick construction with white cupola on roof, castle-like structure with turret visible to right, evening lighting

I started to look for a place to stay for the night after I visited Ottawa County. Google Maps mobile screenshot showing Port Clinton / Oak Harbor Rest Stop location on map near Lake Erie, 4.4 star rating with 5,211 reviews, open 24 hours, with blue Directions button, Start and Save options, and preview photos below Romanesque courthouse with prominent clock tower featuring ornate detailing, tan ashlar stone construction, dark slate roof, circular memorial or monument with flags in foreground lawn, modern concrete building to left, evening sky

Fortunately, the rest stop was 8 minutes away from the courthouse. I made my way there as the sun was setting. Google Maps mobile screenshot showing Port Clinton / Oak Harbor Rest Stop with Recently viewed label, 4.4 star rating with 5,211 reviews, 8 minute distance, blue Directions button and preview photos Sunset or sunrise rural landscape with small pond in middle ground reflecting orange and pink sky, power lines crossing scene, trees and buildings silhouetted against colorful sky, green lawn in foreground

I had packed a bunch of food and used a picnic table to make supper. Camping cookware setup on outdoor picnic table including black pot on camping stove with propane canister, gray and tan pots, paper towels, water bottle, and clear jar with granola on concrete and wood surface White foam bowl containing prepared ramen noodles in orange-brown broth with vegetables and garnish, black plastic spork inserted in noodles, sitting on textured white surface

After eating, I got ready for bed. I set up my fan and settled in. Night view from inside vehicle showing clip-on electric fan mounted to dashboard air vent, illuminated with blue LED light, Ford steering wheel visible, building and trees visible through windshield

Before bed, I used ChatGPT. It estimated the number of counties I could complete the next day based on my itinerary. ChatGPT mobile app screenshot listing New York counties numbered 11-20 including Warren, Cattaraugus, Erie, Niagara, Orleans, Genesee, Wyoming, Livingston, Monroe, and Ontario with associated cities in parentheses, message stating You can visit a total of 20 counties tomorrow, iPhone keyboard visible

When I woke up, I used my 12V water heater to make some instant coffee. Hand holding stainless steel Spardar brand travel mug with temperature display showing 28 in red LED digits against Ford steering wheel and dashboard with visible gauges in vehicle interior at night Car interior night scene showing stainless steel travel mug and Nescafe Taster's Choice House Blend instant coffee jar (makes up to 210 cups) on textured surface, steering wheel partially visible

I ended up getting more coffee at a gas station, which I stopped at when I topped off. In many ways, it isn't worth the hassle to make your coffee since coffee is usually so cheap. Hand holding red and white paper coffee cup with cartoon moose logo and text in Ford vehicle interior, steering wheel and illuminated dashboard gauges visible in background

After that stop, before you know it, I was at Erie County. Art Deco courthouse building approximately 4-5 stories with central clock tower featuring green patina dome, cream and tan stone facade with vertical Art Deco elements, symmetrical design, trees flanking both sides, clear blue sky

Up next was Huron County. Classical revival courthouse with prominent clock tower and ornate cupola, tan ashlar stone construction, columned entrance with steps, American flag, multiple white decorative banners on poles, urban downtown setting with adjacent buildings

It was toll time to Lorain County. Highway toll plaza at sunrise or sunset with overhead electronic gantry displaying toll information, multiple lanes with traffic cones, white pickup truck, tall cell tower, golden hour lighting creating long shadows Modern brutalist government building approximately 8-10 stories tall with tan/beige horizontal banding alternating with dark glass window strips, contemporary institutional architecture, American flag, landscaped plaza with bollards, clear blue sky

I came into the big city of Cleveland to visit Cuyahoga County. Urban highway with concrete barriers on left, multiple lanes with traffic, tall light poles, city skyline with two prominent high-rise towers visible in distance, trees lining sides, clear blue sky Monumental Beaux-Arts courthouse with cream-colored stone facade, tall Corinthian columns, classical symmetrical design with rooftop balustrade, three-story scale, trees along street, American flag at half-staff, early morning or evening light

Fortunately, Ohio has Sheetz gas stations, which have an awesome food selection. I got a breakfast sub. Hand holding purple and white GFUEL Grape Gummie zero sugar energy drink can (Sheetz exclusive) next to breakfast sandwich with egg and cheese on toasted dark bread in white paper wrapper, car interior with steering wheel visible

After that stop, I made it to Lake County. Lake County Courthouse monumental entrance facade with ornate Beaux-Arts architecture, prominent central clock tower with copper dome, massive white classical columns, red brick with white limestone trim, decorative sculptural elements, statues flanking main entrance, upward angle view

There was some back road driving to Geauga County. Winding rural two-lane road with dense green tree canopy overhead creating tunnel effect, power lines crossing, small dark vehicle visible in distance, patches of sunlight on pavement Victorian Second Empire courthouse with tall ornate clock tower featuring decorative crown, red brick construction with white stone quoins and trim, arched windows, orange construction safety fencing at base, scaffolding visible, mature trees

Up next was Ashtabula County. They had a new and old courthouse there. Mid-century modern Ashtabula County Court House with tan brick facade, prominent vertical band of windows in center, flat roof, two flagpoles with flags, parking lot with silver car and black pickup truck, clear blue sky Victorian Italianate courthouse with prominent three-story central clock tower with decorative crown, red brick construction, symmetrical facade, white classical columns at arched entrance, white statue or monument on front lawn, small town main street setting with storefronts visible

I crossed over into Pennsylvania and went to Crawford County, Colonial Revival courthouse with white cupola and clock tower, red brick with white trim, symmetrical two-story facade, classical columns supporting triangular pediment at entrance, white decorative railing, landscaped lawn, American flag

I stopped at a public library to use the bathroom and the internet. If they are open, public libraries are great for this. Public library interior reading area with wooden study tables and Windsor-style chairs on maroon carpet, blue service desk and circulation counter in background with upper balcony level visible, bookshelves, white portable dehumidifier, fluorescent lighting, exit sign visible Ookla Speedtest mobile app results screen showing 98.4 Mbps download speed, 197 Mbps upload speed, 2.98 Mbps current speed on circular gauge with purple indicator, ping and jitter statistics, Monster Hunter Now game advertisement banner at bottom, dark blue interface

The slow drivers continued as I made my way to Erie County. Most of this drive was on 79 North which only had one lane for a decent amount of miles. If you got stuck behind someone going slow, you just had to deal with it. Interstate 79 North with blue and red shield highway sign on right side, divided four-lane highway, dark vehicle ahead in left lane, dense green trees lining both sides, clear blue sky Neoclassical Greek Revival courthouse with two symmetrical wings connected by central section, each wing featuring triangular pediment supported by tall white Ionic columns, gray-green facade, American flag at center, wide entrance steps with landscaping

I eventually made it to New York. Highway with blue Welcome to New York state information sign visible on right shoulder, two-lane divided roadway, trees lining both sides, windshield showing reflections and water spots creating glare effects Neoclassical courthouse with prominent domed roof, massive white classical columns supporting front portico with triangular pediment, tan/beige stone construction, wide entrance steps, mature trees on either side providing shade, clear sky

I made my way through Pennsylvania. Highway with blue Welcome to Pennsylvania state sign on right shoulder, two-lane roadway curving left, dense green trees on both sides, guardrail visible, windshield with water droplet reflections creating distortion Second Empire Victorian courthouse with mansard roof and dormer windows, tall ornate clock tower with decorative ironwork crown, red brick with white stone quoins and trim, rounded arched entrance, orange/yellow aerial construction lift or cherry picker equipment in front for restoration work

Eventually, I made it to Chautauqua County. I had a mission to get to Buffalo by nightfall. I needed to find a church with a Saturday night mass to go to. Rural two-lane highway with green Chautauqua County road sign on right shoulder, dense green trees lining both sides of road, clear blue sky, yellow center line, white edge line Modern 1960s institutional government building, three stories, red brick construction with white horizontal stone or concrete banding between each floor level, regular pattern of windows, flat roof, large mature trees providing shade, lawn in foreground

I made my way through rolling hills. Rural two-lane highway through agricultural valley with tall cornfield on left, mowed green field on right, rolling forested hills in background, white speed limit 40 sign on right, utility poles and power lines, clear blue sky Victorian courthouse with prominent ornate clock tower, light gray ashlar stone construction, multiple stories with rounded arched windows, mature trees framing both sides, curved walkway leading to entrance

I realized that I forgot to account for one of the time zones and would be very late. I was already at my destination when I checked the time. There was a small church in Buffallo, New York that had mass in like 30 minutes. It was going to be close! Mass Times mobile app showing Buffalo, New York Catholic church listings with St. Michael selected, Time/Distance sorting options, Mass/Saturday filters, displaying 5:00 PM mass at St. Michael (2.94 miles, Fort Erie Ontario) and 5:15 PM at UB Newman, orange Moral Screens with a Zero Tolerance Policy advertisement banner

I got there in the nick of time. It was also super hot, so I made sure to have the fans running before mass. Car interior showing two small black portable USB fans with blue LED ring lighting positioned on front seats over blue denim jeans, steering wheel and dashboard visible in background Gothic Revival church with tan ashlar stone construction, pointed arch entrance with decorative tracery, copper green roof accents, corner tower element, American flag on flagpole, evergreen shrubs in landscaping, residential building visible adjacent

As I left, I started doing some hotel hunting. I knew that I had a hotel brand that I had points with. I looked for one in Buffalo, and it was totally sold out. Eventually, I found a hotel with availability in the area. Wyndham hotel booking app showing 35 results for Buffalo, NY on 07/20/24, displaying La Quinta Inn & Suites by Wyndham Lackawanna with 4.3 rating at $270/night, and La Quinta Inn by Wyndham Buffalo Airport with 3.2 rating at $444/night, Dates Flexible option Wyndham hotel app results screen showing Hotel at the Lafayette Trademark Collection by Wyndham with No Availability, and La Quinta Inn & Suites by Wyndham Lackawanna offering 3,000 points + $210/night option, dates 07/20/24-07/21/24

I got there and checked in. Modern La Quinta hotel exterior with brown and tan color scheme, three stories, covered entrance portico with columns, parking lot with silver pickup truck and dark Cadillac SUV, handicapped parking spaces with blue markings Hotel room with king bed featuring tall orange upholstered headboard with decorative nailhead trim, white bedding with geometric black and white patterned runner, orange curtains over window, wall-mounted flat screen TV, desk with chair, gray walls, patterned carpet with orange geometric design

I unloaded my car and checked on my fridge. It was getting close to 45 degrees. I was at a hotel, so I knew I'd need to figure out a better solution. Hotel room floor covered with travel gear including large blue duffel bag, green and black solar panel backpack, red cooler, multiple black bags, clear plastic storage containers with snacks and granola, portable camping equipment scattered on tile floor near carpeted area

I grabbed some ice and used the room's AC to cool down my fridge. I turned the heat way down and pointed the AC towards my fridge. The warm air from the fridge was getting absorbed by the AC, and it seemed to do a good job at cooling it down. After I finished that, I checked the temperature and was pleasantly surprised! It had cooled down 20 degrees. Portable air conditioning unit control panel with red Heat button, blue Cool button, black Off button, digital display showing 88, fan speed options (High/Low/Auto/Constant Fan), up and down temperature adjustment arrows, white plastic housing

The following day, I was supposed to pick up my car before 2:00 PM. I set out with a destination of getting to Buffalo's suburbs when it opened at 8. I had planned on being there by 7. I figured the rest of my counties were on the way back from the tire place. Firestone Complete Auto Care mobile app My Garage screen with red header, showing promotional banner for 6% discount on services via mobile app, tire savings offer up to $160, upcoming scheduled appointment for 2017 Ford Focus on Jul 01 2024, bottom navigation showing Garage/Services/Offers/Stores/More tabs

I got some instant ramen for breakfast and hit the road. White styrofoam bowl containing prepared ramen noodles in orange-red broth with vegetables and sliced green onions, partially eaten, viewed from above on wood-grain laminate hotel table surface, black portable fan visible at edge

The night before, I checked with ChatGPT to see how I could finish my circuit of county visits. I was advised that I could get the rest of my New York counties done before my 2 PM cutoff and still make it to the shop by 8. ChatGPT mobile conversation displaying conclusion about completing courthouse itinerary with Thursday: Finish the remaining 20 stops, with around 8 hours of driving (6 AM - 2 PM) followed by feasibility assessment and advice about planning for delays and rest, iPhone keyboard visible at bottom

I had bought a cold brew and bagel from the hotel's breakfast, so I didn't have to worry about stopping. Hotel breakfast dining area with guests seated at white rectangular tables with light wooden chairs, recessed lighting with blue LED accent lighting in ceiling cove, wall-mounted TV screen, people in casual summer attire, buffet service area visible in background Hotel breakfast buffet station with stainless steel warming trays containing cooked breakfast sausage links on left side, commercial four-slot toaster with Black+Decker branding on right, gray subway tile backsplash, food service setup Continental breakfast on black granite table showing plain bagel with butter, scrambled eggs, breakfast sausage links, small foil-topped butter or jelly container on disposable plate, white styrofoam cup filled with orange juice, white napkin

I had planned on eating on the road. I decided to stop at a Tim Hortons since they are regional and hard to find where I live. Tim Hortons restaurant entrance with red script logo signage on white building with gray concrete block lower section, white soffit overhang, multiple Blue Rhino propane tank exchange displays at entrance, white semi-trailer visible in parking lot background Tim Hortons takeout breakfast on brown paper wrapper showing loaded bagel sandwich with scrambled eggs, bacon strips, cheese, lettuce, and tomato on toasted bagel, Tim Hortons branded paper coffee cup with red and white design and brown lid

I visited counties on my way back from the shop. I had stopped at a bank to get groceries, and by then, it was late morning. I decided to just get a second night at the hotel because I was tired. Additionally, it doesn't make sense to visit counties late at night when I have a 2 PM cutoff the next day anyways. Wyndham hotel booking app showing Your Wyndham is Waiting banner with 19 results for Buffalo NY on 07/22/24, La Quinta Inn & Suites by Wyndham Lackawanna at 3.0 miles for $104/night, Hotel at the Lafayette Trademark Collection by Wyndham for $166/night, bottom navigation bar

While I was out, I saw that there was a mall. McKinley Mall was my first and only full-on Dead Mall experience. Sure, I've been to Oakwood Mall and had a Dead Mall vibe. In some ways, Oakwood Mall is like a mall in hospice care if we are being honest. That said, there are still some legitimate stores, and parts of the mall look decent.

McKinley Mall did not feel that way. When you walk in, the mall has this uncanny vibe to it. I'm not sure if it was all the walking I did or if it was from my tire replacement, but the air didn't feel like it was circulating too well. McKinley Mall entrance featuring large green backlit sign with MCKINLEY MALL in white letters, colorful geometric tree logo above in orange/coral and green/yellow tones, beige stone facade, glass entrance doors, modern commercial architecture, clear blue sky Shopping mall interior common area with high vaulted ceiling featuring clerestory windows, decorative yellow and gold hanging light fixtures, gray tiled floor, folding tables set up in center, green planter with black base, seating areas visible in background, largely empty retail space

There were vintage gumball machines. I would try them if they worked. I decided to get some change. Mall kiosk featuring collection of vintage-style gumball and candy vending machines with clear glass globe tops and black metal bases mounted on wood-grain laminate display stand, tile floor, mall corridor visible in background Commercial real estate sign on perforated metal security gate reading Vacant 646 sq ft Please call 716-427-1230 in black text on white background Vending machine payment terminal showing green LCD display reading Cash Only, yellow payment panel with credit card logos (Discover, Visa, Mastercard) and contactless payment symbols, vertical CASH text on left side, card insertion slot Hand holding pile of copper pennies over white tile floor with blue vending machines or kiosks visible in blurred background

None of the machines really worked. Maybe this place was fake. It did have a weird vibe to it.

I walked around and eventually made it to the food court. Empty mall food court viewed from seated position at table with green sports drink bottle in foreground, beige tile flooring, dark metal chairs and tables, columns supporting ceiling, closed food vendor spaces visible in distance

There really was only one restaurant open. Royal Pizza-Pasta-Sub restaurant in mall food court with large menu boards above counter, service area with display cases, black metal bistro chairs and tables in foreground, neon OPEN sign, yellow interior accents

I left and went to a nearby Wegman's to get some food. I got a bunch of stuff to take back to the hotel. Wegmans supermarket exterior in parking lot showing distinctive tan and brick architecture with peaked roof element featuring clock tower and green patina spire, maroon Jeep Grand Cherokee parked in foreground, trees and partly cloudy sky Grocery items on black granite counter including glass baking dish with prepared food, orange juice jug, New York Chips Dinosaur Bar-B-Que flavor bag, packaged sausages or hot dogs, bottles, and other groceries

I got back to the hotel and requested the same room. I was glad to be able to get it. Hotel lobby with multiple travel bags (black, green, and tan) hanging on luggage cart pole, red cooler with granola container on floor, orange accent walls, white marble-look front desk in background with staff member visible Modern hotel room number sign showing 114 in white numerals on orange acrylic panel with gray backing featuring gold sunburst logo at top, mounted on light textured wallpaper Hotel king room with tall orange upholstered headboard with nailhead trim, white bedding with black and white geometric runner, orange blackout curtains, nightstands with table lamps, wall-mounted TV, orange geometric patterned carpet

I unpacked and loaded up the room's fridge. Open hotel mini-fridge or cabinet compartment under desk showing dark empty interior with small container of food visible on countertop above, light wood laminate finish, patterned carpet visible below White cooler filled with ice cubes and glass jar with brown/amber contents submerged in ice, viewed from directly above

Once again, I had to cool my fridge. I couldn't help it. I kept checking the temperature on it. It was definitely addicting! Portable air conditioner control panel with red Heat button, blue Cool button, black Off button with red indicator light illuminated, blank digital display, up/down temperature arrows, fan speed options (High/Low/Auto/Constant Fan), textured gray surface

With nothing in it, there was little food I had to unload from the fridge. I kept all my perishables in the hotel's fridge. Empty open storage shelves in light wood laminate finish, two shelf levels visible, part of hotel room furniture with drawers to right side, patterned carpet below

I got some chicken from the grocery store and sat down to eat. I was so tired from all the walking I did at the mall. It was a needed rest day. Fried chicken tenders or wings in black plastic takeout container next to orange Gatorade sports drink bottle on light wood laminate surface Hand holding single ridged wavy potato chip in front of New York Chips bag with red, white and blue logo, Dinosaur Bar-B-Que flavor variety, photographed on light wood surface Toasted bagel halves spread generously with cream cheese on white disposable paper plate, viewed from above on light wood laminate surface

The following day, I got up and went to get my car. Firestone Complete Auto Care service center exterior with red and blue corporate signage, beige metal siding and brown brick lower facade, multiple garage bay doors, glass entrance door, handicapped parking sign, partly cloudy sky Hand holding Febreze Fabric Extra Strength spray bottle in Original Scent inside a car interior

After getting my car, I went back to the hotel, loaded up the car, and hit the road. I got a bunch of courts in Northern New York that I wanted to visit. The first was Niagara County. Garmin GPS navigation device displaying notification that 023 NY Niagara County Courthouse destination was received from phone Historic Niagara County Courthouse, a two-story stone building with classical architecture featuring prominent columned portico and cupola

I decided to stop at Dollar Tree for snacks before the next county. Dollar Tree retail store exterior with green signage and empty parking lot Road trip snacks including Mountain Dew energy drink can and Jolly Rancher candy package on beige car upholstery

Up next was Orleans County. Classical revival courthouse with red brick walls, white columns supporting pediment, and white cupola on lawn setting

I got to Genesee County by going straight down Highway 98. I could have been back in Texas based on the fields of crops. View through car windshield of rural New York State Route 98 with flat farmland on both sides Historic white-painted courthouse building with Greek Revival architecture, featuring cupola and raised entrance with steps

I went to a neighborhood in Wyoming County. Tree-lined residential street with concrete sidewalk, manicured lawns, and modest houses Red brick courthouse with neoclassical white columned entrance and cupola amid landscaped grounds

The traffic wasn't too bad driving through a small town to Livingston County. Road view from car showing Area Speed Limit 30 sign with tree-lined park area Two-story red brick courthouse with white neoclassical columns, pediment, and white cupola

I had to get on the highway at one point. Highway view from car interior with Garmin GPS mounted on dashboard showing navigation route

I eventually made it to Ontario County. They had a new and old courthouse. Modern Ontario County Civic Center, a multi-story concrete building with curved glass entrance pavilion

I could have kept going, but I decided to call it and head home. I needed gas and started making my way towards the turnpike. Car digital dashboard display showing Trip 1 statistics: 279.4 miles at 37.0 MPG, total odometer reading 170057 miles Ontario County Court House, a tan-colored neoclassical building with columned entrance and black dome topped with gold finial

I stopped for gas and saw a combine crossing the road. Green John Deere combine harvester crossing through intersection with traffic lights

Heading south on a small highway, I passed through Yates County. Red brick courthouse with tall white Ionic columns, pediment, and silver dome with American flag Rural highway stretching into distance with tall corn fields on right side

I did a slight detour to Steuben County. Red brick courthouse with white neoclassical columned portico and pediment on street corner with overhead utility lines

I made it to Tompkins County and went into downtown Ithaca. This was my last county of the trip. Cayuga County courthouse with imposing neoclassical facade featuring six tall fluted columns and pediment

I stopped at Fastrac, which was a Northern New York convenience store. I topped off and got some pizza. I looked at the prices, and they were better than Kwik Trip! Fastrac convenience store and gas station with distinctive red metal roof and vehicles parked in lot Pizza display case at Fastrac showing whole pizzas and slices with 2 slices for $5 promotional signage Two slices of pizza in white cardboard container, one topped with cheese and meatballs, one with pepperoni

From here, it was off to 81. I made a short detour to Oswego County. I had wanted to start a line of counties here but decided against it. Historic tan stone courthouse with distinctive green oxidized copper domes and cupolas under overcast sky

I got back on 81. View through car windshield of tree-lined highway with Route 48 South sign visible

I noticed there were storms to my left. I did my best to try and get ahead of them on 81. I mostly got through them, but occasionally, I ran into some downpours. Weather radar map showing storm system near Syracuse and Fulton, New York with green and yellow precipitation bands Grand Beaux-Arts courthouse with ornate stone facade, large central dome with ornamental details, and columned portico

I had ventured to the northern part of the state, so I made a detour to Jefferson County. Neoclassical courthouse with four columns supporting pediment, decorated with patriotic red, white and blue bunting

I followed the highway down to the Adirondack Mountains to Lewis County. Google Maps navigation screen showing 35-minute route from Watertown Rest Area to Lowville

I used Google Maps since I was curious about how long the detour would be. The detour would cost me another hour or so. I decided I'd detour to Lewis County and sleep there. I thought I'd get up early and drive around the area some more, but it just didn't happen. I wanted to get home.

I'll say the rest stop had a clean bathroom and was lit decently. It was a good location to spend the night. Illuminated rest area or visitor center building at dusk surrounded by tall pine trees and street lights

I used an app to see when the sunrise was. Sunrise weather app screenshot displaying 5:43 AM sunrise time with daylight curve and sun schedule details

I normally have a lifejacket I use to lounge on while I'm sleeping. It's helpful in keeping myself propped up and comfortable. I wasn't able to find it when I woke up. I saw that it was below my feet. I have no idea how it moved. Orange Type III life jacket with black adjustment straps in vehicle interior

I used the bathroom in the visitors center and made some instant coffee before hitting the road. Disposable coffee cup with tan lid in car cup holder in low light conditions Sunrise app screenshot showing 5:41 AM sunrise with 14hr 52min total daylight and sun timing information

I arrived just as the county courthouse opened up. Lewis County Court House at twilight, brown brick building with white neoclassical portico and illuminated entrance

I made my way out of the mountains and started hitting the agriculture. Rural highway at dawn with wet pavement, farm with silo visible in distance under dark cloudy sky

A few counties had courthouses with flashy colors. The first was Herkimer County. Victorian-era courthouse at dusk with distinctive polychromatic red and tan striped brickwork and corner clock tower

I had a McDonald's breakfast before hitting Otsego County. Fast food breakfast items on car seat including McDonald's hash browns bag and coffee cup Richardsonian Romanesque courthouse with prominent clock tower, light stone and red brick construction under overcast sky

I had some really small counties to go through. The first was Schoharie County. Art Deco stone courthouse building with arched entrance, three stories, cell tower mounted on roof, wet pavement in foreground

The back roads for this part of the trip were pretty scenic. Rural paved road stretching into distance with wind turbines visible on horizon, utility poles and wildflower-filled fields on both sides

Next up was Delaware County. Romanesque Revival red brick courthouse with prominent clock tower topped by pyramidal roof, stone foundation, and American flag

It was a short drive to Sullivan County. I stopped at a rest stop on the way and was getting really tired. Blue portable toilet with Clean Off Please branding behind chain-link fence at recreational facility Modern red brick courthouse with white neoclassical columned entrance portico built into grassy hillside

I thought about staying at this rest stop for the night. It was only around 10 in the morning and super early. That said, it felt like the middle of the night. I was so tired.

I realized that even with my stop, I'd still be able to get to Vermont by nightfall. Maybe I could get a few hours of sleep and push myself. Car infotainment display showing SIRIUS Acquiring signal message with Replay, Direct, and Info menu options, 70°F and 10:43 displayed

I decided to get some counties done and find a rest stop once I got into Vermont. One thing I realized is that there was a strong headwind and with the mountains. My gas mileage was really dipping down. I stopped twice for gas, which definitely took up a significant amount of time. View following dump truck on rural highway with Garmin GPS navigation device mounted on dashboard showing route

I eventually made it to Washington County. They had a Stewart's there, which appeared to be a very regional convenience store/gas station. I topped off and got a pizza and sandwich. Stewart's Shops convenience store with white building, columned portico entrance, and multiple pickup trucks in parking lot Hand holding packaged Stewart's Shops ham and egg sandwich with paper plate of pepperoni pizza slice visible behind

I crossed over from New York into Vermont. Driver's view approaching modern steel arched truss bridge spanning water under overcast sky

I passed through a few small towns as I followed Highway 22A going North. Highway curve with metal guardrails and yellow building with red metal roof visible beside road surrounded by trees

I stopped in Burlington, Vermont. I knew I was staying in the city somewhere, so I decided to hunt for a parking spot. Most parking is limited to 2 hours. I eventually found the parking app. It had a kiosk, so it was more reliable. That said, paying 80 cents for 30 minutes seemed steep! ParkMobile parking app payment screen displaying Zone 5801 Burlington VT, 30-minute duration for $0.80 with Apple Pay method Two gray parking meters numbered 5801 with green ParkMobile Pay by App stickers, weathered blue-topped meters behind

After a bit of walking, I made it to the Chittenden County Courthouse. Tree-lined urban residential street with mature trees, concrete sidewalk, and vehicles angle-parked along brick buildings Neoclassical white stone courthouse with tall Ionic columns, multiple window rows, Vermont and American flags on flagpoles

I then realized that I had missed a courthouse along the way. I saw I had time to regroup, so I stopped at a public library near where I was parked. Road trip tracking app Current Trip screen listing Vermont county courthouse visits in Addison, Chittenden, Grand Isle, Franklin, Orleans, and Lamoille iPhone lock screen at 12:48 PM showing ParkMobile notification with 19:04 minutes remaining in Zone 5801, parking ending 1:07 PM Modern public library interior with open floor plan, bookshelf displays, cylindrical columns, geometric patterned carpet, and tall windows

I started putting different scenarios into Google Maps and readjusted my route. Google Maps navigation showing 5 hour 40 minute multi-stop route through Vermont towns Hyde Park, Montpelier, and Middlebury

I made sure to avoid turtles on my way to Grand Isle County. Highway view with yellow turtle crossing warning sign, large flock of birds flying overhead, dense tree line on both roadsides Historic stone courthouse with white cupola, columned portico entrance, American and state flags, yellow house visible to left

I passed a few cows on my way to Franklin County. Large herd of black and white dairy cattle grazing in roadside pasture with rolling hills and distant landscape visible Victorian red brick courthouse with two symmetrical white bell towers, arched windows, stone foundation, and entrance steps

By now, I had hit a wall. I was tired and needed to take a nap. A sign that I'm tired is that other drivers really start to irritate me. I don't know if many of the other drivers were either partaking in the legal cannabis or the wineries. People were just driving really slow.

The speed limits are already obnoxiously slow at 50mph for two-lane highways. It seems like many people were driving 40. It got to the point that driving through half the state at 40 became super annoying.

Luckily, there was a rest stop nearby. I parked under a tree and got out multiple fans. This was the first time I had stopped for a nap during the middle of the day on a road trip. It was a bit hot, but I was able to get in some refreshing sleep. White Ford Focus sedan parked at wooded rest area with picnic tables and restroom facilities visible in background Ford Focus interior with two portable black fans clipped on either side of steering wheel, driver's legs visible

Lucky I took my nap when I did. It was back to following slow drivers. This time, it was 27 in a 50. We were literally doing half the speed limit! Highway driving view with Garmin GPS mounted on dashboard displaying navigation route, vehicles on curved road ahead

If I wasn't putting along, I was stopped for construction. Following dark pickup truck on rural road under dramatic dark storm clouds with wet pavement

I slowly but surely made it to Lamoille County. Victorian red brick courthouse with prominent clock tower and bell cupola surrounded by mature trees under stormy sky

One thing I will give Vermont is that it challenged me to pick out which building is the courthouse. Normally, it's easy to spot. Out there, it seemed like half the buildings could be courthouses. Rain-covered windshield view of red brick courthouse with white columned portico during active rainfall

I drove past the fake courthouse to get to the real courthouse in Washington County. Red brick courthouse with white neoclassical portico, distinctive white clock tower with red accents under clear blue sky

Most of the towns in Vermont seemed to have too many people for the infrastructure they had, which I think led to many of the traffic jams. The one exception was Montpelier. That town seemed quiet, and it was cool to see the Vermont State Capitol Building. If I were to stay in Vermont, I think Montpelier would be where I'd stay. Tree-lined street through campus or town with historic brick buildings on both sides, vehicles traveling on road Vermont State House with iconic gold dome, white granite neoclassical facade with tall columns, manicured lawn foreground

I had about had it with Vermont and this trip in general. I could tell I was no longer in my 20s and could go for days on end with little rest. With that and all the other weird stuff that happened, I was exhausted. I decided I'd start heading back towards home and get some counties along the way. I returned to Addison County, the county I had initially missed when I entered Vermont. Of course, it rained super hard and I had to slow way down on the way there. View through heavily rain-streaked windshield during downpour with active windshield wiper and dramatic lighting Three-story Victorian red brick courthouse with square clock tower, ornate arched windows, overhead utility wires crossing

I then looked for a rest stop in New York and set Google Maps to it. Google Maps navigation screen showing turn onto Court St toward Mahady Ct, 1 hour 43 minutes remaining to destination

I was soon crossing the same bridge into New York that brought me into Vermont. Modern steel arch truss bridge spanning water at dusk under dark dramatic cloudy sky Welcome to New York state border sign at dusk with pedestrian crossing warning sign, wet pavement visible

I'm not sure if it was the most direct route, but Google had me go down this really windy mountain road. It was definitely a challenge to drive it, especially in the fog. Google Maps navigation showing route on Plank Rd with Route 55 and 27 markers, 27 minutes to 9:03 PM arrival

I made it to the rest stop. Champlain Arts & Heritage entrance illuminated at night, rustic timber frame structure with stone pillars and decorative stained glass

I made a wrong assumption there would be food along the way. I was glad that New York had upped their vending machine game. There were chicken wraps available. Rest area vending machines displaying refrigerated food items including StarKist lunch products, dollar bill changer machine visible Hand holding clear plastic container of Market Sandwich Buffalo Style Chicken Wrap with label showing 32g protein and 530 calories

I originally thought I'd get up early and try to push myself again. I'd find a line of counties on the way back to visit. I had talked to Victoria the night before, and she was also kind of tired from watching Little Dude. I decided to get a few more counties and then head home. This trip had taken a lot out of me.

I slept in a bit, and looking at the fog in the mountains when I woke up was scenic. Mountain rest area with wooden information kiosk, picnic tables, fog-shrouded forested mountains in background

Since I didn't have the courthouse address in my phone's contacts, I needed to search for it. Despite specifying the city and the address, it felt the need to search both New York and Ontario. Garmin GPS device displaying search interface for NY, ON with query 114 2551 and loading indicator

I got directions and made my way into the foggy mountains. It appears that gas stops were far and few between. Highway view through dense fog with tree-lined road and metal guardrails on both sides Garmin GPS showing US-9 navigation, speed limit 40, traveling 39 mph, 4.2 miles to destination

I wasn't going to take my chances with gas. I eventually discovered Mountain Market was the only place in 100 miles with gas. Blue Mountain Market building with MEATS, MARKET, and GROCERIES signage, pickup trucks in parking lot

One thing I find cool about Upstate New York is the sheer number of mom-and-pop places. They all seem to have delis, and everything is made fresh. I got a breakfast sandwich and took my time eating it. Large chalkboard menu displaying extensive list of subs, sandwiches, wraps, toppings, and dressings in restaurant Breakfast on rustic wooden table with coffee cup, everything bagel with seeds, and hash brown patty

After filling up my car and belly, I reached the Hamilton County Courthouse. Red brick courthouse with white neoclassical four-column portico, cupola, and patriotic bunting decorations

I had to take some real back roads to Herkimer County. Narrow tree-lined rural road with visible asphalt patches and repairs stretching into distance Victorian red brick courthouse with prominent mansard-roofed clock tower, white stone trim details, American flag

I got stellar gas mileage on the way to Oneida County for mountain driving. Car digital dashboard showing Trip 1: 62.5 miles at 44.6 MPG, 484 miles range, 171027 total odometer miles Modern multi-story Oneida County Courthouse with tan facade and neoclassical architectural details

I realized I90 ran right through where I was in Utica, New York. I decided to call it and start heading back home. Google Maps showing 13 hour 19 minute route covering 869 miles with flood warning alert and time zone notification

I got some coffee and hit the road. Self-serve coffee station with multiple flavor dispensers, stir sticks, cups, and organized condiment selection Interstate highway with overhead directional signs for I-90 West to Buffalo and I-90 East to Albany under dark clouds

I stopped at a New York travel plaza. It was a bit small inside, but nice. Modern shopping mall food court with Shake Shack and Starbucks locations, customers queuing, exposed ceiling design

It had amazing internet speeds! Ookla Speedtest results displaying 260 Mbps download speed, 345 Mbps upload on FirstLight Fiber connection

I decided to get some Shake Shack food. This was the first time I had eaten at Shake Shack, and it was pretty good! Shake Shack meal in cardboard tray with burger, crinkle-cut fries, and green lemonade on white marble surface

I hit the road, and it started to get cloudier. I eventually ran into some rain. Rain-drenched windshield view during heavy downpour with water droplets and windshield wiper, foggy highway ahead

The rain cleared up, and I kept driving, making the occasional bathroom and/or gas stop. Eventually, I made it to an Ohio travel plaza. Parking lot view of a brick commercial building under dramatic cloudy skies at dusk, with several cars parked in the foreground

They had a nice food court. I had a hard choice of Panda Express or Sbarro. Panda Express eventually won out. Interior of a shopping mall food court featuring a white domed ceiling with radial beams, classical white columns, empty black seating areas, and restaurant storefronts in the background White styrofoam takeout container with Asian stir-fry dish containing noodles, broccoli, meat and vegetables, with black plastic fork, next to a bottle of sparkling water

I wanted to get Laffy Taffy for dessert, but they didn't have any. I got Chewy Sprees instead. Hand holding a turquoise bag of Chewy Spree candy decorated with colorful illustrated candy pieces

From there, it was more driving. I wanted to make it past Chicago to avoid traffic, but I hit a wall in Indiana. I stopped at a travel plaza there and called it a night. Nighttime view from car dashboard showing an XPO Logistics white semi-trailer in a parking lot, with a small black clip-on fan with blue LED lighting mounted on the dashboard

The following day, I was up around 4:00 AM. I grabbed some breakfast and high-tailed it into Chicago. 7-Eleven croissant sandwich with bacon, egg and cheese in clear packaging next to an energy drink can, photographed inside a vehicle at night

Luckily, I avoided traffic and drove straight to Belleville. I backed the car into the garage and unloaded everything. It was good to be home! Rear view of a white Ford Focus sedan with Wisconsin license plate parked in a residential garage next to a classic car under wooden garage door panels

This ended up being an interesting trip. I definitely pushed my limits. I do notice I cannot go dark to dark for days on end with very little sleep. I don't know if it's the perpetual tiredness you get being a parent or if I'm just getting older. It's probably a combination of both.

For future trips, I'll probably try to take it easier. I won't be as productive in the number of counties I visit, but the trips will be more relaxing. Also, if weird stuff pops up, it won't further exhaust me.

I will say in this trip I was impressed with Northern Ohio and Upstate New York. I really liked the area. I can't say as much for Vermont. It seemed crowded, and driving at such slow speeds got old fast. I do look forward to future trips. I think I might hold off on going out for this long again and focus on a few days. I'll keep testing more strategies and see which are the most sustainable.

I'm definitely in it for the long run. Here is where I'm currently at with my counties. Map of the United States showing counties visited, with turquoise shading indicating completed counties concentrated in Texas, the Upper Midwest, northern New England, and scattered throughout other regions

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