Day 5: Shepardstown to Williamsport

One rule of vacation packing is always bring a swim suit, just in case. Or, at least something to swim in. I packed a two-on-one with a tankini top and some running shorts bottoms. The kids have their suits, but the swimming has been a miss so far. We didn't get in until well past 5 at the first hotel that had a pool, so after showers and dinner, swimming wasn't really an option. Today, the Potomac stretch that had a lot of boat activity still wasn't quite wading worthy- the kids did stick their hands in the water a bit. We were told that Williamsport has a good municipal pool, and it looked very cool and refreshing when we rolled into town around 4:30, but despite the sign saying they were open until 6pm, there wasn't a person in sight. Hancock also has a municipal pool, but it's not at the original park... there's a locker room building, but no pool? It must be relocated up the road a bit. The playground will have to do.
The trail had a great stretch along the river today outside of the trees. Can you get sick of the tree tunnel? Maybe if you're 5. Today, Bryan asked, "Why are we doing this?" Indirectly trying do dodge the question, I replied, "Doing what, buddy?" "Riding our bikes." "Why do you ask?" "It's boring." "You just saw a huge snake! And a new fawn! And a giant dam!" The memory is short, yet long. The next morning, Bryan asked Mike what happened to the 2 ounces of green sno-cone that was left over in Mike's water bottle. Of course, Mike had tipped it out to refill the bottles with ice water for the day, but Bryan was expecting his leftover tasty treat. He got a new blue sno-cone at the next stop, saved a little bit, and I bet Mike won't make that mistake again.
We towed the kids most of the day. It wasn't planned, but it kept them happy. I think the TowWhee bungee is still the best choice over the FollowMe tandem or the gator-bar.
Highlights:
-Bryan quizzing me on my addiction facts while he's being towed.
- The C&O national park visitors center in Williamsport
- The playground in Williamsport!
- Zoic kids' bike shorts for Eryn. The only thing she's not complaining about is her butt.
Challenges:
 - Mom and Mike were not fans of the Chinese food place, but I was starving and thought it was fine, and the kids cleared their plates, so... can't please everyone.
- Towing the children. If one gets a tow, the other has to. They're quiet for Mike, but its nonstop talking for me. Which is okay for a little bit, but then I find myself saying a lot of "I don't know" and that's frustrating for them. Eryn gets into some philosophical "would you rather be a jellyfish or a seahorse" questions, but I'm zonked by the end of the day.
Recommendations:
- I'm really exhausted, so I can't think of anything to say here, except the Red Roof Inn in Williamsport was probably one of the least comfortable beds to date.