Pennsylvania and New York

The last two days we have been working our way across western Pennsylvania and New York. Pennsylvania has wooded hills and great vistas. The trees are about a fourth of the way turned. One can really see what side of a hill gets the sun by the amount of fall color. Our first stop was at Rock City which is really off the beaten path. It is an area of huge boulders amongst the trees that are balanced on each other or an interesting shape. We followed the trail through the woods and marveled at how such huge rocks could balance like they do. They say there isn't an earthquake activity because of the leveling effect of the oil fields.
The highlight of yesterday was Niagara Falls. You don't need their tours to enjoy the falls. Pick up a guide in the visitor's center and walk to the falls which are basically out the back door of the center. For a buck you can go out on the observation deck that goes out over the river for more great views. Ride the elevator down and you can walk up a series of stairs and get closer and wetter. We found that that wasn't really worth it because the mist blocked out the falls. We didn't go to Canada but felt we had a good experience.
Shortly after we started driving this morning, Jason and Ryan called. They were waiting for muffins to be done. It is so strange to have such a time difference. It was the best way to start the day. We continued east stopping to see the Genesee Lighthouse near Rochester. We climbed to the top and learned some history and added to my lighthouse collection.
Along the road there were many old cemeteries. Another feature is the pumpkin displays. Anyone that grows produce, displays them by the road on flat trailers or tables. Mounds of pumpkins and squash were everywhere. Well, except for when I decided we should get a picture of one of these, we saw no more!
Before lunch it started to rain and it poured all day and continues to rain this evening. We went to Sackett Harbor to see the battlefield and learn some War of 1812 history. We toured the visitors center and viewed artifacts from the battle that took place there between the British and American's. We got pretty wet walking around the battlefield even with rain gear. Put the seat warmer to good use when we got back in the car.
Tonight we are in Potsdam, NY and making a plan for tomorrow. The rain is suppose to continue so will wait to see how that develops.