Sullivan County is the greatest because…

By ERICA CONNER

The scenery slowly changes, along with my attitude on the ride to paradise. For the past five years I have been spending what I hope to be endless seasons in Sullivan County. The way I discovered this dream was by mistake. It all started on a hot July afternoon. I was heading to Milford for a wedding when I took a wrong turn. After about 20 minutes of being completely lost I saw the sun shining on a crystal clear river!

It wasn’t the kind of river I was ever used to seeing. I saw rafts and canoes, not trash barges and tug boats. I heard laughter and singing birds, not horns blowing and police sirens.

I decided to spend the weekend exploring. My journey started with a rafting trip down the Delaware River. It was so relaxing, I watched the sun set and saw animals I thought only existed in books. The next morning I took a drive down winding bumpy roads, and fell in love. A beautiful log cabin lay tucked away from civilization was for sale. I decided that one day I would grow old in that house. I kept driving and before I realized it, it was late afternoon and I had to go home. But before I did I wanted to have a little more fun. I spent what seemed like too long trying to catch my dinner at the Eldred Preserve. I was unsuccessful, but I promised myself that I would come hack to catch that large mouth bass that was taunting me.

Over the next few months I made many trips to Sullivan County and fell more in love with it with every visit. Every weekend was a completely different experience for me. I really don't have a favorite season; I enjoy them all. The summer sun is warm and lights my way. The tranquil breeze of the fall leaves is mesmerizing. The winter snowfalls are so peaceful. The spring is an awakening for animals and for me because I now feel like my life is just beginning.

I feel that Sullivan County is beautiful, of course because of its alluring scenery, but also that almost anyone who wants to come here does not have to get on a plane or plan a vacation for months on end. I think this is what makes Sullivan County one of New York's best kept secrets.