Punching holes in clouds

Somewhat new to General Aviation. 2 years into my PPL. I am a check ride away from getting my ticket. I had the opportunity to fly from FD77 Wimauma airport, in the Tampa/St. Pete area up to 1N7 Blairstown NJ in a Cessna 172. This was over the Carolina’s @ 7000 feet. 9.6 hours actual flight log time and 11.5 total trip time. Great experience!