Temperatures in the low 20’s, with not much wind, but the dampness from the river kept us moving to keep warm. Ice underfoot, so spikes were the footwear choice of the day. This hike is on a wide and popular trail that follows the East Branch of the Westfield River. Torrents of glacial waters carved through metamorphic rock to create the deep gorge that is so alluring today. We got ourselves down to the river’s edge for some fun and close inspection of the ice blocks that have been heaved up all along the river’s edge. Three happy hours of hiking, then back to our nice dry cars and over to the Creamery for a thaw out and a late late lunch. I had vegetable/chicken soup and grilled cornbread. Sitting next to Nancy’s BLT was tempting, so was Tony’s bowl of chili. We celebrated Elaine’s birthday with a wonderful chocolate raspberry cake ordered ahead and baked on the premises. Buttercream icing with fresh raspberries both filled and topped it. Yum Yum! Conversation was full of good spirit. I am rich in having these great friends. The days are getting longer by about 2 1/2 minutes a day. And that’s whole lot better than having them get shorter! Stay warm, Love, Penny 
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