The trails were wet, but the rain had stopped; the hike was really good. 3 miles on well maintained ski trails. Guest hiker Harley, good dog Hammy’s owner, joined us today. The three dogs were full of energy, had their wild escapades, but are wonderful trail dogs and are never far off. A walk across a beautiful field led to a ski shelter with long views across the mountains. We ate and shared our bag lunches there. We explored an abandoned early road grader that would have been pulled by a team of horses. It was very very intriguing. Tony knew enough about its workings to give us a real appreciation for how things worked – not all that long ago! Back on the trail after lunch we passed a sweet cellar hole with beautiful views. I hope that the people who lived there had time from chores to appreciate how beautiful it was. We took a little loop through the children’s trail with logs carved as various animals and other curiosities for children. Just collecting and making a pile of smooth can be a fine way to spend some time. (And not just for kids:) Hugely overgrown, leggy rhododendrons left over from the days when a mansion was on site, make a wonderful place for kids to play hide and seek. We all send energy and encouragement to Chip as he treks across Maine on the last leg of his incredible hike up the Appalachian Trail. One foot in front of the other Chip! Carry on! XO Penny 
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