Thursday Hikers

Sunny and 40 degrees – a perfect day for hiking in Hawley State Forest. Although we were mostly hiking on snow mobile paths, the way was 75% uphill so there was some “huffing and puffing” heard from the hearty band of Thursday hikers. Stopping to look at the charming little tracks made by mice gave us pause to catch our breath. We were a one dog hike today as Deb and her dog Annie were at home nursing Deb’s bad cold. Tony’s German Shepherd Sukee had the trail all to herself for romping – and resting! A very curious patch of lichen growing on a trailside tree caught our attention. So far I’m thinking it might be “Punctelia rudecta”, or rough speckled shield lichen, but I’d love one of you to correct me on that if you can as I am surely no expert on lichens. On Hallockville Pond, someone had cleared a space for ice skating! It was BIG, maybe 30’ by 40’. I bet some of you remember the ice skating rink that my father kept for us on Valley Road.
We ended up at the Creamery, one of our favorite “apres hike” lunch spots. I liked the new sign that not only welcomed cross country skiers, but thanked Martin Luther King Jr. too. I ordered and enjoyed a cup of NE clam chowder (sorry Charlie – and it truly “pales” compared to your Manhattan variety) that came with free cornbread. After soup and sandwiches we surprised Elaine with a birthday cake and lots of good cheer all around. I am so so so blessed to have this band of great friends!! Have some fun! Lots of love, Penny Happy Birthday (a bit late) Barbara, and Hi to you Linda!!