The steady climb to Balance Rock, then the gorgeous level trail across the mountain ridge, and the final wide open old road that’s now the HenHawk Trail, made for a totally perfect day of hiking. Rain was forecast, and it did rain a bit (we even heard some thunder), but all in all it was another wonderful day together. The fungi and lichens were all showy because of the rain. I’ve included a StinkHorn Fungus (oh my!) photo – can you find the salamander hiding under it? Lissa made a delicious Swedish Apple Cake for Conrad’s birthday and we celebrated on an accommodating stone wall after having taking turns hauling the surprise cake up the mountain. At the end of the hike, Conrad spotted a Hen of the Woods mushroom and Nancy found an Oyster mushroom growing halfway up a tree. That’s Conrad in the last photo using his hiking stick to bring down some Oyster mushrooms. A hat full of mushrooms was taken for some dinners tonight. Remember to wear your orange hats and vests when you go hiking. Lots of love, Penny (Photos by Tony. My phone camera must have had a glitch). 
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