Yesterday an Thursday we hiked about 5 miles in Winnekenni Park in Haverhill, Ma. I think my legs are ready for the easy first days on the Long Trail. After the walk on Friday, we picked up a pizza and I couldn’t resist this beer, just because of the name. Today, it is rainy and… Continue reading On our way to Vermont
Training in NH
Dennis and I went hiking on the back roads around Newton, NH. Everything is verdant and vibrant following the rains. The rhododendrons, azaleas, and spring flowers add colors not seen in Florida. We also saw golden finches, robins, cottontails, and other small woods animals. I had not realized how much I missed the smell of newly… Continue reading Training in NH
Changing to hiker mode
On our drive north, I read the Green Mountain Club Long Trail Guide, Hiking Vermont’s High Ridge. It divided the trail into twelve divisions. Each corresponding chapter included a profile map, descriptions of the route, and its side trails. Though the book offers a lot of information, we will not take it with us. It is too… Continue reading Changing to hiker mode
Tweaking gear
A few trial hikes discouraged me from using Dennis’ Gregory Z35 Pack. The torso is about two inches too long. It didn’t sit right and caused me to lean forward too much. Not wanting to spend money on another pack, I decided to use my Osprey Talon 33 back pack. I’ll miss the extra three cubic feet, but not… Continue reading Tweaking gear
Gear change
Dennis and I were speakers at the Appalachian Trail Club of Florida. Dennis presented slides from his 2008 walk on the first part of the Long Trail, which is also part of the Appalachian Trail (AT). I think he was a little wary that all the photos of the mud might change my mind about… Continue reading Gear change
Preparing for the Long Trail
I am preparing to hike the oldest long-distance hiking trail in the US—272 (435 km) miles long running the length of Vermont from the Massachusetts to the Canadian borders. It is considered more difficult and rugged than the Appalachian Trail, with lots of mud and mountains (53 named ones) including 27 that are over 3,500… Continue reading Preparing for the Long Trail
My next big adventure: 270 miles on the Vermont Long Trail
After Memorial Day, Dennis and I are heading up to New Hampshire to spend time with our daughter and her family. While she and hubby are on a week-long cruise, we will care for their 19-month son and their pets. Living 1400 miles away, I welcome this opportunity to spoil my only grandchild. Walking the hills… Continue reading My next big adventure: 270 miles on the Vermont Long Trail
April 20, 2015 City Island Park, Sarasota
City Island Park in Sarasota is becoming one of my favorites places in the city. Today we met friends for lunch at O’Leary’s Tiki Bar and Grill. We sat under the thatched roof near the water watching the pelicans land on the wind-swept waves. It was balmy and the breeze was soothing. We each ordered something different… Continue reading April 20, 2015 City Island Park, Sarasota
January 31, 2015 Visiting Sarasota
Anne’s visit is coming to an end. Luckily the weather has warmed enough (60s) to enjoy outdoor activities. We started our day with a walk on Lido Beach, enjoying the late morning sunshine, the soft sand beneath our feet, and easy conversation as we walked the shoreline. I love the beaches in Sarasota and wonder… Continue reading January 31, 2015 Visiting Sarasota
Thurs. 29-Jan-2015 Red Bug Slough and Turtle Beach
Yesterday, my friend from Massachusetts and I walked through the Red Bug Slough Preserve. Since this park is near my home, it is a favorite of mine. This 72-acre preserve has several miles of hiking trails to walk and spend time with each other and with nature. We were even lucky enough to see an otter… Continue reading Thurs. 29-Jan-2015 Red Bug Slough and Turtle Beach