HI All,  We had a nice hike today with 8 Townies, Lisa, Kim, Debbie, Jody, Leigh, Jenny, Effie and Marsha, who were protected by Junko. It was a sad occasion as Lisa and Joan and Junko  are moving to the northeast part of the country. The years that we shared and the memories that we made will not be forgotten but it does leave a hole in our hearts as we try to navigate forward knowing that Lisa and Joan will no longer be just a drive away. We wish them all the best of luck and are hoping that they can come back to visit soon. The heaviness of spirit with parting friends can cast a darkness even on days like today which was bathed in sunlight.  Today shall hence forth be known as Spider Dance Day. We were traveling our 4 miles on the greenbelt, starting at the west end, and were assaulted by spider webs. Since I walk point, I courageously took the hit and burst through many of the webs after walking blindly into them. Yet, on one nasty incident, I was tangled in the web, shrieking, as the irate spider calmly marched forth to devour me. Fortunately, Leigh and Jody began to beat me with sticks, alleging that they were removing the webs but I think now in hindsight, they just were looking for a reason to have a payback for all the hot hikes I have taken them on. Despite my heroism of clearing the webs, we all did the spider dance at some point. The only one unscathed was Junko.  The wind was a nice addition to the hike but I do not recall any of the hikers commenting on that as we climbed the hills. I think the spider web battle consumed our energy to notice anything else, although we had little yellow flowers and magenta flowers that were not wine cups. We had a serenade of laughter by cardinals, sparrows and blue jays that were mocking our dances. Toward the very end, we heard the first zooming of mosquitoes and Kim took that opportunity to beat me, claiming that it was a mosquito on me. Another questionable act. During the hike, we did come across this incredible stone monument that was made by stacking rocks by some industrious soul who was also able to form bridges and arches with the stone. The masterpiece was over 6 feet tall. Incredible.  Outside of being beaten today, I did enjoy the time on the hike but was left with a sadness knowing that this will be the last hike for me with Lisa and Junko. Take care, dear friends

Until we meet again…. Happy Trails, Marsha