Sat, Feb 2 2013 - Sweetwater Celebration Hike (View Original Event Details) Trip Leader(s): Lisa, Joyce T. Participants: Joyce T., Lisa, SusanF, Lee Wilschek, Sunae, Jackie Ernst, Bruce P, Carolyn Naser, Theresa, Elon, Jim B, Tom N, Shirley N, Janet G

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What a splendid first write-up for an AOC event by my extraordinary co-lead (and soon to be full-fledged Trip Leader) Lisa!    Enjoy it:

The groundhog surely saw his shadow today, because we began our trek under a glorious azure sky with nary a cloud.  Susan was showered with flowers, a commemorative sign, many hugs, and a balloon to adorn her backpack to celebrate her 200th hike.  We soon forgot the chilly temperature as we warmed up with a steady pace through the woods and along Sweetwater Creek, stopping briefly to admire the view of the falls and the ruins of the old mill.  The adventurous group even braved a bit of bouldering in between pausing for the mandatory bridge photos (this was a Joyce hike, after all!)  We boldly went where no AOC group has gone before as we crossed the new bridge over to the yellow trail.  Here we encountered some steep ascents to get the blood pumping and some equally steep descents to get the knees noticing.  The group learned what an "exploratory" hike is, as we inadvertently added nearly an additional mile before finding the "real" yellow trail.  Back at the Park & Ride, we toasted Susan's accomplishment with sparkling cider generously provided by Bruce, before continuing the party at Ruby Tuesday's.  ~  Written by LISA