Sat, Feb 16 2013 - "Carpe Diem" at Island Ford (View Original Event Details) Trip Leader(s): Lisa Participants: Lisa, Ken P, John Christopher, Joanne P, Glenn A, Laura V, Joe, Jeff, Eric, Laura C, Ramzi, Jasmine, Tim

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A baker's dozen of hardy hikers scoffed at the forecast of snow flurries and wind-chill temperatures below freezing, and eagerly gathered outside the CRNA Park Headquarters at Island Ford to seize the day. Ken kicked off the introductions with a poetic icebreaker.  We were soon rewarded as the overcast gloom cleared to reveal plentiful blue sky and sunshine.  Eric dutifully fulfilled his responsibility as volunteer sweep, joined at times by the cheerful co-sweep Laura V.  We forged ahead at a brisk pace, stopping only briefly to regroup, hydrate, and peel off layers as the sun beat down.  As we gathered for a group photo by John, this die-hard group of romantics voted to enjoy our poetry reading on the rocky bank of the river rather than opting for the warmth of the visitor center building.  Buffeted by the rising wind, we lifted our voices to share the wisdom of Sheryl Crowe, Ogden Nash, Bob Dylan, Robert Louis Stevenson, and other wordsmiths.  We were even treated to quotes by Bill Clinton and deep thoughts by Jack Handey as a couple of geese paused to listen in.  A very warm welcome to Ramzi on his very first AOC event.  Carpe Diem!