A dozen cheerful MOACers and one charged dog embarked upon the most stunning hiking
experience this side of the Mississippi on Sunday! The sky could not have been any bluer, the
trail was friendly and firm, the views plentiful and the company sublime. They enjoyed
lunch on the rocks while skiers and riders entertained.

Kevin O shined on his uniquely designed snowboard. They spent the dog day afternoon
soaking it all in. It was hard to leave but they said good day to the big bowl and
slid down the trail - at times on their bums!

The group sprang into action when they came upon an injured German College Rowing
champion about a mile from the Pinkham Notch center. She had fallen and badly sprained
or possibly broken her ankle. Thanks to some Yankee engineering, a spare sled, some
hemp rope and a knife the gang worked out a device to keep her comfortable and moved
her down the slippery slope without further incident.

Down in the valley, the Noche Cafe was open but with only 3 employees - a cook,
a bartender and one waitress. This group of weary hikers were not the only hungry
folks in the joint! It could have taken hours and they were already running late
due to the events of the day...but just then the trip leader jumped up, poured
and served water, filled the baskets with chips, commandeered Captain Kidd to spoon
out the salsa, took drink and dinner orders, refilled chips and beers and sat happily,
sipping a Sangria running over the delights of the day in her head...


Photos by Nancy Dorrans