KampKrug

Sammy and I enjoyed a trip up to the Adirondack high peaks today. Maureen and Amy were eager to head up to Lake Placid as well, so had great company for the trip. We decided to hike Mt. Jo, near Heart Lake. It was such a great day – we were really surprised by how warm it was. I think it was easily 70 on the trail. But in true Adirondack fashion, we still managed to catch a chill on the summit – the combination of sweat and wind will always do it! Sammy did a great job hiking up the trail. I had to help him scramble over all the boulders but he did the whole distance. It was 2.5 miles and 700 ft elevation gain. When we got back to the ADK info center, I asked if they had a patch for Mt. Jo and they did! So I bought him a patch for his first Adirondack peak. I almost cried – this is such a special area to me and I really enjoyed sharing it with my little friend. There were some funny stories along the way, but to preserve the privacy of those involved I will only share the vaguest details… We saw something dart across the trail – not huge, but not small either. Mo spotted it, and I got a tad nervous. I had my baby on the trail and absolutely nothing to defend ourselves with! Mo reassured me there was nothing to worry about. Nothing big and hairy, anyway. THEN I heard a growl. A low, gutteral growl. I was like “MO! Did you hear that?!” She just looked around and said “No?” in a sweet little voice. OK. So on we go. I decided to hike in front and let whatever was lurking behind have to deal with Mo as she brought up the rear. She is far less tasty than succulent little Sammy. So I figured she’d be safe, and I’d get warning. We hiked on up, Sammy took a trail pee as I peered deep into the woods in a 360 just like the secret service guys do, eyes probing. Didn’t see anything. Then I heard the growl again from a bit higher on the trail. Strangely near where Mo was standing. This time I said “Mo! You heard that, right?!” And she said “OH!! Yes.” Then chuckled. I must leave the story there. The rest is classified. But I will say that I laughed like crazy in relief and enjoyed the rest of the day. Of course, I had to tell her hubby, Tim, as soon as he got home that night.