I'll get this trip report started.
My hubby and I decided to have a little weekend getaway near where this hang was going to be. We hiked in on Saturday to spend the day with everyone. I loaded up my pack, more like for an overnight than a daypack! I wanted to give my new pack a good test and my body one as well. I want to start hiking more and this 1.5 miles hike in and out let me know I REALLY need some more conditioning and to get in shape. Yes, round is a shape, but I'd rather be less round.
We walked for an hour and finally I spotted some tarps, recognizing Cali's gear. However, no one was home. I made myself at home, set up my tarp and hammock as the forecast was iffy and Pat and I made ourselves comfy by the river. We felt a little like Goldilocks, but fortunately we weren't surprised by any bears. About an hour later, Tacoma and his son, Iron Gator arrived, having just hiked in. A few minutes later, Cali and Hermit, along with Dedicated Hanger and his wife, Mrs. DH, returned from their hike to Ellicot Rock. Cali showed me where the Dedicated Hangers were camped as they had a nice campsite totally invisible from the trail! Tacoma and Gator got set up and we all enjoyed a nice lunch of BBQ and ham sandwiches...Mmmm!
An early afternoon downpour sent us all scampering for shelter. Some took the opportunity for a siesta. Pat and I enjoyed the company of the Dedicated Hangers under their sitting area tarp while sipping hot tea. After the rain passed, more hangers arrived. SC864, his daughter and little pup had hiked in through the rain. Baby, a Chihuahua, rode in the backpack!
After a bit of fellowship and gear talk, our bellies began to growl. Stoves boiled water and heated various dishes, most of which were shared and sampled by each of us. The Friday night crew had been unable to get a fire going with all the wood being soaked from the rain. Tacoma, however, was determined to conquer the elements and build a fire for the group. He worked faithfully and soon we saw smoke rising! It was beginning to head towards evening and Pat and I wanted to be off the trail by dark. We said our goodbyes and exchanged hugs until next time. As we made our way up the trail, we waved to the group settled around the campfire.
(I sent a PM to Wallyrob and 2ply, since they had not arrived at camp after indicating they were planning to attend. Wallyrob and his two sons did not find the campsite and decided to camp on the sandy beach site before the group site. They stayed Friday night and hiked out Saturday. I think we may have spotted them near the river when we were hiking in.
2ply ended up having the grandchildren for the weekend, but asked about everyone and the hang.)
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