Folders |
The Inner Apache
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We always enjoy our full moon jaunts up Pisgah, but once
in a while, usually on a summer night, it just seems like the
chemistry is right for something special. That was tonight.
Erin Vaughn, Joyce Siamon, and Richard Quigley hiked up
the front to meet the Pup, Harold and me on top. I had
penance to do for a slack off weekend, so I started at 6:35
along the low river trail to the front and around to the north side.
Pup did his own solo run around (start 7:05) the hill, while Harold
was a half hour back going up the standard back. We all met
at 8:15 with the moon high already and the sunset glowing.
The light breeze on top was just the right temp. We had
a few sips and enjoyed the view. We said our farewells to
our hikers and started down the south shoulder. The haze
in the east slightly dimmed but diffused the moonlight, and
our eyes were adjusting well. We haven't used a light all
year, Pup doesn't even bring one, and we've become
accustomed to this moonlit descent. But we generally
dink it all the way back.
Not tonight. One of those times when nobody says
anything, but someone decides to test his legs. Ya,
right. Harold gained momentum on the trip down to the
creek bed crossing, then turned the corner and powered up
most of the steep pitch we usually walk. Pup and I went with him.
Oh.
We dipped down and as we approached the last good rise
I notice Harold shift again, and I pick it up and go after him.
I get to his shoulder twice, and he shifts gears each time.
We might as well be running on flat pavement, .... light footed
flying ! A bonafide Harold throw down, and as we crest the hill
I'm right on his shoulder, and Pup is silently a half stride back
and between us. As I'm recovering from that, they continue
the speed play and disappear. Great fun. Ah yes. Summertime
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