The reunion is all over but the shouting. I have a feeling the "shouting" part is going to go on for a long time as my classmates and I reflect on the events of this past weekend. More than 70 classmates gathered both nights to get re-acquainted and catch up with the last ten years.
Yesterday groups met for golfing and hiking. The golfers went to Hidden Lakes, while the hikers hit the trail on Greenhorn Mountain. It was a hot day for both events, but when all was said and done, the participants seemed just plain giddy about the time they had. Most were excited about the new bonds formed while spending a few hours together.
Bill and I led the eight hikers on the Mickinnick Trail. Before setting off, we took a few minutes for Bill to explain geocaching and classmate Terry Gray, who lives in Genesee, to explain the processes of birding. Hot temperatures meant few bird sightings or soundings. We learned that birders learn to identify each species' unique song. Terry told us that makes it easier to count those little critters who hide in the bushes and can't be seen.
We also learned that small birds will come to the sound of bigger predators. They figure, Terry says, that it's a better strategy to meet your opponent head-on rather than to have that potential executioner pounce on you without warning. So, Terry tried to attract some birds by sounding off like a hawk. Nobody came. Too hot.
Since the geocache is located a lot further up the trail than most folks wanted to trudge in the early afternoon heat, we abandoned plans to seek it out. In spite of the plans falling short, our hiking friends thoroughly enjoyed themselves as we stopped several times to rest, sip water, talk and snap photos of each other and the gorgeous views of Sandpoint and Lake Pend Oreille.
And, yes, there were rocks. Several of my friends---one of which I hadn't seen in 40 years---selected a special rock to carry back down the hillside. These rocks would find new homes where they'd serve as a symbol for an outdoor experience to be remembered.
The reunion is quickly becoming a memory, but this special gathering of our classmates will keep us all smiling for a long, long time---at least until 2010 when we hope all of us will be around to meet again.
3 comments:
"a little bird" told me it was great and that you did a marvelous job.
It truly was a very good weekend. T'was interesting how many and the crossection of our class that showed up. Once again, need to compliment you on managing the committee and pulling off a fun reunion. Looking forward to 2010!!
Mr. T
I must find out from Terry Grey if he can help me identify the "cheese burger bird" - Heard in the wilderness area of the High Sierras as well as the Hidden Lakes Golf Course (we were birding and golfing at the same time and hiking to find our lost balls). The call sounds just like "cheese burger". Terry, can you tell me please?
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