Toadstool at Tippin Rock

Yeti and I got up early to drive from New York City to Pilgrim Pines. We did not encounter any traffic problems and arrived before noon in Swanzey. We stopped at a market to buy seltzer and had lunch at a coffee shop right next to the market. Then, on to Pilgrim Pines. We had to wait until 3pm to check-in so we chatted with folks who’d also arrived early. I was thrilled to find out we’d be in the condos – so now I’ll have experienced all the types of accommodation that PP offers. We had 19 Road Scholars from a wide geographic area including California, New Mexico, Michigan, Wisconsin, Virginia, Florida, New York, New Jersey and Connecticut. Arlene was our volunteer host for the week and a yoga group was also at PP at the same time. A good combination of disciplines and a nice group of new friends. Pilgrim Pines put on its traditional Turkey dinner – they feed us well, here! Following dinner, both groups convened in the Meeting House for a general orientation. Tiffany Mannion, the Road Scholar Coordinator, gave a thorough introduction to Pilgrim Pines and the Monadnock area. The hikers stayed for my orientation afterwards. I reviewed the hike schedule and discussed various safety and hiking guidelines for hiking with a group.