Sunday, March 5, 2023

Burst Pipe Adventure - Day 26

This morning, I woke up at 0615 (still in the Holiday Inn) and went to breakfast at 0645.  It was crowded again, unfortunately...  I then packed up my stuff for an outing and went to Shaw's to get a free Smartwater (0745).  I attended Mass in Lebanon (0800) and then drove to Grantham, where I parked at the trailhead for the trails at John's Glen (0915).  Comment of the day: "Tracks, glorious tracks (finally)!!!"  For only the third time this season, the full capabilities of the grooming equipment at Eastman Cross Country Center were exercised and I spent three full hours (5ish miles) taking advantage of the optimum conditions for classic cross country skis.  And, since my morning started with sore muscles (across my entire body), that was a real accomplishment.  Back when I started cross country skiing in late 2020, there were many places at John’s Glen that I avoided - too steep, too curvy, too rough.  No longer!  In temps ranging from 30-38 F, light wind and intermittent clouds, I skied every foot of the trails in the woods.  I even climbed one tough hill *six times* during my multiple circuits of the trail system! Did lots of downhill runs in other places.  Big highlight: I tackled a long, steep trail (“John’s Glen Extension”) that took me to the highest point in the area - it felt quite good to be able to climb and descend.  Also checked out the inside of the (toasty warm) Yurt for the first time.  Bonus: no falling today!  Downside: EVERYONE with a pass came out to join me.  It was pretty crowded in places… Fortunately, I had started early and was on my way home as the biggest rush began (1215).  I drove back to White River Junction (arrived at 1245) and ate a light lunch in my hotel room.  A little later, I tried to exchange linens but they were completely out - you should have seen the laundry room!  I bought some food from the little shop in the lobby (trouble getting a receipt).  For the rest of the afternoon, I relaxed and read.  I ate dinner in the room and talked to Eileen.  The rest of the evening was filled by watching movies until bedtime (2215).  Today was my “Buying an Annual Pass was Worth It” Day (cost per visit <$10) - anything more is gravy.  Since the snow just got here, I should have enough days left in the season to check out other X-C venues nearby!