I was up early this morning, not really sure what I was going to do for the day but, since my foot was still not completely recovered. Ultimately, I decided to volunteer on the actual “big day” of the 42nd Annual Prouty (for the first time since 2021). The weather was pretty nice (just a bit warm). I arrived and parked in Preferred Parking (CRRL) at around 0810. This time, the event was as active and rowdy (I was told it was like this in pre-COVID days). In addition to the elevated energy from the news that the fundraiser had already raised $7.6M raised in support of Dartmouth Health Cancer Center, everyone was excited to have a great day of weather. For about two hours, I assisted with unloading sandwiches, cutting watermelon & brownies and restocking cold drinks. Along the way, I met lots of people and got to see two of the big bike/walk opening ceremonies/starts. Glad I could be part of Prouty Day again! After getting done (1015), I drove to I-91 (through the Dartmouth Campus), talking to Mollie on the way. I then used I-91, VT/NH-25, River Road, NH-10 and US-302 to reach Littleton. Along the way, I started to encounter intermittent rain, especially near Jefferson (NH). There was also lots of traffic and I had some close calls with crazy drivers... I listened to audiobooks during the drive. Next, I used NH-116 to reach US-2 and then followed NH-16 to the Mount Washington Auto Road (arrived at 1315). Despite the Jekyll & Hyde nature of the weather this afternoon, I was able to enjoy a few hours of food, fun and trail walking at the Seek the Peak Adventure Expo! This event was the culmination of several months of fundraising in support of the Mount Washington Observatory (we raised over $176K!) and featured live music and lots of freebies for those who’d helped raise money. I got two $15 certificates for free food at the trucks - I used one certificate at Bickford Box for lunch (BBQ and mac & cheese) and the other at Kimberly's Gluten Free Kitchen for dinner (poutine tater tots). I also bought one beer (Rockpile Ale) at Tuckerman Brewery Tent. In between meals, I walked on trails in Great Glen, reaching the Great Angel viewpoint. Unfortunately, I couldn't really see the mountain all day... I stayed at the Expo until 1715 and then drove back to Gorham. On the way home, I attended Mass (1800) at Holy Family Parish. After that, I used US-2, NH-116, US-302, NH-10, River Road, NH/VT-25 and I-91 to get to Hanover (listened to more audiobooks on the way). There was a lot less traffic and I enjoyed the nice evening of driving (although I did keep encountering rain from time to time). Got to my condo by 2045. Even though my foot is still not 100% ready to return to the trail, it was nice to spend some time with others in New Hampshire's active/outdoor community!
