Sunshine, a cool breeze, and no humidity were the conditions to greet the members who came to the Summer Picnic. Our day began with a bike ride led by Alan, which was so invigorating that the bikers took longer than 2 hours to return. Then the walkers led by Meredith took their turn to also enjoy the Bruce Freeman Rail Trail and the woods bordering the path. Lots of socializing was enjoyed by everyone who also found the hors d'oeuvres from cheese and crackers to cherries and grapes as well as chips provided by members quite delightful. Then we were onto the main entrees provided by Stevie's Cafe of Hudson, Ma. From beef brisket to pulled pork, and grilled boneless chicken pieces, all plates were full of these meats. Also, on the buffet table were Baked Beans, Barley Salad, Cucumber Salad, and grilled summer vegetables topped off by delicious corn muffins. To finish our meal, we headed to the dessert table to indulge in raspberry-rhubarb pie, lemon bars, frosted brownies and cookies.
No one went home hungry! But the day ended, not with food, but with more mixing and mingling to catch up with friends not seen in a while. Thus, the summer picnic achieved its goal to bring Gang members together in a delightful setting! Ellen W.
Bike Ride Before the Picnic: About 20 TOHG members decided to take advantage of the good weather as we met at NARA Park for our annual picnic. The sun was shining, the temperature was comfortable and we had some nice breezes as we headed south on the Bruce Freeman Rail Trail towards Sudbury. This is a very scenic stretch as we rode past the ruins of an 18th-19th century pencil factory, the field where the Mass State Police keep their horses, the now closed Concord State Prison, through West Concord, various historic sites, and more. Our terminus was what is known as “The Diamond” where the Bruce Freeman Trail bisects with the Mass Central Trail in Sudbury. The trail will eventually extend to Framingham and beyond. But for now a 23 mile round trip ride was enough of a ride for us. Alan U
Walk Before the Picnic: Eight members of TOHG met an hour before the official start of the annual picnic and took a leisurely two mile walk along the tree-shaded Bruce Freeman Rail Trail in Acton. We arrived back at the covered picnic area just in time for the caterer to arrive. Looking forward to next year. Meredith P
