to the mountains.

i have somehow let the summer slip by without spending any quality time in the mountains. returning to the green mountains was something i was looking forward for both hiking & skiing, but my days off this summer has been full of other activities and it just hasn't happened. yesterday was such a beautiful day, and i knew the warmer temps would only be around for a few more weekends. it was already mid-afternoon when i decided it was time for a mountain adventure, so i just went to stowe pinnacle for a little jaunt. the trail started gradual and wide, narrowed in the woods, and ended with rock staircases and scrambling. the trees got shorter, the rocks bigger, and the summit was glorious. i enjoyed some lake champlain chocolate as a reward and soaked in the vermont view. it was a lovely afternoon-- i always return from the mountains feeling refreshed and reassured. my two favorite moments of each hike are:  (1) reaching the summit,  and (2) returning to the car, taking off my boots/sneakers, slipping on flip flops, and driving down the road singing with the windows down.  pure contentment.