
The day after St Patrick’s Day was a beautiful sunny warm day. While we didn’t really have a winter in Massachusetts this year, we have gotten some cold weather and I and everyone else have been ready for some sun. I needed to get out and be active. Luckily, we have the Middlesex Fells Reservation which is in the towns of Medford, Melrose, Malden and Stoneham. As I had gone to all the other towns, I decided to hike the part in Stoneham.
The Fells is a very rocky, wooded section just north of Boston and there are numerous hiking trails along with ponds and hills. The highest point is only about 400 feet, but there are great views of the Boston area, and it’s thrilling to see so many trees in one spot so near the city. I got to the Sheepfold parking lot and there were cars lined up along the road as di many families and couples were out to enjoy the great weather. I even had to dig out my shorts from storage as it was about 80 degrees!
One of the first surprises that I found (as it was March) was a verbal pool with the unmistakable sound of peepers. These a small frogs that chirps and are a sure sign of spring in New England. Listen to a recording I made of them here.
It was a great relaxing hike. The views were great and everyone I met was just smiling and happy to be outside.
So, what are the small things that give you pleasure?