After another brief layoff to allow my foot and leg recovery time (honestly: this aging thing isn't working out so well) I though it good to test all the 'equipment'. That included a new waist pack to help make up for a recuperating shoulder.

On a Friday I met a few members of the Hilltown Hikers down Washington way for a hike into Finerty Pond. Most of it rolled smoothly. Some challenges from heavy gravel on the way in and significant tree routes along the Appalachian Trail on exiting.

The next day was a bit different story as we ascended the 'easy' route up Tekoa Mountain, leaving Westfield and entering Russell. I've always found this mountain challenged me but I was keen on seeing (the location, at least) of the fabled Counterfeiters Cave. As I expected, a very tough day of hiking with the Hilltown Hikers once again. But we eventually reached a prominent lookout where a number of people took turns descending by rope to the so called cave. Since there was zero chance I could make that climb, I made an early exit with a small group of individuals. Tough but beautiful hike all the way around!

The result of the two days of hiking showed up once again especially with the 'mystery bump' in my leg several days later. Medical science is mystified!