Snowdon Summit

My middle son Andrew is over visiting and that can mean only one thing: time for some outdoor adventures!  One of the fantastic things about having children is watching them grow into capable adults.  And adults who come back and share their interests with you!

The Wales Countryside

Andrew started climbing before he could walk!  Our family folklore is full of stories of Andrew climbing; out of the crib, up the sides of Bryce Canyon, and his trips with friends to the White Mountains. Now that he's at university he belongs to the Tufts Mountain Club, which is where he met his wonderful girlfriend Annie.

Annie on the trail

Another great thing about having children is the added bonus of meeting their interesting friends!  Andrew brought Annie with him and it has been fun getting to know her.  We spent the weekend in Wales, visiting castles and staying in hostels.  The highlight of the trip was our hike up Snowdon, the highest peak in Wales.

One of our friends on the trail!

We started from the Snowdon Ranger hostel, where a trail leads off toward the peak from fields behind the hostel. The fields were full of sheep and lined with old stone walls.

A mountain stream

Annie climbing a stile.  

As we made our way up and over fields to the base of Snowdon we climbed several stiles.  We couldn't actually see the peak but a cloud was pouring over the mountain, flowing down and evaporating. We also saw the remains of shepherd cottages that must have sheltered them from the changeable weather in the mountains.

At the top

It was a beautiful hike up to the summit, with lots of amazing views.  And the reward of a hot drink at the top!

Enjoying a cuppa at the top

Making our way back down

A break in the clouds

As we descended we stopped for a picnic lunch and enjoyed more of the fabulous views.  The hike also gave me a chance to catch up on some of Andrew's news.  It's been a busy year for him at school and it was good to hear all about it.

Andrew has a heart-to-heart with a sheep

Running fence

"Blue Steel"

It was a fantastic weekend and I was grateful to be able to spend the time with both Andrew and Annie.    Having your son hug you and say, "I've really missed you mom" is absolutely priceless!  One of the highlights of my year!

Andrew and Annie head off for more adventures