For those of you who missed the big event at Mendon Ponds Park, here is a quick accounting of the day’s event. Around the park there were numerous “winter” activities to enjoy. There was a good turnout. Springwater Trails had a presence at the winter Hiking Gear Display. Huge thanks to Don who organized the array of traction devices for winter hikers. He did a fine job of representing the gamut of gear for trekkers of all terrains. Don also did a fine job of promoting our own Springwater Trails activities to all who stopped by. Our nine hikers set off from Hopkins Point at 3:15, just as the rain subsided. We welcomed two new folks, Charlie and Sara, on their first hike with us. We headed up the West Esker following the Orange Loop for its entirety. Mendon Ponds Park is noted in the National Registry of Natural Landmarks for its glacial formations, the eskers and kettle ponds being two of them. It was a fairly easy walk with a few moderate hills. At the end of the loop, Mark and Georgia set off to explore the lower regions of the area by the pond, while the rest of us descended to the Devil’s Bathtub, a kettle hole. No one was inclined to test out the ice. After a steep climb out of the Bathtub, the group set out for a stroll on the Grasslands Trail. We encountered numerous deer browsing in the twilight. Our tour concluded with a nice meander along the ridge between Devil’s Bathtub and Deep Pond, a lovely vantage point as the sun set. Arrival back at Hopkins Point Lodge was timed perfectly. We had the place to ourselves, as the ROC group had already departed. The Crock Pots were steaming and sending off enticing aromas for the hungry horde of 9. Again kudos to Don for arranging for us to have the lodge for our social, free of charge. Supper was nothing less than superb, with amazing soup, stew, chili and chicken. Char’s cake was an outstanding conclusion to a perfect evening.