It was a perfect day for a hike - one with lots of Shade. Lisa, our hostess, was mysteriously absent, but left some hints as to her whereabouts. After receiving our first clue from Gale, we headed across the field in search of our first treasure. Luckily, our quick sleuthing led us to the fantastical Butler treehouse, where we discovered our cleverly packaged lunches. After indulging Gale with a slide down the fire pole, we were off again. Up the hill, down the hill and a little more up brought us to a field clearing where we were greeted by Lisa, Bob Duncan and some canine friends. Bob brought the history of the Butler settlement to life, as is his custom, and pointed out some still visible signs of 'treasures', such as the flint outcroppings that made the area such a desirable location, currently and throughout the past. He also shared with us the drawings of the plans for the Bicentennial Bell Tower to be built in downtown Columbia. After a question and answer (and more questions!) time and luncheon, we followed the well marked path back to civilization, just a little more grounded in this area we call home.
