 Those who have been enthralled by the witchery of flying will know what I mean - and I do not speak of the men who, among other sports, enjoy taking a turn in a plane. I speak of those who fly professionally and have sacrificed much to their craft. Mermoz said once, "It's worth it, it's worth the final smash-up." No question about it; but the reason is hard to formulate. A novice taking orders could appreciate this ascension towards the essence of things, since his profession too is one of renunciation: he renounces the world; he renounces riches; he renounces the love of woman. And by renunciation he discovers his hidden god. Antoine de Saint-Exupery  Top photo: The spectral mist in the Smokies is like no other. Perhaps it's the Cherokee spirits, but the Maine Woods & Virginia Highlands are not nearly as haunting. Above: My first daffodils of 2012. Morning, It was a cloudy, yet mild day up top. The high was 33. The low was 24. It was 32 and clear at observation. It looks like it will be a beautiful & clear day on LeConte. I had a great hike down to Apollo Overlook for sunrise. The lights were still strong from Gatlinburg, but as soon as I turn my back on the lodge, I am in a different world. I walk by the light of the nearly full moon and feel like another of the wild creatures. My eyes adapt quickly and I try to keep my footfalls silent. This is how I hope to one day meet my friend & neighbor, Bobkitten.  Maybe one day I'll understand why Forbes never lists me as one of the richest men in America. CommentsKathy F 02/07/2012 9:27am
You have daffodils blooming already at Mt. LeConte??? It's only February! As always....beautiful pictures. Yep, your daffodills are my screen saver and the highlight of my day. My niece who lives in Chattanooga(a little farther south) had them last week. That was a quick winter, assuming its over. But then again I've learned to never assume anything. As always beautiful pics. Pam 02/07/2012 11:29am
We'll have to talk to Forbes-- because you my friend are rich beyond all means!! Cindy 02/07/2012 12:24pm
Bobkitten?? You would be safer if it turns out to be a kitten. I consider myself rich beyond all means because I've been on the mountain and because I am included in your wonderful quotes, comments, and pictures. Jacob 02/07/2012 2:23pm
Because of the daffodills, I just had to go back to February of 2011 as a comparison to this year. Last year on February 8th, LeConte recieved 6" of NEW snow. What a difference in the winters! Jeanette Meyer 02/07/2012 3:40pm
Just wanted to tell you how much I've enjoyed your 2011-2012 LeConte Blog. Loved all the inspirational quotations from great literature & songs along with awesome pictures of the Great Smokies! Enjoy your future endeavors. From John Northrup's(Crew Member) Aunt kelly 02/07/2012 4:05pm
JP, I am always amazed and impressed by the eclectic diversity of your knowledge of lyrics and quotes. It truly belies your age. JP 02/08/2012 8:12pm
Thanks, Kelly. My dad likes to say that youth is wasted on the young. Bob B 02/07/2012 4:44pm
On what trail is that top photo? H Clark 02/08/2012 9:13am
It may be the section of the Boulevard Trail between the junction of Myrtle Trail and the lodge. Bob B 02/08/2012 2:59pm
It falls off a little too steeply on either side in my view. It looks like several sections along the Boulevard, but I'm not sure. There are so many ridge hikes on that five-mile stretch. JP, can you help? Thanks. JP 02/08/2012 8:12pm
It's Bullhead! Bob B 02/08/2012 8:36pm
Ahh, then I just found my next hike. Thanks, JP. Tom 02/07/2012 5:22pm
I would be highly surprised if the winter ends already or in our case never actually begins. Patience as the next few weeks seem to hint at some possibilities. I am watching early next week. Leave a Reply |  Allyson Virden
Welcome to the home of the LeConte Lodge blog. My husband Chris and I are starting our 10th season on the mountain. We look forward to sharing the daily happenings from this amazing place we call home. ArchivesMay 2012 CategoriesAll |
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