December 10th, 2018

Good morning,

It’s currently 26 degrees, snowing up top. We received just over 2” inches of new snow. There is currently 8” inches on the ground.

24 hour temperature range: High 30 Low 21

*US Hwy 441/Newfound Gap Rd from Gatlinburg TN to Cherokee NC is closed due to snow / ice.

Stay up to date on road conditions here: https://goo.gl/HikrMr

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Good morning,

It was snowing when I left the cabin this morning. Finally cold enough, the fresh layer of snow was light and soft. Walking down to the weather station was interesting. Each step started with ,what felt like, a powdered sugar topping and ended with a solid crunch through graham cracker crust. Finished with the snow measurements, I crunched my way to the kitchen and started boiling water for tea.

On the trail, I moved awkwardly though  yesterday’s frozen footsteps. Looking up, a pale robin’s egg sky became visible. Maybe today Mt. Le Conte would escape the rattled snow globe we’ve been engulfed in. I arrive at Apollo Overlook, the exposed area between the shelter and the high point, and begin the patient waiting game. What would I see?

Back in the kitchen, I finish the last few sips of my peach tea and sit down to begin my work. Looking outside, I noticed the sun painting the tips of the trees. The light is a faint celestial glow. I set my tea down and disappear out the door. The snow globe was cracking…

Onward,
Seth​

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Live in each season as it passes; breathe the air, drink the drink, taste the fruit, and resign yourself to the influences of each.
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Henry David Thoreau