December 22, 2017

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Good morning,
 
It’s currently 40 degrees and cloudy. Yesterday’s high was 41 degrees, with an overnight low of 34.  We received .05” of rain in the last 24 hours.
 
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 I woke to a star speckled sky. Excited for sunrise, I hopped out of bed and began my morning routine. Once outside, I gazed with awe at the sky. It had only been a few days, but I missed seeing the vast unknown above. Below was an eerie glow. A thin mask of clouds cloaked Pigeon Forge. Still in awe, I made for the kitchen.
 
Excitement palpable, I called in the weather and waited for my Rooibos tea to brew. I had finished my morning routine thirty-minutes early. Hints of Madagascar vanilla wafted from the brewed tea. Feeling hypnotized, I decided to take a seat and savor the contents of the cup.
 
I stepped outside. Overcome with confusion, I quickly realized that I was, again, socked in by a cloud. Within a matter of minutes, the fog had taken over. I couldn’t help but laugh. “So it goes.” I said aloud. Undeterred, I turned my head-lamp off and wandered into the mist.
 
Onward,
Seth
 
P.S. – Huge thanks to Bob and Ann Jones for sending me an incredible Deluxe Fruitcake from Collin Street Bakery. I tried a piece yesterday. All I can say is, W0w! -  I can’t wait to share it with my mom, who is hiking up next week. Again, Thank you!
 
P.S.S – I’m a big fan of snail-mail! If you get an urge to send a letter or a care package, I usually hike down once every week or so. I receive mail at the Gatlinburg NOC – C/o Winter Caretaker. Expect a hand-written letter in return. Cheers! 

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If you are irritated by every rub, how will your mirror be polished?

- Rumi