December 27th, 2018

Good Morning,

It’s currently 33 degrees - socked in with strong winds around 30-40 mph - gust even higher. We still have 12” inches of snow on the ground. Alum Cave Trail turned into a mud and slush fest yesterday. With the current winds and pending rain, I wouldn’t recommend hiking in these conditions..

24 hour temperature range | High: 44 Low: 28

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Gale force winds pressed hard against Mount LeConte. My cabin rocked back and forth like a stool missing a leg. I laughed. From blue bird day to being tumbled in a washing machine. The mountain had its moods.

Geared up, I made for the kitchen.

Staring out the window, I wondered if it was just me or did hot drink always taste better in unfavorable conditions? Sipping the black coffee and listening to the wind, I couldn’t help but imagine the big bad wolf trying to blow down the third little pig’s LeConte Lodge home. He’s huffing and puffing, but to no avail. Will the story hold true? I can only smile...and hope.

Onward,
​Seth

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"Perhaps in time the so-called Dark Ages will be thought of as including our own."

G.C Lichtenberg