December 7, 2017

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​Good morning,
 
It’s currently 21 degrees and clear. Yesterday’s high made it up to 31 degrees, with an overnight low of 19.
 
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I woke earlier than usual. Dipping in and out of consciousness, I began wiggling my toes. The morning routine had begun. Wiggling toes turned into squirming legs, and ended with a few sit-ups. The blood now moving, I slid on my overalls and stepped outside. One deep breath and I knew it was below freezing. Savoring the crisp mountain air, I slowly meandered toward the kitchen.
 
With my nose, too close to my cup, I inhaled the savory vanilla notes drifting from my pinon coffee. The radio responded to my weather report, “Good copy, have a great day.” It was time to leave the warmth of the kitchen to seek out a sunrise.
 
The large mass of grey still hovered above Mt. Le Conte. I noticed it during sunset the night before. Creating a roof with a fine line of demarcation, this persistent ceiling blocked the setting and rising of the sun. I made the best of it, capturing the unusual hues that bled through the canopy. Satisfied and partially chilled, I started toward the lodge. As I descended the mountain, a smile broke free. This small taste of winter weather was getting me excited for the days to come.
 
Onward,
Seth

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“Nature does not hurry, yet everything is accomplished.”
- Lao Tzu -