It was yet another great day to be out yesterday. The high reached 53 (!!!) degrees and the low was 38 degrees. It was 39 degrees and clear at 7am observation. The ice on Alum has almost completely melted away, save for two tricky spots that don't see much sun. I've heard the weather is supposed to cloud up this afternoon, leading to overnight rains. I'm thinking that it'll snow on the 15th. Just a hunch.
I had the great pleasure of being surprised by a friend on the trail on Sunday afternoon. As I was making my way down Alum, I saw a familiar face from my past season caretaking in Vermont - Mamaw B! I met her back in July as she was thru-hiking the Appalachian Trail, becoming the young lady with the most life experience (looking for the most gentle way to say this!) who has thru-hiked the trail! I offered her some coffee at my tent site at Little Rock Pond and she was kind enough to repay the favor by bringing me some treats atop LeConte! One of the most beloved aspects about my outdoor jobs is having the opportunity to meet so many incredible people. I often think about people like Mamaw in times of weakness, they are my patron saints of hiking. By meditating upon the strength and resolve they display in the pursuit of their dreams, I get a boost of courage as I face my next challenge. Thanks for being an inspiration, Mamaw! I hope to see you again soon!