 Those who have been enthralled by the witchery of flying will know what I mean - and I do not speak of the men who, among other sports, enjoy taking a turn in a plane. I speak of those who fly professionally and have sacrificed much to their craft. Mermoz said once, "It's worth it, it's worth the final smash-up." No question about it; but the reason is hard to formulate. A novice taking orders could appreciate this ascension towards the essence of things, since his profession too is one of renunciation: he renounces the world; he renounces riches; he renounces the love of woman. And by renunciation he discovers his hidden god. Antoine de Saint-Exupery  Top photo: The spectral mist in the Smokies is like no other. Perhaps it's the Cherokee spirits, but the Maine Woods & Virginia Highlands are not nearly as haunting. Above: My first daffodils of 2012. Morning, It was a cloudy, yet mild day up top. The high was 33. The low was 24. It was 32 and clear at observation. It looks like it will be a beautiful & clear day on LeConte. I had a great hike down to Apollo Overlook for sunrise. The lights were still strong from Gatlinburg, but as soon as I turn my back on the lodge, I am in a different world. I walk by the light of the nearly full moon and feel like another of the wild creatures. My eyes adapt quickly and I try to keep my footfalls silent. This is how I hope to one day meet my friend & neighbor, Bobkitten.  Maybe one day I'll understand why Forbes never lists me as one of the richest men in America.
Kathy F
2/7/2012 01:27:14 am
You have daffodils blooming already at Mt. LeConte??? It's only February! As always....beautiful pictures. Yep, your daffodills are my screen saver and the highlight of my day. My niece who lives in Chattanooga(a little farther south) had them last week. That was a quick winter, assuming its over. But then again I've learned to never assume anything. As always beautiful pics.
Pam
2/7/2012 03:29:12 am
We'll have to talk to Forbes-- because you my friend are rich beyond all means!!
Cindy
2/7/2012 04:24:21 am
Bobkitten?? You would be safer if it turns out to be a kitten. I consider myself rich beyond all means because I've been on the mountain and because I am included in your wonderful quotes, comments, and pictures.
Jacob
2/7/2012 06:23:35 am
Because of the daffodills, I just had to go back to February of 2011 as a comparison to this year. Last year on February 8th, LeConte recieved 6" of NEW snow. What a difference in the winters!
Jeanette Meyer
2/7/2012 07:40:15 am
Just wanted to tell you how much I've enjoyed your 2011-2012 LeConte Blog. Loved all the inspirational quotations from great literature & songs along with awesome pictures of the Great Smokies! Enjoy your future endeavors. From John Northrup's(Crew Member) Aunt
kelly
2/7/2012 08:05:28 am
JP, I am always amazed and impressed by the eclectic diversity of your knowledge of lyrics and quotes. It truly belies your age.
JP
2/8/2012 12:12:19 pm
Thanks, Kelly. My dad likes to say that youth is wasted on the young.
Bob B
2/7/2012 08:44:45 am
On what trail is that top photo?
H Clark
2/8/2012 01:13:04 am
It may be the section of the Boulevard Trail between the junction of Myrtle Trail and the lodge.
Bob B
2/8/2012 06:59:09 am
It falls off a little too steeply on either side in my view. It looks like several sections along the Boulevard, but I'm not sure. There are so many ridge hikes on that five-mile stretch. JP, can you help? Thanks.
JP
2/8/2012 12:12:50 pm
It's Bullhead!
Bob B
2/8/2012 12:36:11 pm
Ahh, then I just found my next hike. Thanks, JP.
Tom
2/7/2012 09:22:28 am
I would be highly surprised if the winter ends already or in our case never actually begins. Patience as the next few weeks seem to hint at some possibilities. I am watching early next week. Comments are closed.
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LeConte LodgeWelcome to the official blog of LeConte Lodge. We hope you find the information provided here both helpful and enjoyable. Thank you for visiting the site, and we hope to see you on the mountain! Archives
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