i love you more today than yesterday. but darling, not as much as tomorrow.

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.