i put some whiskey into my whiskey, i put some heartbreak into my heart.

12/6/2012

Master of beauty, craftsman of the snowflake, inimitable contriver, endower of Earth so gorgeous & different from the boring Moon, thank you for such as it is my gift. John Berryman

Morning,

The mountain is currently in a cloud, though the forecast is calling for some clearing soon. The high yesterday reached 44 degrees. The overnight low dipped to 30 degrees and it was 38 degrees and drizzly at 7am observation. The mountain received .15" of rain yesterday.

The trails are very soggy right now. Be sure to plan accordingly! Check out this short article, with some good winter hiking tips written by my GMC field supervisor in Vermont.

It turned into an incredible evening after a cloudy start yesterday. There was some 'great sky', as my friend Jack would say. The shafts of golden light were shining through the scraggly evergreens with a special kind of radiance. It was so incredibly beautiful, words are obviously insufficient ... it's as if all my life has been leading me to these moments. It felt preordained in a way, intentional as a movie scene. I watched sunset from Cliff Tops with a rejuvenated appreciation for the beauty around me at all moments. It's such a thrilling prospect to me that all I have to do is walk out my cabin door and I will find something to marvel at in minutes. I can't believe people ask me if I get bored up here.

Pam

12/6/2012 12:40:44 am

In nature I can NEVER be bored!! Love the awesome pics!! Any muddy bobkitty tracks?

Brian

12/6/2012 12:47:00 am

The second picture with the sun coming through the trees is a great shot!

Brenda Aliff

12/6/2012 12:58:31 am

Beautiful photos.

Mark B.

12/6/2012 01:15:36 am

Incredible photos JP, I have been on the mountain several times and never was I bored. Sadly, Yesterday. I had to bury my father. He was the man that introduced me to the mountain back in the 1960's. Thanks Dad for showing me the beauty and wonders of Mt. Leconte.

I will continue to return to the mountain knowing that my father will be watching over us as we ascend that stairway to heaven.
May God bless one and all..... Mark B.

12/6/2012 01:41:47 am

Mark so sorry to hear of your father passing. He must have been a great guy to teach his son the love of the mountains. When you hike you'll have an extra angel watching over you.

Debi

12/6/2012 03:40:39 am

So sorry for your loss Mark B. My heart goes out to you. When a loved one dies the world just stops for you and nothing else matters. Hopefully I have givin my son the gift of hiking like your dad has you.
JP, your pictures are very warming today. My mom informed me Michigan may get a snow storm next week. Arughhh!! My beautiful green grass will be gone.

Tony Ga

12/6/2012 06:12:18 am

Mark B., sorry for your loss. Loss my father last spring. Enjoy the memories of the good times with him.

betsyPA

12/6/2012 06:43:13 am

Mark I hiked the mnt for the first time this fall and my dad was beside me for much of it. He passed 4 years ago. I could feel him enjoying it and laughing. Have peace in knowing he is with you.

Ken Schmitt

12/6/2012 01:17:57 am

Spent one night at the top a few years ago in October. Touched the stars in the mourning. I have day hiked every year since. Really appreciate the daily update on the blog.

Becky Moore

12/6/2012 03:02:59 am

Mark B - sorry for your loss.
May those wonderful memories with your Dad and this awesome mountain provide comfort always.
JP - as always awesome pictures, especially second one. Look forward each day to your updates!

DannyH

12/6/2012 01:50:45 pm

Sorry for your loss Mark

doug

12/7/2012 12:02:45 am

A person can prepare for the loss of a loved one, but when it occurs, preparations, mental and physical, can often fly right out the door. I also extend my sympathies, Mark. Your father's spirit will surely live on through you and on the mountain. Celebrate the fact that he existed. Those of us who share our love for hiking and the outdoors, and who give that gift to our families, friends, and even strangers will be richer for doing so.

Susan B

12/7/2012 01:24:28 am

Deepest condolences Mark. Doug - I am doing just that. I have been a widow for over seven years. However, life didn't just stop that day. I love camping and hiking and sharing it with my girls. People will ask me how can I continue to do so being a girl? Hmm.. life goes. I love being outdoors - it is my peace. Blessings to all.

Dave

12/8/2012 01:01:25 am

Great album by the Felice Brothers. I have been enjoying your posts for some time. Keep up the good work.

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i put some whiskey into my whiskey, i put some heartbreak into my heart.

LeConte Lodge

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