January 7, 2019

Good Morning,

Hard to believe we’re already a week into the New Year! This string of days without any precipitation has been a nice change. Today should continue that theme for us up top, although clouds are expected to thicken as the afternoon progresses. We tallied 38 degrees at observation time, with high wispy clouds lingering overhead and breezy conditions. Remaining snow on the ground is thin and patchy.

​24 hour temperature range | High: 45 Low: 30

One couldn’t conjur up a more pleasant winter Sunday to visit the high country. The sun was broadcasting its radiance in relentless abundance. Basking in its warmth on a wide rock slab made for a great opportunity to recharge all the cells. Few spectacles in the Smokies rival what the nearby Charlie’s Bunion can afford beneath clear skies. Mounts LeConte and Kephart, proudly towering above the western landscape as ravens casually drift over surrounding ridges, remind one to savor the moment as inevitable uphill tasks await. With plenty of daylight hours remaining, there was no hurry to get heading back.

One last escape through Ben’s words. This piece speaks more to autumn scenes on the mountain, but is nonetheless a mesmerizing read any time of year. Enjoy.

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Stained Glass Windows
By Benjamin J Spicer

Stained glass windows for my feet
Much like Heaven's golden streets
Fallen leaves of red and gold
Orange and yellow, vibrant, bold
On they wind through wood and vales
In endless colored glorious trails

As I stroll this forest bed
Confetti leaves swirl round my head
Adding to this wondrous scene
Like a swirling endless dream
Mountain sides of painted hue
Cathedral walls of azure blue

Here I lift my grateful praise
As I behold it's vast array
This sanctuary rich and old
Fills my very heart and soul
Stained glass windows for my feet
Ceaseless beauty onward lead