July 18, 2017

Good Morning,
     It isn't taking long to warm up this morning.  It's mostly cloudy but we expect this gray veil to burn off before long.  Yesterday's high temperature was 69 degrees, and our overnight low never dropped past 50.  Whatever mist we received yesterday managed to squeeze out 0.02" of rainfall.  If you're hoping to see the llamas on the days they pack, please know that they might be arriving to the lodge a little later than normal, and/or departing the mountain later as well. Our wranglers are well versed in looking out for our favorite critters during these hot and humid stretches, which usually entails the train moving at a slightly slower click.

     Today we have the good fortune of turning the mic over to lodge friend, Ben Spicer, who has once again blessed us with another wonderful poem that speaks directly to the shared experience of visiting LeConte.  It was inspired by a recent trek up the mountain, accompanied by a first time visitor in his daughter.  Allow the words to guide your mind in wonder, and enjoy!

---

"Daughter to the Mountain"
By Ben Spicer

I took my daughter to the mountain
Just herself and me
We walked behind a flowing fountain
Springing to the sea

We journeyed on a stair of stone
Neath a rocky pass
We frolicked as the morning shone
In water clear as glass

We reveled in the petaled flowers
Strewn upon the way
We laughed an talked for wooded hours
Happy for the day

We stood at length at summit vistas
Taking in the views
Reviving in the clouds that mist us
Riding skies of blues

We sat awhile upon a ledge
In a sunset trance
Watching rays pink, orange, and red
In a vivid dance

Atop at peak we welcomed evening
Rocking chairs for thrones
With stars above so brightly gleaming
City lights below

In cabin beds a sweet rest finds us
As we drift asleep
Adventure now a joy behind us
Memories to keep

I took my daughter to the mountain
Just herself and me
And left with bond we both can count on
Treasured revelry