so we hold it close when we feel the most like a love that we could not leave behind.

Love flowers best in openness and freedom. Edward Abbey

Morning y'all,

It's another blustery, foggy day up top. The high yesterday reached 44 balmy degrees. The overnight low was 39 degrees. It was 40 degrees and cloudy at 7am observation. The mountain received no new precipitation and there is no snow left. I'd expect there to be some icy patches on the shady spots of certain trails (especially Boulevard and Alum), but for the most part, I'd imagine you could hike up without any sort of traction devices.

I spent a great majority of yesterday further settling into my cabin, meandering between putting up scenic posters, maps and art, re-arranging my library and clothes just right so that they are both accessible and produce a sense of uncluttered calm (feng shui is real!) when I walk in. I certainly looked like a crazy person, up here by myself, walking in and out of that doorway many times yesterday. I was aiming to produce just the right effect, one that feels like a deep sigh in your brain.

After a few hours, my legs decided it was time for something else. They always tell me when it's time to feel some reality, to seek a little bit of truth. With all this melt, I figured I should take advantage of prime running conditions before the ice moves in for winter. I went down and up Alum, arriving up top just as the sun was setting. Any one who hikes or runs to their limit knows the truth I felt as I climbed high yesterday, the way all troubles and concerns drop away in the flow of endorphins. You forget who you are and become a simpler animal. All that matters is forward motion. It is one of the most redeeming feelings I know of.

Much thanks to Stephen & his father (Joe? Sorry, I'm awful with names!) for bringing up some dark roast coffee yesterday! It is so, so cherished up here.