the real truth about it is, there ain't no end to the desert i'll cross. i really known it all along.

I feel like a song is a secret of the heart on the sleeve. I don’t run away from truths or un-surviving loves. I also feel that a song in its simplest form is no different than a day in a season. It could be a silent and early hour or it could be nothing but despair and loss and anger, and yet it is still only an autumn day. Jason Molina

Morning y'all,

It's a beautiful, grey tinged morning up top. The high yesterday reached 33 degrees. The overnight low was 19 degrees. It was 24 degrees and clear at 7am observation. There is still a bit of snow and ice remaining up top. I've heard that the trails are in slick shape after our freeze/thaw cycles, so be sure to use caution on sketchy sections. If you don't want to worry about slipping and falling, Kahtoola Microspikes are the answer. You can find them at the NOC Gatlinburg, right before the entrance to the park.

I spent a lot of time yesterday enjoying the sunshine on my porch. There are few pleasures greater than spending a chilly day with an immersive book (thanks Henry!), drinking coffee while wrapped in a wool blanket. These days of rest and respite are ones I dream of all summer, while working hard in the muddy New Hampshire backwoods. It all makes for a delicious balance, wildness and peace in the tranquility of the mountains. Every day in the woods is a blessing, however it is spent. We are the lucky ones who know this to be truth.

Much thanks to my friend Tenderfoot for bringing me up some epsom salts (an 8lb bag!) to help keep my swelling down. It is much appreciated! Have fun at Wildlife Week!