The quote above spoke to me today. Sometimes all I have to do is look out the back door of the kitchen and realize how lucky I am to have called this place home for twelve years. I have seen some amazing things on this mountain. From phenomenal sunrises and sunsets to three feet of new fallen snow, it never ceases to amaze me how nature can be so beautiful in many different ways. I was talking to a retired park service employee the other day. We were discussing what Chris and I will do when we are off the mountain. I told him that I was really excited to get back to the other areas of the park. I will continue to visit my favorite mountain, but I am looking forward to enjoying my home in Gatlinburg and continuing my exploration of the rest of the park. Who knows, maybe I will join the 900 mile club.
We had a great day yesterday. The rain stopped mid morning and the sun came out. The high was 66º with a low of 43º. It was a quiet day around the lodge. I am sure a lot of folks have travel plans for this coming weekend and are laying low this week. Today is going to be a good one for a hike. If you live locally, lace up those boots and hike up for a visit.