An interns departing thoughts

2011-05-11 21:41:14.000 – David Quigley,  Summit Intern

Springtime is a time of great transition on Mount Washington. Temperature rises, snowpack decreases, and birds return to the summit. We have seen the first cogs arriving at the summit and running the Auto Road has become a viable exercise option. This year, our shift is undergoing a transformation rivaling that of the view out the Observatory’s windows. As you probably know, next shift will be Stacey’s last. Rick, our new Observer, has been on shift being trained by Stacey for the last two weeks. Next week there will be two fresh interns, Tom and Peter, on shift. And, sadly, today will be my last day as a Winter Intern at the Observatory.

To say that I have enjoyed my time on the summit would be an understatement. I believe the experience of living and working on the summit is one that can only truly be understood by people who have done it, past observers and interns. With Observers atop Mount Washington for the past 80 years, this is quite the club. I came into this internship expecting to experience the excitement of high winds and bitter cold, and did. I came into this internship expecting to wake up to some of the most spectacular views of my life, and did. I was not prepared, however, for the incredible community that exists at the Observatory. I imagined that I would get to know my shift-mates well, and I certainly have. The community at the Observatory, however, extends far beyond the members of the shift. I have gotten to know and enjoy the company of the other members of the other shift, though our time together is limited to Wednesday mornings and afternoons. I have enjoyed the company of all of our volunteers, even meeting one who grew up down the street from me! Valley employees, who are in frequent contact through phone calls, teleconference meetings, and summit visits are part of this community. Snow Cat operators have become friends. The State Park employees who share life at the summit with us have been great company. So, too all those who are part of this community, thank you for a great winter!

David Quigley,  Summit Intern