Farewell Mount Washington

2007-08-14 20:40:07.000 – Maria Zatko,  Summit Intern

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I’m looking out of what has become my ‘office/workspace’ (I took over the radio recording room) and watching the lights of Berlin twinkle right now. In the background I can hear Kyle singing along to his 80’s hard rock (I don’t think he knows I’m listening..). To think, just a few months ago, living on the top of the mountain was such an alien idea. I think back to my initial worries and concerns about being up here and just laugh. Why on earth did I spend so much time searching for a rain jacket? Why did I bring up two giant Ziploc bags worth of energy and snack bars my first two shifts up here?

It’s funny how one can become so comfortable in even the most foreign of places. Putting my summer in perspective really comes down to thinking about the littlest details. For example, my first day here I claimed a gigantic coffee mug with Martha’s Vineyard written on it in multiple colors. For the rest of my life, when I think of Martha’s Vineyard, instead of thinking of the actual place, I will think of the coffee mug I claimed while living at the highest point in the Northeast.

I can’t express how thankful I am to have been a summer intern on Mount Washington. I am fortunate to be part of such a wonderful, progressive organization made of good-hearted people whom have hard work ethics, the willingness to convey knowledge, and great senses of fun. My coworkers, volunteers, and visitors to the mountain have help to create a plethora of memories that I wish to take with me for the rest of my life.

But equally as important as the memories created amongst others, are the memories created in solitude. I will never forget moments when I hiked alone this summer and stopped to listen to the water running from Tuckerman’s ravine or just stood still in awe of the blue mountains beneath the burning orange sunset. Each time I gave a tour this summer and concluded the tower portion, I gave myself a few extra seconds outside while the others trekked down the ladders. I either filled my lungs with the mist from the clouds or paused simply to take in the view.

I have grown exponentially this summer is so many ways. I have met some of the kindest, most enthusiastic, and knowledgeable people who are truly appreciative of what Mount Washington has to offer. I want to thank all those working at the Observatory because this summer will be one I remember for the rest of my life. Cheers to the future of Mount Washington and the adventures of those who have experienced the mountain.

Maria Zatko,  Summit Intern