September 17, the long awaited time to arrive at the Observatory as a Docent, a position where I am a volunteer educator leading groups on an introductory tour of the Observatory then handing them off with a meteorologist to complete the interesting and informative session. A beautiful clear day only enhanced my excitement to begin the week. After settling in I was introduced to the rest of the crew and where I was to be. The weather on Thursday was foggy with high winds so helping where I could kept me busy, which was a lot of fun. Friday was clear so between tours I took a hike to enjoy the weather, a good thing because we have been in the clouds ever since with winds of 40 mph plus.

<br><br>

People have been great on the tours and I have enjoyed interacting with them. Working with the crew has been wonderful and in helping with the chores I find them very professional, hard working and tolerant of me. This gave me the chance to not only be a part of the daily routine, but also become a part of the summit team.

Life among the clouds is unique and wonderful. The Observatory is nothing short of amazing and the people are terrific from the summit to the valley. I recommend for any member to volunteer for a shift as this experience is like no other, I plan to try for a winter trip as a volunteer.