Naturally

2007-12-13 15:08:37.000 – Karen Thorp,  Summit Intern

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Yesterday the summit was shrouded with clouds and bombarded with high winds. The peak gust was received at 11:52 AM at a speed of 117 MPH. Despite the blustery weather and low visibility our fearless CAT driver plowed us all the way to the peak; allowing the observers, interns, and volunteer who had worked the prior week to head to their respective cozy homes.

Today the summit cleared early increasing the horizontal visibility to 100 miles. This clarity allowed us to see what exactly 100 MPH winds can bring. As Linnea and I embarked on our morning shoveling routine, we were greeted by chest high drifts in the front entrance. The wind-packed snow allowed us to walk on the drifts without sinking. The daily snow removal task was beyond physically taxing. Fortunately, we were aided by a friendly NH State Park employee who offered his assistance and his snowblower. Relieved by the aid, we shoveled snow into the machine since even it could not bite into the dense drifts.

In the midst of our sweat and short breaths, we were greeted by a more welcome surprise; a visit from a fox. The fox cocked its head sideways and watched us work. Its beautifully thick coat, sharp eyes, and agility reminded me that not all of us use technology, heating, and other luxurious commodities to survive, but live in the undomesticated world naturally.

Karen Thorp,  Summit Intern