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2010-01-10 20:24:40.000 – Stacey Kawecki,  Observer and Meteorologist

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First and foremost, Happy Birthday to fellow observer, Mike Finnegan! Two years and one day ago, Mike Finnegan began working as an IT Observer on my shift (I miss him terribly) and that’s how I remember both his birthday and his start date. Secondly, the breath-taking beauty of Mount Washington never ceases to amaze me. Fresh blood (interns and visiting guests) always seems to reinvigorate my own appreciation for the mountain and all it has to offer. Their excitement at seeing a sunset, sunrise, interesting cloud formation, high winds, or extremely cold temperatures for the first time is contagious; more infectious than H1N1.

Last night almost everyone ventured outside to get a glimpse of the sun, as it sank beneath a languid layer of clouds. The blowing snow, sub-zero temperatures, and 50 mph winds only added to the exhilaration of the experience. This morning everyone rustled out of bed to witness a spectacular sunrise. Bright hues of pink and orange lit up the smooth lenticular clouds overhead against a backdrop of blue. The alpine glow put rose colored lenses on all of our eyes as it painted the scenery in a beautiful pink blush.

Night settles upon the summit again and the stars teasingly reveal themselves between spells of fog. Most of us will retire to slumber with anticipation of what tomorrow will bring.

Sunrise pictures were taken by Drew.

Stacey Kawecki,  Observer and Meteorologist