Summer days on the summit

2009-05-19 06:16:31.000 – Stacey Kawecki,  Observer and Meteorologist

A summer sunset (from last shift week)

As you well know, after reading Mike’s comment, the Sherman Adams building is now open for business! I personally really enjoy the summer months on the summit. It’s fun and exciting to see all the people milling about, I enjoy giving tours to our members and other groups, and the weather is generally a lot more forgiving (aka above freezing and a bit less windy). That’s not to say the weather isn’t to be feared, because with summer comes a whole new mess of weather-related safety issues like lightning and thunderstorms and hypothermia-inducing conditions (cold and wet). But, I digress…

Sunset is much later, allowing for more and likely longer hiking expeditions. Birds pepper the summit with their cheerful songs and you can frequently hear the tinkle of Marty’s collar bell as he stalks said birds and tries (that darn bell) to take down his prey. The Auto Road being open allows for somewhat regular visits to the summit by valley staff (it’s good to actually see them, instead of merely hearing their voices out of the phone) and occasional visits by former interns, staff, friends and family.

Speaking of interns, the new wave will be reaching the summit on May 27th. We’ll be introducing Scott Wehrwein and Amy Terborg to the Mount Washington Observatory and crew. It’s always exciting to get new interns. Though, I must say, the first couple of days, will doubtless, leave them a bit breathless. As most of you know, Wednesday’s are, at best, crazy. The poor new interns will be overloaded with meetings, the whirlwind of activity, and information all before they get a chance to sit down to lunch. So, to Amy, Scott, Alexander, and Alexandra, if you’re reading this, please be patient with us on Wednesdays!

One more wonderful thing about summer is that we are now on the summer septic system. Showers are back on our ‘To-Do’ lists!

Stacey Kawecki,  Observer and Meteorologist