Until Next Time

2015-08-11 15:44:35.000 – Thailynn Munroe, Summit Intern

I’m really not even sure where to begin; it seems unbelievable that I’m writing this already. And it makes me incredibly sad. This summer was filled with more weather, merriment, and learning than I could have ever imagined. Like the lichen grows on the rocks, the White Mountains have grown on me.

It seems funny looking back to the beginning of this summer because I was so nervous embarking on this journey. This was my first time moving to a new place on my own, living by myself, and having a job related to meteorology. Not to mention my first time ever in New Hampshire was in April for my final interview before the internship. We took the snow cat up the mountain, and I didn’t even realize that there was an actual paved road because there was still so much snow. I really, really like it here—on the mountain and in the valley. I’m surrounded by so many people who inspire intelligence and adventure, and I’m so thankful for everything they have taught me.

In addition to learning what it takes to be an operational meteorologist and weather observer, I also learned a lot about myself. You learn a lot about yourself sitting in a dark room, watching lightning strike the summit and surrounding mountains over and over again. And you learn a lot about yourself at 5 in the morning, watching the sunrise over a sea of clouds. And you really learn a lot about yourself when you’re lying on a deck looking out across the Milky Way, watching the Perseid meteor shower from the tallest mountain you’ve ever been on.

I have seen so many truly beautiful things during my time up here, including how hard everyone works and how dedicated they are to the observatory. I have taken some pictures, but honestly I feel silly trying to capture these moments instead of enjoying them while they last. Plus nothing ever looks as good as it does in person. Sometimes I just shut my eyes tight and try as hard as I can to etch these things into my memory forever.

I am so thankful to have had the opportunity to work at the Mount Washington Observatory, and I am tremendously unhappy to be leaving so soon. The observatory really does feel like a home away from home, and everyone here is like my second family. I am going to miss it all so much.

 

Thailynn Munroe, Summit Intern