Earth Day

 April 22nd

Happy Earth Day!

There has been no rain during the days since we have been in the Carolinas. The weather report predicted rain was possible a few nights ago, but I saw no evidence. Water levels are down.  It has made for great hiking conditions.  Hopefully there will be rain soon.

Stephanie and I went on part of the Lakeshore Trail hiking today in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. There was not much water in the part of the lake we saw. Still, a nice hike. We went up one side trail hoping for evidence of a former goldmine but didn't find it. We did find the Woody Cemetery though. I believe this would be one of the cemeteries that was stopped being used when people were displaced for the dam being built and the land becoming part of the National Park system. The majority of the stones have crumbled. Someone has replaced many of them with newer ones. That was good to see.  We began and ended the hike near the tunnel we went through a few days ago.


The lake.

To the left is one of the worn stones.
The large stone seems to be a stone survivor from the 1800's.  The name on the stone is 'Minnie Pearl Cossett.'  No known relation to the comedian, Minnie Pearl.  Like this grave, many of them were infants or children.  It was a tough life in the mountains during those times. 

Back to the tunnel!




After that hike we went back to the resort and rested while Silena finished her day at work. Then we hit the road and headed for the Kuwohi Observation Deck. From the parking lot, it is about half a mile to the top. The way is paved, but still steep in some areas. We crossed the AT near the top. The views from the observation deck were lovely.  


Crow, I believe.
I'm basing this on size and that I don't think the bill is hooked.



Appalachian Trail sign.

Observation Deck.


Southern-ish view

Western-ish view

Northern-ish view

Eastern-ish view

Friends!

Stephanie, me, and Silena




☮

Continued to read: No Time Like the Past, by Jodi Taylor.

Thank you for being here and being part of my daily happy things. Stay safe!


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