Here in East Tennessee the occasional snowfall is like a gift. With or without snow, winter’s chill is a great excuse to cuddle up and stay at
home. When the weather is nice, I feel
guilty not getting things accomplished, whether it’s running errands or simply walking exercise. But bitter temperatures give us a free pass to abandon
those tasks and hibernate inside our homes, sweet homes. This winter it snowed three times since we moved, last week is the first time snow accumulated and stayed on the ground. I guess it was about 1-2 inches in some parts. It was interesting to experience snow here, I like how it goes away quickly. But up in the Windrock mountain the snow continues to pile up. We drove for couple of hours to witness the beauty of winter and we do really enjoy our short adventure.
My advice if you’re planning a winter hike it takes time for preparation.
It’s vital to be dressed properly. Carry along water and an energy
snack. Pay special attention to staying on the trail. And, don’t count
on your cell phone because in many places — like most of the Tennessee Mountain—
there is no reception.
Trivia: Before that time, the area around Oliver Springs had been used by Native Americans as a hunting ground and campsite. Natural mineral springs
and abundant wildlife on Windrock Mountain encouraged Native Americans
to stay. The springs, whose reputation for miraculous medicinal
properties lasted until the 20th century, were called Tah-hah-lehaha, which meant "healing waters" in the Cherokee language. (wikipedia.org/wiki/Oliver_Springs,_Tennessee)
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The weather outside is frightful |