I spent a few days away from the mountains and away from the blog.  I'm glad to be back.  It's hot in the valley!  It's been a hot and dry summer but it's still been beautiful.

    July has been a beautiful time to hike the higher elevations in the Smokies.  It's still relatively cool up here and the wild flowers have yet to peak above 5000 feet.

    I'm enjoying a birthday in the mountains today.  What a blessing.  When I enjoy the blooms in spring and summer and the vast expansive views in winter I am humbled and filled with gratitude to be able to enjoy my time here in these mountains.