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A cold winter wind set upon Hot Springs National Park this morning, 31 F feels like 21 F with every blast of the north wind.  Entering the park a runner dressed in only shorts and a shirt shouts good morning my way.  A large rock with protruding chunks of quartz glows in the slowly rising sunlight as I climb higher into the park. Beautiful Heavenly Bamboo is putting on a spectacular display of transitioning leaves of green and red.  As I reach the top I am thankful for the hike up the Mountain as it has warmed my entire body.

The view from the pagoda is peaceful and the valley below is visible through a frosty haze.  I turn my face to the sun and enjoy its warmth upon my chilled face.   The warmth of the east side of the mountain gives way to a piercing cold as I step into the full blast of a fierce northerly. The heavy gusts of icy winds are not only keeping people at home but also the wildlife.   As I head home I am encouraged to move faster along the trails with each gust of icy wind.

Love to ALL!
Lee