"I want to see what’s on the other side of the hill–then what’s beyond that." –EMMA ‘GRANDMA’ GATEWOOD, at age 67 first woman to thru-hike the Appalachian Trail (1955), 1887—1973

Tuesday, December 8, 2009

Feels like it's raining all over the world

I can't say that I'm surprised to lose yet another walking day to the rain. It has been incessant in this corner of the world since late summer. In my field work I have heard many a native old timer claim that "This is as wet as I've have ever seen it in these parts". The ground is so saturated that even a moderate rainfall total causes us to be under the threat of flash flooding. Luckily, even though our property includes about 130' of frontage on Brasstown Creek, my home is located on high bluff, well out of harms way. It is quite a sight when it's flowing at full capacity, as you can see in this small clip.

The trails nearest to my home, where I usually take the dogs for a 60 to 90 minute workout, have become slippery to the point of being dangerous. Following proper trail etiquette and rule, I require the dogs to be under control with a leash. They don't always think of how difficult it can be to navigate down a 15-20% grade when the trail has turned to mud. Even without them, it's not unusual for me to slip and sometimes end up on my backside.

In a region prone to drought conditions, sometimes severe, I never thought I'd find myself wishing that the rain would go away, and stay away for a long time. I think I may be getting moldy.

2 comments:

  1. Have you seen the forecast for this weekend (12/12/09)!? Arrrgh!

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  2. Isn't it a drag? At least they have changed it from being a wintry mix to all rain, and not until later in the evening. At least I hope so since we are going to ATL area to try and get in some big city shopping. Thanks to you and Judy for becoming "followers".

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