Crisp air whispers through the pines
Stillness before day
At 5:48 AM on Saturday, March 22, 2025, I find myself at an elevation of 2,226 feet near Asheville, North Carolina, moving at a leisurely pace of 1 mph. The pre-dawn air is crisp at 36°F (2°C), and the sky is clear, promising a sunny day ahead with temperatures expected to reach a high of 65°F (18°C) and a low of 30°F (-1°C). A Red Flag Warning is in effect from 11:00 AM to 8:00 PM due to anticipated strong winds and low humidity, advising caution with any outdoor burning activities.
Surrounded by the gentle slopes of the Blue Ridge Mountains, the immediate area is enveloped in a serene stillness. The landscape is dotted with a mix of deciduous and evergreen trees, their silhouettes faintly visible against the emerging light. The soft rustling of leaves and the distant call of an early-rising bird are the only sounds accompanying me. The ground beneath is a blend of fallen leaves and patches of early spring grass, still damp with morning dew. As I continue, the path ahead is gently illuminated by the approaching dawn, casting long shadows and highlighting the natural contours of the terrain. The tranquility of this moment offers a peaceful start to the day's journey.
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