National parks are beguiling properties…They are so immense
and complex it takes a very long time to truly understand their character…A two
day visit hardly scratches the surface, but it can give you a immersion that
only leaves you wanting for more…I loved Acadia yesterday, fog and all, today
Acadia left me speechless. Before we get into the details…let’s pause for a
moment.
With
fog surrounding and shrouding one of the greatest properties in the nation,
it’s easy to get caught up into thinking about all that you’re missing with the
fog. My wife, Julie, reminded me of a very simple, yet poignant observation: In
the fog, Acadia’s best appreciated up close on the small scale…On days like
today, when the weather was perfect, it’s time to appreciate the large scale
beauty that Acadia can serve up. One last note, the pictures are enjoyable, but
they are nothing like being here in person…Make it a point to come to Acadia
National Park, or any national park, to see our country show off for you. And
now, the pictures!
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| On top of the world! Cadillac Mountain, Acadia National Park |
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| A great view to the island surrounding Acadia National Park |
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| Feeling on top of the world! Caddilac Mountain summit, Acadia National Park |
The first order of the day was to take full advantage of the
fact that I woke up to bright blue skies and a sunny day and head right up
Cadillac Mountain. This mountain, from a geographic perspective, is quite
interesting as it’s the park’s highest peak and 25% of the people who live in
North American live within a day’s drive of its summit. The drive to the top
(I’d like to hike it another time!) is stunning.
Rising
from the shores the drive to Cadillac’s summit is a quick elevation gain to the
1500 foot summit. Clear views, like today, show you all of ANP’s treasures:
Views out to the Atlantic Ocean, views into the park, and views overlooking Bar
Harbor. Being at the summit (of any mountain, for that matter, not just
Cadillac), changes your perspective. Once again, especially for this
flatlander, the allure of the summit is threefold: 1) At the summit, you experience a rare Earth treat, you
look out over everything, 2) You
deliberately pause to take in the surrounding beauty, and it transforms you
during those times, 3) You gain a sense of place and being as you made the
effort to change your perspective. This is the magic I found on Cadillac
Mountain.
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| Forest ends at the water's edge in Jordan Pond, Acadia National Park |
Returning
from the summit I headed over to Jordan Pond. Once again, a pond out here is called
a lake just about anywhere else! Jordan Pond is the Acadia National Park triple
play: 1) You get to look at a beautiful lake, 2) The beautiful lake is
surrounded by mountains, and 3). The hike around the lake changes your
perspective with every step. This stop was the highlight of the day for me as
it offered a never-ending procession of wonderful scenery. The pictures show
you what will be in my mind forever…
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| My perfect world...Having lunch next to Jordan Pond, Acadia National Park, ME |
The
last stop of the day was a local lobster pound where the food is fresh and
character his real. Tonight’s dinner was another seafood blitz rounded out with
a respectable BBQ sampler to round the table’s offerings. The food was great,
but the sever was even better.
My
server is as an example of what I hope all of my students see for themselves
as a template to go through life. He had goals he cared about, he had a great attitude, he had great
personality, he was well-spoken, and knew how to share a conversation. It’s
easy for me to see that his hard work and perseverance are opening great doors
in life. He seems ready to continue on his journey to college and I wish him well
as he discovers for himself what he needs to do with his life. His joie de vivre will carry him...
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| F.W- Enjoy life, keep your eyes open, and listen to your heart...You're going to go far! |
Acadia
National Park changed my perspective in many ways. I hope my last two days
bring you to a place where you can live and think on a large, satisfying scale.
Thanks for joining me…~Mr. K.
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