Dismal Weather

Like most of the states, Tennessee is experiencing an unusual cold front.  This is one of the times when living in the mountains isn't so enjoyable.  The colder air combined with the warmer water logged land creates a constant ground fog that slowly drifts over the mountain coating everything with a layer of ice.  Two years ago, we had two telephone poles snap due to the weight of the ice on the electrical/phone lines.  Knocked out power to our side of the mountain.  Power line crews were working in wet and sub-zero temps in the early morning hours trying to restore power.  They done good.  Hopefully that won't happen this year.  Woke up this morning to a light dusting of snow and temps in the teens.

Although the ground fog has dissipated somewhat, it's still moving through but not as heavy as earlier this morning.

 Tried to get a picture of this little critter on one of the suet blocks that I put out but couldn't get close enough for a clear shot.  I have to use a tripod with the telephoto because it's really hard to focus and hold steady offhand.  Think it's some kind of finch but haven't been able to identify him yet. Finally found him - it's an adult, male White-breasted Nuthatch.  Neat.

With the colder weather and being somewhat shut-in for bit, what better way to pass the time than to do some baking.  Cookies are always in style around here.  I ain't met a cookie yet that I didn't like.

These be Snickerdoodles.  A sugar cookie with cinnamon mixed in.  Unfortunately they just don't seem to last very long.  Cathy is also working on chicken and home made noodles.  Wow - ain't had those since my sister, Diane, was here last.  She makes 'em just like Mom used to.  Makes my mouth water just thinking about it.