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Bird songs and calls of Canadian Geese fill the
cool morning air. An occasional front rushes through and warmer air fills
the void. The river continues to speak of it’s power and the thunder
begins to roll in the distance. The rustle of life begins anew as if
rising from a restful night of tranquil sleep. It is a busy time of year
on the Cumberland Plateau.
The weather is ideal for both indoor and outdoor activities throughout the
season. Daytime temperatures range from the 30’s to the 70’s and average
around 65. Night time temps, however, can fall into the 20’s but generally
stay around 40. Mid Spring ushers in rain and thunderstorms which continue
to recharge the earth before the dry Summer months. A surprise snowfall is
not unexpected as Spring nears it’s mid point. Summer heat and humidity
begins setting in by June and lasts until September.
Transient birds and water fowl as well as native wildlife are plentiful.
Deer, Rabbits, Squirrels, Raccoons, Turkey, and other wildlife forage on
new vegetation and leftover nuts and seeds. Mice begin to ramble in the
meadows. Red wing blackbirds and geese make their way back to the ponds
and marsh areas. Wood ducks and Ring Neck ducks make their way through the
area settling briefly on the ponds that lie on The Close. And, of course,
fishing is a relaxing activity throughout the day.
We have prepared a bit of information to help you plan for your stay at
The Close:
Early Spring (Mid March - Mid April):
A cozy cabin awaits the end of daily activities during this cool start to
the season. It is a good time for hot cocoa, journalling, reading, study
and prayer. Tufted Titmouse and Goldfinch are still common along the
woodland edges. Woodpeckers, Purple Finch, Cardinals, and Robins can be
seen in abundance. Remote areas on the Close and the National Forest are
still accessible. However, be careful on wet days when you are near the
bluffs and steep hills. Please inform us when you plan to venture into the
surrounding woodlands. You will need to dress in layers. Non-cotton
garments are recommended with layers of wool and or fleece. A rain shell
should be worn over your clothing or, at least, carried with you. Remember
gloves and toboggan to cover your skin. Keep your feet warm and dry with
liner socks, wool socks, and waterproof boots.
Mid Spring (Late April - Late May):
Daylight hours continue to lengthen and woodland rambles are pleasant,
although gnats and ticks begin to flourish. It is still a great time for
restful sleep, reading, journalling and communion with Christ.
Late Spring (Late May - Late June):
Warm, humid air begins to replace the cool dry air until Autumn. Morning
and evening fog blankets the ridge saddles and surrounding gorge until the
sun burns the moisture off the following day. It is still a good time to
be out. So bring your camera, Bible, book and sketch pad.
A Spring packing list should include: Wool Socks, Liner Socks, Boots, Dry
clothes for cabin wear, Hangers to hang wet clothes, wool, and fleece
layering garments, Cotton undergarments and outer garments in late spring.
Remember gloves, water repellent shell, food, zip lock bags, camera,
binoculars, blankets, sleeping bags, twin size bed linens, clothes for
warmer days, strong storage containers, drinking water, drink mixes,
Bible, journal, pencil, drawing supplies, note pad, and other items
specific to your goals on retreat.
Don’t forget your insect repellent or dress to keep these pests away from
your skin.
Spring is in the air and a fresh look is coming to the Close. Cozy rooms
with little distractions make for a fulfilling stay throughout the season.
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