Here a few of the hundreds, heck, thousands, of e-mails that we have received over the past six years of writing the Cloudland Cabin Online Journal. Hi Tim, Hello Tim! What a wonderful suprise to discover your website. At the present time I am living in Northern California, but my birthplace is near Huntsville, AR. I so treasure your beautiful photos and your journal. If anything has ever made me homesick, viewing your pictures have done so in a wonderful way. Put on your dressses of red and gold Soon as the leaves heard the wind's loud call Over the brown fields they danced and flew Dancing and whirling, the little leaves went Soon fast asleep in their earthy beds Enjoy and have a wonderful life. Dear Tim, I know you must get dozens of e-mails every day so I will try to keep this short. I live and work on the "miserable" Texas gulf coast. Worse yet, I work at a chemical plant where the air always has a "distinctive" aroma and is so heavy that you can usually see it. Last week we had one day with a high temp of 104 and heat index of 112. It was lovely. But I just wanted you to know that your daily pictures from Cloudland and your Cloudland journal are sometimes the only things that keep me going (besides my lovely wife of 35 years, of course). Thanks to your wonderful trail books, we discoverd Hawksbill about 4 years ago and have hiked out to it at least half a dozen times since. It is always a religious experience for me - really. By the way, your picture of the Buffalo at sunrise really took my breath away. Well, just wanted to let you know that your excellent work is appreciated both far and wide. I am counting the days until we can get back up to "God's" country. Well, thanks again. Just wanted to drop a line and let you know I just found the journal while looking for info on camp Albert Pike and my gosh I can't stop reading it!!! I finally just went back to the beginning and started reading. It reads like a wonderful novel/love story, hard to believe someone actually LIVES that life...you are very blessed. Hi Tim, I went into your webpages looking for family history,when your photo's came up.I would not change a thing.Those were the most beautiful pictures I have seen .So colorful and super sharp images.I think you have done a wonderful job.I just wish everyone could stumble onto your pages. There is no sqinting and trying to guess what the picture is.It is so to life you can almost touch it.Keep up the beautiful work. Hi Tim. I have been reading your Journal Tim: You have truly made an impact on me. I just finished reading Jan. 03 through current date while cruising through the Caribbean with my husband and daughters (both 24 years old). What a great way to relax. Little did you know that someone was enjoying your journal so much while looking out at the great expanse of the Atlantic and Caribbean. Tim, I was just reading through your journal for today, when I saw the black cohosh photos. First off, I didn't know what they looked like, and second, black cohosh is one of those herbs that are used still. It is now mainly used for women's menopause symptoms, as it produces estrogen like effects in the body. Hi Tim! I've been a faithful reader of your journal for some time now, and I've wanted to thank you for putting it online (it's a terrific place to learn about new places to hike!). Oh, my gosh, at first glance, I thought the snake was a copperhead, but you are the expert. Have been enjoying all the beautiful flower photos! Be safe, especially chasing the bear, and look out for the snakes. Looking forward to the new calendar, etc.! Take care! Hello. Just wanted to say how much your photos inspire me. I stop by and catch up on your journal and pictures every so often. I have a slow modem, but I patiently wait for the pictures in your journal to load as I read along, and learn all sorts of things. For example, I took pictures of Larkspur yesterday. Though I paged & paged through the Peterson Field guide, I must have paged right past the flower, because I couldn't find it! And so tonight, as I was updating my own homepage, and decided to add a link to yours, I noticed the beautiful while blossom, with a nice handy caption: "Larkspur is coming up all over the place again this summer! " How about that!! Love your macros.... when I bought my digital, I HAD to have a super macro. It's a big deal(!) Your picture of Keefe falls is super cool! The visual aid of your human body as a scale to show the awesome size of the fall is very effective! Also like the bacon sandwich photo. : ) I am hoping to save up the money so I take your wilderness digital photography class this fall!! I definitely could use some instruction, and the idea of a critique forum is excellent. We moved from southern Oregon to Eureka Springs and I really appreciate your journal. It's a great way for me to learn about Arkansas wildlife and wildflowers. I was quite delighted to find shooting stars among the wildflowers. We found them at Lake Leatherwood, a place we go probably 4-5 times each week. I just started reading your journal after finding it mentioned on one of the local forums. Instead of reading through each year, I decided to read all the entries for the current month; I just read May 2003, 1998, 1999 and 2000. Thanks again for this opportunity to learn and enjoy.... What brand, model, megapixel, etc is the digital camera that you have used and are currently using for the website journal photos? How on earth have you catalogued all those photo files? I enjoy introducing your website to all the good friends we left back in Texas, and they all want to come visit us, now that we live here in Arkansas. Hi Tim! I have been reading your journal for some time and enjoy it tremendously. I look forward to your wonderful pictures, as photography is my favorite hobby. I'm excited about your new photo equipment and program. Dear Mr Earnst: I found your website while trying to get back home. My home is really buffalo river. My mother was raised a short way's from where I believe your cabin is. I have picture's of the family`s that lived there, and will be glad to mail a copy if you would like to put face's to place's. Please put more picture's on the web as I love to go back home. Thank you so much! Tim, Thanks for your comments on supporting the troops now. We live in Nebraska but have hiked many times in the Ponca area. I enjoy reading your journal. My daughter Kim and her fiancé are now backpacking in the Tyler Bend area over spring break. I enjoy your books describing the trials in Arkansas. Keep up the good work. Tim, I was reading your Journal yesterday when it flashed on the Journal that Elizabeth Smart had been found. What a wonderful day! Thanks so much for the Journal! Hello Tim: I came across your journal a month or so ago when I typed in Arkansas Waterfalls. I was surprised that I came across such a wonderful site as yours. I love to read about your adventures not only with your waterfall hunting but with life at Cloudland just in general. You lead an interesting and adventuresome life. When I came across your site I thought that I would be able to read one entry and that would be it, but boy was I wrong. I have read just about all your years in your journal and I can't wait till the next posted entry. I have lived here in Arkansas all my life and didn't realize that there were so many beautiful waterfalls around here. Just be careful out there on all your adventures. Pam, Amber and all your friends and readers of your journal wouldn't want anything to happen to you. Pea Soup fog........hummmm.....you been reading "Cloudy With A Chance of Meatballs" to Amber? If you don't know what I'm talking about , ask Amber , she will know this book. One of me and my daughter Alivia's favorites for sure !!!! Tim: I just read your post of Feb 21st about the flock of bluebirds. When I was a kid we lived in Wanut Creek, California and I remember one time in the winter months a big flock of robins swooped in on the pyracantha bushes in our backyard which were full of berries. The berries had been there along time. Soon the robins began acting uncoodinated,floping about and acting weird. My Dad explained to me that the berries had fermented and the robins were drunk. They recovered in time and went on their way. I know bluebirds eat berries this time of year, maybe what you saw was a bunch of happy,drunken bluebirds, maybe. My wife and I love the Ozarks, and we try to get there as often as we can. Usually atleast twice a year. We started floating the rivers and streams when we were at Ole Miss in the early 90's. The Buffalo is our favorite, although I have enjoyed fishing in the White and Sylamore lately, since it is closer to our home, near Memphis. The parts of the Buffalo we are most familiar with are the Tyler Bend/Gilbert area, but we have visited your area a few times, too. We have camped at Steel Creek, near Ponca. Please keep up the good work, as it helps me to spend a little time in the Ozarks via the web, when I can't be there at all times! I just wanted to let you know that I look forward to reading your journals every day. I live in the big city of St. Louis so I don?t get to get back to nature as often as I would like. I was raised in Arkansas so I really miss it. Your journals have inspired me to try and rent a cabin somewhere along the Buffalo and hike some of the trails you have described in the spring. PREACH ON BROTHER, I am right there with you on the soapbox!. Huckabee is a joke! How did this man ever get elected, I knew we had some stupid people in this State, but not that many! Amber would do a much better job as govenor I am sure! I hope she is home schooled if that happens. By the way, thanks for the lesson in nature. I did not know about the bobcat tail thing. That is very interesting! I will check out the site in Eureka also. Have a great day! Maybe we could get a petition going to impeach the govenor! Thanks for risking life and limb in order that we may see the beautiful scenes that otherwise we would not get to see. The witch hazel pictures brought back a lot of memories. I can still remember how wonderful the fragrance was, and it seems so odd it blooms this early. Please be careful out there! Bravo on the post for 2/2/03! I really needed to hear that today. In the mist of this tragedy, I'm trying to smile and applaud them and remember to be MY personnal best!! Absolutely stunning photos of the frost! Mother Nature outdid herself. Thank you for sharing!!!!! Wow! What beautiful frost pictures!!!! Tim, I just read your journal and saw the ice crystal photographs and they are absolutely beautiful! I especially liked the single berry one. They would make great art groupings. Are you going to make prints and sell any of them? God sure makes great natural art and you do a great job of capturing it in photos for the rest of us. Thanks!!!! Dear Tim, Just wanted to drop a note and tell you how much I really appreciate you sharing your life and love of nature through your Cloud landjournals. The details are wonderful....I almost feel as if I'm there. Hope all is well with the Ernst Family. Just wanted to say that I just loved the pictures you posted on the 30th. What kind of digital camera do you use? I want one!!! I guess a lot of it depends on who is taking the pictures...lol. (the following comments were about the hot dog tree photos) Listen, Tim, I wanted to wish you, Pam, and Amber a very Merry Christmas!!!!!!! I see, Tim, that you already have your Christmas wish..., and that is a wonderful woman like Pam.... and NO, I am not related to Pam!!!!!!!! Pam is so perfect for you!!!!!!!! I don't know what else to say!!!!!! You all are PERFECT for each other!!!!!! I see your life change with the addition not only with Pam, , but with Amber...... AND I CAN SEE AMBER IS!!!!!!!!!!, IS YOURS!!!!!!!!!! I want to thank you for publishing your journal. I had some corrective surgery on my foot which has kept me out of the woods for a while. Your diary and pictures have kept me from going stir crazy. It's probably a hassle for you but it is a real blessing for me and I am sure many others. God Bless. I have only recently discovered yer web site and enjoy it very much. I live in central Arkansas but have hunted and traveled in the Ozarks for many years. Since you share a portion of yer life with everyone it seems, I thought you mite enjoy this short poem I wrote back in me younger bachelor daze. Leaf Alone Deep in the woods, Later dude, Hi Tim Tim, I enjoy all of your pictures, but there are some that actually speak to me. The Leaf Trail picture did just that. It is an amazing picture, makes you feel right there. Tim/Pam: Here is the literary reference to the Coiner of "Cloud Cuckoo Land." You are truly travelling in Distinguished Company. http://www.xrefer.com/entry/369211Cloud-cuckoo-land Nephelococcygia), an imaginary city built in the air in The Birds of Aristophanes. Your Cloudlands Journal is a delight. Something I read when I need to get away from the computer to the mountains, but can't. Like today. I once knew an old man who was quite a rebel and an adventurer in his younger days. A professional soldier, a hunter, a policeman, probably a pretty mean man really, but we got along. At his death as his few friends discussed the many roads he traveled around this world some wag said. Just read your August journal. Tim when I read your adventures it is like I am there with you. I see your face hear your voice and feel your spirit. Thanks for adding your words and life to my imagination. I remember the days of listenting to radio. The same imagination hook up. "Hi Tim: I'm sorry if I'm too assuming to be using your first name, but I feel like I know you from reading the journal. "I really enjoy your journal. My home was at the nearby community of Mt. "I am an avid reader of the Cloudland Journal. Your photography is wonderful and "First I want to say how much I enjoy and appreciate you Cloudland journal. My "Dear Tim, I have been reading your journal. I was going to wait until I finished it up to date but at the rate I'm going, that will be a year. We watched the "Dateline" show "Little Girl Lost." I looked it up on Monday after that and found your April and May 2001 journal. After I read these I saw I could go back to when you started so I am through July 98 now. (I read at night before going to sleep.) It is amazing to me that a man's daily activities can be so interesting. I love the pictures and you write so to make what you do interesting. The story of the beagles and the one falling from the bluff made me really see what a good heart you have. Now the moving of the snake (Mr. Copperhead) was something I've heard of but now way would I do it. I don't like snakes and the less the are, the better the world would be as far as I'm concerned. "Tim: Still enjoying the Journal, almost feel guilty sometimes, like I'm getting something for nothing. Gives me quick relaxing reading at night. Positive, no issues involved stuff. Just another day in the Ozarks. That's what you need to name the book." "I live in Edison, NJ. I watched the piece on Haley Zega's "I love your new watergarden, falls,etc., but how will you keep the cats from having sushi? I can just see "Hi Tim! You're just too funny Tim "By the way. the same thing worked when I found Pam". "I stumbled across your web pages yesterday when I was roaming around "I'm sure other people have written you about a hat they've had for years. My "Hi Tim! I have been an avid reader of your Cloudland Journals since I discovered them about 6 months ago. "Keep the GOOD STUFF coming! A rather unusual greeting when you consider it comes from someone you have never met. It just seems right because I have been a fan of yours for several years. I have used your hiking guides and enjoyed several of your photograpy books. I have probably stepped in your footsteps along a few trails over the years and enjoyed the same scenery but just from a different perspective. I teach high school science and have worked with Boy Scout troops "It's late at night and my sons have gone back to college and finally I can "Hi Tim, oh --- oh ---- OH !!! ---how I LOVE reading your journal and viewing your photographs!!! I've been lurking for quite some time now, and I just want to say, you are changing my LIFE!! I'm obsessed with the Ozarks and am convinced the mountains are calling me! I keep showing my husband your web site---hoping to get him hooked on your beautiful area, too. Guess what? I think it's working!! Please keep posting those gorgeous fall photos, the fog over the river, your view from the balcony, and your precious family. We're loving it! I adore the stories about your dogs, too, and my favorite photo is the close-up showing those BIG sweet paws!! "In getting the book information for my Christmas wish "Tim - you're right, I'm going to miss reading your journal in August. I feel like "Tim: When I was growing up we had lots of hired help at our sawmill and they "What a surprise! I came here of a link on a bigfoot bulletin board. Keep up the good work. Absolutely fantastic. Thank you for making available. God Bless." "I am a journal addict. I read it almost every day at work while I'm eating my lunch. Having grown up in the country, I miss hearing the wildlife "Over the past several months I've followed your almost daily journal and have enjoyed the trip. I've followed you through some of the your tough times last year, and now your wonderful exciting times with your new wife and daughter. Thanks for giving some of us who have an extremely hard time getting into the wilds just a little taste that keeps us going until the next time we can escape the to the wilderness. I did get a chance to take my wife and daughter to White Oak State Park today. We live in Monroe, La and it is 2 hrs. 45 minutes away but worth the trip. I was reading your book on AR trails when I came across this place in your book. So, I had to go. The Ice storm last year sure took its toll on the trees. I guess when mother nature decides to repaint the landscape she can pretty much do as she pleases. I just wanted to introduce myself as I do use your site as a daily fix. It's kinda like that cup of coffee that some folks just have to have to operate during the day. I need that wilderness fix to keep me going until the next trip into the great outdoors. Thanks for putting part of Gods creation on the web for all to enjoy." "Tim, Pam, and of course Amber: "Tim, how can you make me cry so much! What a WONDERFUL day! I'm so happy for you! You must post more pictures as they come in. As a woman, I'm so interested in what Pam and Amber wore for the ceremony. Maybe you can get her to write and describe their dresses! Those cakes were just awesome! And what organization! And what can I say about your private airshow! That's 'once in a lifetime' spectacle for sure. That hay ride (in my imagination) was fun! :-) and the ice-cream was the best!" "I wanted to let you know I love the pictures in the journal. The text is "Thank you for your journal. I look forward to it everyday. Your book "I just wanted to say that I have thoroughly enjoyed your journal. I found out about your website through a friend and am floored. I am truly happy for you and your family! It is a rare and special thing to find and experience true love to it's fullest and I know that is what you both have done and are still doing! :o} Amber is a lucky child too to have someone come along to want to teach her and to love her back. Kids have this unconditional thing going on and it's great. I can tell by your journal that you have experienced this more than once. It's a treasured thing to be able to enjoy the beauty of our state. I can honestly say with regret that I don't take the time to stop and 'smell the roses' literally. Life can get so busy (I think only because we let it though) that we get wrapped up in the commercialism of it all. If everyone would take time out of their lives to spend more time enjoying the little things...wouldn't this be a better world? Anyway, I have made a vow to slow down a little bit and enjoy the things that we've been given. And that is the key word, given. It's a gift. Thank you all for making me realize the greatness of all this and how truly small we are. I am going to stop and smell the roses a lot more. You guys take care and hang onto what you have, because it is a great thing. Thank you also for sharing your hearts with "I want to congraulate you on your recent wedding. It can make the difference in the world when your mate is the perfect one. I am glad that your are having a wonderful life. I also want to thank you for sharing your life through the journal with those of use that have to slave away in the city environment." "I absolutely love your way with words, they alone paint a picture, that makes me feel like I am right there, hearing and feeling and seeing all that is taking place. Not only your story telling, but the camera shots. You are amazing and have a true gift. If I lived out in the wilderness like you do, I would be so depressed. I'd feel like I'd been dropped off at the end of the world, but oh how I like to read about all your discoveries. They put me there without being there." "I have a new hobby in my spare time at work. When I get bored and tired of the four walls ( I'm the only person there most of the time) I just drift away to Cloudland. "I stumbled on to your site quite by accident, was delighted by many of your photos. Then I "I'm hooked. Every night before I go to bed I have to look to see what new pictures you might have and "I just finished reading your latest journal entry and feel compelled to "Tim, congratulations on your fourth year of writing the journal. I've been "Interesting whales you have in Arkansas! Too bad we couldn't see its 'Fin'. :-)" "Congratulations on beginning your new year of the Cloudland journal. Your pictures give me such joy! For an old "Thank you, Tim, for that wonderful, heart-tugging description of Aspen Dog and Mr Caterpilar. How awesome nature and pets are. Now I can smile all day." This special first section contains a handful of the hundreds of notes from wonderful people both during and after the recent search and rescue mission: - Just a note to thank you for all of us that wanted to be there for the Haley ordeal. We sent water down but couldn't come in person. It wasn't that you just opened your home (I would hope we all would) but that you opened the door of hope as well. We Knew - First off, Tim, let me tell you that I had no idea - I checked the OHTA site this morning, as I do every few days, and found your link for the incredible story about Haley. I had not heard anything about it until that time. Somehow I missed out on all of the news about it last week, maybe because I come to work at 7:00 a.m. and miss the Today Show, and maybe because it's final exam time for this college professor. Since finding it I have been unable to tear myself away from your Journal entries about the search--what a story. (I have three kids (including a seven-year-old daughter) and have been to the Hawksbill several times (fall, winter, spring, summer, etc.), so it all seemed so real to me... - Hello, how are things going now that everyone is gone? - I cannot begin to thank you enough. I just finished reading your Cloudland - I have been glued to my computer monitor reading your journal about Haley. - I was one of those in your cabin during the entire ordeal with Haley's - We wanted to thank you for the wonderful journal that you kept of - Thanks for the wonderful coverage of the "human side" of a concentrated 2. When she saw the helicopters and the commotion, she did a great job of hiding, and clearing the area. 3. The routine got old after one night, but she was to proud to walk back, thus the second night. 4. She got too far away from the search area by the second day, and it was no longer fun...hide and seek is only fun when there is the expectation of being found. She started to get worried by the seond day... - I have read through all of your journal notes on 4/29 through today. Thank you so much for the detail - it was incredible how I physically felt I was there - all through your written words. I cried and smiled as I read. You write as good as you take pictures! I understand you feel no need to be thanked, but it is with a great deal of thankfulness that I lift your name up to the Lord and ask Him to bless you and your family, your cabin, and all the other persons involved in this situation. In my mind, I tried to take away what you provided (I won't get into detail!) and there would have been a huge void that provided so much not just to your family, but to the authorities as well. You were a major link in the success of that search and rescue effort. I have major heart problems and neuropathy in both fee and will NEVER hike anywhere - shopping in air-conditioned malls is the best walking I can do! I look forward to ordering some books from you (with autographs!) and it will be much more meaningful than any book I have ever bought. What a fabulous idea to name the falls Haley Falls! And, I know will "see" them myself someday through your photographs... - Please know we checked your journal many, many times for updates on Haley's rescue (the updates you wrote and the account that you wrote after she was found was written with such feeling and compassion, NO ONE could read them without crying). We are so proud of you for being such a solid support (physically and emotionally) for Haley's family. With all the glowing compliments and comments you have received, please stay the same as you are! (I know you will) I also know that you were dealing with feelings about your mom and those were put on hold. So now you deserve some quiet time with nature and with your family to renew yourself... - I recently heard of a little girl lost near you. Some of your work was e-mailed to me with a picture of Hailey through a chat group I belong to. I am very happy she was found alive. After reading some of your story I knew I had to read more. The person who sent the initial e-mail told us the web site address and I went to visit. After saying all this I just wanted to tell you how good your writing made me feel. Cloudland is certainly a perfect name for your cabin. I only touched base a bit but I intend to go to the beginning and start new. Thanks for a refreshing, relaxing, enlightening piece of work... - After searching for Haley since Sunday afternoon, we too were filled with joy to see her little face last night. I cannot say that I've had a better day in many, many days. I will not insult you by thanking you for your unconditionally support of Haley's family and friends. You obviously facilitiated a support system, the likes of which I have never seen at a search. But I want to tell you that I am grateful that you will name the already popular waterfall "Haley's Falls." I've hiked to Whitaker Point dozens of times with family and friends and alone. The most recent time was March 21 of this year when I hiked it with my six-year old son, who spent 2-3 hours exploring those waterfalls, bluffs and benches. Sometime around 4:30 am on Monday morning I wondered how I would ever come back if Haley was not safely reunited with her parents. Thank heavens she was. And now I know that when I return, Haley's Falls will be my first stop. And should I ever forget, I will be reminded of the eyes of a small girl that shone with deep resolve and character as she patiently and quietly waited there in the ambulance to be reunited with her mommy and daddy. And of all those people, known and unknown, who worked and prayed and cared and renewed our spirit and faith in humanity. (from a volunteer with one of the main search and rescue units) - I know that you have heard this many times over but, I want to say thank you for being so helpful to the Zegas. You say that you didn't do much but you were someone to lean on during their time of need. For that, you are a heck of a guy (with a heck of a dog)... - I started reading your journal on Monday, 4-30-01, so I could keep up with the search for Haley Zega. She goes to the same elementary school as my son, and he was interested. I do appreciate you keeping us informed. I then started reading some of your journal and I don't think I've ever enjoyed anything more. Your writing is absolutely delightful... - I just finished reading your account of the last few days. I've got a feeling you'll be seeing more of Haley Zega at your cabin and in the wilderness in the future. It's amazing how often that an experience like this for a young child causes them not to become fearful of the wilderness, but to embrace it. She has spent as many nights alone in the wilderness at age 6 as I have at age 31. (I've spent many more nights out, but only 2 alone -- 1 in that same wilderness area.) She'll be back to sign your lampshades someday. I woke up this morning with a better feeling about the world. Thanx for keeping us all up to date... - Tim - I am Haley's kindergarten teacher in Fayetteville. Thank you so much for unlocking your door and allowing this family and all their friends to feel so comfortable during this time of crisis. I appreciate your generosity tremendously. I hope your cabin wasn't too hard to clean back up and I hope they left a little good food behind for you to nibble on. The classroom is full of happy children today. They're so happy I'm having a hard time getting much real work out of them! **Don't forget I put four bottles of water in the tank in the bathroom. ... - Just finished reading your journal entry. Cried a LOT! Wonderfully written and expressed. I especially like the part where Kelly vows to spend more time with her little daughter! If she follows through on that one, this whole ordeal will have been worth it!... - As a friend of the Zegas, I just wanted to say thank you. My husband was one of those invading your cabin and trying to help search. He had such praise for you! It is so wonderful how you opened your home and heart to our friends and hundreds of strangers. It was very frustrating being at home and not able to be up there, so I was excited to find your web site. I really enjoyed reading your journal. I especially enjoyed last nights entry. I'm sure you are going to get anything and everything you need to repair your road, and with every piece of gravel will come a blessing for you. You are an amazing human being!... - Thank you all for your prayers. There was much rejoicing and high fives around our house after we recieved the news from Tim Ernst's web site last night at 9:30. God does indeed answer prayer.... - Thank you for your journal and your updates. KISR Radio Station here in Ft. Smith read your journal on the air for us. As a result many prayers went out. This morning we are in prayer to praise the Lord that this child was found... - I've just returned home here in Lincoln and decided to check out your web page. I want to thank you for so many things -- your wonderful, generous heart, your marvelous dog Aspen -- and the FANTASTIC account of Haley's disappearance and subsequent rescue that I found when reading your April/May journal. You have given me and, I'm sure, many others a wonderful keeper of these past three days. You have my eternal gratitude. I will always remember the gifts you gave my family in our time of greatest need... - I just read your story on the Web page. Miracles do happen, heroes are made, not born, and you, my friend, live a magical life. Here's to you... - Thanks so much for your journal during this most trying time. You are a very caring person -- I'm glad your cabin was there for the Zega's. Rest well tonight... - You have done such a wonderful thing to open your home, yourself and your talents to the successful search. I have always admired your work and now I admire you as a person. God Bless You... - Thank You for your journal. I've been sitting here waiting to read the details about finding Haley. The TV reporters were not worth a hoot in reporting what was going on. I couldn't wait for your update. I've read your whole journal today. What a talented man you are. May your life be more blessed then it already is... - I can't begin to tell you how much you have meant to the Zega family and friends. My husband has spent the day at your cabin in the woods and is now on his way home with a miracle to report to all here. Kelly, Zega and Haley are a unique, special family, as I am sure you have discovered. These past few days have been a nightmare that you have made a bit more tolerable. Thank you for all your warmth, hospitality, kindness and overwhelming generosity! I wish I could express my feelings to you, but words just don't seem to convey the gratitude I have... - Tim-- Tonight I thank God for the return of Haley. It was a very meaningful experience to work with such dedicated people in such a horrifying situation. All differences of all kinds were buried to save a childs life. The refuge you gave the family was a gift no one else could have contributed. Thank God we could all do what we did... - Tim, Cloudland provided a wonderful public service with regard to this situation, as it was helpful when Bonnie had her stroke in May '99. Please continue your journal... - Tim - I commend you in your generosity and hospitality towards Hailey's family. You opened up your home to that family in their time of need. I am sure that meant alot to them. It's nice to know that a community can pull together when something like this has happened and be there for each other. I would like to thank you for the updates in your journal and will check later for an additional update on how Hailey is doing. I said a prayer today for the Lord to let the searchers find her alive. The Lord answered my prayer as well as many, many others. I have 3 small children and I can't imagine what her parents have been through. God Bless you and Hailey's family... - THIS IS FROM PEA RIDGE!!!! THANK YOU SO MUCH FOR ALL YOU HAVE DONE FOR THE HALE & ZEGA FAMILY!!!!!!!!!! I'M SURE THEY CAN NEVER THANK YOU ENOUGH!!! BUT OUR TOWN WANTS TO THANK YOU!!!!!!!!!!!! GOD BLESS YOU AND YOUR FAMILY!!! I'M SURE HE ALREADY HAS!!... - I had not read your page in a few days and was lisiting to KISR radio when Fred Baker was reading your journal an the air. Fred read it as he does so well. Tingles went up my spine as I heard about Haley. My wife and I said a prayer for her and her family. My daughter is her age and I felt heart sicken about the little girl lost. I am glad you were there to lend a hand!... - You have been a blessing to many people offering your home and time in the search of Haley. Praise God that she has been found and may you be blessed many times over for your efforts... - Thanks for keeping us updated on Hailey, and I'm so thankful she's alive and ok. Your web page was as fast the news!!!... - I found your website in the Demo-Gaz while reading the article about the little girl who is lost. I was hoping to find some updated info on your website about the status of things. I'm a mother of three, and something like this shakes all of us to our very cores. Just wanted to say hello and tell you how wonderful I think it is that you're helping this family... A man never stands as tall as when he kneels to help a child. - I have been reading your journal and watching news about Haley. I would about give my right arm to be down there helping. I know a lot of the folks out there and have been in the same situation several times in my career. There are some great people out there searching and I know they all feel a need to find her. In a situtaion like this the searchers make it their one function in life to try to beat the clock and find the child. I know they will do there very best, to the point of totally putting their own lives and safety aside to try to find Haley, she is now the most important thing in most of their lives... - Tim Ernst, God bless you for opening your home to a family in need... - Tim, this is from the Benton County Prosecutor's Office. I have been keeping up though your Cloudland, thanks to the Washington County Prosecutor's Office. We can't all be there in person, although, some from our office were there yesterday, we certainly have everyone in our thoughts and prayers. Steve, Kelly, those Grandparents, (I'm a grandparent and anyone of us could be in their shoes at any given moment, (3 of us (grandmothers) that work in this office were zombies yesterday after hearing the news), the others with her on that hike, the volunteers and the many, many others involved, our hearts go out to. It is so uplifting to know that there are so many caring people in our world as we sometime seem to think the whole world is bad. Keep us informed and give our love and support to this family and all of you that surround them... - God bless you for sharing your home and heart (not to mention your computer, email and website) with Kelly and Steve. Everyone at our school - and throughout northwest Arkansas -- is hoping and praying for Haley to be found soon. Please give tell Kelly and Steve our love. Thanks again for your caring and generous spirit... - Thanks so much for keeping us informed on the search for Haley. I tried to find news on the radio but all I found was annoying songs, comedians, and commercials. The newspaper only had old news. At least they published the address of your web site. And thank you for making your cabin available to Steve and Kelly and for doing all you are doing for the search effort. Our thoughts are with Steve and Kelly (both former students of mine), and especially Haley... - We are from Virginia now, but we know Steve, Kelly, and Haley, and have heard that Haley is missing. Please let them know that we are praying for them. With all my heart I am praying that they find her soon, and in perfect health! Thank you, Tim, for donating your cabin and all of your support. Thank you also, for keeping us updated with your journal. If there were any way we could be there to help, we would... - Please let the family know that our prayers are with them. We are thinking about them and will continue to do so until she's found. And thank you for the updates... - Please keep us updated as much as you possibly can. I am a friend of Kelly and Steve and was searching yesterday and last night. I couldn't come back out today but they and Haley are on my mind constantly. Your webpage was referenced in a newspaper article so I am sure there are a lot of us checking it hourly. Thank you for all the help and support you are giving the Zegas and please let them know there are lots of prayers going out for Haley and them... - Thank you for opening up your home to this family in need. I only know Steve and Kelly through the Leadership Fayetteville Committee, but I've always thought them to be lovely people. Having three young ones of my own, I'm totally shaken. Please tell them that I've had my church's emergency prayer chain (University Baptist Church) praying and that I've sent out a pic and Haley's description to everyone I know online. Many around the world are now on their knees praying for her safe return. Thank you for keeping us updated. Your's is a special family too... - BLESSED TO EVERYONE THERE i have been reading the local paper and listening to the local radio station KISR 93.7 out of ft.smith and would like to send my heartfelt prayers to everyone there who are helping in the search for hailey...and to the family and friends who are so concerned with her return. MAY HER GUARDIAN ANGEL PROTECT AND KEEP AND SAFE!... - Thank you so much for keeping this journal about Haley. I am a good friend of Kelly's in St. Louis and your journal is my (and other's) only connection. We are grateful for your help and kindness. Although I know Kelly is surrounded by wonderful support, please pass on the message that our support is far-reaching and we are lifting them up in prayer. Thank you again... - I am the Speaker of the Arkansas House of Representatives and a friend of Steve and Kelly Zega. I want to thank you for all that you are doing to help them during this tough time. You have a wonderful web site and I plan on looking at it some more, it is hard to imagine all of the beauty of our great state, and you have captured it. Please accept my grateful appreciation for all you are doing to help, and please let them know we are here for them... - Just wanted to say thanks for the information about Haley you have posted. I went to law school with Haley's dad and they are such good people -- thank you for helping take care of them. I have to go now because I don't want to cry here at work... - My wife and I are praying for the safe return of Haley. Thanks for helping this family out. The world needs more giving people like you... "I have become addicted to reading your journal. I found if by mistake when I asked for information about visiting Jasper, it was a connecting link. I have made it to 2000 but I have cheated some and read April 2001. We live near Pine Bluff. The only trail close by is Caney Creeks Trail, which I don't do very much. Keep the journal coming. I like it. --- RCD, Pine Bluff "I just wanted to thank you for taking the time to put the Cloudland Journal on the net. I have spent the better part of this afternoon and evening reading it and looking at the pics. It's been kind of like a good book - hard to put down!" --- Mike from Missouri "I love your waterfall pictures. Do you remember the movie Robin Hood with Kevin Costner? There was a scene in that movie where Robin was in the buff and moved behind a waterfall. In that scene the camera focused on Robin Hood's butt. It was revealed later that he had a butt-double and that it wasn't really Kevin Costner's butt. There has been considerable controversy as to who's butt that was......I believe the questions has been answered and the controversy settled after viewing your pictures online. Looks like you were having a great time." --- PB, Ft. Smith "tim, i've had a computer for about a month now and cloudland was the first favorite that i added to my list. as an accidental and thankful arkie the buffalo river has always been my very favorite place, i so enjoy reading about the buffalo and the other wonderful places in the ozarks so that while i'm stuck in little rock most of the time at least i can stay in touch. i also admire your courage in so openly revealing your thoughts and emotions to all of us concerning pam and amber. i haven't read the entire journal because i'm hoarding it, i don't want it to end, i check in almost daily to get the updates, happy spring!" --- pb, Little Rock Various comments about the recent Shale Canyon photo: "I just looked at the updated journal. Glory hole shot is great, but the 'creativity' of the canyon falls is really something. I got my wife out of bed to see it. She said to tell you she was shocked ;o) We both got quite a kick out of it. I find it hard to believe you didn't notice the cold though!!"....."Am enjoying your waterfalls. You better watch out - Playgirl may see that one picture and come calling on you! Nice buns, but bet you almost froze your fanny off! Great photo! Hope it makes your book!"......"Wow!!!!! I, for one, will never forget Shale Canyon Falls. I did a double take on that one. :-) I don't think too many readers would have noticed if you were wearing a hat or not... that is, other then to tell them which end was up! (giggle, giggle)...just teasing!" ....."OK, I'm so busy I'm meeting myself coming and going but I did a doubletake when I saw the Shale Canyon Falls pic and your explanation about the cold and forgetting your hat. Good thing you got it on after all."....."Tim, YOU"RE BUCK NAKED!!!!!!!!! What happened that day? Brain freeze? hahahaha. That is about the funniest thing I've ever seen you do in your journal. You just knew that I was working myself to death and needed something to stop me dead in my tracks! Did you get the wrong pic there? Was it actually the one you meant to send to Mrs Cloudland to get her to come visit from Missouri? I'm still laughing!!" "I have been reading your journal from day 1 to the present and have been eagerly awaiting the entries and stories encompassing your meeting of Pam. You seem to have feelings about a lot of things upon your first encounter. I suspect you did about Pam also. I certainly hope you two have as blessed a life as my wife and I have had, and I strongly suspect that you will. From all you have written about her, I can tell she is a very special person and you have a special bond already that will only strengthen as time goes on. Hope you continue your journal along with all the adventures of your new family after your marriage. Your journal is way more interesting to me than that Laura Ingalls-Wilder girl's life on that dull prairie. Thanks again for all the enjoyment." --- C.P, Bryant "What can I say? I thoroughly enjoy reading your journal . . . and of course your photographs." --- Ellen from cyberspace "I just ran across the Cloudland Journal page and began reading. That was at 9:00 this morning. At 4:00 this afternoon, I finally had to give in to my screaming hips and knees and quit for a while. I just signed on to pick up in October, 1998. I have become quite envious of your way of life and hope that I can be as fortunate as you to live as openly and with as much love and caring in my life as you have. I hope that you have found that special someone you are looking for to share it all with. If not, let me know, I'm single. Just kidding. I'm anxious to get back to the journal and see what October brought for you." --- Kim from Tennessee "CONGRATULATIONS on what you referred to as your new "toy" (1/16/01 journal entry). Not that I would know much about these things... in that I'm a city boy - who just happens to LOVE the wilderness and things of nature. ... but... I can imagine how the newest member of your Cloudland family could be of invaluable assistance in getting and keeping things up to snuff. I agree with your observation that youth (Amber - 1/14/01 journal entry) seem much more in tune with the things (in this case - a birds' nest) which, like jewels, blanket the trails and forests around us. As adults - are we dulled by the world, and therefore not as aware of the marvels which are constantly calling our senses to observe how miraculous mother nature is?" --- D.G. "I mentioned then that I used to edit a newspaper in Arkansas before moving on to Texas. I also write creatively from time to time and must tell you that I haven't found anything that I enjoy reading as much as your journal. In fact your journal is a daily topic in our San Antonio home. My wife and I both read it daily and really feel let down on the days when you are off having fun and don't post anything...! We must be kindred spirits...and have walked a trail or two together somewhere in some other time. I associate with a lot of the things you do and write about...and got a kick out of the purchase of your new toy! I used to live on a horse ranch and know there are times when one really needs a tractor. You certainly need one with all your projects and need to keep that stove going during this hard Arkansas winter." --- Mike from Texas "Your mentioning the squirrels in the journal had me doing some research on the Internet. Squirrels are smart. They don't put all their "eggs in one basket" like some of us do. They have several hiding spots just in case some animal finds their cache and eats it all. They do what is called 'scatter hoarding' where they hide their nuts in several places temporarily and store them later. Also do what is called 'larder hoarding' where their cones or whatever is hidden in a shallow pit called a 'midden'. This was all new to me. Also came across something else I never knew. Have you ever observed squirrels that had large lumps all over them? These lumps are caused by the larvae of the Bot fly. It buries under the squirrel's skin and lives there for 3-6 weeks. There were several good pictures on the Internet and it was absolutely 'gross' to look at. Huge lumps with a dark point where the larvae breathe and excrete their wastes. Apparently it's uncomfortable (itchy) for the squirrel but it doesn't kill him. But if a human was to try and remove these larvae, poisons from the larvae would be released and then it would kill the squirrel! Also came across a website where a fellow from Texas had set up a camera inside one his homemade squirrel boxes and had snapped excellent pictures of a squirrel giving birth to 4 young and further pictures of their growth. Very interesting. So Tim, don't ever wonder why your readers find your journal so fascinating. You make us curious to find out about the things you see and answer some of the questions that you have. Although, I strongly suspect by now, that you know the answer all along. Never figured when I got up this morning that I'd be researching squirrels this afternoon! But I'm left feeling a little wiser!" --- Jeanette, Canada "I am in the Army National Guard and fly helicopters over this beautiful state every day. For another 4 more years I must work everyday but with your Cloudland Journal I am able to stay in touch with my true love......the outdoors. I want to thank you for relaying your life to us in print and making it available on the Web. You are a true statesmen of the outdoors and I applaud you for everything you do in the great Buffalo River area." --- LTC J. C. "My wife and I share tears with you my friend on the loss of your dear and treasured friend Stable. On November 5th we too came to that time of parting with our precious companion, a little min pin who had developed diabetes over the years and finally fell victim to it. In fact, we had just returned from a ten day vacation in Arkansas, some of it in Jasper. We had boarded our two pups with the vet and were waiting on a call from a kennel keeper notifying us on when to pick them up that Sunday afternoon, when the frantic call came that our pup was in in a diabetic coma and seizures. We also were able to spend a short time with her before her passing. We are both grateful for that. We have been reading your columns for some time now, having stumbled across your wonderful site when researching our vacation trip. An Arkansas native myself and a former editor of a newspaper there, I couldn't wait to show my wife the beauties and wonders of the Ozarks. We both still read your postings daily. Barbara called me at work today and told me not to read your column until I got home. She knows my emotions so well. But, I couldn't wait and read your account of Stable's passing. What a wonderful, wonderful tribute to a friend so dearly loved. Stable was indeed blessed to have had you in his life. Isn't it awesome how Aspen knew what was going on? When I brought our pup's ashes home from the vet's office this past week, I was alone and sat there at the dining table with the urn in front of me and cried and cried. Our precious beagle instantly knew what was happening with me and came running to my side and placed her head in my lap. There is no greater love. When I was reading you account today, I caught a quick mental glimpse of our little pup's soul running and frolicking in the deep leaves in the woods at Cloudland. If on one of your hikes you hear a little bark in the distant woods, say hi to him for us..." --- M.B., San Antonio, TX "Just a note to let you know how great we feel that you have found someone to share your life with. Being alone in the wilderness can be great, but having a warm body to snuggle up with on a cold night can be a whole lot nicer - don't you agree? And to be able to do it at Cloudland has to be even better. I love to kick back and listen to John Denver and read you journal. They seem to go well together. I found my special lady almost 18 years ago and don't know what I would do with her now. A man needs a place of his own and a good woman and faithful dog to share it with. The children only add to the wonder of it all. Your tribute to your father and other vets ment a lot to me. I recently lost my grand mother. My grand father was killed in W.W.II and grandma never remarried. She raised two sons and has helped raise grand children and great grandchildren we will miss her but know she is finally with grandpa now. I just want to tell you mean a lot to a lot of people you have never met and you are living many of our dreams. Good luck and best wishes to you and your new family. --- David "I read your Cloudland entries almost every day and enjoy them so much. My husband is somewhat of an amateur photographer. I know nothing about looking at great photography -- except I love looking at all the photos you and others take. Cloudland looks so relaxing. I am a school teacher in a public school and the cabin in the woods looks dreamy. Your page is one of my highlights at the end of day. We are both looking forward to giving some of your recipes a try - they look delicious!" --- J.S., Sherwood "I would like to thank you for your wonderful journal on the Cloudland Page. As a fellow hiker and backpacker I have enjoyed backpacking in the Upper Buffalo Wilderness Area for some fifteen years now. I haven't been there for over a year now, and your Cloudland Journal has kept me posted and given me my "Buffalo Fix". I still read and re-read your "Buffalo River Hiking Trails" guide to get my "fix", but your Cloudland Page is so much better(it has pictures!). I have hiked and backpacked all over the U.S. and believe with all my heart that the Upper Buffalo River is one of the most beautiful places around. I guess that is why I keep going back to it. Once again, Thanks for such a GREAT web site and GREAT pictures!!!!!!!! --- Russell R., Texarkana, Tx "I was checking out the recent Cloudland Journal and you really did a nice job explaining about sitting still in the forest and letting it come to you. Also about finding new places right under your nose. This morning there are about 30 turkeys hanging around the house, making a racket at the dawn. I never quite heard them so clearly before - seems like the wet air and the bare trees have become like a new sounding medium as we move into another November." --- Hank D., down in the Ouachitas "Just a note to say how much I enjoy reading your journal. I have backpacked along the Buffalo RIver and Boxley Valley and it is just a great place. I know Ketrin Faddis ( I am in his daughter Auda Ray's home fellowship at church) and my father lived down in the Cecil Cove many, many years ago. His name was David Fox and he is now buried up at the Plumley Cemetary. His mother ( my grandmother) is buried down in the old Jones Cemetary in the cove. When I read your commentary in your journal , it just seems to bring back generations of people I used to know who really appreciated living out in the mountains like you do. I thank you for sharing it with not only me , but probably thousands of other people who also appreciate the taste of a different life we wish we could live on a daily basis." --- C. Fox, Barling "I was finishing up a grueling day and just happened to check in and see your "Acorn Rain" pics and how you weren't drinking or smoking anything. I looked again and thought to myself "uh huh ... right" and then again, it could be the parent/child thing. Aspen's sort of like your child and we parents have a tendancy to do all kinds of moron-ish things like baby-talk and chasing our kids, wrestling around and generally being stupid. So I was thinking, if Aspen had hands and could stand on two legs, he'd probably be tossing acorns in the air and take pictures too. I think you've been reduced to complete stupindous parenthood in all it's glory. Welcome to the ranks, it becomes you. hahaha!!!...Your next picture book could be idiocies of life and you could put that acorn rain pic in your slide show with the Prince "Purple Rain" soundtrack in the background. Name it "Acorn Rain" by the artist formerly known as Tim... --- Jen "I had to take a moment and send off this email to you. I'm sitting here with some of your photos on my screen, and can not take my eyes off of them. I have chills. Many people can take a photo... your photographs are art and magic rolled into one. I was touched by how you view the natural surroundings. Beautiful, beautiful work... Thank you." --- Maureen "You use a camera the way an artist uses a brush or a musician uses an instrument. You've got great eyes - they see the big picture, as well as the picture within a picture. Put those eyes together with that crystal-clear-creek heart and mountain soul of yours ... that is why you so perfectly capture all the magic of Mother Nature in your photos ... that is why your photos and books are so extraordinary. You've got that total package, which is truly a rarity! " --- NW, Little Rock "I think it's hilarious that you have this huge following of fans that seem to all have quite a bit in common, seem to all like the same things (including you) and they all want to talk to you and tell you everything about themselves. Maybe you should set up a chat page for all your friends so they can get it all out of their systems then you occasionally "drop in" and chat a bit yourself so they'll all be hanging out hoping you'll drop in and talk to them but in the meantime, you might get a few less e-mails of life histories and pics to back it up. I think your profile is getting entirely too complicated! hahaha" --- JS, Little Rock "WOW, your Cloudland journal is awesome! While reading thru your journals, I can't help but get lost in the Buffalo scenery. I've spent many days and nights camping along the Buffalo. I go to Hawksbill Crag many many times throughout the year, with and without friends. I have seen your photographs, and what a beautiful place Cloudland is. It is a beautiful cabin with a beautiful view. I am only 21 yrs old, but I have dreamt of living in a place like that for years. Obviously you are a very lucky person. Goals in my life would be to live in a log cabin, and never get too far away from the wilderness. Beautiful views of your cabin always get me daydreamin. Daydreamin at work and at play. I am very thankful to be originally from Harrison (very close to the Buffalo) and still living in the Ozarks. I consider myself to be alot like you in certain ways, but really there is only one Tim Ernst, like there is only one Ernest Hemingway. You are a pioneer of the Buffalo/Ozarks. I am glad that there is such a splendid person as you. That gives us younger folks a role model and someone to take after. Thank you Tim Ernst." --- BB, Fayetteville "I read your journal often and so does some friends of mine from Gulfport, Ms. My husband and I have been coming to the Ozarks since 1971, before the Buffalo was a National River. We were in collage at Ole Miss in the 70's and found your world and fell in love with the place. It's God's world, the forest and nature are so peaceful and restful. When life is unbearable we come there to see the way life was supposed to be... I would like to thank you for your journal. It helps to be able to read what is happening on your side of the mountain and it's something I look forward to. Your pictures are a work of art. When we go into the Gulf of Mexico here at home, there is the same kind of peace your pictures bring...I just wanted to say Thank You for your journal because I know how much pleasure it brings to us and our friends. When our lives are a stress your journal brings us hope of a life we all wish we had. Someday we will be sitting on our deck in Arkansas with good friend and family...Good luck to you and your new book. I already have your hiking books - we take them on every hike we are in your neck of the woods." ---EL, Louisiana "Well ain't this just like an author...bring the public to the brink of frenzy with a bear and then drop us for a month! HA! Some folks have gotten attached to TV shows such as Big Brother or Survivor... and some of us formed an addiction to the Tim Ernst Journal! HA! Have a great time off and we all look forward to your return!" --- GC, Little Rock "August with no 'Journal?' Ouch! Thank you for so many pleasant hours of reading. I hope that you have a wonderful vacation with no skunks, only bears that you see before you see them, and only snakes that you choose to see...Your journal is my favorite kind of reading. I guess I'll just have to go back to Bill Bryson until September 1! Happy dog days." ---Twyla "I just finished reading the latest entries in the journal. I love how you write! I find myself oblivious to my surroundings and I am right there by your side! I can hear the cicadas, tree frogs and crickets and smell the night air. That's a bad thing when my boss enters my office and finds me in the "Cloudland Trance"! And it's a bad thing for me to be brought out of my 'trance' and back into my less desirable real life. I missed your writings while you were gone!" --- BH, Ft. Smith "You have outdone yourself again! Every so many entries - I think to myself - wow! what a neat guy - what neat pictures and writing - then THIS! That image you snagged of 'FlyingDog' is awesome - brings a smile to my mug just thinking of it. You know what it makes me think of? Hobbes - in Calvin & Hobbes. And then the one with you holding him - Aspen's got this huge grin on his face!" --- NW, California "I read some of your "diary" about your cabin. At first I was insanely jealous and decided that your's is in that category of "look what I've done that you can't do" writing which I especially dislike. Then I read more. Nice job. I'll be back." --- DG, Liberty, Missouri Tim: Cloudland! What a wonderful place to call home. Found you on the net at work. Thanks to Santa Claus and the internet I get you at home now. Thanks to my parents I know all about the Buffalo River. Each summer my parents use to take my sister and me on float trips down the river. That was many years ago and I'm glad they took the time to show me such a wonderful place. It's been too many years since I've been back. Now that I have my own family I feel it is time to take the time to introduce my five year old son and my wife to the wonderful place you call home." --- MP, Springdale "There are a few places on this beautiful earth that I am afraid to visit because I'm afraid I wouldn't want to come home. Some I have visited before (The Tetons, Yellowstone, The Blue Ridge Mountains) others I am yet to visit. You may think this virtually funny, but your web-site was on my list of places I feared visiting for similar reasons." --- DC, Russellville "I recently began reading your journal that you write from your cabin. It takes me to a place that I would rather be. I am stuck in a cube in corporate America. I'm sure that you feel fortunate to be in a great place doing what you enjoy doing." --- RB, Ft. Smith "Congratulations on your new oak outhouse! Having lived in a rural area when I was a kid many years ago, I vividly recall waking up in the middle of the night "having to go" and reluctantly getting up out of my warm and cozy bed, putting on my coat, grabbing a flashlight, and heading out into the 10-degree night toward the outhouse. What fun! :-)" --- BC, Clarksville "I came across your page quite by accident today while I was surfing at work, and spent my whole afternoon reading about your cabin and your August happenings [don't tell my employer] <G. What a wonderful page you have! I was in Arkansas this summer. I wish I had known about your place, I certainly would have asked permission to come by to see you and your cabin. It sounds so lovely, a beautiful place to relax. I am single and I didn't miss the remark about you looking for a lady to share your life, but I also didn't miss the fact that your "old" girlfriend is pretty young. I am older than 28, so maybe I would be too old for you. Nothing I read really told me how old you are, or what you look like, or did I miss that part. Anyway, keep up the interesting writing. I didn't get my work done this afternoon, but I sure enjoyed what I was doing instead. " --- Emma "I enjoy reading your Cloudland journal perhaps more than anything else on the net. I've been buying and reading your stuff since the first editon of the OHT Guidebook. You've become quite an accomplished writer and paint delightful word pictures of Cloudland. I am envious. Keep up the great work." --- CS "Although I have never met you, and you have never met me, I feel I have seen a little of your soul. I own every book you have published and always look forward to your new projects. One of my favorite sections of your hiking books are some of the personal stories of your hikes. The Cloudland Journal is an incredible extension of this type of material. It puts me in the world I love. I have really enjoyed the last few years of following your paths in the Ozarks...I got to tell you a quick funny story. Last year I grew a slight beard, and I was at Petit Jean State Park at the peak of the turn of leaves set - up on an over hang taking pictures of the falls. I noticed this pretty young lady hanging close. I was in an area you shouldn't be in, but that's were the best photos are. She finally climbed as close as she could, and I could feel her looking at me. Finally she said "Excuse me, but is your name Tim?" It took me back just a little, in the flash of a second I was thinking, Ok, grow a beard, get a camera, get in the woods, wear a hat like Tim's, and get the woman. Then I remembered, no I'm married. So I replied "No Mam. But thanks for the compliment!" For a split second, I felt like I was Tim Ernst, a man whom I hold in high regards and look up to. Thanks for your leadership, and your art from the soul." --- TW, Greenwood "Hi Tim! I feel like I know you after reading the journal - I mean, I've been to your parties, been hiking with you, etc. It's been fun. I really appreciate your descriptions of the sunrises and the night skies. Most of my Cloudland Journal reading happens here at the office, and reading your stories has a way of taking me on vacation for a little while...Just wanted to let you know I've been reading and enjoying. I hope to hike to the Crag this weekend, but have to go buy your book first - this girl does not want to get lost!" --- VH "Every time I read some of your journal, I wonder how I let myself go so long missing it at times! Your description of discovering the big waterfalls (3-8-99) reminded me of one of John Muir's stories about going out into a big storm, climbing the highest tree he could, and riding out the storm hanging onto the swaying tree and enjoying the light show!..Was just reading in your journal again: "When the full moon hits your face, you're blessed." True! Reminds me of something else I love: When you stand on the area between where two rivers or streams come flowing together, it's a spiritual place. I have waded many streams to get to that little spot. You face down stream and see and feel the current coming from behind you and flowing together in front of you. I feel like old things are washing out of me, washing downstream and some kind of new energy is washing in when I turn around and face upstreams. Try it! Sometimes I sit or stand there with my arms up or out. I bet you've already done that! I haven't forgotten that I am watching for your partner. It'll happen for you someday. You're never too old. It is true that love and sex keep getting better with age. I'm happy to testify! In the meantime, stay beautiful, Tim, you're a blessing to us all." --- LF, Little Rock You gave me plenty of flowers to look up in my book. Thanks for grouping most of them in one paragraph. According to my book, most of these come out in April. Would you say, Spring was a little a head of time in your area this year? I had never heard of 'pussy's toes' before. That plant was certainly aptly named! My book mentions 'Toothworts' as having roots that have a "peppery" taste and that they are a popular snackfood for children, campers and long distant hikers!! Did you know that? and have you ever tasted them? When I looked up 'bloodroot' I found out that the Algonguain Indians used the roots as ceremonial paint and also as an insect repellent! The roots have a red latex filler. You probably knew all that already. So you had lots of "young" company! It's nice to see them being so active, although I sensed that you didn't travel quite as fast as if you'd have been on your own. Lots of stops to look at the waterfalls and take pictures, of course. But your comment about passing something so many times and never having seen it, but someone else comes along and finds it. That's so true! Four eyes are better than two." ---TC, Canada "I've taken somewhat of a small pictorial tour via your photos published on your website, and have read a bit of the entries you've logged in your journal. Your writing seems to flow so very naturally. You certainly possess that particular ability to seemingly draw anyone reading even a brief paragraph or two, right into the setting/story with you. It is truly a spectacular web site. I've already forwarded your website address to several of our friends and family." ---Margarett Y., Swain "I'm still reading your journal very faithfully. And enjoying it as much as ever, I might add! I really envy the colour you seem to encounter in your hikes. Here, one is hard pressed to find anything interesting to photograph at this time of year. I was wondering if it would be possible for you to put in the odd picture from time to time in your journal (even once a month would make me happy). I know you want us to buy your book, but throw us some crumbs now and then. Sorry to hear of the passing of your good friend, but he had a wonderful life doing what was so close to his heart and being able to do it to the very end. One couldn't wish any more then that...Your plan to put in a hot tub at Cloudland sounds perfect. TV would be nice also. Just to watch videos would not really qualify as a TV-TV so would still fit into Cloudland's aura of wilderness living...I'm learning a lot reading your journal. Some years ago I bought a book through the Reader's Digest titled 'North American Wildlife' . I was a little disappointed at the time, that most of its contents depicted were to be found in the Eastern past of the country. I kept it anyway, but now I'm very glad I did because I can look up the plant, bird, snake that you mention in your journal." --- Jeannette, Canada Tim, I've really have been enjoying reading your Cloudland Journal - its the next best thing to being there. I'll have to send you some of my vegetarian recipes. See you in the woods, where I want to be." --- Bob H., Richardson, TX I an avid reader of your books. My friend Jay and I were backpacking in the Boen Gulf this past weekend (beautiful!), and had the pleasure of sitting under a tarp, smoking cigars while watching the lightning and listening to the thunder and rain during the storm Saturday night. It was fantastic! Lightning struck on a ridge overlooking the Boen Gulf (what a sight it was). You probably could have seen it from Cloudland, except I guess you were working on your computer. In the Cloudland Journal you said the rainfall total was 1.7". Wow, seemed like a lot more sitting under that tarp, and the winds sure felt faster than 36 mph! I wish I lived at Cloudland...I saw it up close last year when Jay and I were at the Crag and hiked down to the exposed "point" above Whitaker Creek and the Buffalo River, just below your place. You've got a wiggy view!" --- Dan the Mountain Man, Kansas City, MO "I was told of your site, so I checked it out. I live in NY now and looking at the photos and reading about your place made me long for the home fires again. I oversee a large log cabin in Vermont in my work, but never is the feeling, there, like one has when looking from the top of a hill and being above the cloud line. I experienced it many times when living outside of Cave City, AR. Looking at the photos of your place was a very pleasant break from he pace I live in up here. I will return from time to time to have another look. Thanks." --- Jes, New York "Tim, I was reading the Cloudland Journal at my desk (having stumbled upon it during a search for anything Ozark on the web) and was so pleased to see "Ozarks at Large" has made it into the journal. I take this as the highest compliment and hope on your future stays we can continue to provide stories and music worthy of such a locale. PS, love the new book." --- Kyle Kellams, Producer, Ozarks At Large, KUAF Radio, University of Arkansas "I love your Cloudland home page. It is always a pleasure to visit. If I can't get out - your words will suffice!" --- Robert C., Pittsburg, MO "Fell upon your wonderful website just yesterday. You can definitely add me to the list of viewers that will be following your wonderful daily journals. You write very well. I can't possibly add any more than what's been written in the 'Comments page'. When I first saw your pictures and read your journal, I thought it would be wonderful to be living that life, but to be honest with you, it would not be for me. Chopping wood in the cold to keep the cabin warm or having to worry about how much water I'm using is not my idea of heaven. But I must confess to the only real fantasy I ever had was to be completely snowed it in a setting such as yours, lots of food, warm cabin, good music, wine, and most of all the good company of a perfect stranger!" --- Jeannette, British Colombia, Canada "In searching the cloudland web page for info, I have spent 15 minutes reading you journal. You very well may be a better writer than photographer, as I find myself induldging in your life at cloudland." --- Jeff B., Ft. Smith "Thanks for the journal. You express your experiences very well and it should be a big seller. When I read it, it is almost like being there. The leaf fall was great and the time with your dad was very moving." --- David M., Fayetteville "Thank you for the wonderful web page.. I found out about you and your business through a magazine article that some friends brought to Memphis for me to read. This is incredible. Thank you... The story about your dad is wonderful. I try everyday to give my son the same advice.. I don't care what he does, as long as he does his best at something. That is all I ever want. thanks again..." --- Linda W., Memphis, TN "Hi Tim. I'm from Batesville, but I currently live in Salado just south of the White river. I found your site the other night while surfin' the net. Great site, and I love the Cloudland journal. It seems like a truly wonderful place to live. I work with a fellow who told me about your log home and the wooden bears a few months back. His folks live in the area. Im glad I got to finally see what he was talking about. The photos are great and I love the veiw from the back deck. I ventured up there about a month ago and got some shots of Hawksbill, but I was a little early for the color show. I wish I had found your site before so I could have known when the peak colors were out. Anyway, just wanted to say hello and I plan on being in Little Rock on the 5th to get a copy of your new book. Take care....." --- Blake W., Salado "My wife and I were on the Crag trail two week-ends ago and the Registration box was totally empty - no pencils, no cards. Good intentions - no materials. We enjoy your photos, your journal, your slide shows, etc. We dream of having a cabin somewhere near the Buffalo River area - reading your journal just really makes us feel good (and envious, in a good way, of your good fortune to be able to have the type of career and home that are so compatible). Keep up the good work! " --- Larry T. "Cloudland sounds incredible, sounds like Heaven on Earth. If you ever need a house sitter to watch over things while you travel, I'm available. I have references. No, seriously, it sounds wonderful. Have you ever considered renting it?" --- Marian, Kansas City, MO "This is just to say thanks for your web page and journal. I'm a transplanted Arkansan living in the deserts of El Paso. Like every good Southern boy I'm trying to get back. I'm about two years from returning to a farm I own between West Fork and Devils Den. Reading your Journal helps keep me in tune with the Ozarks. Keep it up and thanks again...I visited your site again, and again congratulations on your excellent web page and journal. Also congratulations on your new book. I'll try and convince (con) my wife that I must have one for my birthday next month. Couple of comments, my own view on hunting is that I'm a hunter even though I haven't hunted in several years. Hunting is healthy for the deer herds in Arkansas. While I'm opposed to most government activities, I'll have to admit that the Ark Game and Fish com. has done a pretty good job of managing and restoring wild game in Arkansas. Your frequent contact with the bear is an example of their work. Which leads me to my next comment, be careful around the bear, I would hate to lose your excellent web page and trail guides. I know I probably don't need to tell you this but do be careful. Finally on a more personal note, I'm glad to see that you are enjoying your log home. I'm living in a geodesic dome that I built here in the deserts of West Texas but for my home in the Ozarks I'm looking for something that looks more like it belongs in the mountains. My wife likes log homes but I have shied away because of my concern for their energy efficiency. If you would recommend your log builder please send me his address and phone (If the Amish use phones)." --- Rick M. El Paso, TX "Tim, I love reading your Coludland Journal, its a great escape. By the way what is Arkansas Ale ? I went to the liquor store to get some and they didn't know what I was talking about, see how strong your suggestion is." --- Finley C., Russellville "I can't tell you how delighted I was to find such a treasure..."Cloudland Journals". I have only read the September Journal, but it was amazing!! I love the Buffalo River area and usually stay at one of the cabins at Lost Valley Canoe about twice a year, in the spring to float the river and in the fall just to enjoy being away! I enjoy hiking, and always refer to your BUFFALO RIVER HIKING TRAILS book (there is a copy in the cabin). This spring I finally made it to Hawksbill Crag, what a wonderful place! ...Your journal has brought happy thoughts and a warm feeling to me today. I was not having a good day so I was checking some things out on the internet while at work today and spent most of the afternoon reading the journal! I will continue to read them. Keep up the good work!" --- Peggy B., Hot Springs "I finally checked out the new cloudland web page. WOW, you can quit refering to the "CABIN"! It's a LODGE, and a damned fine looking one at that. Very impressive! Now if you can just solve the water well matter, you'll have it made. Keep good thoughts! " --- Dick Y., DeRidder, Louisiana "I am now caught up to date--as of Sept. 6th. I love to read so found it very enjoyable. You have a very good vocabulary and your descriptions were so good I almost felt like I was right there. I cried over your spending the night with your dog and laughed out loud at the eye- to -eye encounter with hummers. I shivered over your walking into spider webs (that's where I draw the line) and was sorry about your ankle. Hope it is better. Ever hear of wrapping a sprain in brown paper and vinegar? My English grandmother used to use that method as my sister frequently sprained her ankle and my brother his wrist." ---Jeanne C., Harrison "Cloudland looks wonderful! I have read a few days worth of journals and can't wait to return for more. Something I'll be looking forward to for days to come. Have you read Under the Tuscan Sun? It is a little like that. Great book by a lady who bought an old house in Italy and her impressions and adventures. Yours is every bit as interesting, even more so. And hers was a best seller...Been humming Moonshadow (Cat Stevens) since I read about the moonlight this morning. I share so many of your feelings, but you're the guy who knows how to put it in words for us all. Thanks!" --- Linda F., Little Rock "I've read all of June-August's Cloudland Journal. Thought you said you weren't a writer? I do a lot of the same things day after day-routine stuff- and my journal wouldn't and shouldn't and read like yours. Of course I'm not at Cloudland!!! Great stuff. A lot of people in Russellville are now hooked on your journal. The words out!...Hope to get to visit Cloudland soon since you've got furniture, eat some of Bob's soup and walk out to Hawksbill Crag, set a spell and even maybe catch a glimpse of the adventure written about in your Cloudland Journal." --- Danny and Brenda H., Russellville "I visited CLOUDLAND and read through your journal entries today, Tim, and found them to be soulful, wonderful, provocative, fanciful, playful...all melded into one! I can see exactly where you are going with all that and I consider it is a marvelous adventure that a great many other folks will enjoy, as well. Cloudland is one spectacular retreat! I hope that I can be one of your treasured visitors there one day... I will enjoy following your journal into the fall months...fun!" --- Ellen R., Williamsburg, Virginia "Cloudland sounds like a very interesting place. I have been reading through your journals. You should see the goose bumps that come around when I read them, after all my only other alternative is to look out of my 24th floor cage into the savage jungle and watch traffic fight for every inch along the interstate. The visions you describe are exhilarating and I can see them clearly with my minds eye." --- Wade G., Harrison "I think you are living most people's dream. Reading your journal gets me out of the office mentally and it's great." --- Susan C., North Little Rock "Just checked out the web page and your journal. GREAT stuff. Very enjoyable reading. Sort of lets me escape the rat race around here and dream about my favorite area of the state. Sounds like your weekend get togethers are really fun! Also, sounds like you have some very good friends. Man, that story about the beagle damn near made me cry though. Reminded of burying my first dog, "King", when I was about 14 years old. He was just a mut, a squirrel dog, but pretty special to me at that age. I refused to own another dog for almost 12 years. You would definitely have to put that story in the book." --- Tim B., Little Rock "Just finished reading the July journal. Even though I'm sitting in the office right now, you've got me daydreaming a little. It sounds and looks like a fabulous piece of property. One of these days I hope to build something similar (though maybe not of logs) in the Richland Creek area. I say one of these days like that would be anytime soon. I think retirement will be a long time away at 23! Regardless, your writings of life at Cloudland will keep me thinking of that day. ...And I hope you get rid of your bear! Nice pictures! You really get a feel for the place with these...Just finished reading the latest Cloudland journal postings. Very interesting stuff, some of the most interesting you have written so far in the journal. I really enjoyed reading about Neil Compton's visit. I'm sure it was all you described and more. I would have been mesmerized listening to him talk about all the history of the Buffalo River & the Ozarks. I'm so ready to see the Arkansas fall. 3 more weeks and I'm there. Maybe I'll see your Golden Eagle. " ---Derek W., Lenexa, Kansas "Thanks again, you're like a modern-day Thoreau and reading your journals is really a treat for me. It's got me stopping and looking at my life as well. Your cabin is wonderful...ok, unbelievable .... beautiful ....awesome. I think the map bar is really neat, it took me a minute to figure out what it was even though I was sitting there reading the caption "map bar" ... didn't register, I thought it was some special brand of bar! Finally realized it was a map under the glass! It is so big and spacious there, and everything is so warm and welcoming and nice. I checked out the new pics in the July journal also and I really love the leaves with the persimmons and huckleberries & hickory nuts and .... and all that stuff there. I like how you fixed the place down to the quilts on the beds and all. You have no idea how therapeutic your whole website and journal are for me. I actually drove to work in that rush hour traffic today feeling all calm and serene. Didn't ride any bumpers and even let people just pass right by me in the slow lane. Didn't let any of the difficult people at work work me into a frenzy either. This has all been a great transformation for me just in the nick of time. I was about to start buying into the feeding frenzy with them all, you know, those folks in the rat race. Every time something got tense today, I stopped and realized that I have this wonderful place to go discover right at my house this evening (the Cloudland website), kind of like a secret hiding place that I can escape to and they have all forgotten it. Thanks for just being out here for people like me. Very nice description of the sunrise this morning, it really is a symphony of sounds, isn't it? It brought tears of longing to my eyes. What a paradise you live in. I'm gonna have to stop reading your journal. For quite some time now, I bid myself everyday to recall one extraordinary moment in that day and I usually have many ... but your extraordinary moments are putting all mine to shame. " ---Jenny S., Little Rock "Hi Tim. Just got done reading your June Journal. It was like reading a book and I thoroughly enjoyed it. But do be careful of that bear. You know a man got mauled here awhile back and was from over in Newton Co. somewhere. I will look forward to future writings. I clicked on your name and saw the pictures of Cloudland, inside and out and it was very impresive. I find it very interesting to be able to look at these things on this blamed contraption, even tho' I am still so green at it. Thanks for being on the Internet with your pictures." ---Jeanne C., Harrison "Golly, what a bear story you had in the Cloudland journal! I was terrified just reading it." ---Kevin M., Batesville "Tim, The pictures look good...how about a real time camera shooting out to the wilderness so we can track the bears and the activity?" ---Richard C., O'Fallon, Illinois |
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