June 27, 2013
I sit here unable to hike due to injured extremities. Summer isn’t panning out the way I thought with one hike a week, tackling new trails in Yosemite National Park. Instead, I read other people’s trail journals, browse old photos and reminisce about the unforgettable past.
Little did we know during our first visit in 1996 to Yosemite National Park, how big a role it would play in our future.
As we walked through the valley viewing the spectacular Yosemite Falls for the first time, the thought never crossed our minds that we’d be so blessed to one day live near this gem. As a family, we changed but the falls have stayed the same.
With kids in tow, we hiked up the Mist Trail hoping to view the impressive Vernal Fall. Chris and I didn’t realize then that one day we’d be spending hours hiking throughout Yosemite’s wilderness, communing with nature and enjoying the flora and fauna of God’s country.
Little did we know that we’d become amateur guides to our nation’s crown jewel of parks for family and friends so they, too, could experience its beauty and splendor.
And that Yosemite would be our winter playground.
And our daughter’s first place of employment with the National Park Service.
Oh Yosemite, how dear this place is to me! I hope to be back hiking when these physical ailments are resolved. Until then, I will be content with many precious memories.
Hiking Yosemite and Beyond 
What a surprise seeing another blog when I knew you hadn’t been hiking. But what a joy seeing all the old pictures again. Wow! The kids have really grown up. I hope your knee and foot mend soon so you can start enjoying the trails again and I can enjoy more vicarious hikes.
Dad
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I love the photo where Chris, Joe and I are the only ones looking at the camera. 🙂
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I love the poetic reminiscing and photos of your beloved Yosemite. What happened? When will you heal?
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Thank you, Carol. I’m beginning to heal in my foot (thanks to physical therapy) and my knee is better.
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Yosemite… Your home away from home.
Precious memories to keep you filled till you return to the trail.
Praying a hiker’s healing prayer just for you. 😉
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Thank you, Ellen. I’m beginning to heal (finally). Thank goodness for physical therapists.
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I feel your love for Yosemite! And am sorry that you are injured. That is sad. Please heal quickly!
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Thanks, Kathy. Slowly mending here.
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This mite be my favorite blog so far. Maybe because I did not have to hike 10 miles 🙂
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How resourceful to turn your convalescence to such a fine use! I love the family photographs, and your meditation on all the joys that have sprung from your first encounter with this beautiful and aw-inspiring place.
Congratulations to your daughter on becoming a ranger–that’s splendid.
CHC
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Thank you, Celia. 🙂
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