July 30, 2013
Tuolumne Meadows, Yosemite National Park
Chris and I packed lunch and set out for Yosemite National Park, where we spent a lazy afternoon down by the riverside of the Tuolumne River. It was a refreshing 20 degrees cooler there than at home.
On the opposite riverbank from where we sat, we watched ground squirrels known as picket pins on alert, while other small rodents scurried to the water’s edge for a drink.
We also saw mule deer and an assortment of birds.
A smattering of wildflowers were in bloom, accompanied by numerous copper-colored fritillary butterflies.
Regrettably, our secluded haven was disturbed by the arrival of another couple across the river, but it was time for us to leave anyway.
We gathered our belongings and made our way to the car.
As we exited, gazing eastward, the distant mountains were veiled by the relentless smoke blanketing much of Central California, a result of the ongoing Aspen Fire which began more than a week prior.
Before departing the area, we made a stop at the Tuolumne Grill for a delicious soft-serve ice cream cone. Three minutes after snapping the photo of the cone, the ice cream fell on my lap.
It was a delightful afternoon, perfect for a picnic down by the riverside. A pleasant escape from the heat.
Hiking Yosemite and Beyond 
Awww…at least you had a photo of that perfect cone. You are so lucky to be able to picnic in such a perfect spot.
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Thanks for reading….we ARE lucky. And I picked up the ice cream and ate the melted mess anyway. 🙂
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somehow that fits my sense of your character– and I bet the ice cream tasted just as sweet!
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Your senses are right on, Robin. 🙂
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Another day in paradise! It looks so peaceful and relaxing. Nice that you were able to spend the time together.
Dad
PS: I ain’t gonna study war no more! Does Chris, being an Eagle Scout, remember all the words to the “Down By The Riverside” scout song ?
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It WAS peaceful and relaxing, and not too far to walk. The cool water actually felt good on my sore foot.
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This may sound strange but, I felt a little perturbed at the other couple for invading YOUR special out-of-the-way spot. Someday I will visit Yosemite in person… but until then, I will enjoy the sights through your eyes.
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Thanks, Ellen. 🙂 I hope that someday soon you get to visit Yosemite in person.
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So serene! I’m glad you got to eat the ice cream anyway. It seemed like a perfect ending to your day.
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Thanks for reading, Carol. 🙂
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Sounds like another beautiful day on the hiking trail. Except for when the top of your ice cream fell off! It reminds me of when I drove to town to get ice cream right before that storm and the top of my ice cream fell off, too. So disappointing!
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Lovely post, with a surprise ending!
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That it was. 🙂
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I had to smile when I read about the ice cream falling into your lap. I thought that things like that only happened to me. 🙂
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